Caffeine & Cocktails

Organized

2012-02-16T08:36:00.000-05:00

If you were my parent or roommate you might scoff at the idea of me and organization. Based solely on appearances, I might agree with you, but my life does have a high degree of organization. For example, my closet is organized by how often I wear types of clothes, i.e., work clothes are from and center, then it goes by type of clothing and further to color. All clothes will face and fold the same way, and I have all the of the same type of hanger.

For work life, I get to be completely and utterly organized. I get to make labels, alphabetize, color-coordinate, make spreadsheets, track things, create templates, order supplies, it's like my dream job - except it doesn't pay me enough to be flitting off to my own private island.

Which is fine.

For now.

But back to the organization.

I had to start from a weird place. I would say from the ground up, but really, there was some sort of organization here. And when I say organization, I mean I think that folders are stored in the order in which they were made. Because there is no alphanumeric pattern, chronological pattern, or subject-matter pattern that I can discern. Also? They print EVERYTHING. I mean, I'll keep it on my comp and if you want a hard copy, I'll make one, but why do I need a folder about emails back and forth about a party when I can go to the last email that has the entire string?

Moving on.

So, I have started my project and have made some descent headway. I don't know if I'll ever be done based on the new things that I find regularly, but at least it's something to keep my hands from being idle and the social media's playground...

Speaking of...back to work!

So What Wednesday - Namaste Edition

2012-02-15T07:28:00.000-05:00

I'm back! This week for So What Wednesday, I'm linking up with Shannon at Life After I "Dew" and taking a yoga angle on it.

I have found a yoga studio that reminds me of Core Power in Denver, so now as I am about to move out of the neighborhood, I have found my namaste groove. What makes this post even better? SWW is all about ranting and yoga is all about centering oneself. Yin and yang. So with my clarity comes some rants that are naturally running through my head during downward facing dog.

So WHAT if...

I have just found a studio that I like? At least I found one to get back to the mat. Nothing is serenely amazing as an ass-kicking workout while you're meditating.
I spent some good money on headbands, a mat bag, and a big girl mat? My hair cannot touch my sweaty skin and bobbypins are not friendly for laying on, I needed a new mat bag because my new big girl mat is thicker and bigger than my yoga-for-beginners-with-alignment-lines mat.
My big girl mat smells a little and absorbs all my sweat? It's made of natural rubber and keeps me from needing a yogi towel. Also? My ass print is visible in it when I get up from final shavasana.
Nothing like your ass print to make you want to workout more.
I wish Lululemon Athletica were a publicly traded company? Everyone's ass I can see in class has their damn logo on it.
I am one of those asses? I get mine of sale and have yet to invest in tops, but you bet your bippy I've had to show restraint.
I am no master, but love that I can keep up? Even though it's been awhile since I've been on my mat, it all comes back naturally.
I get really irritated when novices plop next to me? I have a tough enough time with my own flow and balance, I don't need you cramping my style.
I think aspects of yoga are a little hokie? At the same time, I have cried at the end of a class with a lot of heart openers. My guess is that this has been worked on before.
I practice restraint of snarky comments on other yogis? I mean, leggings are not for practicing yoga. I know that they are stretchy and cotton, but they are see through. Like, see the pattern on your Wal-Mart undies see through.
I have scheduled my classes out for two weeks? When I find a teacher that I like and make time for it, I'm a little obsessive about yoga.
I decided to become a full-blown member to have my mat stored on site? Kind of awesome to not lug that sucker around on public transportation.

Go link up with Shannon and say so what!

I Love Goooooollldddd

2012-02-14T07:13:00.000-05:00

Say it like Goldmember. I'm toit like a tiger.

Moving on.

I have some VERY big news...

Thanks to my need for lattes, my aunt Marsha enabling said habit with gift cards for holidays, and my iPhone app, I have achieved Starbucks GOLD.

You might be thinking, "What took you so long?", and I would tell you that I was too lazy to register my cards online. It took an app on my phone to make me track and use all those points to my advantage. As a side note, when I've used the gift cards from my aunt, I keep loading my (RED) card so that proceeds go to the World AIDS project. Doing good, one latte at a time.

Besides getting free add ins like syrups, apparently, I'll earn free drinks every 15 times I use the card. Not to mention a fancy card with my name on it. But let's be honest, I'm not going to use that too often since I rarely carry my bag of tricks with me everywhere.

I'll be spending this Valentine's with my love, a Personal Grande Skinny Caramel 2 Splenda Latte from my Gold Member, Starbuckian mug.

It's Not Right But It's Okay

2012-02-13T07:04:00.013-05:00

That title's from Ms. Houston, but thought it was appropriate since I have been more than scarce as of late. (Aside from my cable-lacking inspired post from last night.)

Some of you may be wondering what I've been up to, some of you could care less, some of you could think, "Oh lawd, she's back." However you slice it, I was indisposed from the blogging world, twitter, the book of face, life, liberty, and the pursuit of boys.

To start, I started a new job. That's always hard, but pulling some 10-12 hour days your first week makes for a little of stress. Add to that needing to find a place to live on a budget that is half of what you're currently accustomed to, and you'd have me. Going to bed before 9PM and up before 6AM.

I do love the job. The work is varied, the people are great, and I actually use my Masters. Well, it may not seem like it at time when I'm affixing labels to files, but truly I am creating and implementing a Document Management System. There, that's also what my Masters gets me: positive spins.

I have come up for air and only have about 9 hour days the second week, but I have gotten into the swing of things, found my groove, and know that it will only get easier.

But I still need to find a place to live. Which is a blog post altogether. (Side note: I'm also taking donations for my rent...)

Later this week, I will tell of my farewell from the DC Gravy Train. It involves the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, so there's some enticement.

Life Without Cable

2012-02-12T21:02:00.000-05:00

There's lots to be said for ditching the boob tube and getting back to a simpler existence. That something? It's damn expensive thanks to Comcast and their monopoly on cable providers for my building.

Now that I'm off the gravy train, I have to save all my pennies. But not those gross ones at the bottom of my purse. Those can be pitched.

Back to my point. Although I have been absent from blogging as of late - and well, all social media and life, for that matter - I have found that I spend far less time in a vegetative state, going to bed at a reasonable hour, enjoying a good book, and generally not really missing cable.

That is, until the Grammys were on.

I had made plans to sit in judgment and watch the Grammys at a friend's house, but said friend came down with a strain of the plague, so I opted for the disease-free comfort of catching bit and pieces online. Well, that's all fine and dandy, but I do love the performances. I had hoped that the Whitney tribute would be upfront, so I want to the gym and hoped on a treadmill to kill two birds with one stone. Not so much. In fact, Bruce was lackluster for me. Thankfully, Bruno picked up the pace and I found myself dancing a little on the treadmill.

So tell me true, readers, did I miss out?

As an aside, I have also taken this cable-free time to get some blogs out so stay tuned this week!

Missed you, mean it.

So What Wednesday

2012-01-25T12:53:00.000-05:00

Linking up with my BBFF (Blogging Best Friend Forever) Shannon at Life After I "Dew" for another edition.

So WHAT if...

I had frosting for dinner Monday night and marshmallows for dinner last night? When you have yogurt and open face turkey sandwiches on rice cakes, you've got some calories to spare.
I am content with frosting as dinner? It's my favorite consistency. Not baby food, but more of a FroYo/mashed potato/frosting/smoothie type. I swear if all food was like that, I would have no problem having a balance diet.
I got birthday thank you cards for my office mates? They had cupcakes on them and it wasn't until I was back in the office that I saw the cupcakes had a candle in them. I'll take it like lighting a candle in vigil for my departure. I'm delusional enough in my grandeur.
I keep contemplating getting a legit blog design? I get gun shy when it comes to making the decision though. I can't justify a blog design over lattes. Priorities until mama gets a bigger paycheck or a sugar daddy. Cross your fingers for both.
I am excited to start my new job? I get to organize and color coordinate objectively. Hence why my life is a little cray cray but work life is legit Container Store and Martha Stewart labeled and contained.
I am just posting my SWW after lunch? Lots to do away from the desk like visiting with soon-to-be-former co-workers.

That Moment

2012-01-24T10:09:00.001-05:00

Country songs will tell you that you have that "moment" where everything clicks and you know that it's meant to be.

I have those moments and call them deja vu. Legit will have a dream where I'll talk about something that, at the time, I do not understand but when I'm in the moment, I know exactly what I'm talking about. Those are moments when I know I'm exactly where I'm meant to be in time and space. Whether it's the path I'll be on for awhile, in that moment, I'm there. Those affirmations are what let's me know that I'm not drifting aimlessly through the universe.

Crazy, perhaps, but I had another type of moment last night.

I was HeyTell-ing with my girl Shannon and we were ranting about our days, chatting about random things, you know, girl talk. I was having ~~dinner~~ dessert of spoonfuls of Betty Crocker Rich & Creamy Chocolate Frosting (made with real Hershey's Dutch Cocoa) when I received this pic from Mrs. Dew:

"Having this for you"

This moment? Is how I knew that we are sisters from another mother. Granted, she only had a spoonful since she was legit baking a cake for co-workers, I was having multiple spoonfuls and contemplating a spatula to get the last bits out, thankyouverymuchPMS. She knew that I had ranted about wanting Red Vine straws with my soda and was denied because they are made with flour so I was drowning my sorrows in gluten-free frosting.

Although we've never met, we have blogged, ranted, HeyTell-ed, texted, and just generally gotten to know each other over the interwebs. Basically, we are modern day pen pals. And that? Is pretty cool.

Getting My Art On

2012-01-23T07:52:00.000-05:00

This weekend, I cashed in my Groupon to Art by the Glazz. It's a painting class with a bar. Basically, heaven on earth.

I had done Canvas & Cocktails in Denver before and thought that I could add to my artwork here.

The picture for the evening was On the Waterfront. Sounds easy, right? I mean, I would receive some direction to get this, right?

I'm all over this.

And then the class started.

There wasn't so much teaching as it was, get started and we'll walk around the room. So? I painted what I know. Colorado sunsets. None of this waterfront crap. And I totally wrecked my at-home mani. But then again, it was a wreck of a mani to start with, so it wasn't a total loss.

Also? There was a girl in the class who probably consider better friends since no one told her that she had an obscene tag still on one of her layers.

I mean, how could you NOT notice?

To review, I'm not good at painting unless you give me direction and I will be left to my own devices.

And really, Homeland Sunset deserves some more prominence. Let's be fair.

Yeah, that's the Colorado flag.

When the class walked around, someone commented on my clouds as some modern artist's color degradation series. Whatever. I'll take it.

So What Wednesday

2012-01-18T10:40:00.000-05:00

Linking up with Shannon at Life After I "Dew" and saying SO WHAT!

So WHAT if...

This is my first blog post of the week? I had Monday off, yesterday was busy at work, and well, I didn't do it.
My mom scolded me for using "tards" in a blog post title? I asked if she read the post to see that I was copying another blogger's post into mine and that wouldn't be fair to change her product. My mom didn't read the post. I told her to scold once fully informed.
I'm back to eating all the delicious food after only a week? I know I said that I was in for the long haul and it's easy, but really, I wasn't doing it for any other reason that showing people that it could be done. And it was cramping my social life. Moving on.
I am considering becoming a Caps fan? I was only a mediocre (at best) Avs fan and I don't actually own any Avs gear. I figure I should have at least some fan gear for my new home, yes?
I still have no idea where I'm going to live? I have some time, but not a whole lot. I'll figure it out because I'll have to figure it out.
I have already filed my taxes? The day I get my W-2, I'm online and filling out the forms to get my money back. I'm a simple filer, so it's cake, easy, and gets me some money I was gracious enough to loan the government interest free.
I may have suffered minor brain damage by completing my DC return by hand? It was my first time not using software and I was skeptical (read: brain damaged) sifting through the information, but once I went line by line, it was cake.
I'm going to get rid of my precious DVR? Mama needs to save as much dough as possible given that the gravy train is over on January 27.
I have an insane DVD collection? If I don't have cable, then I'll have DVDs to watch while my shows are loading on my computer. Win-win.
My DVD collection has a lot of animated movies? They warm your heart and make you giggle. Why wouldn't you have them?

Just WebMD It

2012-01-13T07:03:00.000-05:00

Just like Hot Messer, a/k/a Leah Messer from Teen Mom 2, (Trademark: Shannon at Life After I "Dew"), I thought I would WebMD my symptoms I've had lately.

OK, so she used google, but I didn't want to confuse the issue with Twilight.

No? Just me? Oh, that's right, I watched it every night for 8 nights in a row in Denver because that was the only DVD I had with no cable.

Anyway, back to WebMDing it.

On Monday night, I had a great workout, a great first day Clean eating, had a great fashion convo via text about what to wear to training at the new job, and then around 10pm, it hit me. It was hard to swallow and I was uber achy. I didn't really feel bad Tuesday morning, probably adrenaline.

And then I was hit with a Mack truck around 10pm again. Like, a Mack truck hauling a shit-ton of cement barriers.

In fact, ask anyone who saw me on Wednesday, and they will tell you exactly how crappy I looked. Including the doctor.

Once the doctor was asking me about symptoms, she starts telling me about things she's going to test. (Side note, this happened in September when WebMD told me I might have bubonic plague or just tonsillitis, whatever.) Naturally, in the mean time, I get out my handy WebMD app and confirm that I, in fact, must be pre-cancerous, or plagued, or some other ancient slash Oregon Trail disease.

All the tests turned out negative, but based on my responses to her symptoms - fever, aches, sore throat, headache, nausea, exhaustion (Legit fell asleep in the exam room, in a span of 10 minutes) so she rattled off what I was going to take so quickly that I didn't comprehend the whole regimen.

Dramatics may have ensued when I realized the doctor said that I had to get a shot in my ass. Yeah. My. Ass.

This shot? Was no joke. Oh, and the CNA that drew the short straw to stick my ass opted for my arm. Because "there's enough tissue." (Read: You wave twice, so I'll take the arm over the ass.) As it started, there was intense pressure and heat as the medicine worked through my arm and chest. I got so woozy she laid me down and pulled the biohazard bag over in case I chose to vom.

Granted, you might think how awful that was. I would beg to differ if you were feeling anything that I was before the shot. This was a magic shot because I could move again, swallow again, and not wish for death. It was magic juice that I will ask for next time if I get this bad again.

Can we also talk about how crazy your sleep and dreams become when you're fevered? Legit brought real life into the book I was reading. What book would be crazy in DC? How about Storm of Swords. It's the third book in the Game of Thrones series that is about medieval fantasy world with a form of zombies, wars, amputations, assassinations, dragons, betrayal, love, families, and big words that I have to look up. I mean, dragons flying around the Washington Monument and knight turning Metro buses into lightening bolts is a normal dream, right?

I digress.

Moral of the story, don't trust google or WebMD for diagnosis.

Let's Get Real

2012-01-10T07:41:00.001-05:00

Let's all generally acknowledge some truths: facebook is an escape slash passive aggressive friendships. Twitter is 140 character brags slash complaint vehicle. Blogs are the little part of the internet which is all yours.

So when people post this, it makes me a little cray cray:

Here's why:
Football is just a game. It's not serious. The book of faces is something that gets me through the day. But really when someone tries to say that celebrating the victory of a sports team is a dense face about American culture, I want to know what's so wrong about that if I'm also doing my part to charitable organizations?

Really? I mean, I would like to know who I have to make my check out to for starving kids in Steamboat Springs, Colorado so I can celebrate a Bronco win without judgment. (Side note, median rent in Steamboat was $1,139 in 2009 with average income at $63, 698. You're not living in Steamboat if you're without at least a car. Just sayin'.)

Just because I don't get up on a soapbox about how much money I personally have raised for charity and the number of hours devoted to organizations does not mean that my fb status of "WOOHOO!!! BRONCOS WIN!!! CAN'T WAIT FOR NEXT WEEK TO TAKE ON THE PATS!!" does not mean that I am not aware of the current predicament that American society and the world as a whole have created a strain on limited resources.

Oh, and the Steelers fans don't have that jubilant outlook, so conversely, shouldn't their dismal attitudes be put to work to better the world? I mean, they are already wallowing in their self-pity.

Sorry to burn the Steelers fans, but I can't help it.

Clean Eating

2012-01-09T08:46:00.000-05:00

So, somehow, I talked into doing the Clean program. It's a book from some guy, Gweneth Paltrow has done it and loves it, but really it's a 3-week detox. What does this mean?

I got suckered into trying some juice drinking, caffeine & alcohol depriving, major allergen depriving cleanse.

Granted, I have done this before and for much longer by the time everything is said and done, but I'm hoping this time it will be easier since I'll have four other people with me on this.

Basically, you get a juice/shake for breakfast and then a meal at lunch and then a shake at dinner. The meal part is a little tricky because the foods cannot be oranges, grapes, bananas, nightshades (tomatoes, potatoes - thank you, Jeopardy), or corn, no dairy or eggs, no soy, no gluten (I've got that on lock), no red meat, pork, or raw fish, no peanuts, and no refined sugars.

Does that list sound familiar? Yeah, that's what I did back in September 2010 which led me to find gluten es no bueno for me.

I start this crazy road today. I have prepped by not having caffeine for the last three days which means that my headache won't be debilitating at work. We have also worked out a schedule of lunch making so that we don't have to eat the same thing. Also? We have someone in the group to be the juice chef. That means that I have someone delivering my juices/shakes everyday. (Side note, we work together, so it's not like she's coming over to my house a la The Devil Wears Prada.)

I do love how I feel when I'm eating "clean". The time will pass in a blink and before you know it, I can have cheese again. Because, let's be honest, we all know my love of cheese.

Seriously though, I cannot wait to have the kick ass sleep that I got when I was eating whole foods, eradicated all processed foods and generally ate better.

OK. Let's really be honest. I'm doing this for the sleep because it's that damn good. I can suffer through the cravings for the first 3 days or so just to have that blissful sleep. Like I had this weekend. Yes. I slept until 2:30pm. Granted, there were periods of consciousness where I would check fb and twitter, but for the most part, I slept.

Summation of this post, please accept my apologies in advance for anything I say, do, or post out of Hanger (hungry anger) and I love to sleep. Actually, point is, I really love to sleep.

Oh and one last thing:

LET'S GO BRONCOS!!! That's one fine man that threw that game winning cannon to Demariyus Thomas in overtime. I can't wait for Saturday to watch them take on the Pats!

I Should Be Sainted for Bridesmaid Shopping the Day After Christmas

2012-01-06T07:46:00.000-05:00

This post is alternatively titled: Don't Eat Like You Got the Tip On a Famine Before Trying On Formal Wear.

Let's just get this out of the way. The week between Christmas and New Years should be called Leggings As Pants Week. But maybe a disclaimer, that it is a privilege, not a right. Prime examples coming from anything at PeopleOfWalmart.com.

Moving on.

I had taken the couple of days before Christmas as days that I managed to eat somewhat healthy, but ate things that I wouldn't normally have...en masse. Like M&Ms, toffee, truffles, popcorn, chips & dip, wine, booze, more chocolate, and more booze. And some more chips & dip and more booze.

I think my food groups were chips, dips, wine, and tequila for the week. Yeah. A little different from Buddy the elf's.

I should have just put on some spanx, sported my leggings and black tunics all week for all the damage I did. And then? I get to go bridesmaid dress shopping. With my friends that 1) can eat anything and not gain anything and 2) is getting married in 3 weeks so she's super strict to make sure her dress fits like a glove.

Not the best idea.

But really, the shopping was fun, my friend found her gown (GORGE!!) and we figured that we didn't really want to get nekked in a dressing room that had a picture of another friend's ex-boyfriend's wedding.

Add that to the list of why I can leave Colorado: you see someone you know everywhere you go. Even in bridal shop dressing rooms.

Dear Teen Mom Tards (With My Thoughts)

2012-01-05T14:14:00.001-05:00

Kristen over at First Name Smith wrote the following post: Dear Teen Mom Tards. I have my thoughts in this font. Please note, I agree on all fronts. Legit. And the whole post is here, so no need to click on the link right this second, but go there for her blog in general. Just after you read this.

Dear Teen Mom Tards

I'm sure you all have heard by now that Leah Messer is pregnant with her third child and engaged to her 2nd baby daddy only 6 months following her divorce from Corey. Keep those legs together, gal. Even if you were on BC, you were doing it wrong.

No? You don't watch Teen Mom?

I follow Teen Mom and 16 and Pregnant religiously. And the only kids with their shit together are the ones that actually gave their child up for adoption rather than playing in the poor house with kids they can't afford and don't necessarily have the maturity to raise on their own. Props toCatelyn and Tyler. Love those two. Even if Tyler needs a new hat. Boyfriend wears the same one every day. I follow them on twitter. I cringe at their grammar, but in the end, they are not as big as a train wreck as others.

I don't really understand, Chelsea. Your inability to see past the fantasy of a true family for you and Aubrey, while Adam is blatantly captain of the douchebag train. And girl... please work out that helmet hair. Its not a good look. Although, I do love your eyeshadow... Mac? Seriously, own up that you're wearing a wig. And then ask Kim Zolciak how to style one. Also? Just because he had a strong swimmer does not make him a strong man. Dump him. NOW. Also? LISTEN TO YOUR FATHER. Adam is a grade-A loser. LA-WHO-ZA-HER. When people in your life aren't around you because you're around a doucher, take that as a sign.

Janelle? You are sitting in your car by yourself crying because none of your friends will bail your abusive boyfriend out of jail on Christmas? Listen, I get it. I have been known to "love" a few asshats in my day. My mom always told me I was a jerk magnent. But honey, Jase is adorable. And you are missing out on the most amazing memories with him while you're running around beating chicks up and getting arrested. You don't realize how good you have it. Except for that mom of yours... she's a nutbag. Kind of explains how you are so bat shit crya cray too. Y'all, you need to go to teenmomtalk.com and get some dish. Apparently her bad taste extends to a mix between Keiffer and Chelsea's Adam. Legit loser. And as far as Keiffer is concerned, I need to slap him upside the head for thinking that he didn't deserve to be jailed for beating someone. THAT WAS FILMED. 'Tard.
Kailyn, you kinda have your shit together. If it weren't for that dufus you're dating, I'd give you an A for effort. Own place, two jobs, asking for help when you need it. Props sistah. But cut your hair. That shit out of control. She needs to chop half of it off. And consider getting some exfoliation. I just want her to get a facial. Oh, and homegirl needs to get a handle on her facial expressions. Eye rolls, hair tosses, "ughs" all mean something and it's not good in a work-related environment.

Is there an age limit to those shows? Because I'm pretty sure at 32 years old that I shouldn't be into them as much as I am. And I am also pretty sure that I shouldn't relish in their failures and bad decisions as much as I do. But lets face it. Their downward spirals make for good tv. And grant me the opportunity to love in the fact that my life, albeit lame by their drama standards, is hella more stable than theirs. Every episode validates my life choices. Granted, I don't necessarily have all my poop in a group, but I didn't get knocked up while still having a legal curfew. Also? I love my parents. They aren't batsit bananas, well, I mean, as far as when I was a teenager. There might be signs of aging at this point. But that's another post.

Even on days when my wine supply is low. Or chocolate, for that matter.

and

More Reasons I'm Not Ready for Kids

2012-01-05T08:20:00.001-05:00

Let's get some things straight. I would love to be a mom, just not in the near future. I know that patience will have to replace selfishness when that happens and I'll be OK with that, just not in the near future.

Thanks to my trip to Colorado, I was quickly reminded that there's a lot more to get in line before I even let my biological clock start to tick.

On Christmas, my lovie little Austin was having fun playing horsey and rock-a-bye-baby. So much fun that he got so wound up he bit me. Yes. I said bit. He's only done it another time where he was so excited he didn't know what to do. I was the proof that before he gets too excited, you have to calm him down.

Yep. That's shortly after Austin nipped me.

Over the course of the week, I met my friend's sweet 10-day-old baby, Julian. So that little guy may have not helped the whole biological clock, but then mama and daddy were telling me the stories of sleep deprivation and feeding issues. Again, not ready for that.

Another visit with friends landed me in a chaotic setting of twin boys that are almost 2 with a 3.5 year old and a 18 month old playing with all the cool toys at Grandma & Grandpa's. So much noise, crying, snacks, bangs, sharing, meltdowns, blankets, crying, needing mama, on and on and on. Granted, that's an extreme version of having kids, but the twins were enough in themselves that I'm thinking of writing the Pope a letter for sainthood for all mothers of multiples slash asking for a patron saint of mothers of multiples.

To top off all of the baby talk, I have a friend who is expecting her first baby in July. There was a lot of talk about what to expect when you're expecting and comparing tips, tricks, stories, and overall birth was too much for this kid. No joke, made sure that my BC script was ready for pick up when I got back to DC.

While I'm not ready to take the plunge into motherhood - like, kids are not brought to your doorstep by a stork - the visits and the sweet moments of hugs, kisses, dancing, smiles, and loving with my nephies and niecees do remind me that one day it'll be worth it.

As another sign, here's the text exchange with my mom after I got back to DC before NYE.

So What Wednesday

2012-01-04T07:06:00.022-05:00

If there's one post I'm sure to do, you know it's linking up with Shannon at Life After I "Dew".

So WHAT if...

I have managed to schedule an entire week of posts? I only wrote this first So What before saving and then edited this before posting.
I got nearly identical glasses? If they look good, they're made well, why not just kind of update the look?
My glasses are red? I know, you may be thinking Sally Jesse Raphael, but since it's dark, you can't really tell. But it's there, so it's sassy.
I only watch DVR and reruns of sitcoms? Really, it makes me watch less TV during the week. Well, that and a good book.
I am ridiculously into the series from Game of Thrones? I'm on book three of this fantasy medieval series and cannot put it down. Which is good because it's 1200 pages.
I'm so excited for the new Challenge: Battle of the Exes? If you don't know that Real World/Road Rules has a competition series, then you need to get on it because this season, they are teammates with their exes. And fueled with booze and jealousy. It's going to be oh so good.
I secretly want to marry CT and have all of his babies? It's only secretly (well, blog-so-secretly) because he's a little cray cray, a little too meat head, but he drops his R's, has a rockin' bod, and gorgeous eyes. Swoon.
I fear for Leah's over processed and teased hair? If you watch Teen Mom 2, please comment and discuss. Also? Is it just me or does Chelsea wear a wig in some scenes?
Speaking of Teen Mom, how does Keiffer think that he doesn't deserve to be arrested for man-handling Janelle? Really? You don't think that you should be held accountable for your actions? Janelle, just RUN away from him. Fast.
I'm torn between wearing my cute shoes and not wanting to lug them to and from work? I'm not going to walk a mile in them and destroy the tips. It'll have to be a 2-pair ensemble.
I have lamed out on my blog design? I got frustrated that the hyperlinks don't display differently. I'll get around to updating the look at some point, but not today, not this week. But you guys don't come here for the design, right? It's the content, I'm sure.

Go link up with Mrs. Dew and get a cuteness overload from KP catching snowflakes on her tongue!

Why I Can Leave Colorado

2012-01-03T07:20:00.001-05:00

While I was back in Colorado for Christmas, a lot of people were asking me how I would fare leaving Colorado.

Sure. I miss my friends, but with the advent of FaceTime, Skype, facebook, twitter, and well, a phone, I can stay in touch with my friends actively and passively. Not to mention that I do have more friends here in DC and Colorado is just a plane ride away.

Then there's Colorado's gorgeous scenery and sunshine. Granted, I didn't know how much I missed the sun until I was back in Colorado with those clear blue skies over the Rocky Mountains, but I can always look at pictures and visit.

But let's get to the weather. Colorado is unpredictable. The day before I flew out to Colorado, the forecast called for 4"-6" of snow. By the evening, the forecast was more of 10"-16". Yeah. That's a little bit of a swing. The next day, the skies were clear and the views were amazing, but I don't appreciate that 2 hour delay. Also? With the 60 degree days that were the balance of the week made for a sloppy melt off. Not pretty.

Also? You see someone you know everywhere you go. The nail salon, the grocery store, the bars, restaurants, in traffic. EV. REE. WHE. HERE. Granted, it's nice if you want to catch up with people, but most of the time, my hair is a wreck, I have near zero makeup on - if I do, it's leftovers from the day before, and I'm rocking some sort of yoga pant/sweatshirt combo. Of course that's when you see people, but still, let's save each other the judgy looks.

Here's the gist: While I will always be a Colorado girl at heart, I can always visit. I know that I will be back at some point to move my furniture and back again as a bridesmaid in my friend's wedding so there's already trips on the books for little doses of colorful Colorado.

But here's some gorge pictures to remind me.

After 13" of snow, this is the view from my drive. (Don't judge the no look phone photography.)

Mountain of snow in the parking lot of the mall. It eats up prime parking, won't go away for some time, and after a couple of days it will turn icky brown. Not pretty.

And really? December 23 and it's pushing 60 degrees? The previous day it was in the teens and dumping snow. Oy.

My Merry Christmas and Happy Whatevs

2012-01-02T07:05:00.001-05:00

Prepare for picture overload.

But first, I will catch you up a little on Happy Whatevs and Christmas. For the sixth year in a row, I have celebrated Happy Whatevs with my friends in Colorado. It's best to be the Saturday before Christmas, but seeing as that was Christmas Eve this year and I didn't get to Colorado before the 22nd, we opted for a Friday celebration. It was great to see friends from San Francisco and Chicago that were also in town for the holidays which made Happy Whatevs that much sweeter.

Now, for the picture overload. I mean, if a picture is worth a thousand words, surely my captions will suffice for a coherent blog post, yes?

Besties. Four Rio Margaritas in. We're holding each other up.

I miss this kid. No matter the time or distance, it's like our passive fb stalking keeps us up to date.

The main contingent for Happy Whatevs. It was a perfect catch-up-girls-night-out.

Left to my own devices on Christmas morning, I will eat potato chips & French onion dip with a soda and sudoku.

Can you guess which gifts are from me? Given more time before the big day, I would have actually tied wired ribbon.

Wine in a regular glass, my improvised napkin folding, and pine cones.

The ever-present clean up crew at my feet.

Gifts from my mom - the gold bracelet says, "This is the year to...play your cards right, add a twist, have the curiosity of a cat, get lost in a good book, make sparks fly."

Best boot shiner ever from my Hunter Boot Shine thanks to Santa.

Getting ready for Christmas dinner of lobstah.

I've had several dreams of shellfish since.

Yummy, oh so delicious Christmas dinner.

Bringing sexy back.

Fierce. Posing H to T.

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T16:15:00.000-05:00

Closing out 2011, I had a great year. Until I woke up with migraine prisms.

Yeah. I spent New Years Eve drinking caffeine, downing water, trying to sleep, and chomping some serious pain relievers. Needless to say, I didn't tie one on for New Years.

I hope that you and yours have reflected on all the changes, events, moments, and awesomeness of 2011. Make sure that you follow through with your intentions in 2012 to make life that much better.

As I said on fb, "I had one kick ass year in 2011. I have also set up 2012 to be more kick assier. Let's do this."

Hope that your 2012 is more kick assier.

So What Wednesday

2011-12-28T09:59:00.001-05:00

I'm still in the Sunshine State of Denver until the end of the week, so this post is short and sent from my phone.

Here's my big SO WHAT...

If I'm not so what-ing? I'm just going to tell you the posts I have on tap for my return since I'm still in my homeland. SO WHAT?!

I can promise some awesome posts like:

• My Merry Christmas and Happy Whatevs

• Why I Can Leave Colorado

• More Reasons I'm Not Ready for Kids

• I Should Be Sainted for Bridesmaid Shopping the Day After Christmas (Alternatively titled "Don't Eat Like You Got the Tip On a Famine")

Less than 3,

Ana

So What Wednesday

2011-12-21T10:34:00.000-05:00

Linking up with Shannon at Life After I "Dew" and saying SO WHAT!

So WHAT if...

I completely reconsidered and repacked my bags for Denver after I tracked my package from Rue LaLa? They are to die for Ariat Legend Cowboy Boots and must be worn to blend my life of country western and New England prep with my Lilly Pulitzer carry-on. It looks fab. Trust.
I'm having dreams slash nightmares about seeing a former friend while I'm back? We have mutual friends and I know interaction is inevitable, but I just hope that it's not tense. Let's be honest, I can make conversation with anyone...including crackheads on the corner so they don't shank me...so I know that I can make the talking noises, but I just hope my emotions don't get the best of me and all those hurt feelings surface again.
I get little perturbed when people ask what's going on in my life on my status as if they missed the big announcements statuses? I mean, really. I'm moving to DC. It's old news. Keep up, lurkers.
I really have a false sense of importance? See previous So What.
I have 10 things on my work To Do list? This is more important. Priorities, people.
I read blogs, but don't comment all the time? Sometimes I only have time to read, not comment, verify a word and submit. Sorry, I'm a lurker and I know it.
I am excited for a white Christmas? I'm landing in a snow storm and balmy temps in the teens tomorrow. BRRRRRRRRR!!
I am dreading a cold Christmas? I mean, I dig this 60 degrees here in DC, now if we could just make some movie magic and have snow, too.
Did I mention I am excited about my boots? 'Cause I am. Just wait for the pics people.

Go link up with Shannon!

Teleworking

2011-12-19T20:19:00.000-05:00

As of late, I have been loving this whole teleworking policy to work from home. Why does this rock my socks off? I tend to learn the hard way how gluten is in some foods. Like Doritos. Those asshats put wheat flour on the nacho cheesy corn chip deliciousness. Also? That shizz has MSG in it.

Guess who needs to be quarantined? This gluten-intolerant dumbass.

Anyway, it's nice to roll out of bed, work in sweatshirts and yoga pants, get free coffee from the lobby, have Home Alone playing in the background. Kind blows your mind, right? Yeah, working in an office isn't what it's all cracked up to be.

Except when technology hates you. I get the irony that I am, in fact, using technology to blog, but what it takes to get into the network for my office without lugging about my work laptop is that I not have, well, good technology. I have a Mac. And that, my friends? Is not supported by the (Un)Help Desk. I wasted almost an hour trying to get access BACK into my email (I already had it) just for them to tell me they can't help me. Two seconds after hanging up, I fixed the issue with amending the version that loads.

I should also point out that working while you're not tip-top also sucks. A LOT. At least I didn't have to field too many calls or emails. Well, aside from forgetting that my boss was out and had to email someone else while I couldn't access email to see who was in charge for the day. Weird how a TECHNOLOGY Division cannot depend on TECHNOLOGY.

Whatever. I saved nine hours of sick leave.

So What Wednesday

2011-12-14T10:15:00.000-05:00

Linking up with Shannon at Life After I "Dew" for another So What Wednesday.

So WHAT if...

I really struggle getting off of the elevator on the right floor? I also forget to hit the floor button and most commonly press the wrong floor. Today? Up to 4 because I didn't press 3, rode up to 7 with the other lady in the elevator, back down to 4, got off thinking it was 3, then had to get on another elevator where I pressed "Ground Floor", then finally got up to 3.
I will not use the stairs at work? We've learned what happens when I interact with stairs. It's just best that I don't go there. Click that link and pay special attention to the comment from "Anonymous"...that's my dad.
I really cannot handle that Bawbwa Wawaas wants to make the Kardashians part of her "Most Interesting People of 2011"? I like to watch a little of one of their many shows, but I don't want Babs to dedicate part of her special to people who are already easily accessible.
I have short-timers?it's when you're on the final countdown to leaving your current position. The problem? That I have several projects that I must complete before I leave and they all require input from team members and committees of sorts...
I drank my dinner last night? I needed a glass of wine...or six...
I'm just realizing my elevator mess this morning was probably a residual of the former.

A Day in the Head of Ana

2011-12-13T07:52:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, I think I could be institutionalized based on the things that run through my head. Or have my IQ drop. A lot.

Here are some of the thoughts that ran through my head on Monday. Well, the ones I remember.

Of course you didn't set your alarm to wake up, but the one to leave. Get up and move it, sister.
I really need to tweeze my brows.
I swear my mind knows I'm going to oversleep when it has me set out my clothes the night before.
What ring made those marks on my finger?
Oh. That's a band aid.
You don't own a ring that fits your index finger.
That really is a bad place for a cut.
Ow.
Pat yourself on the back for remembering to grab your nail polish for touch ups.
You are totally to be congratulated for the Bronco's win since you were cooking yesterday when they scored.
What was I doing?
Effing WebSense.
G damnit, Lotus Notes, your one job is to send and receive emails. DO IT.
No really, Lotus Notes, I would chuck you onto the side of the road if you weren't connected to everything else.
What was I doing?
Alright, Help Desk, update your hold music.
Is that another snag in my tights?! Damnit.
What was I doing?
Ugh.
Is that a cape?
Someone should tell him he's lost in his wizarding world with those University of Indiana sweatpants.
The Hoosiers should depants him for besmirching their legacy.
He clearly needs a parent figure or girl to tell him "NO".
Really? You want a vanity plate "PUGLVER"?! Are you sure you're not gay?
Yeah, I think you might be.
Not that there's anything wrong with that, but even gay guys wouldn't let you get that vanity plate.
Oh dear lawd, I have to ride this insanely long escalator. Don't hyperventilate.
It's ok. Just look down. Don't look up.
Oh lawd. Vertigo. Look down, look down!
I love working from home.
UGH. Why is my download speed so slow?
Effing Comcast.
I really don't like working from home.
I need two screens.
Ugh.
What do I want for dinner?
How about a half recipe of no bake cookies.
I bet I could sub ingredients to make them healthier.
Nope. I cannot. They taste like burnt tar.
Good thing I got the real ingredients.
Ew. How do you clean tar out of a saucepan?
UGH.
I should blog.
Is that a mark from a ring on my finger?
Nope. Still a band aid.
What was I doing?

It's one of those Mondays. Surprisingly, I have a day chalk full of meetings today and I am donating blood. (Yay me! Universal donor, O-, wha wha!!) Should be a fun and potentially woozy day.

Holiday Home Stretch

2011-12-12T07:54:00.013-05:00

Since I'm going back to CO for Christmas, I have to balance my shopping with shipping. I like to have all of my shopping done and everything wrapped a good week plus before Christmas. Coming home via airplane with baggage means that I have to consider packing goodies in with my clothes. Which, if you've seen a Christmas card, you know it's cold. Which means I have to pack layers, scarves, gloves, hats, and coats. Granted, I don't have to pack all of my outdoor gear, but it's hard to know what Mother Nature will throw at you for that long of a stretch in Denver.

I digress.

I have shipped off all the gifts that I can, but will have to carry-on some special pieces. Which I can handle, I think. I mean, I'm not exactly the easiest bag handler.

Also? I am checking two bags. I know this because I'm nesting my luggage. That means that on my way home, I'll have 4 checked bags. Seem excessive? Well, I'm not paying for this trip thanks to my work contract and the contract rate, I get 2 bags free and I'm filling up my bags with homewares and what not since I don't want to pay shipping for all of that stuff out to DC. Clever, huh?

Since I have most of my shopping done, I have a hostess gift, some groceries, and a white elephant gift left, those are easily attained all in one place. I'm pretty proud of myself that I don't have to put everything in my suitcases...but I have to wrap everything as soon as I get to CO. urshdusfuhauauwfh (That sounds a little like a zombie moan in my head.)

Here's some more holiday cheer...

Union Station in DC.

Elliott & me circa 1989 with some Elf Ur Face.

Harry & me Christmas 2010, with some Elf Ur Face.

Denver City & County Building. Please note the snow on the ground.

Lazy Winter Dinners

2011-12-08T07:13:00.000-05:00

You know what I love about the winter? Easy meals. You can throw anything in a crockpot, casserole dish, or microwave plate for some meals that warm the belly and warm your house.

As of late, I am eating acorn squash. For 15 minutes on high, I get a delicious little veggie serving with a little indulgence of maple syrup or splenda and cinnamon. Yum yum yum.

If I had my crock pot out here in DC, which, really is my mom's so I guess I don't really have one, but you know what I mean. Anyway, I would throw in some chicken, some stock, some potatoes, turn it on and go to work. Here are the basics to crockpot gold:

Meat
Soup/Stock
Potatoes
Perhaps some veggies

Done and done. Mix your flavors and your soup/stock and you've basically created delicious every time.

Side note: make sure that you actually turn on the crockpot before you leave. Not that I'm telling you from experience, or anything, but let's just say it was a sandwich night and a waste of a roast. Womp womp.

What are your go-to winter meals?

So What Wednesday

2011-12-07T08:27:00.010-05:00

Linking up with Mrs. Dew at Life After I "Dew" to say SO WHAT!

So WHAT if...

I'm undefeated in the arguments I have with people...in my head? I use logic and reason and they have nothing to say back.
I'm on a blogging role this week? Sometimes, the mood just strikes you and you can't help it.
Even though I complained about the fact that DC doesn't exactly have winter weather, I'm not complaining that I just walked into work without anything more than a sweater? I dig the mild weather since I can only imagine how quickly it would get grey and ugly here with snow.
I totally complain about my glasses rub my headband? It jolts my vision, and me being me, I think I'm having a mini-seizure before realizing what is going on.
I am still talking to THAT ex? Yeah. I know. I know. But sometimes I get to exact my passive aggressive revenge via reply texts. It's the little things, my friends. That, I actually have pity for the kid when he admits that there's "no need to be in Denver anymore". Yeah. That's because he doesn't have me there. Boom.
I am congratulating myself and cursing myself for being so clever with my Christmas gifts? It's something special to DC and breakable, so naturally now I have to transport them with me to Denver on the plane. There goes my carry-on space.
I wish that Pandora would play more boy band Christmas music? C'mon. You know you sing along with "Merry Christmas Happy Holidays" with JT, JC, Joey, Lance, and Chris.
So what if I had to google that random last member of *NSYNC? Admit it. You forgot the dread head's name, too.
I have one heck of a laundry list of to-do's for the new year? Find a place to live, ship my furniture and remaining home goods, give up all my old court stuff, become legit in the new court, and work in two offices.
I may or may not be able to rival those "bump" pictures of you preggo eggos out there? THIS IS NOT A PREGNANCY NOTICE, but rather, I have enough Beyonce to mimic and confuse the hell out of people at formal events when I order hard alcohol and rub my belly. A parlor trick that is not for getting or keeping a boyfriend, but seriously hysterical.

Spreading Christmas Cheer

2011-12-06T06:36:00.000-05:00

Everyone has those movies that will put them in the Christmas spirit. No matter the time of year, I feel cozy, loving, and Christmas-y whenever my favorites are on...and yes, I will play these in the dead heat of summer to feel cool with the snow. (Legit works. I also use Deadliest Catch episodes for the same effect.)

This year, I'm needing some help to get in the Christmas spirit. I don't want to invest too much in the decorations as I 1) don't have a place to store them, and 2) already have a full spread in Colorado. Not to mention I'm also a little low on the Winter Wonderland that is Colorado when it snows.

Without further adieu, here are my favorite Christmas movies to get me in the Christmas mood! (Nod to my first choice with a little rhyme action.)

Seasonal Adjustment Disorder

2011-12-05T07:46:00.000-05:00

I know it's called Seasonal Affective Disorder for people whom never see the sun in the winter, but I am having a severe, self-diagnosed case of SAD - Seasonal Adjustment Disorder.

You see, in Colorado, it gets cold in December. In fact, the first weekend of December is the Parade of Lights which also coincides with the coldest days on record. (Check it. Overnight lows in the SINGLE digits this past weekend.) Add the the cold temps the fact that the fluffy white stuff falls from the sky and blankets the grey world in a glistening white blanket. It's so much fun to frolic in the snow.

Granted, I have these sentiments right now because I have yet to see snow since March 27, 2011. How do I know the date? It was the weekend I moved to DC and it snowed a dusting that morning and was melted by 10am.

If I were in Colorado, I'm sure that I would be twi-ranting about winter drivers, cold weather, and slush that makes for a dirty Bruce. (Bruce is my car in Colorado. I know I haven't talked about him lately, but we're not really talking right now since it's been 3 months since we've seen each other.)

So, blogosphere, how does one prepare for Christmas when there's nothing to make me break out into song that, "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!"

I've been playing Christmas music intermittently because I don't want to overplay my favorites. I have set up my Charlie Brown tree. I have started to make my list for everyone. I have made plans with my friends in Colorado for my trip home. I am playing Christmas movies that I love.

But, seriously, y'all, I'm having a tough time putting together that in 16 days I will be boarding my flight to Denver and in 19 days I will be waking up to Santa's bounty under the tree. Like, legit cannot figure it out. I think that I need to get my online shopping done so that everything arrives on time. That? Would be embarrassing.

How do you prepare for Christmas without snow?

Oh, Colorado, you do have a Christmas card look about you.

Keystone

From my old bedroom window

Post blizzard frolicking with Mr. & Mrs. E.

My mom's car. Everyone, I'd like you to meet Sue B.

'Tis the Season

2011-12-02T10:30:00.002-05:00

On this, the first Friday of December, I thought I would spread a little holiday cheer to start the weekend and the season.

Merriest of merry to you and yours!

My Charlie Brown tree. Four ornaments and four Christmas plates thanks to my Grandmother sending out all of her old stuff to the grandkids.

Harry-dolph with his Christmas green mohawk and antlers

Izzy the Elf (sister dog as she's my dad & Sharon's)

Sidney the Elf (legit sister to Izzy)

Philadelphia - City of Brotherly Love

2011-12-01T10:30:00.000-05:00

Post-Friendsgiving, my friend Liz and I took a day trip to Philadelphia.

Liz's friends were running in the Philadelphia Marathon, so we got up at 4:30AM, you read that right. After celebrating Friendsgiving until after midnight, we got up and rode the train up to the City of Brotherly Love. It's a two-hour ride, which was a nice nap before we had to function.

We made signs that said, "Do it for the cupcakes!", "Keep running! People are watching." and "RUN! Zombies behind you!"

The last one was the most popular with the runners. There were a lot of smirks as they realized I was being funny. Which, lemme tell you, if I'm running for more than 5 minutes, I need things to keep my mind from thinking too hard on the whole running aspect.

After the race, we walk around town a little, went to Independence Hall, saw the Liberty Bell, and shopped a little. We would have don't the obligatory Rocky Steps, but the course for the marathon crossed in front and made it difficult to access.

Pass and Stow made this bell. Thanks, National Treasure for that trivia nugget.

Iconic.

Legit City Hall. Denver, take note.

Independence Hall

Friendsgiving DC Edition

2011-12-01T10:13:00.003-05:00

Go on over to my DC blog for a recap of the Friendsgiving DC Edition!

Click here:
Adventures in the District

How You Doin'?

2011-11-28T19:29:00.001-05:00

Try not to say it like Joey when you read that title. I dare you.

Now try to get it out of your head.

You're welcome.

Moving on.

Here's some things that have been going on as of late.

I had someone ask me if the wrinkles in my forehead were from my kids. Thanks, asshat. I have zero children and just because I might look like a post-baby body and at an age where I could reasonably have a kid without starring on Teen Mom does not mean I have a kid.
On the same note, I have looked into Botox.
I have also started wearing my glasses all the time. I'm not blind, but I have an astigmatism (which is on the other axis than what everyone else has so the contacts don't work, but thanks for the suggestion) that makes me squint. A lot. So I'll be getting a new perscription and getting a back up pair of glasses.
Why am I bummed about wearing glasses? I like to nap and I rub my eyes when I'm frustrated. Add to that I have an OCD for clean glass. Like, don't even think about touching my windows with my fingerprints. Point with your nail. Back to the glasses. I can never get clean enough glasses and I'm paranoid about falling asleep in them.
I have the lowest maintenance hair cut. Legit can let it air dry and it still looks good.
I seriously don't know how I would live without DVR. I know there's plenty of good TV out there, but since it's on after my bedtime, it's nice to watch it when I want and still get my zzzZZZzzz
I'm what is known as a Late Majority when it comes to social media. Except for facebook. I've been on that for 7 years. When it was still just colleges. And no pictures. No tagging. No status updates. Yeah, it's like before there was internet or cell phones.
Why do I think I'm a Late Majority when it comes to social media? Finally got twitter, now I can't live without it. You hear everything there first. It took me forever to get Pinterest, now obsessed. And I just got HeyTell thanks to Shannon. Yeah, we took our cyber friendship to a whole new level.

What's new in your world? I mean, I know Thanksgiving was last week and I'll make a post about that, but still, how you doin'?

Did it again.

Boom.

So What Wednesday

2011-11-23T11:50:00.000-05:00

It's that time of the week when I say SO WHAT, but a thankful version in honor of Thanksgiving Day.

(Granted, if this were not an email, I would link to www.lifeafteridew.com, but you're going to have to do the work with cut & paste.)

So WHAT if...

• I'm thankful to have a couple of days off? Granted, I could be more productive at home, but being forced to relax is nice.

• I'm thankful I cannot eat gluten? Pumpkin pie, pecan pie, baklava, stuffing, green bean casserole, rolls, and gravy are off limits.

• I'm thankful I can modify all of those recipes, but don't? No need to make Thanksgiving more involved.

• I'm thankful I'm not cooking the meal this year? I'm only in charge of the yams because I can make it taste like Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls & Icing.

• I'm thankful I'm still not feeling well? Last week was bad, felt better by Friendsgiving, but I think that was more of eating my body into submission. Now that I'm back to normal, it's back to hating me.

• I'm thankful that this not feeling well will make my portions smaller? No need to eat my weight in mashed potatoes.

• I'm thankful for blogs and tweets to occupy me? Being a slave to technology to keep me company and giggle.

What are you saying SO WHAT to this week? Link up with Shannon at Life After I "Dew"!

💗 Ana

How to Find My Blog

2011-11-17T08:15:00.001-05:00

Using blogger lets me track some stats. Like where people read my blog - shout out to Canada, Russia, Japan, Germany, UK, France, Ukraine, Iran, Slovenia, and Latvia! Some stats are the type of browsers readings use, referring sites, and referring URLs.

My favorite by far, though is "Search Keywords". They kill me.

Laura over at Between the Lines did a post where she responded to the search terms. I died. Seriously, there's some gems out there that people search for and then click on the link to your blog. Here are my favorites:

best thanksgiving
Well, duh. I have some pretty epic Thanksgivings. You read about Friendsgiving on Tuesday and about previous Friendsgivings. Complete with recipes.

short hair style pinterest
Why yes, I did pin my hairspirations and may have tweeted about it. You're welcome.

flats vs heels
Age old debate. Prevent gnarly feet while staying comfy v. a fantastic leg extender slash butt perker. It's tough.

h&m dress caffeine
No words. Other than I posted about my love H&M dresses and the title of my blog. Whatever gets you here.

"cut my hair" "super short" "love it"
Nice use of quotes, but FYI, google technology would mash all of those up anyway. Also, I would like to say that my bob is not "super short" considering I can still pull the top-half back and out of my face. But I love love cutting my hair, so there's that.

caffeine and cocktails
I'm sorry if I disappointed this person if they were coming here for recipes of cocktails with caffeine. Look through my archives and you'll see some of my selections.

effer
Yeah. As in mother effer. I'm not sure what this person was looking for with this search, but I'm proposing it to Oxford as a new word.

and now my personal favorite...

easton corbin butt shot
Legit. Search. Keywords. I mean, Easton does have a great derriere, no doubt, but really? That's what gets me traffic? I don't even know what to do with that. Other than post the two pics I have of Easton's backside from the H2O tour with Brad Paisley from September 2010.

See cute? And Darius isn't too bad either.

This? Not so cute and detracts from Easton.Yikes.

So, for those of you out there that are searching for me, you can go ahead and "Follow" me. You can get it to a reader, an RSS feed, or email. Just so you know. Although, I love the entertaining ways you find me.

So What Wednesday

2011-11-16T07:21:00.000-05:00

You know the drill, hook up with Shannon at Life After I "Dew", and say, "So What!"

So WHAT if...

I'm already listening to Christmas music? It puts me in a good mood. So, why not?
I'm ridiculously excited for Friendsgiving and Thanksgiving for the side dishes and desserts? As my co-worker puts it, it's all baby food. Which makes it easier to eat and fit more in my stomach. Athankyouverymuch. And, as tweeted yesterday, I may or may not have taken mashed potato hits off the pastry bag when making Twice Baked Potatoes. It's like healthy whipped cream. Don't hate, appreciate.
I'm not impressed with Occupy DC? Every time I walk past their tent town in McPherson Square, I've never seen a person that was standing with a sign, passing out flyers, or exercising free speech by "preaching" or yelling their needs/ideals/complaints. Also, if they look to captivate an audience, I would suggest that they rise during the morning commute because once we're in our buildings, we can't see or hear you. Basically, to me, you look like you're camping. Just sayin'.
I'm in some serious need of some country music? I can only get so much without having a radio or a commute that let's me get internet radio. See also: I need some line dancing and cowboy boot wearing.
I'm a brunette? Oh wait, now that I'm dark, I can see exactly how much I shed all over my white bathroom. Seriously, how am I not bald?
I'm social media-ed out? OK, I've got fb, twitter, this blog, my DC blog (Adventures In the District), pinterest, and others. Legit spread thin. Somethings have got to give, so I rotate my attention.
I'm pretty sure I'll be living in skirts this winter? With my Hunter boots, tights/leggings, and fleece boot liners, I'm going to move my fall wardrobe through the winter. Not to mention the accessorizing makes it a whole new outfit, right?
I have finally found a nail polish that encapsulates my impulsive self with nail color? It's a deep wine color called Mr. Right Now. Never a truer shade named or created.
This is the extent of my productivity at work?

Highly productive, no?

You don't get that picture of workflow? You clearly don't appreciate the musical stylings of Stanley Burell or Robert Van Winkle. FYI: that's MC Hammer and Vanilla Ice.

Friendsgiving/Thanksgiving Menu Planning

2011-11-15T10:01:00.000-05:00

Y'all, my favorite holiday is next week. I can't believe that Thanksgiving is right around the corner!

Thanksgiving is my favorite because it signals the start of the holiday season and serves as a dry run for the main event that is Christmas. Not to mention that Thanksgiving turkey tastes so much better than Christmas ham. (Note to my future, change from Christmas ham when I host Christmas.)

This year, I will be spending Thanksgiving in Michigan for the last time as my dad is finally relocating to Dallas. So thankful that it's the last winter in Michigan. My dad is part of the duo that taught me how to cook. (The other being my 91 year-old Grandma). So since he's got Thanksgiving cooking on lock, I'll be the sous chef that preps meals, but in no way will be accountable for how anything works out. Which is fine with me.

To sate my need to cook, I'm bringing the Colorado tradition of Friendsgiving to DC. Friendsgiving is the potluck version of Thanksgiving the Saturday before Thanksgiving that you celebrate with your, you guessed it, friends. At this point in our lives where my friends and I are getting used to cooking all the time outside of Mac & Cheese and Ramen, we can recipe swap and learn tips and tricks for different dishes. One of the dishes that I tried at last year's Friendsgiving has replaced Green Bean Casserole in my menu.

You may remember Friendsgiving 2010 from my previous post. (Also, go there for my Legendary Candied Sweet Potatoes recipe.)

I thought that I would share my favorite my Tator Tot Green Bean Casserole recipe.

Tator Tot Green Bean Casserole
1 lb. ground beef
1 onion (white, medium)
1 can green beans
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 pkg. tator tots, divided

Preheat oven to 375 degrees and grease your casserole dish and lid.
Brown ground beef and onion in skillet.
Combine cooked ground beef and onions with green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and 1/2 of the tator tots.
Pour mixture into casserole dish.
Top with remaining tator tots.
Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove lid (love that it comes off clean when you grease it) and let tator tots get crispy (about 10-15 minutes)
Serve and enjoy!

This recipe is great since I can make it GF with GF cream of mushroom soup. Granted, that can of soup pushes $3/can rather than Campbell's or the generic gluten-filled version, but whatever, I want to eat and not die.

What are some of your favorite dishes for Thanksgiving? Do you host or attend something similar to Friendsgiving?

Let the holiday season begin!

Time to Winterize

2011-11-09T21:09:00.000-05:00

It's time to get ready for those cold dark days of winter. Some people curl up with a book next to the fireplace, some escape to the slopes for a frolic in the winter wonderland, some people put snow tires on their car. However you winterize, you hunker down and get ready.

How do I get there? I winterize my hair. Sometimes that means that I go icy blonde. This year, it means that I lop off my dead ends and go back to something that somewhat resembles what I guess to be my natural color. (I'm not too sure what my natural color is because I haven't seen it in over a decade.)

So far, I'm loving the carefree haircut. Legit easy to style. And thanks to my new and faboosh stylist, I didn't get a stacked bob which would add work to the morning routine. I also love that I have people taking second looks because they can't believe that it's me. Got to keep 'em guessing.

What I love about this cut and color change is that I have been re-energized in my everyday routine from makeup to ensemble to accessories. I had fallen into a rut and needed to be zapped out of the funk. Well? Let's check that under done and done.

Granted these pictures were taken 3 weeks apart, but I did my best to recreate the after.

So What Wednesday

2011-11-09T06:02:00.001-05:00

Kind of linking up with Shannon at Life After I "Dew" to say so what.

So WHAT if...

I'm writing this on my phone? I'm using the new iOS5 features. It works. Kinda.

I haven't adjusted to DST? It's rough to have sunset as I leave work.

I am in lengthy meetings all week? It's a lot of information that I need, but a lot of it makes me want to bang my head. Legit brain hurts.

I've diagnosed myself with hangry dismorphia? It's when you don't realize you're hungry and you're angry. Potential hangry episode from these marathon meeting has me packing snacks. Prevention works.

This is my last so what for this post? I need to get ready for work and my day. Got to get to it.

Go link up with Shannon and say so what!

Less than 3,

Ana

Whirling Dervish

2011-11-04T12:19:00.000-04:00

I feel like everything is sedentary and moving all at once. Time is passing by at the speed of light, but all the same, life is just creeping along.

Does that even make sense?

I think that my life is in crazy flux. Relationships, work, family, time, travel, everything. I feel like I'm spinning around fast and want it to stop. All the same, I want to know what I'm going to do with my life. Not in the quarter-life crisis sense, but more of the where will I be living in March? Denver? DC? Connecticut? Boston? What will I be doing? I have aspirations to permanently relocate to the East Coast, but I'm not delusional enough to do it without sustainable employment and preferably to keep my benefits based on my tenure - hello, 4 weeks vacation!

I know that everything will work out as it's meant to be, but in the mean time, it's hard to put the pieces together when you don't know what the puzzle is supposed to look like.

So What Wednesday

2011-11-02T19:56:00.000-04:00

A little late in the day, but I'm linking up with Shannon at Life After I "Dew" for

So WHAT if...

I'm just now getting around to my post for the day? I'm actually working at work and those precious few moments of sanity I steal away are for mental health, not blogging.
I'm totally being lame and watching Eclipse while laying around? I love this crappy acting from Kristen Stewart because I love the series. I might have to re-read the entire series it's that good.
I left my book (thankfully not my nook!) on the plane? Seriously, survival was mandatory to exit the plane and I paid the literacy forward for someone else to read The Lost Symbol.
I think I need to re-read the series to remember the passion between Edward and Bella since Kristen's cold fish acting does nothing for my imagination.
I'm considering ironing my sheets? Legit love to iron and sheets are the easiest to do. Not the fitted sheet, but the flat sheet and pillowcases.
The extent of my drive to actually iron the sheets ends with that last so what? At least I thought about it.
I have to limit my time on Pinterest? Legit have to set a timer because I look at it before bed time, but get sucked in. Well, that's when the iPhone app is working.
I honestly don't know how to deal with consistent weather? Colorado always throws you curve balls, but in DC, it's the same forecast and I don't have to carry an umbrella unless there's a forecast for rain.
I joke that my job may drive me to drink? I mean, it can be frustrating, but really I do love it. Love. It.

Halloween in Beantown

2011-11-01T20:39:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, I went to Boston to see my friends and celebrate adult Halloween. That means that we were out at the bars in our costumes rather than going out on actual Halloween which is on a school night.

This year, we dressed up as A League of Their Own. Caitlin's husband couldn't believe that we were going as something so dated...well, there were more guys coming up to us asking if we were A League of Their Own...dated my ace. Although, typically the next question is, "Who's All the Way May?"

There were some great costumes and people were really inventive. Some things I have learned about costumes and drinking: figure out a costume with sneakers, limit the skin-hugging as to prevent spanx wearing to reduce bathroom time, and layers for the cold wait of a taxi when the bars close.

Here are some highlights from what I managed to capture:

We are the members of the All-American League

We come from cities near and far

Boobs!

Tebow Tebowing

Selfie

Jersey Turnpike, Revolutionary Edition

John McClane from Die Hard

Harry & Lloyd

Representing my Broncos in Boston

A built-in cupholder

Buddy the Elf! What's your favorite color?

Charging up the glow in the dark bat

These drinks were the death of us the next day.

Truly into their authenticity...just standing around, doing nothing.

Oh, and I guess this should be an open apology to my neighbor on the flight. Sorry for partying, JetBlue.

So What Wednesday

2011-10-26T10:20:00.001-04:00

Linking up with Shannon at "Life After I Dew" for some more so whats....

So WHAT if...

I expected to have a "Bless you" from my fellow Metro riders this morning when I sneezed? Then again, I would have made stink eyes as someone on the train that was sneezing. But hey, I sneezed into my elbow, not the hand I would touch anything with.
I am beyond excited to be a bridesmaid again? This is number will be #6, but that doesn't matter. You know the one that you can seamlessly hang out with? Can laugh with, cry with, laugh some more, shop, road trip, visit, be away from, and all in a span that doesn't change anything because no matter how much you change, she's changed just as much and we are closer as the years pass.
I'm planning Friendsgiving and I'm obsessing over what to make? I love to make the entire meal, but given my small apartment, we're having a progressive Friendsgiving which means that I only need to bring a couple of my favorite dishes. But in the mean time, I want to make all of them?
I have no idea what I'm going to do for Christmas? I don't know when I would go back to CO, if it would be around Christmas or before, or after. I have the time and work picks up the tab on airfare, but the time away from work is what kills me.
I have no idea who that person is that wrote that last So What? I mean, really, I'm not one to die to work. I'm more of the, it's time off, I'm not working mindset.But yet, there's so much to be done. Oy.
I'm ridiculously behind in blog reading and commenting? I can stalk a little, comment a little, but mostly, I'm limited to twitter stalking at this point because my attention span doesn't last past 140 characters.
I succumbed this morning and had some caffeine? I am nodding off at my desk everyday, feel like I need a nap, and I'm not falling asleep any faster. I'm not going to slam a Red Bull or anything, but a cup of coffee or a soda won't kill me if I have one a day.
I plan on having to go back to my doctor-advised sleep cocktail? Advil PM and melatonin will help to get back to sleeping 8 hours since I've jolted my system with caffeine. I know that won't last, but I know that's an out if I need it.
I am wicked pumped to be going back to Boston this weekend for Halloween? We're dressing up as baseball players a la A League of Their Own. But, apparently, whomever made the costume doesn't know woman proportions, so I will get to channel my future housewife self and tailor our costumes.
I am so glad that I suffered through a DC summer to not have a snowstorm to deal with today? Colorado had record highs near 80 on Monday and currently have a snowstorm parked over them. Suckers.
I kind of miss that snow? Not enough to want to live it in real life, but enough to know that it's gorgeous, makes the world quiet, and makes you want to be cozy by a fire.

Fall Fashion - Connecticut Edition

2011-10-21T16:22:00.000-04:00

I'm off to Connecticut this weekend for another wedding. This time, I am the plus one to Mrs. Kalyn Roark. You may remember her for her goat-riding good luck antics at her own wedding here.

Not kidding. Rode. A. Goat.

For this trip, I have managed to make layers and my versitle packing work. Although, unlike my last trip with just ONE pair of boots, I have 3 pairs with me for 36 hours. It's what happens. And to be fair, one of the three pairs is for working out. And since I like to dress up for flights, those will not be what I will wear flying. Besides, my little TB Reva flats take up negligible space...but then again, those are on my feet, but whatever.

Work to Flight - Fall by anaosborn. Simple. Preppy. Chic.

Fall Day in CT by anaosborn. A simple look for running around during the day. Must have scarves/pashminas to add to the layers.

Fall Wedding Chic by anaosborn. The New England Fall Wedding look. The pink coat is more of a wool mid-calf jacket, but you get the idea for the chilly evening temps.

Flight Chic by anaosborn For the early flight back, some leggings, but the blazer dresses up the travel.

Have a lovely fall weekend!

When Meds Takeover

2011-10-18T13:56:00.000-04:00

I'm a lucky girl this week with my hacking cough, smoker-like husky voice, and fatigue. So, that means that I'm getting down on some DayQuil, NyQuil, and Mucinex. On the reg. Just to keep my office mates from gagging and throwing things at me. And myself sane.

Moving on from the ucky stuff.

Here's when I know that I'm a little zoned out:

1. I concentrating on work. Well, not right now, but it's my lunch break.

2. I had to stop a second to consider if Microsoft Word's suggestion made sense to change or not. You decide.

I had to remember that I'm waiting for Scotty to get back to me before I can teleport to work.

And I'll leave you with this:

Mass Transit and Societal Norms

2011-10-13T08:00:00.002-04:00

I ride the Metro to and from work every day. I take it for only 6 minutes, but sometimes it takes longer because of asshats (back by popular demand) jumping in front of trains, not letting the doors close, or general idiocy. You would think that people would catch on. Oh, wait. They're tourists.

I think, as a public service (read: for my benefit and sanity), I need to break down how to function on the Metro. This post came about because of my ride in this morning. First this woman was pissed that I chose to make her move her reusable grocery bag so that I could sit down next to her instead of the skeezy looking guy and later by the woman "using" headphones that were so far from her ears and in her weave that I was able to hear every backbeat, syllable, and note of Lil' Wayne. Now, I like me some Wheezy, but not at 7 o'clock in the morning when it gets me all agitated and worked up. That's why the mother effer is on my workout play list, not my casual ride into work playlist.

Let's review, shall we?

For residents:

Don't try to rush and make the doors open and close. You've heard the announcement that the doors are closing and will not reopen. This isn't an elevator.
You know that there's a train every 4 minutes or so between 5:00am-9:30am and 4:00pm-7:00pm. So why do you have to jump on this one? You doing so makes us run 4 minutes behind so you would have gotten there at the same time.
This isn't Greenbo, Alabama. Move over. That seat's not taken. Not by your knock-off Gucci and not by your 2-year old who's running up and down the train like an animal. Move. Over.
Yes, I will make you move your knock-off Gucci if my choices are you and some skeeze that smells like urine. Deal with it.
You know that the Metro have 5 rules: no food or drink, no music, no animals, no hazardous chemicals or bombs, and don't litter. So don't open your Chipotle burrito bowl in the driver's car where they can smell it. Don't listen to Wheezy (Lil' Wayne for you non-hip folks) so loud I can rap along. Don't bring your yappy rat dog up in my face. Don't leave your bag so they have to evacuate the station. And for God's sake, take your damn newspaper with you and throw it away.
You know it's walk left, stand right on the escalators all over this town. It doesn't change because you take more than one to get out of a station.

For TOURISTS (aka anyone that doesn't ride the Metro at least 5 times a week):

Walk left, stand right. Walk left, stand right. WALK LEFT, STAND RIGHT. Wherever you're walking, riding, escalating, DO NOT stand still on the left. MOVE.
Don't cram near the door. The train will stop at every station. People will get off the train. You, too, will be able to get off the Metro with a well-placed, "Excuse me". Don't try to stand at the door because you, your fanny pack, and 10 moody teenagers don't think you'll make it.
Listen to the announcements and read that damn placards. They were put there so I don't have to educate you with, "Move. Move, damnit. Are you deaf? I said move it."
Those doors don't open again after they start to close. Don't try it.
There are 4 doors to every train. Move your group equally among them. Or better yet, move them between the other 28 doors on the train (with a chaperone, obvio), and you'll all get to the same place.
Sit down and shut up. The train is not a shouting contest. I don't need to hear about how Skyler dissed Madison because he wanted to hold hands with Sienna. And no, you don't need your cell phone.
Move over. Just because there's a seat next to you open does not mean it's for your to lounge on. Oh, and if you're a guy, offer the seat to anyone who is your mother's age or older. (This day and age with botox, that means that you might have to offer your seat to me.)

So What Wednesday

2011-10-12T08:05:00.000-04:00

It's that time that I link up with Shannon at Life After I "Dew" and say SO WHAT!

Side note: Today she has a guest post. I die. B be hysterical and the woman I imagine myself to be when I get around to popping out kids.

Carry on.

So WHAT if...

I wore my wellys into work today and it wasn't raining? Luck favors the prepared, so you're welcome for having a dry commute in, asshats.
I take time to come to the realization that seeing the ex is a bad idea and accomplishes nothing? Sometimes I really want to get the last word in, but it doesn't matter. Back to ignoring him.
I like to be courted? Bullet number two was helped by the fact that a gent is courting me in all the ways a gent should (and the ex didn't). Boys, take notes: open doors, be on time, plan the dates, walk street side, offer your jacket, find out about her, ask her out in person, don't be a douche.
All of the things listed in number three are a small percentage of the present gent's actions on the first date? Dude got a second date. Earn it.
I forget that this is what a gent is supposed to do? Sometimes my life is a little cray cray - not Snooki/Dina cray cray, but more playing college cray cray - so I easily forget that a gent should court a lady.
I snickered when I referred to myself as a lady? Clearly, I can be one, but I also called people asshats in this post, so there's some refinement needed.
I'm going a little risque with the costume? I'm not letting my Snooki out, so I'll be in leggings, bloomers, spanks, and undies to make sure that doesn't happen.
I let someone decide on my costume for me? I'm really good at brainstorming, but bad at the follow through. Especially without a car to take me to 5 different stores to find what I'm looking for.

Go link up with Life After I "Dew" and say SO WHAT!

Hair-Spiration

2011-10-11T08:11:00.026-04:00

So, if you follow any of my pins on Pinterest, you know I've been pinning hair-spirations for my first hair appointment in 6 months. (Don't judge.)

Source: meggielynne.tumblr.com via Ana on Pinterest

Source: skincareblog.net via Ana on Pinterest

So here's what we had to work with:

That's two days, two workouts and a blow dry post-gym. (Don't judge.) I have shorter "layers" in the front than the back. (Layers is a loose term for "breakage".)

Here's the salon's style. Not my fave, so I re-did it. The color is less yellow and still looks natural.

This pic also has makeup on my face. I'm also rocking a little more straight a la JSimp.

I ended up taking 3" off the length in the back to match my front "layers". I like that my hair is the same length, can still rock a pony, and keeps me blonde. I still want to grow out my hair, but at least it looks like I upkeep my hair unlike my 6 month hiatus.

Colorado-Style Green Chile

2011-10-10T20:09:00.001-04:00

After making a batch of green chile last weekend at my dad's and finally getting to the grocery store, I made a batch of the oh-so-delicioso green chile for myself.

It's so easy, well, in theory, but the roasting of the chiles can be tricky. Once you have it, though, you'll smother everything or eat it like soup with a tortilla sidecar. Maybe some cheese. Maybe some nachos. You decide how awesome you want to make it.

Green Chile
2 lbs. chicken, pork roast, steak
1/2 white onion, chopped
garlic salt to taste
5-10 Anaheim peppers
1 can diced tomatoes, drained
3 Tbsp. cornstarch
1 c. water

1. Heat oven to 375. Coat cookie sheet with nonstick spray, arranging peppers on top. Spray top of peppers with cooking spray. (You have to turn them, so it makes it easier.) Put on the second rack from the top. As the peppers roast, the skin will bubble and brown. You want that because it makes it easier to peel the skins. As you see one side brown/blister, turn the peppers.

2. While the peppers roast, brown meat in stock pot with onion and garlic salt. Once that is cooked, cover with water and bring to a simmer.

3. Once your peppers are blistered and roasted, remove from oven. Carefully remove the stems, and seeds, then pull back the thin skin from the pepper. Cut into little pieces and add to the stock pot with the meat and onions.

4. Mix cornstarch with water until the consistency is close to a milkshake. Add to stock pot with everything else. Add the diced tomatoes, too.

5. Let chile simmer for several hours to thicken, stirring occasionally. (The meat will shred as you stir.)

6. Enjoy!

Peppers roasting in the oven.

Chicken breasts (whole) with onions.

Roasted peppers.

Peeled peppers, awaiting de-seeding. (Make sure you don't rub your eyes after touching the flesh. Ow!!

All the ingredients ready for a long simmer.

Finished product! (I told you the chicken would shred itself!)

My Trip to Fripp

2011-10-08T09:04:00.000-04:00

So, two months ago, I went to Fripp Island, SC for a week with my friend from high school and her family. From a change of events, they were one man down for the house and I have the experience and understanding to be with another family for the week.

I had just wrapped up a week in Phoenix for work. (Do the math, I was there the last week of July and it was decidedly cooler than DC. Not kidding.) I did eat like I got the tip on a famine from the Thai place across the street and drank Firefly Arnold Palmers like there was a drought coming (sweet tea vodka and lemonade - amazeballs) so I had a great time, too. I saw my work life PIC, met some new contacts in the "biz", and avoided a whole week of humidity.

This is the church that my grandparents were married in 65 years ago. Just down the street from the hotel.

Now, onto Fripp!

Here's the itinerary for Fripp:

Wake up
Pack the cooler
Get to beach
Have lunch
Lounge on beach
Go home
Play games
Go to bed

That's all you really need. We had the system down pat and by the time we left we would be set up and ready to go in 10 minutes and packed up in less. But lord, there's sand everywhere when you get back. We also got to celebrate my friend's son's 2nd birthday while we were there. It was great because he really gets that something special is going on. That and his faces are too freaking cute.

I ended up getting a lot of sun and had a great tan for the rest of the summer. Thankfully, I didn't get tan lines that were too prevelant for the strapless bridesmaid dress I had to rock for my cousin's wedding. But, I will say that I should lay off massive amount of vitamin D without first having experienced some vitamin D. Ouch.

Everyone had their name on it so we would lose track of our drinks over the week.

Having been on a plane or traveling for 12 hours of the previous 24, I kicked back with some Firefly Pink Lemonade and stole Austin's hat.

Austin's first steps into the ocean.

The marsh side of the island

Vino and cigars in the evening.

Austin is too cute.

See? That's his "cheese" face.

His birthday banner

Custom birthday plates.

Learning balance and wakeboarding

We learned where the alligator outside the house did it's business.

Case time!

Gorgeous sunset

Erin and I

Sporting Uncle D's shirt/dress

Cleaned up and bronzed for out dinner out

Showing DDD pride at the restaurant

Sand art on the beach

Trying desperately to break in my Rainbows with salt water this time. Jury's still out.

Hair-Spiration

2011-10-06T10:15:00.000-04:00

I have a haircut and color schedule for this weekend. I've never been one to go more than 6 weeks without a touch up, a trim, something. I like change when it comes to my hair. I have been brunette, auburn, blonde, platinum blonde, and now I'm somewhere in the natural-looking, golden blonde category.

I have been maintaining the blonde with John Frieda's Go Blonder Shampoo & Conditioner and root touch up with Go Blonder Lightening Spray.

All amazing. Love my color, but it's a lot to make sure that I cover my roots after every shower and, to make the effect really work, to blow dry and flat iron my hair since the heat makes it work better. I don't have the time or concentration for shenanigans like that. Hell, the fact that I would be washing my hair everyday is a stretch just to get my roots light enough. (Do get grody on me. I make sure that my hair doesn't look nasty and smell. Ask your stylist, you're not supposed to wash it that often.) But really, the color has grown out nicely. That is, until I pull back my hair into a pony tail.

If I leave a part in my hair, it stays blonde for the most part, but when I'm working out, I twist back my bangs and other shorty hairs around my face. (I already have enough trouble just getting to the gym, no need to add aggravation to the situation with hair on my sweaty face. Hate that.)

Anyway, I plan on getting some touch up at the roots with "all over" color or putting foils around my face to help the brunette growth hiding with my hair pulled back.

Now, onto the length. Y'all, this is the longest my hair has been since I was 12. How do I know that? I was in DC (the last time I was here before moving) and posed for a picture with Lincoln's actual height. My ends looked so dead from the collarbone down, I chopped it off. I wish I could find that picture. But then again, I was awkward, sweaty and didn't know how to do hair. Maybe it's best kept an illusion.

I digress.

My hair is in need of a trim and shape up. It styles, but not that great. It looks OK, but not that great. I need some help to make sure that as it keeps growing, I don't look like an asshat.

Here are my style and color hair-spirations for my appointment. I love Reese's color and styling, but really love the grown out graduated bob from Kate at The Small Things for my cut.

Time out.
Go to The Small Things because she has video tutorials about hair styling and an explanation about her hair. Love.
Time in.

Source: meggielynne.tumblr.com via Ana on Pinterest

I will tell my stylist that I live for pony tails and keeping my hair back, so I won't go as short with the layers. I know that hair will grow, but I'll be cursing the scissors until it grows long enough to pull back without bobby pins. I'm even debating bangs. The grown out grouping I have now is easily twisted back, so I could deal, but it's a fine line.

I'll post some before and afters on Saturday (OK, who am I kidding. I'll post them on Sunday. Or next week. You'll be living in suspense, I know it.)

Also, I need to get some shout outs:

Shannon at Life After I "Dew" hooked me with with Reese's pin on Pinterest and Kate at The Small Things.

Sarah at Classy & Fabulous for reminding me that I need to profess my love of pony tails to my stylist.

and

Megs at Deviled Megs for hooking me up with a stylist in DC. It's scary out there to go to someone new. (I don't have the patience to wait for my next trip to Denver since I'm not sure when that will be.)

What's your hair-spiration?

So What Wednesday

2011-10-05T09:09:00.000-04:00

I'm linking up with Shannon at Life After I "Dew" and saying SO WHAT!

So WHAT if...

I am contemplating washing the clean clothes in the laundry basket because they are so wrinkled? I should have folded them when the laundry was done, but I can do it when I just was them again. Maybe I can just fluff them on the dry cycle.
I turned on the heat last night, just for the night? It was 68 in my apartment and I went to bed with wet hair. I was a little cold.
I broke one of my "Life Rules" and responded back to the ex? I don't know how long I'll talk to him before resuming radio silence, but it is what it is.
I'm still listening to Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons? I saw Jersey Boys this last weekend and it's really catchy and good-feely music. Granted, they aren't all happy songs, but whatever, they get stuck in your head.
I paint my nails on the go? I chipped a nail right before going through security at the airport. Not cool. So I peeled the polish off (thanks to a great base coat), while standing in the terminal I painted the nail, walked to check my gate, got on the little train, painted the nail with a second coat while we waited, and when the ride was done, added a dry-fast top coat. Done and done.
I have managed to stay caffeine-free for almost a month? It feels amazing, but limits the drink choices a smidgen.
I waver on what to do with my hair for my appointment on Saturday? I love having length for a ponytail, not a nubbin, but I really want to chop it all off and start over with a short, A-line bob.
I wish that Pandora had mood stations? Sometimes I want some happy, dance-inducing music, other times I want something that doesn't distract me.
I'm really slacking in posting about my trips, adventures in DC, and in general? I'm out-and-about and when I get home, I have more pressing things to take care of...like the laundry I never folded. See bullet #1.

Head over to Life After I "Dew" to link up and say SO WHAT!

To All the Haters Out There

2011-10-04T08:03:00.000-04:00

Own it, ladies. I do.

Four-Day Trip with ONE Pair of Boots

2011-10-03T16:34:00.000-04:00

Last weekend, I went to see my dad and step-madre in Michigan. I left from work on Thursday and a night out to see Jersey Boys.

How does one pack for this? Here's my actual packing list, sans toiletries, hair care, and underthings.

a pair of brown boots
a camel color skirt (NY & Co.)
a white Oxford (Land's End)
a navy blazer (H&M)
a pair of skinny jeans (Old Navy)
a pink cable knit sweater (Old Navy)
an ivory pashmina (gift)
a REVERSIBLE long sleeve t-shirt with THUMB HOLES (Lulu Lemon)
a navy cable knit sweater (Vineyard Vines)
a pair of grey leggings (Target)
a printed tube dress/tunic (Forever 21)
a pair of yoga pants (Lulu Lemon, lounging only)
a college t-shirt (lounging only)

Here's how the weekend panned out. Please reserve judgment on the camera work as I have never claimed to be a photog much less aspire to be one. Deal.

Blazer, oxford, skirt with a little Louis and some pearls.

Pashmina, pink sweater, jeans with some gold accessories

Lulu long sleeve t-shirt, pashmina, and jeans

Time out for the top.

I splurged on this reversible long-sleeve t-shirt from Lulu Lemon. Granted, since it is reversible, it's like TWO shirts, so it wasn't all that bad. This thing, though? Is amazing. It's super soft cotton, has long sleeves with thumb holes to cover your hands, and did I mention it's reversible?! Amazing.

Time in for the boots.

Theater night with blazer, tube dress/tunic, and leggings

Flight home outfit with navy sweater, jeans and an orange scarf to represent my ~~disappointing~~ Broncos!

So there it is. My fashion gold star!! My dad could not believe it and he is my witness. Those were my only shoes. No slippers, no trainers, no flip flops. Just these amazing little boots from last fall at Target.

Still so impressed with myself.

So What Wednesday

2011-09-28T07:53:00.000-04:00

Linking up with Shannon at Life After I "Dew" for another installment.

So WHAT if...

I'm out of town again this weekend? I'm going to see my dad and step-mom in Michigan.
I'm excited to go to a place that is actually fall-like? Seriously, 80 degrees and 100% humidity is excessive this time of year, DC.
I still have hairspray in my hair from the wedding on Sunday? I washed my hair twice and deep conditioned. Here's hoping another round tonight will get it all out.
I don't have that many pictures from the wedding? I know that there were other photogs around and I had a bouquet to carry.
My grocery shopping for the week was a dozen eggs and one pound of chicken? Those are the only fresh foods I needed for this three-day tour in DC. Trust me, I wanted cookies, but I feel compelled to tell my trainer the truth, so I avoid it.
I can't lie to my trainer? Seriously. I don't know why. Maybe because he can totally tell if I'm not eating right?
I clean my apartment in pieces? I'm not talking room-by-room, but all dusting, then later, the floors, then later more dusting, then some counter scrubbing...I haven't had a solid block of time to do it all at once.

Go over to Life After I "Dew" and tell the blogosphere, "SO WHAT!"

Icky Poo Poo

2011-09-22T14:36:00.001-04:00

Being 28, living in a city at least 500 miles from a parent, and being sick really bites the big one.

Granted, I can function. I can heat up broth, take medicine, and make it to the doctor, but there's a comfort when someone is taking care of you.

I caved today and had some chocolate sorbet (don't tell my trainer). I know there's no medical benefit, but it's a little comforting. If I weren't a whole block from 7-Eleven, you bet your bippy I'd be getting down on a Slurpee.

What really sucks about this is that I travel tomorrow. (Germaphobes, put down your desanitizer, I'll be on antibiotics for 24 hours by then.) Thankfully, I'm not congested, so the pressure changes won't kill me.

I'll be heading to San Antonio for my cousin's wedding. I think I'll tell the makeup artist to liven me up so I don't look dead. Should be interesting. In 98 degree heat and 60% humidity. Shoot me.

At least if I go down hill, my mom will be there to take care of me. #bigbaby

So What Wednesday

2011-09-21T07:58:00.000-04:00

Linking up with Shannon at Life After I "Dew" for another installment.

So WHAT if...

I'm enjoying my old lady life with work, gym, dinner, dishes, bed? Lame-o, I know, but I also know that I have a busy schedule coming up.
I'm planning all of my packing for Texas around my cowboy boots? I love them, they are pink, and if Texas isn't the place to wear them, I have no idea where to wear them.
I am dreading the 90 degree weather in San Antonio? Ugh. You wear silk in that heat with 50% humidity and not hate your life.
I'm still wrapping my calf to compress my shin? I'm already to the ugly yellow bruise phase thanks to RICE - rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Score for my nurse friends.
I got a 4" massive ace bandage? My friend pointed out that since I tend to fall a lot, I should probably opt for the bigger bandage. Touche.
I secretly want it to rain so that I can wear my Hunter boots? But really, without the whole frizzy hair and wet part. Basically, I want to puddle jump.
I'm still peeved about the guards confiscating my knife? I just wanted to cut my tomato so my guacamole wasn't runny, and I had to resort to my scissors. Which are as long as my forearm, and guess what? It has two blades when they're open.
I'm more than a little peeved that my air conditioning has gone out for the third time since May? I know it's cooler at night, but it's still warm during the day. Work, damnit.

Go over to Life After I "Dew" to link up and say So WHAT!

Epic Fall...The Season

2011-09-20T10:38:00.000-04:00

So, in case you missed it (ICYMI), I blogged about Epic Falls. As in, biff it, take a digger, trip, flail, body surf, tumble.

Yeah. I do that a lot.

So is it any coincidence that I love fall?

There are so many things to love. The Pumpkin Spice Lattes, layering (which makes one outfit like five), the leaves, the crisp morning, pumpkin and apple picking, ahhh....so much!

Then there's the obsession of the Salted Caramel Mocha from the 'Buck. Lately on twitter, I've been conversing with Shannon at Life After I "Dew" and Kelly at Keeping Up With Kelly & Co. about the deliciousness of the PSL and SCM (figure it out).

Granted, the conversation from Shannon was more longing and complaining that the 'Buck had yet to hit the sticks. So naturally, we went to the internets to scour for recipes.

Here's the one that I'm stuck on:

1/2 cuppa/mugga joe (or shot of espresso if you're fancy pants)
1/2 cuppa/mugga steam milk (easy peasy out is to heat in the microwave)
1 packet hot cocoa
Salted Caramel to taste
Sea Salt to taste

Mix steamed milk and cocoa first, then add coffee. Next sweeten with caramel and salt to your liking. If you have the patience to keep the foam, then drizzle with caramel and sprinkle sea salt.

What's great is that you can make substitutions like skim milk and "diet"/fat free cocoa packet. I wouldn't skimp on the caramel. That's the essence.

In my "research", I found that Trader Joe's has a Fleur de Sel Caramel. That's fancy pants for Flower of Salt Caramel. Since I went to not one, not two, but three grocery stores on Sunday, I was able to make it to Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, and Harris Teeter to compare.

Hands down, it's TJ's.

I picked up the makings of hot cocoa, sea salt, and the Fleur de Sel and realized I shouldn't deprive Shannon. She lives in the country where a Trader Joe's and Whole Foods are non-existent. She'll be receiving a little Salted Caramel Mocha Fall care package so that she can go on and on with us on twitter about it's deliciousness on our Friday virtual coffee meet ups.

Official fall is just around the corner...I need to get out my leggings, tights, wool, and start layering.

What are your favorites of fall?

Epic Falls

2011-09-19T21:30:00.000-04:00

If you know me, you've probably heard about - or better yet, been witness to - my epic falls. I have the ability to have massive tumble acts that resemble horrific accidents, get up, and bop away. Not kidding.

Why do I bring this up outside of the homonym that it's fall and I fall? Well, I had another EPIC fall. We're talking EP. IC.

To set the scene, I was walking down the stairs after a meeting. The stairwell is well lit, carpeted, and completely normal. I however? Am not normal. I am walking about 3 stairs behind my boss and about 3 in front of the rest of the meeting room letting out. In this, I'm wearing a cute dress and 3" heels.

I managed to misstep. And body surf forward down the stairs. Almost pancaking my boss. If she had turned around to investigate the noise? SPLAT.

My first thought was, "Did that just happen?" Second, "Did I break my water cup?" (Seriously, it's Starbucks venti insulated cup with the candy cane straw. Legit.) Third, "Body scan. Is your dress up too far? Nope. OK." And lastly, "Do I hurt? Eh. Let's see if I'm bleeding because I don't feel anything."

From this, I found out where the nurses office is located and how to fill out an accident report which will now launch an investigation into the safety of the stairwell. My suggestion? I'm not in it. Problem solved.

I have managed to walk away with some rug burns, bruises, and a little swelling. Well, it looked like a goiter on my shin, but with compression, I should be in tip-top shape.

Let's go down memory lane, though.

Christy's Bachelorette Party
I was out riding horses, fiddled with the reins while in a gallop that caused the horse to stop. I did not. I displayed my amateur trick riding skills with my forward somersault dismount.

Damage: bruised ego, bruised shin from the saddle horn, endless giggles, but I got back on the horse, literally, because otherwise I would have had to walk.

Public House - Out front of my former haunt, there are 6 cement steps. After a fun night, I was standing at the top in heels. The heel dropped off the step and that sent me into a backward somersault ending in a Kerri Strug worthy pose where I tell the cops standing - stunned that I was standing - that I wasn't driving, turned and hailed a cab.

Damage: bruised ego, bruise on my forearm, a soundtrack from Culture Club and I'll Tumble For Ya every time I think about it.

Sophomore Year at CSU
I had this delusion that I was going to stay on campus all day to study and brought all of my books with me in my back pack. I had a nice little turtle shell of 40 pounds of textbooks. Between classes, I ventured out to go across to the library and started down the steps. One misstep and somersault later, I'm flat on my back - er, turtle shell. Now, picturing a turtle on it's back, you will now picture me trying to wrestle to one side to get upright once again. Flailing comes to mind. Panic. The usual.

Damage: bruised ego, lack of studying for the remainder of my undergrad career.

Why is it important that I bring this up and I'm trying minimize bruising and scabbing? I have my cousin's wedding this weekend. An event that involves heels, a dress, walking, and stairs. Things I have proven I cannot handle. Sober or otherwise. Sheesh.

So What Wednesday

2011-09-14T08:20:00.000-04:00

Linking up with Shannon at Life After I "Dew"...

So WHAT if...

I pulled a page from the resourceful cook's substitutions and sauteed my mushrooms in fat free mayo? I know. It sounds weird, but it's eggs and oil. It makes a creamy base and is amazing with chicken, mushrooms, and green bell pepper. You should try it.
I eat the same thing for lunch and dinner when I'm watching what I'm eating? I don't need brain damage to cook all the time and decide what to eat. Cook once, eat 4 or 5 times. Much easier.
After only 2.5 days without caffeine, I'm sleeping insanely well? And I can stay up later than 8pm (unlike Monday night.)
Even I am a little creeped by the cooking with mayo thing? It does taste amazing, but interesting and a leap of faith for sure.
I still haven't posted pics from any of my trips? I need to edit some, download others, and possibly get my life together. So don't hold your breath.
I succumbed and join Pinterest? I love the inspiration for life and fun. Granted, I haven't created any pins and have only re-pinned 2 things, but whatever.
I am excited for all sorts of football? It's what fall is all about! There's the Rocky Mountain Showdown this weekend between CSU and CU, then there's the Broncos against Cinci, and every other game I'll watching in the meantime.

Link up with Shannon and say your own, "So WHAT!"

How Changing What You Eat Changes Your Perspective

2011-09-13T16:10:00.000-04:00

A lovely reader posted this last comment on my Caffeine Free post:

Erika said...

Out of curiosity - if you eat gluten free and are cutting out the sugars and caffeine - what are you eating? What is left to eat? I ask because I'd like my husband to try something like this (gluten free and less sugar), but I have to be able to present him with some alternatives. If you had some suggestions I could research based on those. Thanks!

It's not easy to go full fledged into gluten free-dom. And obviously not caffeine free-dom. I'm not completely without sugar because they exist in the dairy products, so it's cheating...a little. But it's a drastic departure from my normal day-to-day.

The easiest substitutes for gluten are brown rice pasta. My favorite is Tinkyada. I think that it cooks up easier and better than the gluten-filled counterparts. I also think it reheats better for leftovers. There are mixes for cookies, cakes, and brownies that are main stream. (Not for the sugar-reducing plan, obvio.) The GF bread that's out there is good as toast. Since you have store the bread frozen (so it doesn't crumble to the touch), toasting is really the only way to thaw the bread for a sandwich. There are also GF pizza doughs and mixes. For thin crust, these are great. If they are pre-made, they are probably in the freezer section.

For breading, and for cereal, I use Rice Chex or Corn Chex. Put those puppies in a food processor and you've got yourself some "bread" crumbs.

More and more restaurants are aware of Celiac (In fact, today, September 13 is Celiac Awareness Day), and have created menus, food options, and work with you when you need to be GF. The best thing to do is scout restaurants beforehand to find out what they offer.

The best thing to do is plan your typical menu. From there, you can find substitutions and alternatives. Instead of bread, I serve brown rice. Instead of thickening with flour, I use corn starch. I read lots and lots of labels. You'll become familiar with brands that have gluten and will steer clear. It's not easy to start, but it will become second nature. Although, I'm probably the worst because I forget to tell the wait staff. Half the time, I have to flag them down and tell them that I can't have gluten and to 86 the bun on my burger.

There are a lot of consolations that I have made. I will never get to enjoy a PB&J on soft Wonder Bread. I won't get to sop up my sauce with a piece of hot and delicious Italian bread. But really, you can make a transition to being gluten free.

Being sugar-free is a little harder since it seems to be in everything. A quick elimination is in sauces and fruit. There's tons of sugar in fruit. As for caffeine, not even decaff is safe. There is an amount of caffeine in decaff. If you're looking for a gradual break from caffeine, I would suggest taking out all but your morning pep. Then when you've cut out your afternoon and evening jolts for a couple of days, step your coffee down to decaff and limit yourself to what you have. Stepping down your daily intake will help lessen the headaches and keep you from committing a felony on some idiot.

Based on my previous experience, when you start feeding your body what it needs and not what you want, rest, relaxation, contentment, and serenity fall in around you. My productivity and focus was amazing and my moods were level all the time. No matter the idiot. Once you've had that feeling, you try to get it back. It's not always easy with everyday life, but it's possible.

Good luck as you explore your grocery store, recipe box, and your own tastes! It's a wild ride when you find more than meat and potatoes.

Caffeine Free

2011-09-13T13:33:00.000-04:00

First, you might be thinking, "Yum! I love me some caffeine free soda!" Which I would hope is a Pepsi product as 28 years in a Pepsi household has taught me. (My mom has over 30 years with them.)

Anyway, that's not the point, although now that I think of it, I would like a soda.

Crap. I digressed again.

Moving on.

I have been caffeine free for a total of 36 hours. Which is a feat of epic proportions considering my love of soda, coffee, and Starbucks as a whole. But what is keeping me from my morning jolt and afternoon pick-me-up? A detox of sorts.

As you may have read before, I prefer naturopathic medicine. Meaning, I prefer to know the cause, not the treatment. My aches and pains I had before could be treated with a pill, but I wanted to see if something in my environment was laying me up. After a detox and finding out that I do not tolerate gluten well, my aches and pains have disappeared. I don't get sick as often or feel "under the weather." My body can do it's job as a well-oiled machine and not have devote all it's time to the clean up crew.

For a time now, I haven't been at my normal level that I felt after my first detox. Now, I could do another detox, that's true, but it spans about 6 weeks and requires no allergens which makes eating out nearly impossible...it's like a vegan. Without soy. You do the menu planning. It's easier to stay home. However, I don't stay home. As evidence by my blog and absence from blogging.

What I consulted with my doctor on was eating to my body-type. What this means is that there are 4 body types for women and they are all based around a gland. When you over stimulate your predominate gland, you gain weight, feel crummy, and have cravings all the time. This is all based on the book called Dr. Abravanel's Body Type Diet and Lifetime Nutrition Plan by Dr. Eliot Abravanel. From the book, you are guided to determine your body type and given a plan for eating that basically lets your glands get back to normal through what you feed your body.

I am a T-type. And trust me, when I read the other types, I can relate some, but not for everything. When I read about the T-type, it is me. What this means is that caffeine, refined grains, and sugar. Refined grains are easy since I live gluten free. The sugar and the caffeine??? My life lines.

Now, that is also the crux of this whole thing. When you over stimulate, you get cravings for the things that push you over the edge. Vicious, delicious circle.

Long story even longer, I have cut out caffeine. No coffee, no soda. I have also cut out most sugar. There are some lingering sugars in foods, but I'm cutting out chocolate, candy, fruit, (yes, fruit), and all of those delicious things that are obvious.

So far, I haven't gotten the withdrawal headaches a la heroin. (Look it up. Caffeine is so addictive, withdrawals can resemble heroin withdrawals.) I have managed a steady intake of Advil to keep me functioning. (And don't point out the whole not-take-a-pill approach. Everyday life shouldn't have a pill, but caffeine withdrawal can. Besides, it's my body - and sanity - I make the rules.)

Now, if you'll stay out of my way, I will be able to conquer the caffeine craving without committing any bodily harm or murder. Until 8pm because that's when I fell asleep last nice. And then slept for 10 hours.

Have you ever tried to kick the nectar of the gods? How did you fare?

So What Wednesday

2011-08-31T08:34:00.001-04:00

Another edition of So What Wednesday with Shannon at Life After I Dew.

SO WHAT if...

I had an excuse to be a homebody this weekend and I took it? I couldn't take the chance to get stuck somewhere.
I ended up with near cabin fever from said homebody weekend? I did't leave my apartment for over 36 hours. Ugh.
I am packing a non-carry-on size bag PLUS my carry-on sized Vera for six days in Colorado? The Vera is deceptive in its size, but I plan on bringing my winter gear back with me, so I need some space for scarves, gloves, hats, Uggs, and coats.Oh, and I'm a girl. Duh.
The only thing that is going to get me to put my laundry away is because I have to pack? I want some of the clothes that I know is at the bottom of the laundry basket.
I cannot wait to iron? Because I have left clothes in a laundry basket, you can imagine there are some wrinkles that won't fall out with hanging.
I haven't really told anyone that I'm going to Denver? (Well, I guess this serves as telling people...if they read it.) Last time I went back to Colorado, I was programmed from the time I landed until the time I took off. It was exhausting.
My plans entail sun, sushi, and laughter? Basically, I want some color, some descent sushi, and to see people that make me laugh. I don't want to have to be entertaining people that annoy me.

When Cleaning is Prosperous

2011-08-26T11:03:00.000-04:00

Aside from the obvious of having a clean, dust free, grime free home, there are some perks when you're cleaning, doing laundry or putting things away. It's made sweeter when you find cash in a pocket of a jacket from last time you wore it, there's that ticket stub to a first date in the pocket of your jeans. For me? It's the gift cards I find in purses.

I found a Saks Fifth Avenue gift card worth $50, a Pottery Barn gift card worth $25, a Panera Bread gift card worth $15, and a Macy's gift card worth $10.

Naturally, I get to thinking of all the things I want, nay NEED, from these retailers. OK, well Panera not so much because it's a Celiac's nightmare. (That was gifted to my coworker.) I started with browsing the sites to see what was on sale, had free shipping or caught my eye.

And then, I got serious.

I have found that I can earn Delta SkyMiles through a partner site called SkyMiles Shopping. It's like eBates where you access an online retailer through their site to earn miles. For example, I was looking at getting a pair of Hunter Huntress Black Gloss boots for the winter. By typing that into the search frame, they found me retailers that had the boots. The comparison comes in miles/dollar spent and the awesome freebies they throw in, too.

To start, I ordered the Hunter boots from shoes.com because they offer a whopping 6 miles/dollar and free shipping! Score!

The glossy finish reminds me of patent black.

Next, I needed to get liners because I want to morph these cuties into my winter shoe as well. I have heard that New England winters are wet and cold, not like Colorado where a pair of Uggs gets you through the cold. (Side note: Denver does not have a really snowy winter. Yes, it snows, but it's not like the mountains and you can really get away with Uggs since you're not tromping through slush all the time.)

Enter the Saks gift card.

I love the ivory against the glossy black. The sweater weave also makes it look so cozy!

Next, I thought of what I could get from Pottery Barn. I settled on a silver-plated nesting bowl. Since my gift card covered monogramming, naturally I threw that in. (I got the small bowl for sink side in the bathroom for jewelry.)

I wasn't a fan of my monogram in the available fonts, so I opted for the "A".

I am saving my Macy's card for real-life shopping tomorrow because I have a coupon. That will be a surprise to see what I come home with!

Retail Therapy - Online Edition

2011-08-25T21:11:00.001-04:00

Ok, I see the irony in that this is a blog that is online and I titled the post "Online", but it's more that I'm online shopping. Get it? Over explained and the joke is gone? Moving on.

First, let me remove my foot from my mouth. Back in October, I wrote a post about Vera Bradley. I needed a prep to break down the obsession with her quilted print. When I was in the store to pick out my mom's Hipster in Java Blue, I was completely overwhelmed. There was so much print, so many colors, all crammed in a dark cubbie display...ahhh...I get the shakes thinking about it. Well, last week I went into my new favorite shop in Old Town Alexandria called 3 Sisters. They have lots of Vera pieces, but they are were displayed throughout the store and their main Vera display was open and light. I was able to process the sights, patterns, and objectively look at the pieces. Well, let's just say I drank the Vera kool-aid.


The Grand Traveler in Baroque 21" x 14½" x 9½" with 7" strap drop and 52½" removable strap

The short straps are long enough to sling over your shoulders, the shoulder strap is a bonus. The front flap is magnetic with two pockets underneath. On the back side, there's an additional two pockets with an opening to strap to your rolling luggage. On the inside, there's four deep pockets and a solid bottom that holds the bag open. Just so you have an idea of it's size: my cowboy boots fit standing up and my size ten covers half of the bottom. HUGE, but not massive. It still fits in overhead compartments where rolling luggage doesn't fit.

Now, for my second dose, I see that there are sale items and I need some cosmetic bags...clearly.

Here's what I found:

Jewelry Box in Hope Garden

Large Cosmetic in Peacock

Zip-Around Wallet in Hop Garden

And...for TSA...the Transparent Travel Pouch in Viva la Vera

Next, I'm going to show you the awesomeness from Sephora:

OPI Urban Ballerina.
Love this collection, neutrals with some pop of color.

Sephora Collection Tourmaline flat iron
Since my Chi's plug is held together with tape.

Philosophy Purity facial cleanser
Travel size for all my travels

Clarins Self-Tanning Gel
To cover the lines and give a little glow

Granted, since these were all online, I have to wait for shipping. So naturally, I'm going to get anxious waiting for these two shipments to arrive!

Speaking of, while I was in Texas, I had a couple of other packages from another online shopping spree.

I got a gorge bandeau bikini from Lands End in navy...it's a little nautical and I totally love it. I would post a pic, but can't find one I can swipe. Oh, and it's on sale!

Also, I found some Broncos gear for this season!!

The 75% of the Earth is covered by water, the rest is covered by Champ Bailey.

There will be no doubt of my team with this orange and navy number!

I already have my eyes on some pieces for fall, but that's a whole other post to dream, drool, and shop for!

So What Wednesday

2011-08-24T12:12:00.000-04:00

Another installation of So What Wednesday.

So WHAT if...

I survived an earthquake? I was nauseous and walked home. NBD.(You can read more about it here.)
I have a movie marathon this weekend? Apparently, Irene is supposed to rear her ugly head in the area on Saturday or Sunday, so looks like I will finally get caught up on The Help, The Change-Up, and Horrible Bosses.
I'm behind in my new releases? At least I've seen Harry Potter.
I am calling David's Bridal regularly? I'm not the bride, but if I have to stand in front of everyone and take pictures, I'm going to have a dress.
I questioned David's business practices because I find it odd that it is taking more than 16 weeks to get a stupid eggplant purple Grecian-looking gown in from the "Orient". (Manager's word, not mine.)
I am beyond devastated that I cracked and chipped my Maui Jim lenses. I have had these for less than 3 weeks and I dropped them. The good news is I can replace the lens since they're not prescription, but it will cost $60 plus shipping and handling.
I live with the crack for the next week or so? The lag time to get them back would be while I'm in Denver, so I will have them sent off before I leave for Texas.
If H&M didn't check the purse before I bought it? Granted, I didn't check the inside,either but when I went to changeover, I found a ring and some bracelets in there. The ring is too small for me and the bracelets are not my jam, but that's H&M's fault, not mine.
I went to Chipotle two days in a row and sat in the same park? It's gorgeous out and I'm soaking it in while I can!
I secretly envied the people allowed to telework today? We were given permission if transportation or commuting to the office would be cumbersome. Well, since I walked home, I guess that means I can make it in.
I was thinking that I could hashtag all of these So What's? I mean, all of them would get #firstworldproblem or #yesimwaspy.

Deep In the Heart of Texas

2011-08-23T08:03:00.000-04:00

So, I went to Texas. I got some Freebird, some Mexican food. I got to see a couple of friends I haven't seen in a year, got to kick up my boots.

It wasn't the greatest of weekends and I came to work on Monday with about 5 hours of sleep in the previous 48 hours. I spent an extra 3 hours sitting on a plane because of flight delays. Basically, yesterday was miserable and I went to bed before 7:00pm.

I'm glad I'm back to real life. I'm glad I'm back in the District.

So What Wednesday

2011-08-17T07:37:00.000-04:00

Linking up with Shannon at Life After I Dew for an installment of So What Wendesday after a little hiatus.

So WHAT if...

I haven't edited or uploaded pictures from vacation? I want to relive it, but I'm a little angry at the peeling on my shoulders, so let's not go there.
I want to go there? I know that a side effect of a sunburn is peeling, but how many layers of skin must my shoulders slough off? I'm only mildly losing my tan, but it's DISGUSTING.
I am going out of town again? I'm headed to Houston on Friday for a weekend to kick up my boots and celebrate my cousin Lauren's bachelorette!
I'm really excited to wear my boots? Like, going to wear them on the plane excited.
I'm actually practical about wearing my boots on the plane? It saves packing space.
I'm an expert at removing my boots so security won't be a problem? Don't wear it if you can't make it through security is my approach to travel.
I turned my post from vacation into cowboy boots? They are pink.

See? Perfection! Oh, and this is "Nashville" treatment from Instagram. It's like it's meant to be.

I'm Back! Missed You. Mean It.

2011-08-08T13:39:00.000-04:00

A little blog-cation happened for the past two weeks due to two trips.

Now, some of you may be a tad jealous, but let me assure you: You should be.

Not only have I racked up some serious airline miles, I have managed to read several books, laugh so hard I cried, eat my way through two cities, get a rocking tan, have time away from the office, and generally recharge my batteries.

What I have coming back is a whole five-day work week. Le sigh. I know. But when you're schedule was all over the place for the last six weeks and two of those were not in your own city, having five straight says seems daunting...since it doesn't involve my toes in the water and my ass in the sand.

I will do a whole trip post about my vacation when I get to editing all 215 pictures, but for now, here's my vacation by the numbers.

Phoenix
4,048 - the number of miles earned round trip from DC, coincidentally close (under) to the number of calories I consumed each day
5 - the number of nights sleeping with the flimsiest pillow
5 - the number of Starbuck runs in the morning
5 - the number of afternoon snacks
2 - the number of trips to Thai Elephant
25 - the amount I spent at Charming Charlie's (love the organization by color)
71 - the amount of money allowed for my per diem
20 - the amount I spent on average of my per diem
14 - the number of Firefly Arnold Palmers I drank.(Sweet tea vodka and lemonade)
3 - the number of relatives that I saw while in town
2 - the number of flights that I had to change to get home on time to leave for vacation
3 - the number of hours gained by leaving earlier
43 - the weight of my carry-on sized bag

Fripp
1,038 - the number of miles earned round trip from DC
3 - the number of hard alcohol purchased
6 - the number of cases of beer
4 - the number of bottles of wine
2 - the age that my friend's son turned
7 - the number of days spent in/on/around water and the beach
2 - the number of alligators in the pond next to the house
1 - the number of epic thunderstorms we witnessed
48.5 - the weight of my luggage
70 - the number of SPF used on my face
30 - the number of SPF I should have used more of
15 - the number of SPF I played a little fast and loose with the first days
1 - the number (out of 7) games of cornhole I won

I will have more on Fripp with pictures and a recap of the week with my friend and her family. In the mean time, I will be on a detox that will hopefully squeeze me like Violet Beauregard and get me back to normal.

Observations On a Plane

2011-07-24T14:21:00.001-04:00

I guess I should start with getting a pat-down as I came through security. I went through the new fangled machine. The rivets and bling on my jeans, the sequins on my t-shirt and bra apparently warranted a pat-down. So TSA got to feel up my T, S, and A. (S being for stomach.) I feel like we should of at least introduced ourselves, hugged it out, but something more than swiping my hands for explosives.

Now, onto my flight:

I have perplexing row mates on my flight to Minneapolis. First, it's a little boy and an adult man. They look alike, but I'm not sure how they're related - brothers, cousins, father/son. I can't tell their relationship because the only words they've spoken were their drink orders to the flight attendant.

They both spent the time on the ramp and in flight sitting with arms crossed, staring forward. The shade on the window was drawn by the time I took the aisle seat.

It wasn't until I took out my iPod, well after the 10,000 feet announcement, that the little boy took out his iPod. When the drinks were served, he was excited to have cookies.

What really struck me, after surmising perhaps there's a fear of flight, was when the adult opened the shade to peer out, the boy lit up and strained to see out the window. There was something in his body language that he was excited to see out the window.

Overall, the whole situation is odd. I really want to know how they are related and what their deal is. It's borderline creepy.

On another front, I'm sitting across from a 'tween hipster who has her leggings tucked into her white socks and floral print tennis that clash horribly with her floral print top. I can't handle the hipster movement.

Also, I'm sitting behind a satanic sounding cougher who has also carried aboard a full size afghan. Apparently, she's trying to hold back another demonic cold.

And one last thing: I would really appreciate of you didn't blatantly disregard the carry-on policy, fellow travelers. I get it. You have a purse, a laptop, a rollaboard. But if you put the purse and laptop under your seat, I take no issue with your rollaboard in the overhead. However, I take HUGE issue when two of you have TWO backpacks PLUS a rollaboard EACH in the BULKHEAD. In the age where almost every airline charges for checked baggage, I get that you're being thrifty. However, you need to realize that we all have to share the space, so don't be a doucher and take up more than your fair share. Take advantage of the free gate check to your destination. Buck up and pay to check your bag. Or here's a novel idea: don't pack so much.

Packing Light

2011-07-23T16:52:00.000-04:00

It seems that I should really consider what "light" means. I'm proud that I have managed a carry-on and briefcase for my week-long trip to Arizona for work. I have managed to cram a week's worth of work clothes and after-work (read: shorts and t-shirts) clothes, five pairs of shoes, toiletries, cardigans, and workout clothes. Planning on the eventual sweat that happens in 105 degree desert heat, I clearly had to plan that I might not want to stretch the wears between laundry. (Aside from gym clothes. I feel bad for whomever is next to me in the hotel gym.)

Speaking of laundry, I'm proud that I have enough summer clothes for two weeks in super hot climates without having to do laundry. I would naturally just pack one suitcase and take it with me from Arizona to Fripp Island, but I don't have time nor the desire to do laundry wherever I might be able to for both trips. Whatever.

As for my trip to Fripp, I could probably pack in the same carry-on size luggage, but because I like to have options for beachwear as sometimes it's a dress situation, sometimes it's a short and tank situation. And sometimes it's a yoga pant situation. To be fair, even though I am using the largest of my three rolling bags, a third of that is going one-way with me. I will post more about why I have a third of my suitcase only going one-way, but that would give away surprises for my housemates!

But let's talk about this heat because I'm sure that no one has talked, tweeted, blogged, or ranted about how it's summer. I will say that the heat is a tad excessive for me and it's super muggy, but I will make it. I'll just be a sweaty, cranky mess. I've taken precautions to stay smell-free for my fellow public transportation users, I just hope they do the same. I can't believe that I am looking forward to Arizona at the end of July since it means tripe-digit temperatures, but since the humidity is <20%, it makes for a much more pleasant heat that let's your sweat evaporate as soon as it's on your skin. Not like DC where the air is already completely saturated with moisture so your sweat sticks to you and the only way to cool down is A/C or complete submersion in a pool.

I take off tomorrow morning and will probably have a twitter-spree of witty observations, so you can get mini-blogs from me in 140 characters or less here. Since I like to keep my tweets on lock, you'll have to request to follow me, but patience, young grasshopper.

Hope everyone is staying cool in this heat wave!

So What Wednesday

2011-07-20T07:55:00.000-04:00

You know the drill...Shannon at Life After I Dew hosts this weekly post.

So WHAT if...

I am about to stress rant on you? It's what is running through my mind.
I have two work days left before I'm on the road for work and then a week of vacation. Needless to say, I've got a lot to get done in the form of work.
I am dreading Arizona? Not for the heat. Not for the jet lag. But because I will probably have to do 6am conference calls. That's right. SIX O'CLOCK IN THE MORNING.
I will put up with the 6am conference calls? Not because it's, you know, my job, but because it's better than while on vacation.
I can. not. wait. for vacation? I mean, I have cute surprises for my fellow vacationers, cute suits, cute dresses, oh and, you know, like the BEACH.
I don't know when or how to pack for two weeks? I will be town for about 12 hours, where only about 9 of those will be usable in between the trips. So, I've got to be ready to go.
I will make obsessive lists and lay out every day's outfit with accessories? For both trips? It makes sure I don't forget something vital like, you know, a bra. (Lesson learned. The hard way.)

Happy Hump Day, folks! And make it over to Shannon's blog.

Retail Therapy and Being a Maxxanista

2011-07-17T16:42:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, I decided that I needed a little retail therapy. I got myself a zippy Mini from Zipcar and headed out to Tysons Corner in Virginia.

I had a great time just going where I wanted, perusing what I wanted, and trying on what I wanted. I love shopping with my friends, but there's something about the one-on-one time that it truly therapeutic for me.

My first stop was to T.J. Maxx. My friend Caitlin works for their corporate office and has talked about all the great finds that she has from her local T.J. Maxx. My hot pink Converse from my NKOTBSB weekend was a T.J. Maxx.

Let me tell you, it takes a game plan and patience for my mind to stop jumping around in that store. There's just so much that I want to see, look at, try on that I have to divide and conquer. First, shoes, second housewares, third accessories, fourth is clothes.

My plan worked and I was able to take away quite a haul.

Pumping up my wardrobe.

In the end, I got a Jones New York suit, Calvin Klein dress, Adrienne Vittadini top, two other tops for suits, two pairs of shoes from Anne Klein and Me Too, Carter's onesies, Gerber onesies, and a baby gift set. How much did I save? From the retail values, I saved $438!! That's 65% savings from the retail prices. Oh, and all the baby stuff is for a gift. Clearly.

I am so a Maxxanista.

After such a successful trip to T.J. Maxx, I just planned to browse the racks at the mall for the intent of my retail therapy. Well, I came into Vineyard Vines. They are having their "Whale of a Sale" which is an ADDITIONAL 40% off sale prices.

An hour later, I walked out with $163 in savings for 40% when it was all said and done. (There were some non-sale items in that haul.)

Preppy heaven.

I managed to find three pairs of shorts in a bright coral, white and navy, a navy cable knit sweater (I know, it's 90 degrees out, but it's a wardrobe staple), a fun nautical halter top, a polo (shocker), a silk ribbon belt, and a pair of flip flops. Totally preptastic.

It wasn't until I got home that I was reminded that my TEN YEAR HIGH SCHOOL REUNION was Saturday. I doubt that I would have gone if I were in Denver. (Ok, well, I might have gone to the Rockies game, but not in the Rock Pile, and meet up with them, but whatever.)

Instead, I was out at my favorite bar in DC. I ended up talking to this guy next to me that was not only from Colorado, but also from the Ranch which is a HUGE subdivision across the street from where I grew up. Most people you meet from Colorado are from the southside of the metro area since that's where most people live, so meeting someone from the northside and from a mile away from my childhood house is crazy.

To cap off the night, the bar played my senior class's song. Now, from 2001, it may seem like that wouldn't be too hard for a bar to play, but when your class song is "Dammit" from Blink 182, you would find the irony.

So, here's to great finds and savings. And finding that I was saved from reliving the awkwardness of high school.

Frippin' Friday

2011-07-15T06:42:00.000-04:00

A non-So What Wednesday post?! A timely post about something rather than a week late?!

GASP!

SHOCK!

But yes, I have been struck with some blog-speration.

First, can I get an AMEN that it's FRIDAY?! Seriously, it's a four-day work week and I'm struggling. I can't imagine having to work five whole days. (Which doesn't happen until the second week of August.)

I find it hard to focus on "real life" when I have the next trip on the brain. I plan on getting out of the city to get some retail therapy, but it's just for perusal, not a purchase. But I do love shopping. Just in general. My next trip will be to Phoenix. In the heat of summer. Pun intended. As soon as I get back (literally, land at midnight and come back for a noon flight) I'm off to Fripp Island, SC and I cannot wait!

The week in Fripp will be with my friend and her family on a cute little island where there are no cars. The house comes with two golf carts, so we'll be tooling around the island, but really, I'll be walking from the house to the beach to the house to the pool to the house. If I get a stitch of makeup on my face that week it will be the one night we go into town for dinner.

On a related note, I really don't like my monogram. I mean, I like my initials AMO, but when getting my monogram with my last initial bigger, it's eh. How do I know this? I have a little trick up my sleeve as a souvenir to bring for my fellow house guests in Fripp. It does include the South Carolina flag and monogramming, so I'll share when I get them in. I have total vacation brain since I received the email that they were shipped.

Can I tell you that I also have my packing list started? I figure that I'm going to need to remember a lot for a week on the beach that I have to keep things together. I may have also started to set things aside for packing. Speaking of, my dad also bestowed upon me a backpack slash cooler. The top has a lot of pockets and big space for sunscreen, snacks, towels, random other things. Then in the bottom pocket is a waterproof and insulated for 10 cans! (Of soda, Dad...not adult beverages, of course. I mean...errr....)

Hope that you all had a great week and are gearing up for a fun summer weekend!!

So What Wednesday

2011-07-13T08:51:00.000-04:00

It's that time again where I link up with Shannon at L.A.I.D. and say SO WHAT.

So what if...

I have to write this post in my email? I have a new office and I'm not sure of the narc level that they may have on my "breaks".
I consider reading blogs/tweets/updates my break? It's healthier than cigarettes. Well, as healthy as stalking can get.
I was so super nervous to turn in my first synchronized work product? It's what I was brought here to do, but since this is my first foray, I was super nervous.
I am torn that I'm missing the Colorado monsoon in exchange for the sweat monsoon in DC? Apparently, Denver has had deluge thunderstorms for the past week or so. But that means that the temps aren't in the 90s. In DC, the heat index is in triple digits and that means that I'm still soaked by the time I get home.
I grossed you out at the thought of being soaked in sweat? If you've ever lived in a humid place for the summer, you can sympathize. Don't judge, Colorado.
I'm debating how early is too early to go to bed tonight? I need to finish my book, I have The Hunger Games to get through, then The Lost Symbol, then The Heroes of Olympus. Hopefully there will be some books for my trips to Phoenix and Fripp by the time they roll around. At this rate, I might actually have to buy books for my nook!
I love that I get to read more. I never thought of myself as a bookworm, but the nook and my library have made it so easy to get wrapped up in someone else's world.
I have brunch on the brain? I have been talking about brunch with bottomless mimosas and suddenly the weekend can't come fast enough.

Now, go link up with Shannon and say your own SO WHAT!

Celebrating 'Merica

2011-07-12T21:47:00.000-04:00

I think everyone deserves a birthday week, so why not celebrate America's 235th birthday for a solid week? That, and it makes me look like I'm on top of posting about the Fourth of July. Speaking of, head over to Adventures in the District to hear about my celebrations in DC for Independence Day. (You can right-click on the link and open in a new tab or window to read once you've read this gem.)

My dad lives in the country outside Lansing, Michigan, so he has some space and understanding neighbors that will let him shoot off some serious fireworks. I'm not kidding when I say serious. Like, have to have a permit serious. Like, have to get it from a supplier, not some tent on the side of the road serious.

I teased about the fireworks a little from my mobile post over the weekend, but now that I have photographic evidence with residual hearing loss and light sensitivity to prove it.


Getting the mortars ready.

The artillery

See? I told you they were serious.

So. Freaking. Cool.

oooooooooooooooooooohhhhhhhhhhh

aaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh

Wowie

Boom

Flash

Trippy

Zing.

Red, white, and blue.

So bright

Pow.

Minor grass fire from a tipped mortar.

The aftermath

Lots of itty bitty pieces of cardboard

Baby frog visitor

So, on my way home, I had to take a shuttle from the airport to the train station. This sign was posted at the stop. I'm concerned. Seriously concerned.

Legit. You can't make this shizz up.

A Teaser for my Fourth of July Post

2011-07-09T13:16:00.003-04:00

I know I have yet to post about my Fourth in the nation's capital, but it's only because I celebrate 'Merica for an entire week.

That's right. I am celebrating from Saturday to Saturday this year.

Here's a preview of how I'm capping off my weeklong celebration of 'Merica's 235th birthday:

Those mortars are going to launch....

ALL OF THIS.

To 80's and 90's rock. As I'm typing, "We Built This City on Rock 'n Roll" is rocking my world.

Disclaimer: I won't be anywhere near fire unless it's to roast marshmallows at the fire pit. This party also has strict if-you're-lighting-explosives-you're-not-drinking to prevent maiming, destruction, and general idiocy.

Also, I want to be a firework namer. There's "Get'in Down in China Town", "Mortar Mayhem", "Show of Force", and "Black Mamba". My guess is that "SEAL Team Six" will be rocking next year.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

So What Wednesday

2011-07-06T08:04:00.000-04:00

It's that one day a week where you are semi-guaranteed to have a post from me when I link up with Shannon at L.A.I.D. for So What Wednesday.

So WHAT if...

I haven't posted about the epic fireworks from July 4th in the nation's capital? I didn't get home until 10:30pm that night after walking the 2 miles from the Mall. I was tired.
I went to the Cubbies game last night at Nationals Park? Another contributing factor to the lack of fireworks posting was that I went from work to the game and again didn't get home until late, so there you have it.
I have yet to pack for Michigan this weekend? Now, I know it seems like I have plenty of time before the weekend, but I'm leaving from work tomorrow and guess what? I have dinner plans tonight.
I may be skipping out on the aforementioned dinner plans so that I can pack and get my apartment visitor ready.
I am having a friend stay with me while I'm out of town? She's in town for work, so it's not like it's a trip to see me, but I still have to get the apartment clean and sheets changed so it looks like I have my life together.
I'm looking forward to hanging out in my dad's compound for four days? I will probably leave the house once in that span of time and the rest of it will be spent reading, napping, watching movies, hanging out at the fire pit, and napping.
I'm still bitter at my seventh grade English teacher *cough* Mrs. Clinton *cough* for counting my spelling test wrong because I didn't dot an i. Really? I went from perfect spelling to missing one because of a measly dot? I think me missing a dot is the least of your worries with other kids in the class struggling with there, they're, and their.
Speaking of which, I'm really peeved when people don't know the proper use of contractions? They're and you're should never have been invented or you have to pass an exam to use them. Get it right people.
I can't believe I'm still bitter about that spelling test something like 15 years later? It's an affront to my intelligence that a dot makes a word misspelled. Her reasoning defies logic and I cannot tolerate that.
I should really move on from the dotting of the i? And it's done.

Now, go link up with Shannon and say your own So WHAT!

I'm A Winner!

2011-06-30T08:26:00.000-04:00

Remember about a week ago, I blogged about Monograms and Monotony? I talked about the giveaway at How I Met Your Father? How I wanted to give her a shout out for the entry and direct you there, but not to enter to hurt my chances of winning?

Well, I don't know if you entered, but I did!!

That's right! I have officially won my first blog giveaway! I am so super pumped!!

I got to pick out a lunch tote from Abbe Designs and completely customize it! I chose a navy bag with yellow ribbon and yellow, block monogram! I'm so excited!!

Thanks to Little Miss Can't Be Wrong for hosting such a great giveaway and Abbe Designs for awarding such amazing, cute preppiness!

I'll follow up with pics of my new lunch tote, but in the mean time, go check out Abbe Designs and see all the cute stuff. Disclaimer: If I know you and you have children, be aware that you may recognize the gifts for your babes from here. Just sayin'.

So What Wednesday

2011-06-29T08:21:00.000-04:00

I cannot believe it's that time of the week when I link up with Shannon at L.A.I.D. and say SO WHAT!

So WHAT if...

Sometimes I feel like my twitter/blogger friends are IRL? It's creepy, I know, but with social media making convos easy, I can't help it.
I can't believe it's Wednesday? Getting home from CO on Monday really messes with my mind.
I really wish I was a faster reader? I'm in the middle of Game of Thornes and I only have 4 days left on it from the library. Looks like I will be making a purchase at the nook store soon.
I know that I complain a lot? And I wish I could hashtag my life with #firstworldproblems.
I hashtag text messages? It's the closest thing I have to sarcasm font.
I travel pretty much every other weekend in the summer? I don't mean to, but with a three-day weekend every other week, it makes it hard not to day little trips here and there.
My next weekend trip is to Laingsburg, MI? So, don't be so envious that I travel because if you google map that town, you still have to zoom out quite a ways to find out that it's near Lansing. And it's where the padre y step-madre reside...for now.
I am basically living on a smoothie diet? It's not that I think a liquid "diet" is what I need, I'm just addicted to my Ninja Master Prep and love using it. It's like ice cream for breakfast. Who can blame me?
I just got scared by my boss at my office? She never comes around and sure enough she comes around when I'm blogging. #atleastitwasnttwitterorfacebook

And on that note, you should link up with Shannon and say you own SO WHAT.

Mr. & Mrs. Chris Allen

2011-06-28T20:47:00.000-04:00

This weekend, I was able to make a trip back to my homeland and lucky for me, it was also Andi & Chris' Wedding Weekend!

Andi and Chris met while they both lived in Boston. (I got to meet Chris when we were in Boston for Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Foley Wedding Weekend.) Since then, they have moved to Colorado and set up shop with their pup Juneau, an adorable husky.

Enough about the bride & groom, let's talk about the kick ass party they threw to celebrate their nuptials!

To start, they served wine to the guests to share in a toast with the couple during the ceremony. Because? Instead of pouring sand or water, they mixed red and white wine. By the way, I was completely distracted by the wine before I noticed the site. It was truly breathtaking. As we were waiting for the ceremony to start, we saw an elk. Seriously.

So amazing.

Red wine, white wine.

Mr. & Mrs. Allen

The happy couple.

Afterwards, we moved onto the reception which was adorned with the couple's favorite sports teams. There was the Red Sox table, Celtics table, Patriots table, and luckily I was as the CSU Rams table. Not one to be out done, there was a Yankees table, but us Red Sox fans managed to get the DJ to play plenty of songs to offset the Yankee fans.

From there, we danced the night away showing off our best moves.

Pie, wine, football and baseball.

Best. Picture. Ever.

Getting down with our bad selves.

Amazing.

I also stayed at The Stanley Hotel for the night. By myself. I swear that there was a spirit that breezed passed me and started mumbling. But that may be my mind believing what it wants. However, after our flashlight encounter with the ghosts of Boston Common, I'll stick to my story that it was a ghost.

The historic Stanley Hotel

So What Wednesday

2011-06-22T08:27:00.000-04:00

I'm linking up with Shannon at L.A.I.D. for another installment of So What Wednesday.

So WHAT if...

I am so excited for a weekend back in Denver that I can't really focus at work? You couldn't either.
I am obsessively checking the weather and flight status since there are thunderstorms a go-go through here and basically the whole part of the country that I have to fly through? When I was delayed to Boston for 4 hours and still flew through lightning, I've had my share.
I really love to fly and travel but have the shortest fuse when it comes to other passengers? You know who you are and you should know that you take your shoes off and there are no liquids above 3.4 oz, so leave your full size shampoo and conditioner behind.
In packing for my trip to Denver I wrote out the outfits for each day? It's detailed to workouts, lunches, weddings, and lounging. I was a little scattered brained when I was packing, so I had to keep it straight.
I learned my lesson that I can't multi-task chores? I can't do laundry and pack at once. See previous bullet.
I already know that my radio will be tuned to KYGO and The Wolf for the next 5 days? I don't get enough country music out here, so I need to get my fix. Oh, and it should help with a trip to Cowboy Lounge at some point.
I have planned multiple meals around Mexican food? Again, these parts are severely lacking in the Mexican food departments, so I have to get my fix.
My post is pretty much about travel and my trip to Denver? I haven't been home in 3 months, I miss my family and friends and all things Colorado. I have 5 days to squeeze in Mexican food, country music, the mountains, sunshine, BBQs, and rooftops.
The thing I most looking forward to is cuddles with my pup, Harry? That kid is so darn cute I can't handle it.

Recent and Summer Reading List

2011-06-21T11:13:00.000-04:00

I know that I've been reading a lot of books that people have already read, but since I'm enjoying them non gratis from the library, I don't exactly jump at the new releases.

However, I have managed to get through several books on my trips to and from work on the train and on the elliptical at the gym.

Here are my recent reads:

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
I finally decided to pick up the "Millennium Series" after hearing so much about it from others who have read it and based on the fact that the author is earning beaucoup bucks post-mortem. I will say that the subject matter is heavy and is not a fast and light easy read. It would not be made into a movie for TV...it would be rated R and in a theater. But I would go see it.

The Girl that Played with Fire by Stieg Larsson
The second book in the Millennium Series picks up where the Dragon Tattoo left off. Again, there's intrigue and grisly detail, but overall it's a page turner because you want to find out what is going on.

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
This is the first book in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series by Riordan. It was made into a movie that I haven't seen, and I'm not sure that I want to since my mind's eye has already painted a picture. Except that didn't keep me from seeing HP and Twilight, so I will probably rent it or watch it OnDemand. I love Greek mythology, so to place a modern twist to demigods, gods, and titans duking it out in my world it makes a whimsical escape and a quick read.

The Rainmaker by John Grisham
I know that this one is a moldy oldie and Matt Damon stars in the movie version. Which influenced my imagination, but not the whole book. I can always read a Grisham novel because there are always twists and turns with every little puzzle piece falling into place at the end.

Succubus on Top by Richelle Mead
This is like Twilight mixed with a romance novel. Basically, take where your mind went when you read the Twilight series and this goes there. Not for adolescents and definitely not something I would bring to the office, but with the miracle of the nook, no one knows what I am reading. This is the second book in the Georgina Kincaid series. (I read the first awhile back and finally got around to adding it into the rotation.)

Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
This beast (literally, it's 783 pages) is what inspired the HBO series of the same name. The detail of the authors words paints a great picture and supplements my obsession to the series on TV. The series actually makes the book easier to read because you know how to pronounce the names and the map in the opening sequence is a great reference point. I'm not sure that I can finish this in 14 days, but I think that for 783 pages, it's economical to buy for the nook to have to read at my leisure.

Next up on my reading list:

The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan
This is the first book in the Heroes of Olympus series from Riordan. Given my taste for quick reads and Greek mythology, it seems a natural step.

The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown
This is the third book in the Robert Langdon series which includes the ever popular Angels & Demons and The DaVinci Code.

The Sea of Monsters by Rick Riordan
This is the second book in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. I have to say, I want to see how this series keeps going.

The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest by Stieg Larsson
The third and final book of the Millennium Series trilogy. I want to get through this before vacation since it's a little heavier on the material.

If You Were Here by Jen Lancaster
I don't know why I keep holding off on reading my favorite author. I think I'm afraid of not having anything else to hold me over. That, and I want to be getting what Jen calls "homeless tan" while reading it.

Succubus Dreams by Richelle Mead
It's the third in the series, so I figure why not keep it going. And it's a guilty pleasure.

Anyone have anymore titles that I should get into? I'm not adverse to purchasing books, but I'm a little more into the whole free thing from the library.

Oh, and I'll cut you off at the Emily Griffith and Shopaholic series. I'm not a fan. Don't hate, I'm just putting it out there.

Monograms and Monotony

2011-06-17T10:30:00.000-04:00

Lately, I've thought of a thousand different blog posts. But instead of sitting down and drafting a brilliant piece, I end up cutting it down to 140 characters or less and tweeting about it. Oh well. My life is a little monotonous. Maybe I should just buckle down and write a bunch and stagger their postings, but that seems overly ambitious. Whatever.

But you know what breaks my lameness? Giveaways. That's right, I'm using my blog to get some more entries for How I Met Your Father's Birthday Giveaway.

Preptastic in Prepadelphia has set up a giveaway for monogrammed cuteness from Abbe's Designs.

I can't decide between a new insulated lunch/beer tote or the zippered top tote. So much to choose from!! I also need to place an order outside of this giveaway.

So head over to How I Met Your Father, but if you don't I'll understand because I want to win!!!

So What Wednesday

2011-06-15T07:53:00.000-04:00

Another week linking up with Shannon at L.A.I.D. and saying "So What".

So WHAT if...

I didn't say, "So what..." last week? I was really busy getting ready for Boston.
I am really mad that I don't have a job where I can be wrong most of the time and change what I'm thinking at a moment's notice? Weather guys do it all the time and leave me in the lurch packing for mid-70s when it actually rains and doesn't get above 60 while I was in Boston.
I really love New England? I think I could travel up and down the coast and never grow tired of it.
I have been sick the last to days with a sore throat and a headache? I managed to sleep most of the time and wanted to die the rest of the time. What can I say? I'm a wimp.
I already want to be back home and in bed? But I know I need to get through the work day, get a work out in since I missed yesterday, and then I can go to bed.
I'm already plotting in my head how early my bedtime will be if I rush home? I like to plan my day.
I really don't like when people type in ALL CAPS? I get that you like to add emphasis, but when you do it ALL THE TIME, it just feels like you're shouting.
This week's post is kinda lame? I'm a little irritable from crappy, headache-y sleep since Sunday. (Maybe it's those Puritan ghosts.)

Go link up with Shannon and say your own So What!

I'm So American

2011-06-14T15:14:00.000-04:00

(Alternatively titled My Weekend in Boston and the NKOTBSB Concert at Fenway)

Before moving to the East Coast, my friend Caitlin and I wanted to go the NKOTBSB concert...somewhere. Thankfully, they were playing TD Garden and I could come out for the weekend and rekindle my love affair with Boston. Just as we were about to click "Buy Tickets", they announced a night at Fenway. That's right. FEN. WAY.

Naturally, we had to go!

After a four-hour delay thanks to Mother Nature, I landed in Beantown Thursday night to start my awesome weekend! Friday morning, I got to sleep in and take a run up to Bunker Hill. That was a real run. Up. Hill. Whoa. (And The Freedome Trail) Afterwards, we picked up our third PIC for the weekend Bree who came in from Denver. From there, we did some retail therapy on Newbury Street, had some dinner (Bree required a crab cake within hours of landing in Boston. I have to agree.) From there, we tried Tasti dLite which was the best substitute PB&J since I 86'ed bread from my life. Seriously. Amazing.

Somehow we started talking about how "I'm so American..." and finishing the statement with a very American statement. Some of my favorite:

I'm so American I live in the nation's capital.
I'm so American I run the Freedom Trail.
I'm so American I eat crab cakes in Boston.
I'm so American I brought my knee brace for this.
I'm so American I put out chairs 3 hours early for a parade down my street.
I'm so American I tailgate a parade about a battle on a Sunday
I'm so American I take a ghost tour along the Freedom Trail and get scared by Puritan ghosts.

Contrary to weather reports as I packed my bag, Mother Nature dished overcast weather and chilly temperatures. We ended up shopping some more and getting some duds that would keep us warm and happy was we rocked out at the concert. I found some hot pink Chuck Taylors, so I was set.

Now, the main event.

The boys were introduced my Marky Mark, they took over the Green Monster and ran out from the dugout. That just started the 2.5 hour non-stop set by the New Kids on the Block and Backstreet Boys. I could still sing along to every song, get giddy when the boys would sing to another girl that was pulled on the stage, and swoon when they took off their shirts. (Seriously, amazing.) During the middle of the show, it started pouring rain. POURING. The stage flooded a little and was perfect for the guys to slip and slide up and down the stage. The wet/no t-shirt show was a definite bonus to the concert. Just when we thought we had had enough, the boys close out the concert by rocking Hangin' Tough on top of the Green Monster. So. Freaking. Amazing.

So basically, the concert was awesomesauce.

To get out of the rain after the concert, we went to Lucky Strike and bowled a couple of games. It was so much fun! And kept us dry.

Sunday brought more chilly weather and so we did a mellow brunch and movie to recover. We also had a ghost tour through Boston that we had to be ready to communicate with ghosts. We learned a lot about the city and its history. We also had a freaky communication with what we assume to be Puritan ghosts because Boston Common used to be the place that they hung over 400 people, a couple of dogs, and children. If you've watched Ghost Hunters, the will set up a flashlight that can turn on with a slight tap. As you ask spirits questions, you ask them to light up a flashlight in response. We were told to leave, and being a believer, I was ready to go. And then lost some sleep over it. Creeptastic.

Now, onto the pictures.

We're so American we ear lunch on the water.

Paul Revere is so American he supports the American team in the Stanley Cup.

We're so American we pre-game the concert and make creepers in the background jealous of our Americaness.

NKOTBSB are so American they take over the Green Monster.

NKOTBSB are so American Marky Mark introduces them.

Jordan Knight is so American his name is displayed in red, white and blue and under a Bank of America sign.

We're so American our seats were undercover to keep us dry in the downpour.

NKOTBSB are so American they close out their concert in Celtic jerseys on top of the Green Monster.

I'm so American I had my bag checked at Fenway and still managed to get nips in the door.

Bree's so American she has a waterproof purse.

We're so American we "baseball" BSB.

We're so American we have a once in a lifetime concert at Fenway.

We're so American we are married ladies to our favorite boy band members when we bowl.

We're so American we have matching raincoats for our Freedom Trail Ghost Tour and get scared by Puritan ghosts.

I love that Boston is so close and I can visit so easily. I know that there has to be a trip to the Cape this summer...that was the only thing left to check off a whirlwind weekend back to Boston.

Locker Room Etiquette

2011-06-06T08:18:00.000-04:00

Given some of my recent "encounters" in the gym locker room, I think that people need some review of locker room etiquette.

Public Gym Rules:

Do not stand stark naked in the middle of three mirrors drying your hair. That's a sight I can't unsee and I can't look at anything but the floor which makes it hard to do, well, anything.
Do not keep the door to the sauna open because you want to do your ab workout in a heated environment. I will shut the door when I'm going to use the sauna for its intent: my nap.
Do not sit on the bench chatting about some disease. Not only are you taking up valuable real estate for my bags, you also make me want to do a 2319 on your skank because you're near me.
Do not sit in the locker room on your phone. Because you can easily have a conversation clothed and out of the locker room if you took the time to get dressed and get out of the locker room.
Do not stand as naked as possible for as long as possible. Even though you're not standing in front of three mirrors, you are behind a blind corner and that is, again, a sight I can't unsee.

Work Gym Rules:

If you're in the locker room with subordinates, turn around and walk out. Just come back in 5 minutes. Those people are hurrying up to get out of there and you should have a private locker room.
If you're in the locker room with your superiors, know their schedule and avoid their workout plan. It'll save the awkward turnaround/rush scenario described above.
No one in your office wants to see/know what you look like sans suit, so be quick with the change.

So ladies and gents, apply these basic rules so that locker rooms can be less awkward than a place where a bunch of strangers are sweaty and naked.

Yeah, I said it.

Fashionista

2011-06-05T12:14:00.000-04:00

As of late, I have been channeling my inner fashionista, bolstering my wardrobe's ego, and having amazing retail therapy sessions.

I have scored some major deals, some major cute finds, and thought that I would share some of them. (I would share the amazing dress for the wedding later this month and the cool dress from Lulu Lemon, but I don't have pics and I'm not ambitious enough to do a myspace/OOTD montage.)

Lulu Lemon's Totally Totetastic Tote. It's fully reversible, has zipper pockets and pouches making it perfect for the beach and the gym.

I may or may not wear these Sperry's everyday. They are so comfortable, a neutral color, and prepatatic.

Switching up my regimen, I have changed over to Philosophy. This four step program feels refreshing.

OK, so I haven't actually received this yet, but I'm excited for the blending and processing capabilities. Margaritas or smoothies, I'm excited for the summer.

Everyone, I would like you to meet Melinda. She's my find from the sample sale. A gorgeous imprinted ostrich leather, this neutral bag is what fashion dreams are made of.

Part of my 2+ hour shopping spree to H&M. The blush and purple dress are the same (if it ain't broke) and the others are so cute for work and play.

The last bit of my H&M spree: a blazer, top ruffle tops, and two fun skirts.

Super sale at Nine West scored these natural wedges.

And last, but not least, this glittery number is for my cousin's wedding in September. I have an eggpant colored dress that these little sparkles will dazzle from just below the hem of the dress.

So What Wednesday

2011-06-01T08:27:00.000-04:00

Another week, another So What...go link up with Shannon at LAID...

So what if...

I seem to only blog on SWW? It's an easy mental spill in bullet-point format.
I have a great fashion post planned, but haven't blogged it? I am waiting for Lulu Lemon to post a pic of an amazing dress, get the dress I ordered from Nordstrom so I can google it since I can't remember the designer and the receipt is less than helpful. I promise it'll be amazing.
My officemate/sanity keeper is in Vegas, so I'm having my own dance club in the office? I shut the door and keep the volume modest so I can get through my day without her. Seriously, who knew sharing an office with someone would motivate you to get to work?
I am scarily excited for my Ninja Master Prep? It's a food processor and blender...hello to summer smoothies and margaritas with fresh guac and salsa. It's happening.
I am debating how much I'm actually going to travel this summer? Normally, the summer is when I bounce about the country, but I really like it here in DC and don't have the same itch...although I seem to be going everywhere...Boston next weekend, Denver two weeks later, Phoenix at the end of July, Fripp Island, SC the following week, Houston, Denver again, then San Antonio. I'm jet lagged just typing that.
I'm going to Boston for NKOTBSB? You know you're jealous. My trainer tries to hate on me, but really, it's NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK. At Fenway. WITH BACKSTREET BOYS. Don't tell me your inner tween/teenager didn't swoon to these boys. Ahhh....so dreamy....but not sure what time has done to them...we'll see, and of course a post.
I work four-day work weeks yet still find work torturous? It's all perspective and right now, I want a cocktail poolside.

Hope that everyone had a great holiday weekend! Here's to working for the weekend.

So What Wednesday

2011-05-25T08:02:00.000-04:00

It's that time again when I hook up with Shannon over at LAID and tell the world SO WHAT.

So what if...

I made cookies before going to the gym last night? They are my mom's fave, she gets into town Thursday, and they are amazingly easy to make. What my trainer doesn't know won't make me do more burpees.
I got a trainer and told him that I will complain and tell him I don't like him? I also explain that it's not truthful, it's just that I'm not a fan of inch worm push-ups in the middle of the gym.
If I'm not complaining, I'm saying, "That's what she said," and giggling? I can't help but make the good jokes.
I have my trainer convinced that my workout playlist has the phrase "Breathe in, breathe out" overlaid so that my blonde self remembers to breathe? This is reinforced from him having to remind me to breathe (I do forget).
I had chicken salad for breakfast? It's high in protein with the chicken, greek yogurt, and almonds. Now I can carb load Indian food at lunch.
I read tweets and fb statuses before bed? These create crazy dreams that are mash ups of things I've read. Explains why my kickball team busted out a la Glee in SexyBack on the kickball field after we found out we didn't win the overall season.
I read and walk to work/home? I sing Belle's song from Beauty and the Beast in my head and it makes me content, so as long as I pay attention to the intersections, I won't be, you know, hit by a car.
I'm dreading and uber excited for tomorrow all at once? I have back-to-back-to-back-to back (that's four) meetings, but my mom arrives from Denver. Thankfully it means that tomorrow will breeze by!

Now, go link up with Shannon and tell the world SO WHAT.