Candyfloss & Persie

Bye, Bye my little Studio. I will miss you!

2012-01-25T23:12:00.001-08:00

Alright folks- I gotta sign off for the rest of the week. This Saturday's move date is coming up quickly and I'm not fully packed yet.

But before I go, I wanted to say goodbye to my little bachelorette pad. My stay with her was only 6 months but it wasn't without sentiment. I adored my Studio apartment in Uptown Portland. As excited as I am to move in with The Boy, I cherish my independence within these walls. It was nice to know that I can pay for my life completely and wholly on my own and that I can run a household (especially one which is inherently short on space) without the help of no mans! For real, I can cook, I can use tools like a regular Joe(sephine) and I can afford to provide for myself in every way- that's a superb feeling. Who knows if I'll ever find my way back to living solo. If I do, I'll be a better person for my experience here as Lordess of the Manor. And if I don't... well thank you Studio 54 for being my first solo apartment and my own little, teeny, tiny relaxing homestead in the big city.

So here's Studio 54's big picture send-off:

{Computer was temporary, doy}

{First clothes in the big closet. 5 minutes after this image, it never looked like this again}

{I adored my old, ugly apartment hallway (my door on right)- reminded me of Joey & Chandler's across from Monica & Rachel's}

{Enjoying an October day with Reggie}

{Just walked in the front door- home again, home again, jiggity-jig}

{My bed surrounded by the apartment's built-in murphy bed. Glad to not have that anymore, I miss nightstands!}

{The couch is the canvas. The pillows are the paint}

{Never tired of my collage wall - looking forward to redoing - and tweaking it- at the new place}

{This kitchen in a studio is beyond great- my frizzy hair is not}

{Combining a bedroom & a living room is a daunting task- lawdy}

{Sleeping, Watching, Hanging- a bundled deal in a downtown Studio}

{Surriously- that kitchen was a delight & a rarity. On the left was what I like to call "getting creative with space"}

{East-facing windows made for beautiful Summer mornings}

{Remember this table? It was a DIY. And let me tell you- I have done about 7 DIY for the new place- can't WAIT to blog about 'em}

{I was a happy girl this night and if you're wondering, yes we're getting a bigger TV in the new place}

{The dresser was a DIY as well}

{My little life}

{The building was beautiful in the Fall-waited to post the outside until I no longer lived there :)}

{From this view I could see the bedroom, living room, dining room, kitchen & bathroom - oy!}

And I leave you with this...

{HAHA, one of my favorite pictures. One day I looked around and thought 'what the HELL happened in here?!?!?'. I had somehow not cleaned and slobbed out for a week. I had to take this brilliant picture to remind myself to clean daily or else the Caitlin Tornado will take over. #NoShame #Don'tJudge}

Though I'll still be reading your Blogs during work/moving/wanting-to-die breaks- I won't be posting again until next week.

Wish me luck with the move and have a great weekend!

Just Do It: Try and tell me these aren't cool.

2012-01-24T00:23:00.000-08:00

I have yet to find a single person who states that they admire the street-savvy vibe embodied in these Nike Heels.

Images via: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Sure you can't work out in them and you certainly wouldn't meet a significant others' parents in them but dang, can't a girl fawn over a little fashion that mimics the love child of Nicki Minaj, Gwen Stefani and Serena Williams all in one??

{Did she invent these? I like where her head's at. Image via here.}

For instance, are you really going to tell me they don't add some cred to this outfit below?

Nike Heels by candyflosspersie featuring 14 karat gold jewelry

What do you think?
Love or Love to Hate the Nike Heels?

Hi Seattle, can I borrow a cup of sugar?

2012-01-22T23:42:00.000-08:00

If ever Portland had a Sister city, it would be Seattle, WA. No Oregonian can feel out of place roaming the emerald city. We're used to Starbucks, old book stores, rows of evergreens, eclectic art and dangerously good microbrews just like our buddies up North. Seattle in a way, always feels like just a hop, skip and a jump away from my own front door- the friendly next-door neighbor.

My trip last weekend included ogling the Space Needle, shopping at historic Pike Place Market, gathering for drinks and food at Peso's in Queen Anne and dancing the night away to celebrate my beautiful friend turning twenty-eight years old.

We ate (too much). We drank (too much). We took pictures (too many). We made dumb jokes (too frequently).

We basically grabbed 28 by the cojones and told it what's up.

{Happy Birthday my dear friend!}

Always a good time at the Neighbor's house.

Tribal Fever All The Way to Seattle

2012-01-20T00:41:00.001-08:00

Was it just me or was this week slower than slow? Snail's pace, right? Ready for the weekend? I sure am. Though I of course have a few thoughts:

{tribal fever in action: the last image on bottom right is because nothing fits. And I only takes these images for the sake of my blog and showing you all my obsession. Don't worry, I am not on Facebook loading mirror images of myself. Glad I didn't get upper left gray top, looks horrid.}

First off, I am obsessed with anything that looks Southwesty or Pendletony or Tribaly... you get it. This whole theme has gotten me wanting to dump all my Sequins off at Goodwill in favor of warm, cozy, wool sweaters stitched with eccentric dyes. Love it all and thus have been going crazy trying on all of it that I can find-which brings me to my next thought...

{until weight is lost, tent shirts it is!}

Secondly, Going shopping while you're in the process of losing weight is a fool's game. I mentioned last week that I was kinda "down" end of last year and that manifested itself into stopping working out. Well- no more. I'm eating well and working out again. Problem being that weight doesn't fall off overnight. So, until that point- dressing rooms are my loathed enemy. We're talking Sauron vs. Gandalf enemies (any fellow Lord of the Rings lovahs in here?).

And finally, for my last weekend in my studio apartment before the big move next weekend, I have decided to get in a car and trek north to spend the weekend in Seattle for one of my most beloved friend's birthdays. I truly can't wait to get up there, take off my jacket and have a cocktail with her. Been awhile since I kicked up my feet with good friends for a night out.

{my last visit to Seattle with girlfriends. Ready for it again! I'm on right.}

I'm off to Seattle... so have a great weekend, stay safe, stay happy, stay just as you are.

[editor's note: none of the blogs I'm visiting are loading images for whatever reason. So I'm going to call it a night and will visit you all tomorrow on my lunch! So don't think I'm not saying hi, you shall hear from me tomorrow.]

Beautiful Couples of Yesteryear

2012-01-18T00:34:00.001-08:00

I've finally started to get into Pinterest and yes, it's a grand ol' time. Though, I'm a bit perturbed that I've found yet another thing to amuse me online (like there aren't enough of those already)!

As much fun as I'm having Pinning outfits and hair that I'll never have or pull off, I'm actually way more into my "Historical Musings" album.

I've realized the last couple years that I'm a wannabe history buff. Of course I don't chew wheat and sit on my front porch telling you about the good ol' days but I can certainly regurgitate facts that I've consumed via books, documentaries and websites these last few years. Though, I think this interest may just be a rite of passage for most once you wrap your mind around the fact that you and your bad perm at Prom aren't the most pressing worldy issues. It also helps to have a good gateway drug into historical storylines, like SAYYYYY if Leonardo DiCaprio entices you to learn all about the Titanic. You get my jist?

But regardless of why or how, I'm very much into the players of the past. Such as these coupley shots from my Pinboard that have me in love:

Olivia Newton-John & John Travolta

Source: weheartit.com via Caitlin on Pinterest

George Harrison & Pattie Boyd (Eric Clapton's muse for 'Layla')

Source: weheartit.com via Caitlin on Pinterest

Marilyn Monroe & Clark Gable

Source: weheartit.com via Caitlin on Pinterest

The Kennedys.

Source: weheartit.com via Caitlin on Pinterest

Lucille Ball & Ricky Ricardo

Source: weheartit.com via Caitlin on Pinterest

And then there's us...

pretending we live in the 60s.

Follow me on Pinterest here!

one man's trash is another man's treasure

2012-01-15T23:08:00.000-08:00

Second to a Babysitter who wouldn't play games with us or raisins given out as Halloween candy - when I was little, there was no venture more hellish than going antiquing. As soon as my Parents let on that the agenda included this task, my Sister and I would collapse to the ground in a fit of tears and brattiness BEGGING to either be allowed to stay home alone or for them to change their plans. Because it... was... the WORST. Antiquing as a child always meant holding hands with my Dad who maintained a death-grip for fear of me knocking anything over. We were unable to touch anything and I couldn't even buy myself a souvenir given that the prices were a little out of my usual kid-friendly $3 budget. Not to mention, the entire trip took soooo long due to the inherent nature of Antique shopping where my Parents pored over every single hidden treasure hoping to find "the one".

It was Hell.

{via & via}

But now, in a funny turn of events, I find antiquing to be a bit closer to Heaven. Though I can't ever see myself denouncing mass-produced home decor showrooms with their cheap prices and ease of functionality, there is something truly special in finding new life in an old item.

Last Saturday, The Boy and I mustered out of bed and began my quest: The Quest for a Bar Cart. Since I've had this idea in my head (and since I've realized that new bar carts cost hundreds of dollars), I have been obsessed with finding the perfect in-need-of-love bar cart for our new place.

First we hit up Antique Alley over in the Hollywood district. There was no bar cart to be had but I did manage to get away with these snazzy Chinese Guardian Lion gold book ends for $18.00.

I am pretty in love with these statues and can't wait to use them as accent pieces in our living room. Plus, they are supposed to provide protection- so I got that going for me, which is nice. ;)

{Chinese Guardian Lion males have one paw on the world and their corresponding female partner has her paw on a cub. However, these book ends are two males -as evidenced by the 2 globes- rather than the traditional male/female pairing.}

Following that, we searched through Vintage Pink in the trendy Hawthorne District and Stars on Antique Row in the Sellwood neighborhood. At the latter, I found my little diamond in the rough:

I don't want to show the whole thing as it's deserving of its own Before & After post (not to mention, it needs some attention before it's camera-ready) but I am sooo excited. Remember HERE when I said I was hoping to find one for about $50 bucks? Well my cart was $35. Couple that with the $15 in spray paint I purchased to improve it- we're looking at a $50 total venture. Could not be happier and can't wait to show you all the end result in a couple weeks!

And because it's Monday, here's the Winner of my "Present the Best You" Giveaway- winning an eyeshadow kit and a professional business card holder!

Winner is: Jaime of La Vie... J'aime!
Yay!!! I will get in touch with you this evening via email Jaime!

Have a wonderful Monday!

VLog: Yes, this is the girl who writes to you everyday.

2012-01-12T21:37:00.000-08:00

Why hellllllllo Bloggers!

{vlog rough draft- Maddie didn't make the final cut}

I'll keep this short and sweet- I did my Quarterly Vlog! You know, when once every 4-6 months I get online and talk to you in a video so you can actually "meet" the Chicago-obsessed girl who comments about your breakfast, your outfits, your husband and follows you on Instagram (@Caitlin84). I also thought it would be nice for you to see what I really look like in my lounge clothes without an elusive Photoshop glow. Usually my vids are less than 30 seconds but this one is 4 minutes! AHHH. I'm sorry. But I did try to think of interesting things to talk about, so I'll let the video speak for itself...and hopefully you will feel like you "know" me a bit better and get less creeped out when I remember details about your life from prior posts.

{My fave quote from this: "that's pretty much all I wanted to say, I just wanted to say hi.. and while you're all here, I wanted to say..." WOW Caitlin. Wow.}

[Note-this video won't appear on an Apple device.]

Oh, and another thing- I will announce the Blogger giveaway winner on Monday, my program to pick the winner isn't working presently- user error of course :)

Have a great weekend!

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

2012-01-11T00:47:00.000-08:00

I think I might be done with the black hair. After a few months with it, come February- I think it's time to lighten it back up a bit. Change. So excited for change.

Though I blog, I don't usually bare my soul on here (or on any other online forum). Don't like to air my laundry in that way plus I have a great fear of being seen as emo if I ever were to do so. But for this short little post to make sense, I have to stick my toe in the emo pool and tell you the end of 2011 wasn't my favorite time... in fact, I hated it. I was struggling with some stuff that I'm working my way out of now. I stopped working out (and I work out all the time) which is about the worse thing you can do when you have the blues. Just one step after another into further ... sadness, for lack of a better term.

But it's a new year. With new goals. I'm so excited to move and begin that new venture. I'm so excited for 2012 and all that is in store (you have no idea!)- the mapping out of my year right now has Vegas, Chicago, NYC and Hawaii on the agenda (though I think I will have to cut out one of those trips... we shall see). I've started working out again and already feel better than I did a week ago. And I'm going to be taking Photography and Belly Dancing courses in February and March-which excites me beyond comprehension. I've missed honing hobbies.

These are the things I needed. Change. I really needed Change.

Hair dye may seem like a manifestation of vanity to many. But to me, it's indicative of a better mindset.

With that said, the black hair is on a ticking clock. Time to lighten up my life.

Weekend Musings: Gaga glasses, tomatoes & skylines

2012-01-10T00:41:00.000-08:00

^The Boy in the Portland Rose Garden 1/8/2012

^Walking to sign the lease on our new place! Cold-weather layers=chubbiness! 1/7/2012

^He looks like John Elway here, which works as I was raised by a Denver-native, Bronco-obsessed Dad (that's my hat though, of course) 1/8/2012

^Taking a break from my month of health to toast being roomies at our new neighborhood bar. 1/7/2012

^Walking along NW 23rd This is not an outfit post- it was just cold so I layered up in this monstrosity 1/7/2012

^View of a part of downtown Portland from the Vista Bridge (see Mt. Hood?) 1/8/2012

^Delicious Italian at my Sister & Brother-in-laws 1/7/2012

^My Brother cozying up to the beloved family dog during a family dinner at my Sis' place. 1/7/2012

I know it's Tuesday but how was your weekend?

Bar Cart Carnage

2012-01-09T01:26:00.000-08:00

Welp, we did it. The Boy and I signed both our names onto a singular lease. Oh-em-gee. It's on.

[via]
We get the keys at the end of this month and my goal before then is to find us the perfect bar cart. I really don't drink too much hard alcohol at all (I'll order a cocktail here and there but I'm a diehard Beer & Wine Girl), so this isn't so I have easy access to tons of booze.

[via]
Rather, this idea is for two reasons:

1) They seem so sophisticated, no? The vibe of Mad Men, Frank Sinatra, James Bond, Audrey Hepburn- these are the [delusional] ambiances I imagine our place transpiring with the addition of a measly bar cart.

2) I would LOVE to always be able to offer guests a nice drink before we go out. Scotch on the rocks? Comin' up. Vodka Cranberry? You got it. Welcome to my home, put your feet up and enjoy! Let's get weird on mi casa's dime.

[via]
The problem is that I have a pretty good idea in my head of what I want: monochrome coloring with hints of silver and/or mirrors OR a cart that's a stand-out color for emphasis. But so far, the ones I find that suit that are upwards of 700 bones.

No, no, no and no. 50 bucks is my desired price range for this task (meaning just the cart itself) and that will likely lead me to thrift stores with some DIY'ing involved.

[via]
So the search is on for the perfect-for-us bar cart. I don't mind putting elbow grease into it (just like the good daughter of a handy Dad should) but I'm hoping I can find a piece I can work with to get the desired outcome.

[via]
So readers- tips? Ideas? Do you have a bar cart? How'd you do it??? SPILL THE BEANS.

PS- Unlike me, The Boy does enjoy his hard booze... so, I'm also thinking of incorporating an auto-lock feature so after 1 AM when he's already feelin' good, he won't run it dry as he rocks out to Jordin Sparks and watches the Food Network in his boxers (sorry babes, secret's out). I'm a genius.

*Know where the post-title derives from?? Love you forever if you do!

Present the Best You (& win some goods)

2012-01-04T12:37:00.000-08:00

I live by the law of maintaining professionalism in your appearance long after your start date (that means you shouldn’t retreat into fleece jackets!) So you can probably guess that I think it’s even that much more important to dress the part when you’re trying to land THE job.

However, I would also be the first to tell you that the clothes are nothing without a quality interview.

In November 2010, I was up for an internal position. This required me to have a lengthy day of interviews in a huge skyscraper in downtown Chicago. With enough prep, I cascaded through the first interview rotations with ease, my confidence was beaming as I spat verbal evidence of my candidacy. I became incredibly certain that I was going to pass this audition with flying colors.

However, that was before my final meeting of the day, or as I call it: “The Interview When I lost my Confidence”.

The final (& most important!) Exec I faced was a handsome, successful man who had a corner office overlooking the entire Chicago Riverwalk. His clothes were pristine. His office modernized and impeccably decorated. His handshake was drastically firm, he stared me dead in the eyes and he was cordial but not overly friendly. He had palpable clout.

I instantly responded to the intimidation: I fidgeted. I dropped my pencil 3 times. I lost my train of thought. I underscored my success. He saw a different side of me than any of the other interviewers. The interesting thing was that I wasn’t suddenly any less qualified yet I had become powerless against myself- I was experiencing the Achilles’ heel of interviewing: lack of confidence.

Our meeting came and went with no discernible faux pas or obvious triumphs. I had dressed the part and had been prepared to spin my negatives into positives. But in that moment, I managed to just blend into the mirage of candidates becoming no less & no more valuable than the others. To him, I was forgettable and replaceable: not the right fit for the job. And as a result, I wasn't hired.

Because it’s not just the clothes that make the (wo)man. Candidates need to be fine-tuned and rearing to go with every varying aspect of the job hunt. This leads me to Monster.com’s recent launch of the BeKnown professional networking app for Facebook. BeKnown allows you to set up a professional profile directly on Facebook that is completely separate (!!!!) from your personal Facebook page. One of the apps newest features, College Pages, even provides a way for alumni to network professionally on Facebook and view job postings from their fellow graduates!

BeKnown also lets you conduct a job search of Monster's database of jobs without ever leaving BeKnown or Facebook. By tapping into the networks of their Facebook friends, young professionals can easily connect, send messages, and see who among their existing contacts is connected to a company or job opportunity they are interested in.

It basically allows you to worry less about getting an “in” to a company and more about what you’re going to wear… or how you’ll respond to powerful executives in corner offices.

And to get you ready for your big interview (or help you keep up your swagger at work), Monster.Com is willing to give one lucky Candyfloss & Persie reader a professional business card holder and a fabulous eye-makeup kit.

All you need to do is simply CLICK HERE to check out the app and leave a comment about your worst interview experience or your favorite thing to wear to work. The winner will be randomly selected on January 11th.

Happy networking & Good Luck on the Giveaway!
BeKnown Facebook app HERE.
iPhone app HERE.

As a disclaimer, I am a participant in Monster.com’s “Present The Best You” Online contest. For this, I was provided with a participant gift that included a makeup kit and professional business card holder. However, the story and opinions are my own. Once in a blue moon, I agree to colliding my Blog with a company but that is only, only, only because I have tried, believed in and enjoy the product. Period.

NYE: Did you? I did.

2012-01-02T23:05:00.000-08:00

How was your NYE????

Did you not shop and wear the most boring outfit known to man?

Did you have lots of handmade meatballs??

Did you drink tons of grand drinks?

Did you try Potato Vodka for the first time?

Did you have cute dogs around?

Did you enjoy the bar?

Did you think that your friend Miranda is just the most gorgeous person EVER?

Did you take group pictures?

I did.

Happy 2012!

2011 from J-D

2011-12-29T16:05:00.000-08:00

Here we are again- at the end of another year. As each year closes, I find myself believing simultaneously that life flew by with me none the wiser and that a whole lot was able to happen in one measly year.

Here, in condensed form- is my 2011 (all collages can be clicked on to open their true size):

January: The Boy and I turned his business trip into much needed pleasure. We only had 3-days before the "work" part of the trip started and we packed in as much Hawaii as we could. Nothing stands out above this trip. We can't wait to go again! [January Blogs Here]

February: Standing-out above all that occurred in Feb. was attending a small-town community benefit at a Coastal town for my friend's Mom who is suffering from Cancer (shown in wine tasting image & the one of us 5 women right above it). I got to reconnect with a friend on the long drive there and then upon arrival, I was privileged to spend time with "salt of the earth" people. Raising much-needed money for someone in need was extraordinary, having a blast while doing it was just the cherry on top. The rest of the month with all its romantic wine, cheese and merriment was also enjoyable as well (shown in rest of images). [February Blogs here]

March: I had Bronchitis for 3 weeks in March... so I didn't do much besides hang out in my favorite socks coughing up my stomach (shown in bottom right). Good times. When I did have energy, I usually went on walks (shown in bottom left, upper right) with The Boy or did some reading at the library (shown in upper left). [March Blogs Here]

April: April was spent pretending it was Summer. It was unseasonably warm so we busted out the skirts and ascended on tables for Sangria and conversation (shown in top pictures). And we (of course) celebrated the Royal Wedding in Royal fashion... with Cook's Champagne and Prom Dresses obviously (shown in bottom right). [April Blogs here]

May: May had me soaking up the best Portland has to offer. I roadtripped 1-hour East and Skiied on Mount Hood all day (shown in top picture). Another weekend, The Boy and I roadtripped an hour West to spend a weekend at the coast (shown in bottom left). Hard to beat a "staycation" in Oregon. Of course when I was back in the City, I dressed to suit my taste (shown bottom right). [May Blogs Here]

June: The sun was on its way and we took full advantage! I attended Brew Festivals (shown bottom right) and laid out on the weekends. I also received a MUCH desired promotion (shown in the celebratory wine toasting) and flew to California for training (shown bottom left, plane upper right). I also flew to Nebraska to say goodbye to my ailing Grandma before she passed (represented by plane). Oh and Britney Spears came to town... and we went running to her (shown in lower right, 2nd from bottom). [June Blogs Here]

July: The month I usually have the most City fun. The Boy and I went to his hometown for the 4th of July and drooled at the beauty of his parents' homes: vineyards, views, alarmingly nice people and the blazing sun (shown in top picture). A wonderful vacation. And of course, my dear friend Miranda and I dressed up as Brew Girls for the mothership of all Brew fests: The Oregon Brewers Festival (shown in bottom photos). I simply can't tell you how fun that was. Best, Best, Best! [July Blogs Here]

August: Well- August was different this year. I turned 27 and started feeling okay about calling myself "Old" (shown bottom Left). I went on my annual rafting trip I go on every year (shown in middle, obviously). Though this trip occurs every year of my life, I have never done a good post on it (didn't post about it at all this year) because I'm so overwhelmed with passion for how much I love it, I don't even know where to begin. It is my favorite time of year, by far. And finally, after my Grandma did actually pass- I flew to Nebraska to mourn our loss and celebrate her life. I am so sad to have lost her but I was so grateful to spend the time with family (shown in rest of pictures). [August Blogs Here]

September: The Boy turned 28. I enjoyed an Indian Summer at dance venues (shown in upper right). I enjoyed outdoor parties and soaked up white heels while I could (shown in lower left) and I settled in nicely to my new apartment (shown in bottom right). [September Blogs Here]

October: I enjoyed the usual fall activities, including a nice brown hair dye job (shown in upper row). I celebrated my Dad's 55th birthday (shown in bottom right) and I dyed my hair black for Halloween weekend which made dressing up like a nurse, a red/black thingy (???) and a Graduate all the more fun (shown in bottom row, three images from left). [October Blogs here]

November: Nothing of substance happened this month. What sticks out the most was lovely Fall walks with The Boy. Bundling up and braving the city with a camera and a companion is definitely one of the finer things in life (shown in all images). [November Blogs Here]

December: December brought what it should, more outdoor walks (shown in lower right), family together for Christmas (lower left), spending time with relatives (middle- my cousin and me), festive drinks (upper right), skiing with pals (upper middle) and a little brother who finally turned 21, thus officially becoming an adult (upper left). [December Blogs Here]

2011: You were a roller-coaster ride with enormous highs (thanks for the new job) and enormous lows (loss of cherished people). All in all, 2011 will be remembered as a learning year and one which allowed me to become realistic about what I want from life and how I'm going to get it. Planning in 2011 has me excited about 2012 and what life has in store.

[To see my 2010 - from J-D post, please click here.]

Happy New Year!!

things you'll never hear me say

2011-12-27T20:50:00.000-08:00

"Oh upstairs neighbor, please buy bigger shoes. And thank you for your strict, no parties before 2:00 AM rule."

"Got all my XMas shopping done early!"

"There's just no time to do my makeup, let's go."

"Could NOT be happier that I just spent so much money at Target."

"That puppy is so ugly."

"I know exactly where I left that!"

"Football is so much more exciting than basketball."

"Ew, I definitely don't eat McDonald's."
see photo evidence of me here=>

"Oooo, I love that abstract Chinese symbol tattoo on your arm. You've never mentioned Asian symbolism and have no roots in it- but boy, it sure looks great when you flex."

"This beer is too foamy."

"That fleece jacket is perfect for the office."

"I love when you're blunt about everything- even about my outfit over lunch, that I never asked your opinion on. Thanks for 'keeping it real'."

"I definitely deserved to be grounded."

"I feel so rested!"

"Lindsay Lohan looks much better with that white-blonde hair."

"Don't text me, call me!"

"Let's do an early weekend brunch- say 8AM?"

"I just hate when I get caught in a Wikipedia trail that I can't get out of."

"I LOVE my hair."

"I'm a Bieber Believer!!"

"I wish I could hang out with Hipsters all day."

"Epic."

Now's your turn- what are some things we would never hear you say???

Red Lips

2011-12-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

{me XMas 2011}

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{me XMas 2011}

Christmas "break" (aka a few days off from work, being old = overrated) most certainly calls for red, red, red lipstick! At least that's what I always say.

Did you rock any red lips around the Christmas tree??

Christmas in Portland

2011-12-24T02:55:00.000-08:00

In Portland's hub of downtown, the hustle of shoppers, the Holiday events and the towering evergreen tree can only mean that it's almost time for Santa's annual unveiling. Behold the splendor of downtown Portland at Christmas, as seen from my camera:

{The always stylish Nines Hotel}

{Christmas view of Portland in Pioneer Square}

{Sipping festive ales at The Holiday Ale Festival}

{Love Macy's signs at Christmas- always reminds me of Miracle on 34th St}

{Entering the festive, vibrant Holiday Ale Festival}

{Aerial view of Pioneer Courthouse Square and the Ale Festival surrounding the tree}

{The Boy and I leaving the Ale Festival}

{Twinkle, twinkle, Little Star...}

{Pioneer Courthouse Square a.k.a. "Portland's Living Room"}

Hope you're breaking out your PJ's, hot totties and your best "I love this present!" face because after all, Santa Claus is comin' to town...

Merry Christmas Eve All!

With great fun, comes great responsibility

2011-12-22T02:09:00.000-08:00

Most of you are kicking-into high Festive mode right about now. If you're like me, your parties are starting tonight and lasting through Christmas- lots of people to see, lots of food to eat, lots of places to go and lots of imbibing to do.

{My student days: We were enjoying a very College Christmas. I stayed the night to avoid drunk driving}

And with the imbibing, you have a responsibility to keep your butt out of the driver's seat of a vehicle. I often think convenience or denial (i.e. "I'm just tipsy!") can lead to a drunk person behind the wheel of a car. The intention is innocent enough, but the consequences can be so grave: at least a DUII, at most a fatality. As much as I don't want to kill anyone (or myself), I'm just as frightened at the notion of my Employer discovering a DUII on my record. Noooo thank you, the only thing they should note on my background check is that I am a lovely young lady with a healthy respect for the law.

{My Sister and I at a Holiday Party. I took a cab home to avoid drunk driving.}

But in all grave seriousness... my Dad showed me this public service announcement from the TAC (Australia) last year and I wanted to make a point to post it on my Blog this year. In 5-short minutes, they hone in an incredible message in a way that will most certainly resonate with you through the holiday weekend.

Please take the time to view this video right now-needs sound but it's work safe (and I know you don't care about doing any actual work at your desk this week... am I right, or am I right?) and is SO compelling. If the embedding isn't working- it is a clickable link here:

Ammmmmazing and powerful stuff, right?

You are too precious to lose. Please be safe, dear Friend.

CLICK

2011-12-21T00:01:00.000-08:00

This was never intended to be "Boyfriend Week" on this here Blog (dear Lord, don't think of me as THAT girl) but just so happens after I posted about our cohabitation that there was something to post about. The Boy is heading off to his hometown for 10 days so we celebrated Xmas tonight and he got me... the best present anyone could get me right now:

Pictures have been the love of my life for many, many, many, MANY, years now and this gift is just about as great as it can get for me.

I mean look at this:

SOOOOOOOO excited- though my point & shoot will still be perfect for late night.

Thanks so much to all of you for all of your camera suggestions, I didn't realize I would actually get what I wanted!!! And special thanks to the beautiful Tina at Sequins, Plaids & Paws for getting me initially interested in the camera I wanted. Her Blog is amazeballs by the way- she's an amazing party-planner and decorator but she still acts like she runs in the amateur leagues (so untrue- Ive' been impressed with her since day 1).

Do I like him? Yeah. Am I ready to take my Grade-A loins off the meat market? I'm not quite sure yet.

2011-12-20T00:04:00.000-08:00

The days of green face masks, Britney Spears on repeat and 4-day long marathons of Sex & the City are over: The Boy and I have decided to move in together. [editor's note: I need new pastimes- could I be more cliche???]

After a good few years dating and many a sleepovers we've decided to bunk up and find one apartment to call our own. This is a huge step for me- and for him. And I'm tottallllly cool with it...

[via]
Though I've had male roommates before, I've never lived with a Boy I was romantic with. Even though I'm at the so-called "right" age, it still feels like a huge step. I've spent most of my life with the world being my dating Oyster- even a serial monogamist like myself always felt a little freer knowing that I could come back to my own place sans boyfriend and a closet stuffed to the brim of just my sh*t. Now, it will be stuffed to the brim with his AND my sh*t- and I assure you, his is far messier.

I'm nervous about him interfering with my Friends marathons that truly never end (I'm not giving that up!). I'm worried that he'll tire of my lounge ensemble of sweats, XXXXXXXXL henley shirts and what I deem, "Bunhead" (seen here).

Will I have to try to amp-up my sex appeal more on my downtime? Ho-hum. That's what weekends are for!!! Can't a girl just enjoy a plate of Nachos in her high school basketball warm-up clothes with raccoon-eyes because she just washed her face without using makeup remover and now the upper-half of her face is a lovely cakey, black color every now and again?!?! Is that REALLY asking too much?

Though we've been monogamous and happy together for almost 3 years, colliding our worlds onto a lease agreement does bring about a little voice in my head: I'm old, super attached and perhaps never single again.

AI-YI-YI, that's a pill to swallow.

But before you paint me as a callous b*tch, please understand that I'm not the only one who enjoys my independence. The Boy, who once acted as single as you can expect (must I say more? You get it.), is wrangling the lockdown of that part of his life. Make no mistake, I have THE world's most honest and faithful boyfriend who would always do right by me, but I know the deposit on the apartment will also feel like he's closing a chapter he has always held dear.

During and since College, he has lived in "man caves" where a beer, a football and a video game tournament were never more than a stone's throw away. Don't get me wrong, I like sports but some of the guyish aspects will now cease to exist- such as the chew and spitters he tries to accompany games with- those days are dunzo my friend. And from 2006-2009 he lived in an apartment where he had his own bathroom. He did not clean the bathroom once during that time. ONCE. These are the things I worry about (ONCE!).

But with loss certainly comes gain. Though I know I will no longer find someone at the bar on Ladies Night and make out with them in the dark corner of the dance floor (feel the need to explain that no, I haven't been doing that during our relationship), I will find excitement in new, wonderful ways:

I look forward to the nights I cook for him and his job is to eat and I look forward to when that role is reversed and I get to relax while he creates delicious plate art (we both like cooking AND eating). I look forward to the nights we each have something different to do yet enjoy each others' company while we scurry around the apartment getting ready. I look forward to lazy Sundays full of movies, pajamas, sweats and big breakfasts. I look forward to coming home to him on great and trying days. I look forward to what I don't even know will come yet.

[haha this is the ugliest picture of us ever, but I always like it for some reason]

The fear is still there (oh dear Lord will he help me clean? And can we please have a closed-door bathroom policy) but the excitement is overwhelming.

C'est la vie- here goes nothing!

What is your experience (or lack thereof) of living with a significant other?

*Trivia Bonus: Can you tell me where my post title came from? I'll ♥ you forever!

Outfit Post: Ruffles, Silk & Plaid.

2011-12-18T22:38:00.001-08:00

Ruffles & Plaid by candyflosspersie featuring white gold diamond earrings

Skirt: Old Navy | Shoes: Jessica Simpson | Blouse: The Rack

Pocketed plaid skirt, ruffled silk blouse, supple purple boots and a belted blue jacket made Christmas shopping a comfortable breeze last Thursday.

Though my boyfriend has started referring to me as "The Ice Queen" due to my black hair and now whittttte skin. Sometimes I wished I hadn't finally decided to quit tanning because oh me, life is better with an orange, sickly glow (in my humble opinion).

Happy Monday All! :)

Survey Says: It's all about Jenn.

2011-12-13T00:32:00.000-08:00

I'm sure no one is hearing for the first time on this here blog that Jennifer Aniston was named the sexiest woman of all time last week by Men's Health.

I don't think it's any secret why:

[all images of J.Aniston via]

Not to be all 2005ish, but I want to laugh in Brad & Angelina's face: I always said Jenn was the better of the two:

{Me in 2005 in my patriotic shirt my Sister gave me as a gift from Kitson}

Team Rachel - For The Win.

How The Glitz Stole Christmas: Blogger Swap

2011-12-11T23:54:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas and exchanging gifts and glitzy things and bloggy friendships and posting about all of the aforementioned- thus, I HAPPILY agreed to partake in Raven and Lindsey's hosted "How the Glitz Stole Christmas!" bloggy gift-swap.

I quickly sent in my deets and was paired with Lindsay Marie to swap glitzy, glamorous gifts. After scarily shopping for my gift to her and shipping it off (scarily only because I hoped she liked it!), I enthusiastically waited for my little package to arrive.

And it did. The perfect post came to my apartment and went untouched for many days. You see, seeing how this was a Christmas swap- I wanted to wait to open it until the day I wrote the post. So the tantalizing package sat on my kitchen table until December 11th.

And because I decided authenticity was important, I wanted to open my gifts just like I would on Christmas: fresh out of bed and in my pajamas (with last night's makeup, yummy). Thankfully, I had a very tired boyfriend who was willing to rouse and take pictures of my pillaging. As you can imagine, he was supppper excited to help. But, let's get to the gifts- shall we?:

Lindsay's packaging was THE cutest. Adorable cards, bright wrapping paper and a well-documented attention to detail- I loved finding all the "Merry Christmas Caitlin" messages all over.

Boxes, bracelets and messages- Oh, my!

All in all, Lindsay adorned me with glitzy bracelets, a glitzy winter hat and a glitzy nail polish.

Gray is my uber color of choice and now I join the ranks of all you bloggers with "Essie" nail polish. Look out world: I have arrived.

The swap was a faboosh way to cap off my weekend and get me excited for Christmas- nail polish and bracelets (on left in image above) are from Lindsay and I could not love them anymore. But really- the included card above? I die. So simple and lovely.

So many thanks to Raven and Lindsey for hosting such a fun idea.

And thank you so much to Lindsay Marie for the WONDERFUL gift- be sure to check out her blog today to see what I got her!

{part of my gift to the fab Lindsay}

And I also hope you enjoyed witnessing my morning, bang comb over and XXL t-shirt.

Cheers!

walk a mile in my screwy shoes

2011-12-09T01:30:00.000-08:00

If there's one thing in this entire world that I suck at, it's getting the tips replaced on the heels of my shoes. I NEVER do it. This mainly due to the fact that I never think about it until after I leave my apartment and head off somewhere. It's always a beautiful moment when I realize that whatever errand I'm running will be scored by the soothing sound of screws grinding into the pavement because I'm yet again in need of shoe repair. Dub to the T.

So please help a girl out who has no clue!:
How often do you replace the tips of your shoes?
Where do you go to do it?
How much do you spend?

Oh- and HAPPY Friday. Looking forward to the How the Glitz Stole Christmas Gift Swap post on Monday!

Life in December

2011-12-07T23:25:00.000-08:00

{This Kitty who tries to come in our office every day. I die. ADORABLE.}

{Celebrating commerce & hard work at the Boy's company party}

{Walking to get groceries in a downpour. Thankful for hoods.}

Eat, Drink & do Charity: Grand Marnier Liqueur

2011-12-06T21:55:00.000-08:00

The Holiday crooners have long serenaded us with the promise of a Christmas full of roaring fires, entrancing conversation and yummy adult beverages.

A few of my favorites to sip on while I conspire by the fire?

The Grand French Coffee | The B-52 | The Grand Moccha

Of course the prevailing ingredient in all of these is none other than Grand Marnier Liqueur which is a blended medley of true cognacs and distilled essence of bitter orange. Aside from the salivating drinks above, it is a delight served neat over ice or even sipped after meals as a tummy-tamer. To summarize: it's delicious, seasonal and beneficial.

But your tummy isn't the only one who Grand Marnier is out to protect.

Thanks to Bloggy Friend, Kinsey- I was alerted to the fact that this holiday season, Grand Marnier will donate $10,000 to one of the charities below:

World Wildlife Fund, an organization that protects nature and endangered species
WaterAid, a charity that provides clean, safe water to the world's poorest countries
Cool Earth, an organization that protects rainforests and helps build sustainable communities

The only catch? They're relying on people like you and me, people who would like to contribute this Holiday season but don't always find the time or the money. It's the eassssssiest way to spread Christmas cheer- All you have to do is go to their Facebook app and pick the ornament representing the cause you're most passionate about.

That's it, it's THAT easy.

And just in case you needed another incentive: your vote automatically puts you in the running to win $1,000 and you get to put your own ornament on the beautiful Grand Giving Tree.

So please all you socially-minded, kind-hearted readers who have less than a minute to spare- please go help one of the worthy charities win the money they're very deserving of!

And be sure to let me know which one you picked!
Thanks Kinsey, for alerting me to such an easy, yet rewarding way to contribute to a cause.

DIY: The Lavish Eye

2011-12-05T23:58:00.001-08:00

In an old Sephora catalog... I found a makeup-job that made my cold, black heart grow three sizes that day. It was a lotta eyeshadow (which I love) and a lotta faith in my application skills (which I sometimes have-meaning faith, not skill). My mind, body and soul were up to the task: Recreate that look!

Um... I don't want to toot my own horn (and rarely will so brazenly) but.. beep.. beep. My inspiration picture is in the bottom right corner, just below my imitation of it (above). Given the fact that I pilfered the style by merely looking at the image (no instruction), I think it came out pretty, stinkin' well.

So of course, I had to go out to celebrate the fact that I really, really can do ~~drag queen~~ makeup!

I grabbed my red-headed Sister.

{my sister has virgin hair... and it shows. Undyed and oh so purty}

Put a cocktail in her hand

And we had a grand night sipping spirits fireside.

Three cheers for Sisters, fireplaces & eye makeup!

Pendleton: The Portland Collection

2011-12-05T00:25:00.001-08:00

I love sequins, I love pleather, I love vampy, skin-tight ensembles that scream for the accompaniment of a dark bar, a handsome stranger and a dirty martini.

But despite that, I also have a soft-spot for rich wools, cozy blankets and cultured textiles.

That's why, my Christmas list this year will definitely include items from The Portland Collection by Pendleton Woolen Mills .

Alright, if you saw my post last week you may recognize the connection- yes, I'm a wee bit impartial to companies that have ties to my beloved city & home. Pendleton Woolen Mills is based in a city by the same name directly 3-hours due East of Portland. You mayyyy have heard of the town before due to the weighty fact that it's where Kevin Federline hails from - a fun trivia fact for all ages.

I have always had a fondness for Pendleton after growing up with a couple of their magnificent blankets: the weaving was phenomenal, the print was spirited and the blankets were just about as warm as they could get.

[via]

Since that point, I've lusted after Pendleton garb and its Native American flair. When I found out that three Portland designers were creating The Portland Collection- I found myself tickled with joy.

[Thank you to The Portland Collection blog for their pictures]

I want to rock Pendleton scarves on a chilly Sunday morning while I thrift shop in the bohemian niches on the East Side. I want to spend an entire weekend swilling coffee at a cabin draped in Pendleton ponchos. And I want to venture off to the beach for the weekend with a Pendleton wool hat cresting atop my head.

Trendy and elegant evening wear it is not. But for a casual, earthy, luxurious, sportswear look- Pendleton is hard to beat in quality. Think of it like a refined Abercrombie & Fitch without the tacky branding and obnoxious ad campaigns/clientele.

Pendleton by candyflosspersie featuring long bags

For many more trendier and affordable looks, check out Pendleton for Urban Outfitters HERE.

So... what do you think of Pendleton style? Yay or Nay?

Read: The Portland Collection Blog
Link: Pendleton Woolen Mills website

*I wasn't compensated at all for this post, just pitching out of sheer love.

The Rose City ♥

2011-12-01T00:27:00.000-08:00

I do love this city of mine. Even as I'm sooo ready to fly the nest, I know that wherever I go, or wherever I am- I will always be a Portland girl.♥

Girlfriends & Me (on right) pose with view from the uber-chic Departure Restaurant & Lounge

Southern view of Portland from top of Condo in the very trendy Pearl District

View of Portland from the luxurious Governor Hotel

Enjoying the benefits of the summer closure of Ankeny street, where pedestrians are welcome to eat, drink and be merry on the city block without the intrusion of cars.

On the cusp of the entrance to the city from the South Waterfront taken the day I wrote this Blog post - 11.30.2011

A rainbow greets me at the view from my apartment, touching down onto the Hilton downtown.

Historic Fremont Bridge, from the South side.

Me, trolling around 4th Ave., where the good shops are.

Another view of 4th Ave., taken 11.30.2011

The Boy jogging across the Hawthorne Bridge.

View from Departure deck again (same as first image)

All images were taken by Me in downtown Portland.

I'm signing off for the weekend, have a fabulous start to your December!

Battling Hues

2011-11-29T00:04:00.001-08:00

As evidenced in the picture just below, I can't ever come to a conclusion.

[Above: My Brunette shot taken 11/26/2011, My Blonde taken 07/14/2011]

But the world wants us to choose- where do you fall?

Do brunettes do it better or do blondes just have more fun?

[All images via WeHeartIt minus the first compilation image of me.]

Not the First, Won't be the Last

2011-11-27T23:31:00.000-08:00

I have a not-so-secret love affair with American Apparel.

I have written about their Viscose Dolman Sleeve T (find the shirt by clicking its name) before and I will write about it in the future. I stumbled across these pictures from September and realized that I should YET AGAIN push everyone on this top (especially if you're looking to spend domestically-like me!- after realizing that all your money goes to China in some form).

Material is orgasmic against the skin. The fit is flirty. Dress it up or dress it down with cardigans, jewelery or scarves of your choice. Tuck it into a black pencil skirt for sophisticated chic or let it flow over skinny jeans for casual vogue.

I wasn't paid to write this post and I have no professional relationship with American Apparel besides the fact that I would gladly spend all my money there if that were an option... and sleep under the counter.

Final Answer: the shirt is well worth the $32.00.

Update: Stevie brought up a great question- "What bra do you wear with it??" I have a nude, strapless bra that does the trick (Looks exactly like the below). Funny how skin-toned hues are nearly invisible under anything in the t-shirt family. As a B-Cup to C-Cup (fluctuation has to do with how much I'm eating/working out at the time), this works perfectly. Though I'm sure smaller could get away with less and larger would require a bit more.

Great option (above) can be found here.

Be Thankful on Turkey Day

2011-11-24T00:04:00.000-08:00

Thankful for.... liquid leggings, the most wonderful item of clothing to own.

Thankful for... daily office visits from my Cousin. He works on a different floor but I look forward to when he comes to shoot the sh*t with me for a few minutes.

Thankful for... my family. For which there are no words needed.♥ ♥

Thankful for... my career. With so many economic woes, I'm very grateful to be employed.

Thankful for... pictures. Which brighten my world in every way. It is my most cherished hobby.

Thankful for... my Grandma Fran and thankful that I got to see her before she passed this year. I miss her very much.

Thankful for... Petfinder.Org., which gives homeless animals a fighting chance.

Thankful for ... my ability to form my own political opinions because I don't have blind allegiance to one party.

Thankful for ... the free tampons at my work because I am often unprepared. TMI?

Thankful for ... my plan for 2012 and knowing what is in store.

Thankful for... good beer. Not beer... good beer.

Thankful for... hair dye for making me feel better when I'm bored.

Thankful for ... the parties I hear my married neighbors throw. I like when married life doesn't just equal a bassinet.

Thankful for... fans because I hate sleeping in stale, silent air.

Thankful for... the Boy. For being so supportive of me all the time and for having the funniest hairdos.

Thankful for... Friends episodes (ESPECIALLY on Thanksgiving), Archie Comics and seltzer mixed with orange juice: all youthful tactics that I still employ daily to stay happy and sane.

Thankful for... my friends. No words again.

Thankful for ... you, my blogging world. Very much enjoy our encounters.

Thankful for ... my friend Juan, who is one of the funniest friends that I have. I can't really explain us, I can only say that we're going strong after many years.

Thankful for... almost getting through 2011 in one-piece. It hasn't really been my favorite year.

Happiest of Thanksgivings!
How To Cook A Turkey:
Step 1: Go buy a turkey
Step 2: Take a drink of whiskey
Step 3: Put turkey in the oven
Step 4: Take another 2 drinks of whiskey
Step 5: Set the degree at 375 ovens
Step 6: Take 3 more whiskeys of drink
Step 7: Turk the bastey
Step 8: Whiskey another bottle of get
Step 9: Ponder the meat thermometer
Step 10: Glass yourself a pour of whiskey
Step 11: Bake the whiskey for 4 hours
Step 12: Take the oven out of the turkey
Step 13: Floor the turkey up off of the pick
Step 14: Turk the carvey
Step 15: Get yourself another scottle of botch
Step 16: Tet the sable and pour yourself a glass of turkey
Step 17: Bless the dinner and pass out
What's one thing you're thankful for?

when the lights go down in the city ♥

2011-11-23T00:27:00.000-08:00

Evening cityscapes are one of life's daily wonders. When the sun has set, the architectural evidence of infrastructure and commerce serve not only the City in daily economic service but in beauty as well. The illuminating lights juxtaposing against the dark, still backdrop of nightfall bring to life the quieter, introverted aspect unseen during the day.

I still remember going to my Dad's downtown, skyscraper office with him on special summer nights when he needed to complete some work. Now that my life is a 40-hour-nose-to-the-grind week in an office, I can imagine how unspectacular his daily surroundings had become. But to me at that age (circa 9-11), they were something I remember to this day: leaning against the glass and examining my entire City in a way I never had before - ricocheting lights bouncing off the water and onto our stalwart bridges and structures. Though the City was quieter, it had most certainly awoken in a different way.

[The included pictures are of two of the trips I took last year- Waikiki, HI for play and Chicago, IL for work. Despite what seems like an obvious answer, guess which one I'd rather be at? Click for => Answer]

What is one of your favorite views?

The Obligatory Twilight Post

2011-11-21T23:22:00.000-08:00

This little 'ol indie flick came out last weekend, I'm sure none of you have heard of it, it's just this underground movie I found called "The Twilight Saga- Breaking Dawn - Part 1". Yup- that's the official title, almost as belaboring as the real name of the movie "Precious" which is so self-promoting that I refuse to call it that, but you can find its full title here.

So anyway, back to Breaking Dawn. Personally, I LOVED it.

There's a few things I do want to discuss:

Like how much better of an acting job Jacob did in this film than all the others.

Or how my "Team Charlie" flag is still flying strong.

Or how gorgeous Bella looked on her wedding day.

Or how I really am falling for Edward just a little bit. Despite his borderline Emo personality, he is pretty easy on the eyes and his devotion to Bella is a wee bit envy-inducing.

But no, what I want to say about the Twilight movie is this:

I am so tired of people hating on Twilight just because it's Twilight and mainstream and goofy and popular... yada yada yada. It seems to me that most people believe if they've avoided Twilight than they're systematically cooler, smarter, more intelligent... well I don't buy it. I'm not ashamed in any capacity to admit that I was elated and excited to see Breaking Dawn after reading all of the books- and guess what? I saw it two days in a row. Boom. How do you like them apples?

My point about this is really plain and simple- like anything else, if you know what you're talking about (i.e. if you've read the books or seen the movies) and you don't like the Series- you are MORE than entitled to that opinion.

But if you don't like it just because it's "popular" than you my friend, are more of a Sheep than the "Twihards" you claim to be better than.

Rant over! Couple things about the movie before you go:

1) Stay through the credits! There's an extra scene!

2) When Jasper says "POSSIBLY!" feel free to go with your instincts and laugh out loud because it is by far, the funniest part of the film.

What did you think of the film?
[all images via Google Images]

And back I am.

2011-11-20T21:59:00.001-08:00

Wellll hello again! I'm back after avoiding blogging randomly last week.

Basically, this was due to one reason and one reason only: I was petsitting at my Dad's house while Parentals were on vacation. So instead of enjoying my hip, urban, downtown, walk-to-everything apartment... I was basking in the cliche suburban life of pets, houses, prepared meals with your significant other and lots of TV- not only that but I was loving every single minute of it.

The Boy and I watched OnDemand in my Parents' HUGE bed while sipping coffee in our pajamas pretty much every day and by day 4, I finally was able to pinpoint who I reminded us of:

Yes, just as lazy, just as creepy. We were officially the Grandparents in "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory".

But alas... their arrival home on Saturday kicked me out of my cozy little dreamland and back into the throws of my smaller bed and apartment with no yard to look out on or pet awaiting snuggles. Boo. I'm quite unhappy to be back in my normal life (though not living at home has always been the goal, funny how that works).

So I'm back this week and ready to talk to all of ya. I have some great Blogs planned.

I actually have nothing planned but I'll think of some bullsh*t to throw up here each day. I did see Breaking Dawn and pretty much loved it so a good Twilight-themed post is in the cards (I know, such a unique idea).

Happy Monday- enjoy your surroundings and I'll be here every day this short week to bore you all via the mundane details of my stupid little life.

X to the O!

The 99% verses the 1%

2011-11-14T22:00:00.001-08:00

Of all the evils in the all the land, there's few lower than those of a cab driver. I ~~wish death upon them~~ HATE them.

Here's the obligatory PC statement: I have had a few cab drivers who were a little less than sucked... in fact, they were AWESOME. Hilarious even. Much like a new outfit, they were a contributing factor to me enjoying my night even more, especially because whenever I'm taking a cab, I'm usually already expecting an adventure.

{what it looks like inside a 1% driver cab ride}

What a delight when they play into that. I love/appreciate/tip like a Rockefeller when I encounter that service on my ride.

But those drivers are the 1%.

Let's discuss the 99%.

Hi 99% of Cab Drivers. Look below... do you know that is??

Get with the times- this is a Debit card.
"A cake, Franck, is made of flour and water. - My first car didn't cost $1,200."
"Well, welcome to the 90's, Moster Bonks."

It's called a DEBIT card. People use it to pay for items. In my experience, it's more common than cash these days. In fact, when I call your lovely cab company to book this sh*tty, dispirited ride- the automated voice gaily tells me that not only do you ACCEPT my Mastercard but that you GLADLY accept it. I'm free to pay my fare with it, right?

Wrong. The good ol' bait and switch! Every ride I have (minus that 1%... we can't forget the 1% that deserve my respect), the driver nearly b*tches me out when I SHOW THEM THE ~~PLASTIC~~ MONEY. My "thanks for the ride!" (really, I do that) and jutting arm with the card towards them is always greeted with a sour face and some form of "YOU DON'T HAVE CASH?" or "YOU SHOULD HAVE TOLD ME THAT WHEN YOU GOT IN THE CAR!" or "I CAN ONLY TAKE CASH!" which is the oldest trick in the book. Want to see some magic? Tell them that NO, REALLY you only have a card to pay with and out of thin air, a credit card machine is produced. Bravo, Good Sir- can you also produce a rabbit??

{What it looks like inside a 99% car ride}

Despite this, last weekend I was especially excited to appease my abusers. I ordered a cab to take me to a dinner party downtown which had already specified to bring them Benjamins for the ensuing check. This meant that I would get to gleefully surprise the cab driver with my fist full of cold, hard cash- the form of payment that has apparently long eluded them.

Upon arriving at my destination, the quiet, reserved, obvious a$$hole potential cab driver turned back to me and wryly muttered: "You owe $6.80."

Like a kid on Christmas, I reached into my purse and felt my fat fingers close around a Twenty-dollar-bill- "Here you go!" I said as I passed it into his palm.

One look and the cab driver annoyingly asked- "What? You don't have anything smaller than a 20?"

F*ck you all, I'm going to start carrying Pennies.
Exclusively.
That I rubbed on my Dog's Butt.

Blood Shed in Chicago! Gasp!

2011-11-09T23:21:00.000-08:00

Let's face it: regular life can get oh' so boring at times: same shows, same bars, same exercise... same 'ol, same 'ol. That's why it's nice to intermittently set reality aside in exchange for a night of vivacious adult role playing (and not the kind that I would be ashamed to write about on here -keep reading Mom, I promise it's okay!), but the kind that keeps us sprite and unabashedly cultured (right?).

{Silky, Scoop, Torchy (me) and Molly - our assigned Chicago names - April 2011}

Faced with the possibility of spending another weekend lacking genuine excitement, a group of my 8 friends and I were at a charity auction last April when we thought to put our hard-earned money to good and entertaining use: bid on a catered Murder Mystery Party for 8. All we had to provide was a hosting site (our married friends' rustic cabin-home worked), virile acting skills and saucy costumes.

With freeing fervor, we all began piecing together our outfits for the 20s, Chicago-themed big night: there were sequins, cigars, fringes, suspenders, feathers, guns, fake mustaches and plenty of hairpieces. It was game on and the game was definitely murder, she wrote.

There was laughing and shouting, theatrical performances for those who felt comfortable unleashing their inner-thespian and couch performances for those who felt more comfortable just being comfortable. There were a lot of bad Chicago accents and even worse Al Capone imitations. It was all very bad in a very glorious way.

So here we were, a bunch of professional twenty-somethings, saturated into the woodland setting, dressed head to toe in period garb, swilling wine and chewing steak while we acted out what could have been perceived as an ironically bad skit on SNL.
It was an easy reminder that life may get a little same 'ol, same 'ol at times but that it doesn't take much to change up the scene and find new ways to enjoy yourself.

And oh, I'm sure you're wondering just who had DONE it?

{They seated me next to the Murderer- how rude!}

I should have known. One of my cherished friends who has a knack for exuding a sweet exterior while maintaining a mischievous secret.

So while I am busy planning my next murder mystery party, do tell-do tell:
Have you ever done a murder mystery? What did you think?

Girl Crush: Marlo Thomas

2011-11-07T22:25:00.000-08:00

If you're a Generation Y'er like myself, you weren't around to experience "That Girl" in its authentic glory.

But hopefully, if you have a Mom like me- you had someone who noticed the similarities between the plot points of shows such as Sex and the City and That Girl who could nudge you away from the Manolo Blahnik webpage and direct you to Marlo Thomas.

Meet, yes THAT girl of That Girl: Marlo Thomas.

Could she be any cuter?

The plot for the show is one we all know and love: a young pretty girl comes to the big city (in this case THAT big city NYC) to make it as an actress while balancing her personal life and relationships.

As I've only seen a handful of episodes, I can't get you a play by play or character assessment like I could about oh say... Friends (no one knows more about that show than me, I swear by it), but I can say that it is so worth watching, if only for her campy 60's style.

And speaking of Friends... Marlo Thomas had a recurring role as Rachel's Mom, Sandra. and as seen below, "That Girl" was referenced very subtly on the episode: "The One with the Football".

So besides her delicious retro vibe, her perky smile and perfectly coiffed hair coupled with her relationship with all the Friends... what could make Marlo Thomas even more enticing?

Well, she was an integral role in one of my favorite books growing up and she's a huge philanthropist for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

I think I'm in love: Marlo Thomas 2012.

Have you ever seen "That Girl"???
[all images via Google Image Search]

Portland Walking♥

2011-11-06T22:52:00.000-08:00

Despite failing to attempt the Houndstooth dress again, this last weekend turned out to be just what I had planned: relaxation.

{Me at Anthropologie November 5th 2011}
My friend Juan and I watched an entire season of "Walking Dead" (and are now obsessed and ready to delve into Season II), I baked cookies, I went to my Step-Cousin's Bridal Shower, had a Tarot card reading... and I was in bed early every night.

After the lovely reminder that I can't party like I'm 20 like I got last weekend, it was a weekend of pure bliss.

Speaking of Bliss, on Saturday, The Boy and I took to the streets and braved the brisk, chilly air for a few hours of shopping (both the window and the buyers-remorse type).

The streets were full of people sporting a glimpse of their winter closet: leather gloves, furry hats and thick jackets.

In the name of staying warm, I happily obliged and donned my cold-weather apparel (right down to my socks which I wear almost every day..).

And in the spirit of being a guy, The Boy didn't think he needed a jacket and trotted around in his zip-up.

Silly Rabbit...

We stopped at stores such as Anthropologie (pictures above and below) and obsessed and drooled over their fashionable yet vintage-looking items.

We stopped at Deschutes Brewery and Public House for some fries and some brew... nummers, nummers.

{photo credit for above photo here}

It was just the kinda day I wanted (and needed!).

Ring: Forever 21
Boots: Jessica Simpson via Nordstrom
Earrings: Airport store in Chicago O'Hare
Tights: Simply Vera tights but ripped by me.
Socks: American Apparel
Jacket: Laundry by Shelli Segal
Sunnies: Nine West
Purse: a gift from my late Grandma Fran (always near my heart)

Enough about me, how was your weekend?

Houndstooth Dress: The Rough Draft Debut

2011-11-01T23:47:00.000-07:00

Last month, I purchased this dress from H&M alongside its Cream counterpart which I blogged about here:

{H&M 18.95 though I can't find the dress on their site anymore.}

I have been very excited to wear it for the first time: the exposed zipper, the mathematical Houndstooth print and the conservative length all equaled endless possibility. I envisioned its Blog debut to be staged in my office with Mary Jane shoes and a layered collar sprouting up from beneath the neckline.

But rather, in an effort to power-through my hangover last Sunday, I wore it shopping with The Boy and our friends. I wanted to wear Yoga pants to this downtown event... but mind over matter meant that dressing up MIGHT help me to blow past my nausea (it did not).

Either way, here is how the dress was quickly pieced together last Sunday:

American Apparel amazing Socks can be found here. They're folded down but warm up to your thigh.

Personally, I think it's a bit "eh...". I'm a bit bothered that I chose a hangover day to try to rock it in all its potential glory.

In fact, if I have it to do over, I want it more like this:

Houndstooth Combos by candyflosspersie featuring a sheath dress

So consider my first rendition of the Houndstooth Dress to be a rough draft. I can do better... way better... and I plan on doing so soon (perhaps this weekend since I will be taking it easssy). You ain't seen nothin' yet!
How do you wear your Houndstooth?

Unleash the Ghouls!

2011-11-01T11:32:00.000-07:00

With big plans to celebrate Halloween last weekend on Friday and Saturday, I was enjoying my Friday off and the prospect of getting ready soon for the Costumey night when I looked in the mirror: I hated my hair. Yes, a month ago, I LOVED my new dye job but I know to expect what happened: that was the first blonde to brunette dye job. After you've been blonde and decide to opt back to the dark side, the first dye job always looks really good but your previously-bleached hair will struggle to maintain the color crazy fast. So you generally need to dye it dark AGAIN a couple weeks after to avoid the "reddish" color. My hair had gotten to that point.

I called my hairdresser, she was booked. So I did what I hadn't done since my Freshman year of college: I box dyed my hair. And I box dyed it BLACK.
So despite the fact that I now have residual hair dye on my arm and neck that I can't get out... I am loving this really dark color and very well may keep it like this for a long while.

But anyway, Halloween is a dish best served in pictures:
FRIDAY

SATURDAY

{haha, that hair looks real on him, no?}

Enjoy your Tuesday my dears, I have the day off again (eating up PTO before I lose it end of year), so I'm off to American Apparel. YES.

A Sailor's Kiss

2011-10-31T00:02:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!!!!

And while I had originally slated Sunday night to do an all encompassing Halloween post... I have quickly determined that that is not going to happen tonight. My body, mind and soul are too exhausted- I celebrated Halloween on Friday and Saturday and if there's one thing I do know, it's that my old a** can't be going out two nights in a row.

So along with well-wishes for a lovely day- I'll leave you with this picture from Saturday night:

{He thinks it's funny to lick my face. Thankfully my reflexes dip me back fast enough to avoid that "joke".}

Aren't we ~~stupid~~ classic?? It's always funny to me how hard everyone tries in the beginning of a relationship to be poised, put-together and polished... but in the end, everyone really just wants someone they can be themselves with- tongues out and all.

It's BOO time!

2011-10-26T23:43:00.000-07:00

{Yours truly}

Halloween Weekend is almost here. And it's THE BEST.
I would never, could never and choose to never associate with people who don't celebrate it for "moral" reasons... because they must be ~~crazy~~ a SNOOOOOOOOOZEFEST.

As for me, I'm counting down the days and according to my calcs', it's almost happy HAUNTING time... It's also my Friday today (thank you PTO), so can I gloat a bit?

What are YOU going to be?

Coco Yuki

2011-10-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

I remember the first time I met Yuki. We were both wide-eyed Freshman in College enrolled in the same Fall Term Journalism pre-req courses. She was instantly a memorable and personable figure on the college scene: nice to everyone, super talkative and very outgoing. I liked her right away.

{Yukes and Me}

To make a long (long) story short, Yuki and I ended up joining the same Sorority (hilarity ensues! Stories? Oh, I got some stories...) and thus lived together in the house and remain friends to this day.

For that, I am very thankful.

Especially since she likes all things from the huge Harry Potter franchise to underground bands that no one knows- she never tries to conform to a mold or any one type of "scene", Yuki likes what she likes and she'll be d*mned if anyone gets in her way about it - but you're always welcome to join her on her endeavors, Yuki loves the company of her friends. Plus, she's a diehard Brit fan like me... and you know how I feel about those girls (swooooooon, pitter-patter, thump-thump!).

As thankful as I am to be surrounded by a good person all these years, I'm also supremely thankful to get to watch Yuki exhibit herself through fashion. Yuki rocks a unique look that expresses an understanding of trends but always is coupled with an embellishment which suits her own style.

{favorite picture of her}
Over the last few years, I've noticed how her fashion skyrocketed into a wonderful, pristine style Even though she will always modestly claim 'she has no idea how to dress', so I guess one of her negative traits is 'being a bold-faced liar'.

The girl has killer legs and that is a cold, hard fact of life. Another fact? Her world travels have only made her a kinder person with a positive, cognizant spirit.

Thanks Yukedizzle for being my friend, for supporting everyone in their personal goals (true story-you're always right there smiling and saying "yay!!!") and for being the only one who attaches "Dawg" to my name, making me perpetually feel a bit more Gangster ~~than MirMirFoSho~~ than I'm qualified to celebrate.

Gurrrrrrl, you da best!

Speaking of Dawgs, she now lives in Boston, so you locals get to hang out with her on Halloween weekend and beyond you lucky dawgs, you!

{Yuki as the Queen of Hearts, a Penguin and Harriet Potter}

Do you find yourself inspired by your friends' styles??
[Some images mine, all others required me stalking her online. Her Sister took the beautiful ones!]

Books, Brew and Bagdad.

2011-10-25T00:52:00.000-07:00

A ways back (pre-the return to the dark hair), The Boy and I explored a bohemian enclave in SE Portland. The jubilant market is housed on Hawthorne Street and is comprised of organic markets, homey bookstores, sophisticated eateries and wonderful nooks to sit and enjoy three of the things that Portland does best: Coffee, Beer and Wine.

Sporting my Michael Kors wide-leg denim jeans and a big, white sweater- I found myself lost in a sensory overload of spices, herbs, paperbound books and the palpable feeling of chilly air greeting you with each departure of a store.

The quick remedy, of course, is to scurry as quickly as you can into the adjoining location. With the variety of personalities that make-up the eclectic shops, you're bound to find something to appease you in this vibrant, unique neighborhood.

Just try to avoid the Hipsters. Or wear a Britney Spears shirt and they'll avoid you as much as possible (thank you Britney!)

$32M? Chump change.

2011-10-23T23:19:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard of Winnetka, IL?

Did you want to answer 'no' to that? Well think again, of course you have.

Uncle Buck, Ferris Bueller, Curly Sue, Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club... oh yes, Home Alone.. all filmed there... pretty much any John Hughes film you can think of is either rooted in Winnetka or offers a glimpse of it at some point. Even Mean Girls shares a Winnetka link having the famed Plastics at "North Shore High" was really a reference to "New Trier High School" in Winnetka.

{Me roaming Winnetka}

It's a BEAUTIFUL community on the North Shore of Chicago which is full of quaint coffee shops, manicured pathways and old money homes which make you hate your own life faster than you can say "look what you did you little jerk!" OR "Hey, Cameron. You realize if we played by the rules right now we'd be in gym?".

Due to my masochistic need to always look at the greener grass, I regularly Google Winnetka and find new homes for sale so I can sit there and wallow in self-pity while I imagine myself easily forking over Millions of dollars so I can live with 3 Butlers, a Masseur (gender specific of course) and a closet the size of my entire apartment right now.

{One of the classic homes in Winnetka. I took this in 2008 and couldn't get the entire house in one frame}

A current 32 million dollar contender for my dream come true (hey, can someone loan me 32 million dollars?), Le Grand Reve. Completed in 2008 and boasting trendier, contemporary designs- this home is definitely an exception to the usual Winnetka properties which typically have been around for centuries. And though this new-money home is a wee bit on the tacky side and totally a far-cry from its neighbors, I must admit that the kitschy side of me is still drooling...

Pretty dang snazzy. For all the pictures of the house- click this link here. {all images used in this post found at aforementioned link minus the first two which are mine}

So that was fun. But now it's Monday. Which means less home fantasies and more coffee and desk work. Hello reality!

Happy Monday, friends.

Carrie, Remembered.

2011-10-19T23:29:00.000-07:00

{all images via}

I often think it's just impossibly hard to not want to spend a few moments taking in the vibrancy of little Miss Carrie Bradshaw.

Thanks to Patricia Field, the character popped right out of the TV and became a living, breathing, work of fashionable art...

More, please!

My Closet Go Boom!

2011-10-18T22:07:00.000-07:00

Last week, I had the genius idea to do a Blog post about my Closet. I've never done one and I ALWAYS enjoy being a bit voyeuristic and looking into others' closets so I figured it was due time for me to shed some light on mine. That's why on my way out the door, I snapped this picture below of me in my very first walk-in-closet. I had plans to go into it the next day and clean it a bit and show all the nooks and crannies- you know, really put you into my changing space

Before you say anything like "OMG- your closet is totes not that cool and pretty messy", let me tell you a couple things (starting with 'shut up'): I live in a Studio Apartment in a very old building. This closet is the ONLY closet in the entire space and if you know anything about Studios, they aren't exactly known for their size. So I don't have the luxury of putting all my memory tubs (seen stacked behind me) in a garage where they'd be better suited or my Linens in a Linen Closet, or my Laundry in the Laundry Room or my Ski Gear in an attic. Nope, it's either in the closet or out where everyone can see. So think of all my superfluous, gigantic sundries (if you will) as 90's Ricky Martins- better in the closet. Secondly, I know my closet isn't fit for a Princess but do you know how much I love it? I can WALK into it and everything in there is mine- to me, totally worth showing off, even if isn't color-coordinated and lined in silk carried in by Doves.

Well, that was until last night. As I lay in bed, drifting off to sleep... I heard a huge thud originate in the closet. Knowing that something fell and assuming it was a one of my tubs or something like that, I decided to deal with it in the morning. OKAY, let's cut to the morning shall we?

I'm not a Morning person in general and thus hate rousing myself to be at work at 7:30 every day but I do it because I have to with no time to spare. What I DON'T need to deal with in the morning??? The result of the "THUD".

Yup, my ENTIRE 8 foot bar on the right side of my closet came crashing down, taking boxes, clothes... EVERYTHING with it.

I gasped. Grabbed the nearest dress and headed off to work in agony. WHHHY.

All day I was dreading coming home and dealing with what lay ahead. I love clothes but man-oh-man do I hate them sometimes. Upon arrival post-the-long-tiring-business-day, I got into my ugly, slave attire and began moving my finely hung wardrobe out of the closet so that the Landlord could fix the bar on Wednesday.

But wait, did I mention I live in a STUDIO downtown?? There's no extra bedroom or safe place to put my clothes. So they're here. On my Bed. Piled huge, high and disgustingly as I curl up on the couch tonight as if my wife had found my secretary on my lap at the Company Christmas Party.

So after a lot of sweat, annoyed thoughts and cuss words, I made a manageable workspace for my Landlord... and then Mama and her beautiful hair (see for yourself) needed a nice glass of wine.

And because I'm a good Roommate ~~who lives alone~~, I was sure to offer Wine to all my in-house favorites:

{Clockwise from top LEFT: Frank, Brit, Demon Dog, My Parents circa 1980 & Holly all had some wine with me}

{Clockwise from top RIGHT: My PiggyBank, Marilyn, Reggie the Horse all enjoyed a glass of Red. But my Chicago friends??? Well I gave them a bottle. After all, I want to make a good impression for when I get there.}

Speaking of Favorites... thank you Blouse and Skirt side of my closet for acting like the Straight-A student and staying intact, easy to reach and oh-so-cute. I just wish your Sister (the Fallen 8-foot bar on the other side), could be like you.

Hurrumph, goodnight!
Now a poll: Great or GREATEST Closet Blog Post you've ever read? :) wink, wink, nudge, nudge

Braces Sure Can Pick 'Em

2011-10-17T23:12:00.000-07:00

I'm 27-years-old, I live wholly off my own means and I spend 40 hours of my week sitting at a desk, nose to the grind, earning my keep.

By all standards, I've figured a lot of things out in terms of independence, much like most of my peers.

However, in 1999, with money coming from my modest "Caitlin's Sophomore Year of High School New Clothes Fund", I made a purchase at "The Limited": A 3-quarter-length, stretchy, boat-neck, white with faint gray striping tee... I wore it my very first day of 10th grade... with Braces blazing.

...And a couple weeks ago, I paired it with a skirt and wore it in the office. It's still in amazing shape (no stains, no non-desired stretching) and based on what I remember in terms of my per-item budget at that time, it couldn't have been more than 30 dollars.

So as I routinely spend my time every season throwing away jeans, shirts and bags that I bought on a whim and hated just as quickly, I wonder what special gifts my 15-year-old Brace-Face self possessed that knew just how to pick 'em and make them last for over 11 years.

My longest relationship ever.

Little People, Big World, Weird Picture

2011-10-12T23:19:00.001-07:00

Ever heard of "Little People, Big World" on TLC? Well they're an Oregon family. In fact, their farm is about 20 minutes due West of me and (As Seen On TV!), every Fall season they open it up to the public and you get to ride their train, visit their exotic animal zoo and meet-and-greet with the family. It's quite a lovely little time, no pun intended.

{Me in my tanning (2008) days and Jeremy Roloff}

When I was last there, I had met all of the Roloffs and was feeling pretty happy and excited because I did meet Jeremy and he's utterly A-DOR-A-BLE, even if he's much younger than me, pish-posh!

{my Sister and I and Zach, Jeremy's twin.}

Anywayyyy, as I was waiting to leave, I noted the bench by the exit where you could sit and get your picture taken "with the family" aka the borderline creepy/borderline fantastic row of cardboard cutouts behind me. As I sat on the bench and was obviously about to take a picture, this girl next to me wouldn't move. In an effort to get her to move, I clung to "hope" but when that ran out, I told my Sister to just go ahead and snap it. At that point, this girl next to me lifted her head, turned to me and deadpan states "Jeremy loves me".

{one of the weirder pictures I've ever taken}
I really wanted to laugh out loud but after gathering my composure and deciding that wasn't the best move, I coherently formulated what I wanted to say:

"OH H******LLL NAH *****, Jeremy be MINE! [finger snap]"

Save Suri!

2011-10-11T21:04:00.000-07:00

This post needs a preface: I love children a lot. I started helping out with my little Brother when I was 6, I babysat as soon as I could and I worked in a daycare during college. I could play with wittle ones (break out the baby talk) for hours. I love them.

And yes, Suri Cruise is no exception. She has luminous, youthful beauty and is pretty much as cute as any button I've ever seen. She's stunning.

But...

What are the odds that this girl won't grow up to become the snobbiest, most materialistic girl on the face of the planet? Heels at age 3? Couture gowns at the local park?

Katie, is she ever allowed to wear pants like a normal little girl or head off into the world looking like a child and not a product of your ever-persistent stylist. Geez-louise, I promise everyone will still think she's cute.

I think there's a lot to be said about letting kids be kids. Letting them get dirty. Letting them play dress-up, not pushing labels on them so young. They'll discover them on their own at the right time. Just my 2 cents.

So in the words of Forrest Gump, "that's all I have to say about that".
[all images via WeHeartIt]

The Cream Dress: Parts I & II

2011-10-10T21:22:00.000-07:00

After I arrived home from work on Friday, I hung up my car keys and didn't touch them again until Monday morning- I had officially kicked off my weekend of nestling into my cozy apartment. I fell in love, over and over again, with my manual heat, my down-comforter and my old squishy slippers.

Because I had to support this lifestyle, I walked to Trader Joe's on Saturday and loaded my reusable bags with Fall nummies: Squash, Creamy Tomato Soup, Grilled Cheese Sandwich Fixins', Cider and pumpkins. As I peppered past the small, local gourmet coffee stand, I ordered a 12-Oz of their seasonal, strong roast and felt internal delight with each ensuing swill.

{Saturday on the left, Sunday on the Right.}
I even spent Friday night at the Movie Theater(so simple yet so rare for me)- tucked into the seat with my Fall jacket and my Ugg boots. The trend continued through Sunday when I woke up with The Boy, put on "Home Alone" and made him a full homemade breakfast of eggs, hashbrowns, toast and tangerine juice. This, of course, was after I made him watch YouTube videos about Chicago until his head was about to explode with boredom.

{my gorgeous friends and I on Saturday, Happy Birthday Shanface!}
Problem being that among all of this horizontal nothingness, I had two birthday parties I had to attend on Saturday & Sunday. I love the girls and I was excited for the parties, it was just the issue of motivating me to want to break away from my own little warm haven and get ready to face the world. This brings me to my Lazy Girl attire.

{Saturday}
I bought this dress from H&M last week for 17.95. Yup- you read that right, under 18 bucks! I also got it in Houndstooth but that's another post for another day.

{The dress I purchased via H&M. It's on a ton of the model's photos but I can't find it for purchase on there, very bizarre.}

When I finally roused myself for my beloved Shanin's birthday on Saturday, I just wanted to do a dress and a belt- that to me, is the easiest way to pull off style in under 30 seconds. So I thought I'd give my new dress its debut: some heels, a regular belt, studded earrings, an arm full of bracelets, my Juicy Couture purse from a secondhand store and I was good to go!

The following day, when it was time for Miranda's soiree- I ventured to my closet to find something else to wear but I kept coming back to the (very clean mind you!) dress I had worn the night before. After deciding I didn't care at all that I was going to do Cream Dress: The Sequel, I figured the least I could do was alter the accessories just a bit.

And because we were headed to a hip-hop venue on Sunday meant that I was free to rock an edgier look: spiked bracelets, large hoops, OTK boots, leopard Betseyville purse and my studded "Roger" belt.

{Far Above: Me on Sunday Right Above: The boy at the Sunday party}
The repeat was good for a few laughs and many "wtf" faces from my friends who I had just seen hours prior but most especially, it was a good way to fuse my desire to stay home, eat soup and be lazy with my necessary engagements.

To summarize this post: Champagne Problems!

Chicago found Me.

2011-10-06T22:41:00.000-07:00

I started a new job Spring of 2008.

It actually wasn't a "job", after years of college... it was the first job that was a "career".
My first task?
To spend weeks in training in the Midwest.
I had tons of family in the Midwest but not the UPPER Midwest.
I was sent to Chicago for work.
I had never been.
I had no idea.
This is the official first picture of me in Chicago.

(fresh off the plane- little did I know I was about to encounter a life-changing experience)

I started work the following Monday,
Instead, I arrived the prior Thursday, to spend two days of exploring with my little Brother.
I have traveled to many US cities.
None have touched me as much.
None have screamed to me as much as Chicago.
None have told me I NEED to be there.
I'm professional, thus- I won't go into why I can't go to Chicago now.
Because I can't.

{My Bro and I on my first 'real' sight-seeing tour of Chicago}

Twists of life have me here about a year more.
Just know- The Chicago fund is in place.
Just know - I will make it there.
Just know- I believe there's a reason that Chicago impacted me so much.
I had no idea when I had my picture taken at the airport.
No idea.
I will live there soon.

What unexpected twist of fate has lead you somewhere else?

The Russian, the Canadian, the Australian... and the American

2011-10-05T21:45:00.000-07:00

I'm in love, I'm in love and I don't care who knows it.

I'm in love with YOU.

Yes, YOU.

Blogging has brought so much joy to my life. I love writing (poorly or properly depending on the ~~wine~~ mood). I love interacting with people in different parts of the world and those right in my city. I love your fabulous, Bay area life. I love looking at your outfits. I love your mad design skills. I love you showing me what I have to look forward to when I move to my beloved, adopted homeland, Chicago. love hearing about your cross-country move. I love your thoughts on your diet. I love your cultured wardrobe. I love the things you say even if I disagree. I love your new puppy. I love hearing about your wedding. Your bad day recaps. Your little Rugrats. Your thoughts on crime. I just love Blogging with you.

For instance, late in 2009, I stumbled upon a Blog written by a Russian girl. I was instantly attracted to "The Thank You Project" as the author, Julia, had embarked on a journey to find something to be thankful for every day for a year. I seriously couldn't get enough of her posts- she made me think differently about my world.

That was then and here we are today almost 2 years later and we still have blog interactions regularly. When she was podcast on an Australian radio channel due to her drive to 'be thankful', I poured a glass of Pinot Noir and listened to it on my computer. I value what she has to say.

So when she noted that an American Magazine, Real Simple, that she didn't have access to included a question she posed in her Blog- I went on a search party to get a hold of it. Thanks to my Stepmom, I have it in my possession and was so excited to find her response (above). The pleasure in seeing my little online friend in print and knowing how excited she was to be there made ME more excited. So congratulations Julia and I will email you this weekend to inquire about how to give you the hard copy :)

That brings me to my little Canadian, Britt of My Daily Randomness. I was ecstatic when I won her giveaway and even more ecstatic when the contributing artist, Michelle Chang, sent me my goodies!

[final image of the Hollow Heart Necklace in Gold from Michelle's Etsy site]

I love it, so much! Thank you, I can't wait to wear it.

And then of course... my last (but never least) international buddy, the Australian Rinniez of Momentary Lapse of Reality, cracked me up last week when I logged into her page to find a very sweet post about me. As undeserving as I was of this, she totally made my week with the picture she posted of us:

Bahahah. I love it. And Miranda, though a bit saddened, found a lot of joy in it too.

That's just a tiny glimpse of why I love my Blog and connecting with such wonderful people. So again, the pleasure is all mine and thank you, thank you, thank you for being in my life. I wish I could do an all-encompassing post about you all.

Why do you like to Blog?

Sweatin' to the Dubstep

2011-10-03T22:10:00.000-07:00

When you know you're going to be somewhere UBER-trendy- you do the due-diligence.

You pick your outfit out the night before.

You make it a bit edgier.

You call your friends who are also going to the event to collaborate on your style.
You model it for your boyfriend and ask him if it's okay.

You note that his first response of "you look great babe!" has now morphed into "OMG, I've told you a thousand times you look great! Stop asking!!"

You shoot him an annoyed look.
The outfit is important.

Then you get there.
And it's the middle of September and it's over 100 degrees.

And everyone is congregated in a tiny space, dancing as much as possible.
Loudly, crazily and without regard to space.
You join in.
You dance.

You enjoy the amazing beats the DJ is spinning.
You love that you can actually say that sentence above because it sounds so cool and it's actually TRUE.

You start to feel a little sweat on your forehead.
You start to feel sweat on the back of your knees.
You start to feel sweat inbetween your cleavage.
You wonder when in the h*ll you started sweating in those areas.
You start noticing the sweat permeating through your cotton clothes.

You and your girlfriend start asking for hair ties like your plane is going down.
You take turns covering each other as you reapply deodorant.
You note that in pictures now your hair is doing a lovely curl at your neckline reminiscent of your favorite East Coast Uncle who consumes as much Beer as he does Sun.

You begin to no longer care about clothes.
You care about survival.
You want to shave your head to get rid of the d*mn sweat.
You try to wipe off as much makeup as possible.

You think you're dying for a good few minutes.
You and your girlfriend have little interest in looking good.
You and her just want to go.

You try to find your Boyfriend who doesn't care about sweating and everything that comes along with it (smell, look, appeal) and try to get him to leave.

One more song he says.
You and your friend dance, sweatily, disgustingly, moistly... you dance.

Finally after the song, you all depart.
You're dripping with sweat.
You look like a real-life Picasso painting.
You laugh.
You all reflect on the great night.

And YOU Shower immediately when you get home.
What I'm wearing: AMERICAN APPAREL SKIRT | FOREVER 21 LACE BODYSUIT TOP | VENUE

No Bells or Whistles Needed

2011-10-03T00:59:00.000-07:00

My weekend was a lovely array of fine dining, trendy watering holes, fabulous company and exuberant venues. From a very fun double-date on Friday night to a bounce-around Girls' night on Saturday, I had a well-rounded City weekend.

Conversely, on Sunday morning, with glazed eyes and dragging feet, I drove to my Dad's house so that he could look at some issues with my Car. I drudged there head to toe in ugly gray sweats, glasses on with my tangled bed hair framing my makeupless face, ready to deal with my Dad's inclination to turn ANY Vehicle work into a tedious, 4-hour "How-To" documentary so that next time, I can do it myself (that never happens).

{ My feet-up on Sunday, hangin' with the adorable Maddie... and in absolute heaven}

However, I was pleasantly surprised upon arrival that the warm, crock-pot infused house was the perfect remedy for the chilly outside air. Instead of popping in and out quickly, I stayed there the majority of the day- watching TV, cuddling with the Dog, doing Laundry and hangin' with my family.

It was by far, the highlight of my weekend.

Served as a nice reminder that it doesn't always take glitz & glam to entertain, very often, you can find it right under your nose. Or in my case, 6 miles West of my apartment in a big 'ol house I used to call home.

How was your weekend?