The Real Fabulous Housewife of Pittsburgh

a year(ish) ago today....

2012-02-04T17:36:00.000-08:00

Last year on Superbowl Sunday, I watched my beloved Steelers get the beatdown from the Packers. My inlaws had a huge superbowl party, so E and I went there. The superbowl was on Febuary 6th, and my birthday being the next day the 7th, and with the tragic game and all I decided to indulge in some wine, bosnian smoked meats and for dessert baklava and absinthe. I had no year or idea how the year was going to go.
So I wanted to do a little review, since I spent 3/4ths of the last year pregnant, and I want to always remember this amazing time in our life.

I saw this on it’s all happening and decided it would be fun to do this year and maybe in years to come too.

1. What did you do in 2011 that you’d never done before? Alot! Ran a 5K, went to Mexico, and carried a baby.

2. Did you keep your New Year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year? I did well and hope to do well this year with my goals.

3. Did anyone close to you have a child? Well....we got pregnant :)

4. Did anyone close to you die? No Thank God.

5. Where did you travel? Actually we went a few places this year. Mexico, Detroit, New York City and Harrisburg.

6. What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011? I want to see my family more, and try to be more relaxed.

7. What dates from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory? I have a long list.
March 10th - deciding to run a 5K
June 25th - running said 5k
June 26th to July 2nd - Mexico
July 5th - learning we were expecting.
October 10th - finding out we were having a boy.
Nov 25th - our 5 year wedding anniversary. It was just us, low key and perfect. We had really yummy leftovers and watched Christmas movies.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year? Getting pregnant, Running my 5k and being recognized at work.

9. What was your biggest failure? I didnt do quite as well in some areas that I thought I would.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury? Nope.

11. What was the best thing you bought? The materials to re do our bathroom.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration? My husband, hes been my rock.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed? I can be douchey at times. and Kim Kardashian.

17.What song will always remind you of 2011? Moves like Jagger
18. Compared to this time last year, are you: a) happier or sadder?b) thinner or fatter? c) richer or poorer?

a) happier

b) fatter - 36 weeks pregnant here!

c) richer ( thank god!)

17. What do you wish you’d done more of? Celebrated the Holidays more.

18. What do you wish you’d done less of? Complain.

19. Did you fall in love in 2011? Yes, I fell inlove with the baby in my belly and my husband all over again.

20. Favorite TV show? I have a few - True Blood, Gossip Girl, Walking Dead, Dexter, Homeland and almost anything on Bravo.

21. What was the best book you read? The Help!

22. What was your greatest musical discovery? I re-discovered the beatles of the later years.

23. What was your favorite film of this year? Id say the Girl with the dragon tattoo,

24. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you? Turned 28 and I was at work, morning the loss of the Steelers. .

25.. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2011? My style was at a stand still. I was trying to make what I have work with my growing belly and I did. Im looking forward ( and currently saving ) to do a big wardrobe hall this spring. New after baby body - which will be a work in progress and returning to work as a working mom and turning 29....kind of excited to see my look evolve.

26. What kept you sane? My husband and xanax pre baby.

27. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most? Kate Middleton. Love. and Oprah Winfrey.

28.. What political issue stirred you the most? Nothing really stirred me per se.
29. Who was the best new person you met? Mmmm. I have a new favorite co-worker.

30. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in the past year: Ive learned that you only live once, and that you should try to live your best life. And try to see things the way others are seeing them. Be kind. Love too. Live in the moment, and while you cant control what happens, you can control how you act.

2012 Resolutions

2012-01-01T18:13:00.000-08:00

This year, is going to be one of the biggest years of my life. Our baby boy is due March 4th 2012, so our lives are going to change drastically as we become parents. Its so exciting but unnerving in away because I have no control over the year to come, or how labor will go down. So all I can do is prepare, prep, pray and handle the way I react to things. I do have health, marriage, personal goals also. So here goes:

1. Be a good Mother.I don't know what this means exactly. I know I will be loving and a good caretaker. I hope that I do not get caught up in the exhaustion, frustration, anxiety...I know some of its not avoidable, but I want to the best that I can to stay in the moment.
2. Keep running and doing yoga. Last year I trained for the 5k and it was one of the most amazing experiences in my life. That along with hot yoga really made me push my body and I was surprised at what I was capable of. Considering that I will have a considerable amount of weight to lose after the baby is born, and that I want to use exercise as a way to keep my anxiety in check, this is very important to me. At some point Id like to work with a trainer, but for right now with all the transitions coming, I know I can handle the running and yoga so that's a good start for me.
3. Get a handle on my anxiety. Ugh. I have an anxiety disorder. Ive managed in the past with therapy, exercising and meds but going further in this pregnancy my panic attacks are getting more frequent. Will labor be okay? Will I fall on ice? Is it really the end of the world this year? Will my marriage stay intact? Will I be able to maintain my career? We we able to adjust well to our new budget and handle our finances with the baby? My mind just races and races, and then the panic attacks happen :( Like I said earlier. There are things that I can control, and things that I cant. So I really have to remember that sometimes.
4. Continue to make strides in my career. Ive come so far in the past few years, and I'm so grateful. I love that Ive come so far and even received recognition twice in the past few years. Very rewarding. There are some specific goals that I have in mind and hoping to achieve them.
5. Make amends. There are somethings that didn't turn out quite the way I had planned or hoped for. I think my anxiety had some hand in this. I'm not blaming anyone but myself...so I plan to make amends and set somethings right. I hope one day to blog about it.

Wow. Those were heavy. Honest. Extremely honest.

Now maybe for some fun goals for the year?

6. I love cooking, and I don't do it enough, so Id like to get in the habit of trying one new recipe a week. Id also like to learn to make some more traditional Italian dishes ( my ethniticty) and some Balkan dishes that my H enjoys.
7. Be diligent with manicures and pedicures. I love a good mani and pedi and while its not an issue of cost or time, its really an issue of maintenance. I cannot stand chipped nail polish. So while this goal will be harder with all the diaper changes coming ( did I ever mention I never changed a diaper?) I would like to maintain some pretty nails.
8. Revamp my style. Wearing maternity clothes these last few months and all the changes my body will be going through, I'm wondering how my old clothes will fit. So I'm excited for the hauls to come and figuring out where I want to take my style.

So here's to the New Year. I cannot control fate (I believe in fate) or what you throw my way. But I can control how I respond and react. And I plan to do so with grace, dignity, humility and style.
Cheers to you 2012.

a BIG update

2011-12-04T17:36:00.000-08:00

Well here we are in December and the summer is long gone. Fall has come and winding down. Gone are the pumpkins and the leaves. The house which smelled of pumpkin spice and candy corn candles is now filled with the "deck the halls" ( which is my new favorite scent). Where has the year gone? Well we've been quite busy at the homefront.
- I ran my 5k with my younger brother and finished with a time of 33:26.
- We finished the bathroom renovation ( pics to come and more deets in a different post)
- Mexico was amazeballs. Perfect mix of relaxation, adventure filled with lots of love, and wine. And its a time spent that couldnt have been at a better time.

And its a good thing we did those things because, we are expecting a baby boy March 4, 2012!!!

So What Wednesday!

2011-05-11T18:02:00.000-07:00

Again Im linking up with Mrs.Dew Blog for SWW. Its a great stress reliever.

So what if Im a horrible speller. Thats what spell check is for.
I think The Voice is so much better then American Idol.
I like Post - Divorce Chrstina much better then Pre Divorce Xtina.
I consider Guilana Rancic just as much as a serious journalist as Ann Curry.
I ve traded my daily starbucks for my highlight maintenance...Its expense!!!

ANd I feel sooooooooooo much better.

Perfect Sunday

2011-05-08T14:41:00.000-07:00

Perfect Sundays do not have to be lazy. But they do have to include spending time with my H, grilling some healthy yummy food and maybe the perfect cocktail

Sunday Funday Cocktail

2 parts grey goose vodka

1 part Hypnotiq.

fresh squeezed juice of 2 lemons

Combine all 3 ingredients with ice in a shaker and shake. Shake it like a Polaroid picture. And then strain into a martini glass and top with some sparkling water. Soo good.

Maybe next Sunday will include some landscaping or yard work?

The Royal Wedding - and here's to thier Happily Ever After.

2011-05-08T14:32:00.000-07:00

I wanted to wait to blog about the Royal Wedding until I really absorbed it. Im a huge fan of the "New Royal" movement the Prince is hoping to project. Im intrested to see what philanthropic ways The Duke and Duchess will act on and explore and support. I know the Prince/Duke is already involved with African charities. Also, as American, I dont think I can fully grasp the importance this weddding is to the British People - but I can totally appreciate it for spectacle, marriage, union, and event that it is. You see its real-life fairy tale. Its Cinderella-esque story is like Disney for us grown up gals. Instead of a Fairy Godmother theres Sara Barton for Alexander McQueen. And Prince Charming is well, Prince William who is absolutely Charming.

Which brings me to our Princess ( or Duchess in this Case) Shes just like us. She grew up, went to University, graduated and just happened to meet a Prince all while doing it. I wonder if the rumors are true that she had a poster of Prince William in her dorm room. But lets talk about the former Ms. Kate Middleton. Shes stunning. Gorgeous brown hair that goes on for days and seems totally approachable. Like I would have hung out with her, enjoyed a shopping trip at TopShop and then went out for drinks. And girl is well on her way if not there as a Style Icon:

What I adore most about her is shes consistent in her style. Chic, modern, classic line and knows what works best for her and her figure. So, the then-Ms. Middleton and her Prince fell in love and enjoyed a long courtship ( our modern-day princesses/duchesses keep it classy)

When the engagement was announced the Media went into a frenzy and so did my girlfriends and I. Truth be told I was hoping to plan a party to watch the wedding with my girls - but with the time difference, it would have been a sleep over. Everyone was speculating who would design the dress. THE DRESS. Personally I thought it was going to be Stella McCartney, as McQueens designs seemed a bit too much for the Royal Wedding but I was pleasantly surprised.

So back to the Modern Day fairy tale. For a generation of us, who grew up going to Disney World and reading about Cinderella/Snow White/Sleeping Beauty this was a big deal to us. And it didn't disappoint. The pomp and circumstance of it all was amazing, spectacular.

And so the stage be set:
Westminster Abbey

The Beautiful Kate Middleton Who, very much like other brides today chose 2 dresses both by Sara Barton for Alexander McQueen

And the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

And May the live Happily Ever After.

So What Wedensday?

2011-04-13T16:15:00.000-07:00

This is the first time Im participating in MrsDews blog Link up! Love her attitude :)

This is what IM saying SO WHAT too?

I keep thinking about Mexico.
I am not a fan of sushi. Love fish. Hate Sushi. Yeah I said.
I gave up line for Lent and I dont particularly miss it.
So what if my roots are out of control.
Im already craving fall and it hasnt even been summer yet.

Run for your life

2011-04-05T19:21:00.000-07:00

I cant exactly remember where Ive heard the phrase "Run for your life before" while Im sure a quick google search would sufifice - Anywho, one of my goals for this year was to really put myself first and Ive started running as one of my commitments. And I suck at it, and Its hard and it hurts, but it is so freeing. The results are quite nice too if I say so myself. And while Im still a novice and have no intentions of running a marathon I am however training for a 5k. Its on June 25th, and we are a little less then 12 weeks away. I am running with my brother ( who is mr. fitness himself ::rolls eyes:: ) I am also doing it to raise money for Eplipsy. I actually did the walk last year, so I know what to anticipate for the run this year - it mostly flat so the course will be familar and kind.

To compliment the running Im still stretching with yoga to help with the pain and ease my muscles. Since Im so novice Im just trying to feel my body out and see what I can and cant do and how I can push myself and when to stop. I will be honest, I do have some anxiety about serisously injuring myself....but all I can do is just hope for the best, plan and listen and just stick to my goal...which is to complete the 5k.! I have a trainer at my gym and IM using my C25K app on my iTouch,. and its helping - makes the training time go by fast. Soon I want to adjsut my diet, before I was counting calories, but now that Im increasing my activity I need some more filling but low cal foods. Veggies, beans and fruits are getting me trrough the day right now, and lots of water and Pike Place roast from Starbucks. But thats where Im at right now. :)

Viva Mexico

2011-03-16T19:40:00.000-07:00

So, this year is the year of the Vacation and the Bathroom Renovation. By vacation, I don't mean perusing through Europe ( though, that would be just a visit home for E) or laying low in Low Country in South Carolina. Or even a visit to one of the Great Lakes.
We need a real vacation.
And we are going to:

Rivera Maya in Mexico and above is a view of our Resort, Marina El Cid ( I think) via Expedia. and I.cant.wait. To sun, eat and drink it up for a whole week with my Hubs. Seriously though, After working my ass of for the past year and putting in 50+ hour a week recently I cant wait to sit myself under a cabana sip on some Patron and bask in the sunlight ( with my SPF 70). Authentic Mexican food? Yes please! Seeing a smile on my husbands face all day, what could be better? And if it rains all week, well theres a spa and I totally plan on packing important reading materials such as US Weekly, INTouch, and my favorite Sookie Stackhouse books to relax with.
That said, whats the second best thing about Vacations?
Shopping for them!

And I wont lie to you guys, I'm totally geeked about it. Normally I'm shopping for work or workout clothes so rarely to I get to just buy plain fun stuff. I'M feeling lots of looks right now and these are my must haves so far. I'm currently waiting for my Dolce Vita for Target wedges to arrive and they look similar to this:

And I love the look - I'm hoping to purchase dresses to work with shoes to wear for dinner, as I'm trying to not to pack very many since they take up so much space. I'm thinking a pair of tennis shoes ( like Adidas shell tops) or some pumas for the plane and incase we plan a mini excusrison to the Mayan ruins, 2 pairs of flippy floppys ( I'm on a boat bitch!) and maybe another pair of heels for dinner. Another must for me are some dresses. Right now I need about 5 ( tee hee) 3 for dinner and 2 for cover ups at the pool or perhaps I can find one in a similar cut to this Gypsy 05 dress, which I would buy in a heart beat but its silk and that's just not going to work in Mexico In June.

And my last item that IM obsessed with now is finding the perfect spring/summer fedora. Who would of thought Id be taking fashion tips from Freddy Krueger, but this year I dressed up as Ms. Krueger for Halloween and I looked good in that fedora, I was rocking it. I really want a straw one similar to this:

And I totally would style it with hair in a low pony and some sunnies ala Ms. Britney Spears.

And there you have it, that's what I'm obsessing over especially for this vacation. The Hubs and I have been working so hard and had a rough time since our last vacay - so this one is extra special, and we leave for Mexico the day after my first 5K, so its really special, and I think that's why I'm going all out.

Where are you going on vacation this year????

What I did during my lunch today....

2011-03-15T19:27:00.000-07:00

I am an equal oppurnity shoe buyer. Per Se. My shoe collection is filled with shoes from Aldo's, Jessica Simpson brand shoes, I own 2 pairs of Jimmy Choos and my beloved Louboutins. I have about 6 pairs. You also find right next to the Loubies, my Target *or Tar-Jay* shoes which are suprsing comfortable. My most comfy pairs though believe it or not are from Banana Rebublic. Well made and classic design. Who would have thought. Once we finish our bathroom and closet renovation Id like to post pics of my organizing skills. But those my friends are not my favorite.

My favorite shoes are my Tory Burch Revas. You honestly can dress them up at work...black pants, fitted top and a cute cardi or structured blazer if you cant manage in heels all day. Or, and my favorite way to wear them is to dress them down. The smooth leather just completes a tee, jeans and a scarf or even leggings and a long tunic and a great bag. They are one of the better investment shoes because they are so versitile. Also, if you like to wear them during your communte they are so thin that you can easily through them into the bag.

So Yay to lunches spent shopping.!

2011, what have you done for me lately?

2011-03-12T18:49:00.000-08:00

I often wonder if anyone really reads my blog, I imagine there must be some spam type views, but if any readers our out there I'm dying to know. That said this is an online journal for me if you will so I'm using it to be keep up with my thoughts and goals and Ive totally revisited my goals.

As I sit here in my home office I'm thinking here I am 28, what do I really want to do, what do I really love to do,. You only live once and maybe this is the wine in me talking, but I really, really want to make it count. So since 2011 is almost 1/4 of the way over. I'm taking more control of my goals and getting the most I can get out of this year and my life. Tomorrow isn't guaranteed and life is what you make it. So, what am I doing about it.

I can honestly say Ive made a concerted effort to love more..love my husband more, love my family and friends more and love myself more. I may be vain in some aspects but I really need to work on loving myself. Ive started :

Writing in a journal everyday. I'm going to utilize my blog more and make it how I want it to be. Eventually my goal for this blog is for it to be a magazine that I would love to read, but women in my age range to. If I can inspire one person in anyway that's a huge accomplishment. Plus, when I was young I loved magazines. I remember being 13ish and reading Seventeen ( my fave!) and YM and drooling over prom dresses, and here I am at 28 reading Vogue and drooling over Couture. Somethings never change I guess.
Taking control over my career. I've heard that you should never let a career or money define who you are. But I want a career, and I take my job very seriously and while Im not quite where I want to be yet, Im some where and I m working damn hard to get to where I want to be.
My physical health.. My weights yo-yo ey if you will. up and down. up and down. up and down. But Ive never pushed or challanged myself physically. But I registered for a 5k on June 25, 2011 so Ive started training....I also like dancing. burlesque style and yoga. They really center me, as cliche as it sounds.
Making my house a home. This year we are completely redoing our bathroom, and after a hellish and dis-heartening day at Lowes and Home Depot, I'm more determined then ever to re do this bathroom and decorate this house a little more.

So, its important to revisit your goals to get yourself back on track. Now that Im a bit more centered, Im anxious to see how this goes!

Hair Apparent

2011-01-15T21:07:00.000-08:00

Hair. Its all about the Hair. Some say its all about the eyes, but really its all about the hair. Secretly I judge people on the hair. Not like good person, bad person, douchelord, etc. However you can tell alot about a person from their hair. Today I had a hair appointment for highlights and a cut, so this morning I spent sometime browsing my favorite hair idols. Today was more of a maintenance visit but I did do something a bit different.....
That said here are a few of my hair idols.....

Jessica Simpson...I love JS, I love her style, I LOVE her shoes and I was a big fan of the Newlyweds. On a side note, she totally wears her heart on her sleeve and you can always tell by her look when shes happy or sad. Here are a few of my fave JS looks:

Short or long girl got the bombshell thing down when she wants too...

When it comes to brunettes....I have two heads of hair that Im totally lusting over.

Cheryl Cole, who I had no idea who she was until I saw her on Perez Hilton and she is a Brit import who is on her way to hitting it big here. I'm not surprised because her is lush. lush. lush.

Another Celeb Crush of mine ( and who I can dedicate a whole post too ( My style icon - seriously) Kim Kardashian. She went blond briefly after her breakup with Reggie Bush, and it was not my favorite but she rocked it,because lets face it. She can rock anything.

And well what did I end up with today? I got some bangs and I'm on the fence about it. Lets put it this way, its very country chic. Not Country Strong, Gwenyth Paltrow rocking Versace at the CMA's country chic. But a Carrie Underwood meets Jerseylicious type chic think this:

And I just want to add, that I think Carrie is lovely, I really do. Her hairstyle is all her own but its not working for me. So I have some experimenting to do before I post some pics.

Bisou Bisou

Vampires, Oh I how I love thee......

2011-01-02T16:13:00.000-08:00

In recent years, Vampires seem to be all the rage, I guess most recently with the Twilight Saga and True Blood. However, this trend is not new to me.

My parents believed in quality entertainment for their children, ( note sarcasm) so my obsession began around the age of 8 ish. I remember watching Fright Night, and I was immediately intrigued. I didn't understand then ( or maybe I did ) all of the sex, lust and rock n roll and lest we forget blood involved but I was hooked.

Cut to 2009.

When we moved in to our new house, I was on vacation for a week, since the move was rather easy I had to find a way to occupy myself for a week. No Internet or TV available I traveled down to Family Video and I was searching for some series, something on DVD to make the time pass...and I had all intents and purposes of renting Dexter ( Showtime) and then I saw this big red lips:

And so my love affair began.

After I finished the season in oh say 3 days, I went out and purchased the Sookie Stackhouse novels by Charlaine Harris which the Series is based on and haven't looked back since. The first two seasons of the show were stellar. The 3rd season left much to be desired, although not too disappointing. Since the 3rd book , Club Dead is my favorite one out of the series with the 4th, Dead to the World a close 2nd. ....

And besides, who doesn't love hot Viking 1000 year old vamps? Point in case Mr. Eric Northman portrayed by hot, hot, hot Alexander Skarsgard. For your viewing pleasure:

photo via access hollywood

So the next Sookie Stackhouse book isn't scheduled to come out until May 2011ish and season 4 of HBO's True Blood is probably going to have a June ish premier date, so it will be a long time til I can feed my obsession.

And No, Im not reading Twilight what am I 15 or something?

Goals for 2011

2011-01-01T12:01:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!
Looking back at my Goals for 2010, I came to the realization that I achieved all but a few of them. The downfalls came kitchen renovations, yoga and date night....but I the other ones I did without a problem. Not too shabby if I say so myself.

So without further adieu...

Goals for 2011!

Personal:

1. Work out every morning.
No excuses, unless Im in extreme pain or somehow misplaced a limp, I need to work out. For myself, for my health.
2. Detox myself from Celebrity Gossip.
Yes, if Guliana Rancic isnt reporting it, well then do I really need to know?
3. Read more concrete, intelligent pieces.
My current reading list as follows: Unwed and Undead, The Help and catching up on US Weekly. Sense a trend?

For my career and marriage, Ive made strides in 2010 and I hope to keep the trend going.

For my house, well thats a different story......for another time...

I miss Blogging

2010-12-30T18:22:00.000-08:00

Its been almost a year since my last post. I could sit her and tell you all there was some extrondanairy reason I didnt keep up but there really was not. The main reason I stopped posting was because, well. I got a job! Its a job thats HR related and it was infact one of my goals. Its been exhasuting at times, leaving me just enough time to take classes, spend time with my hubs and be a friend to my friends. Another huge reasons I didnt keep up with blogging because its hard to be a good blogger. Lately I have been inspried by some of my favorite blogs ( Veronika's Blushing, Dr. Baby Mama Drama, Cupcakes and Cashmere, Ambers Notebook and my favorite southern belle Jimmy Choos and Tennis Shoes) to blog again.

Goals for 2010

2010-01-10T23:15:00.000-08:00

The best thing about January and the New Year, is the clean slate and fresh start. Its a new year, and who knows what can happen this year. Im pretty game for whatever the universe has instore for me but I also want to make a few goals for the year. I decided to make 2 goals each for 4 seperate catagories; personal, professional, my marriage and my home.

Home...
1. Start and complete the kitchen renovation.....this is going to be a major undertaking since our kitchen is somewhat small. I am excited to pick out new cabinets and storage soulutions and do this with E. Also, I cant wait to make my first meal in our new kitchen!

2. Finish unpacking and organize! Im ashamed to admit that we never finished unpacking. We moved then fall semester started and then the holidays and here I am. Its something that I really want to do this year.

Marriage.

1. Go on a date 1x per week. E and I are bad about date nights. Often the weekend comes and were both exhausted so we tend to stay in on the weekend.

2. Always kiss goodnight.

Professional

1. Pass my PHR! As an aspiring human resources professional, the PHR is essential for me. Im taking the test on 1/23 so hopefully this will be crossed off my list sooner then later. Wish me luck

2. Go back to work....in HR. Once I have my PHR certification, securing a position should be a bit easier as the certification makes me extremely marketable. That said, at 26 soon to be 27 Im really ready to get a hold on my career.

Personal

1. Yoga....I do work out on my treadmill everymoring for 45 minutes, but I really want to do 3o minutes of yoga every morning aswell, to center myself and start my day right.

2. Let my hair grow out.....last May I had my hair chopped into a very cute bob. I loved it at the time ( and it was a great cut) but I want my long hair back.

I hope 2010 brings you all lots of love, joy and success.

Baby its cold outside....

2010-01-08T08:18:00.000-08:00

Living in Western PA, January to March is pretty much white. Lots of snow, ice and just cold weather. Peacoats and Burberry trenches are chic and can keep you warm, but when your "dahntown" on your way to the office, and one of the PAT busses likes to play raging rapids and pretend they are at Kennywood and violate you with the melted snow and ice, those coats just arent that functional.

What works for me is down coats.....they are warm, and easy to wipe off. I know what your thinking " This is 2010 and not 1998" and your all "but I dont want to look like Puffy, Stay Puff Marshmellow, or an extra in a Bad Boy Video" fear not my friends, they new down coats these days are sleek, have feminine cuts and come in lots different lenghts and colors.

My favorites ( all courtesy of Nordstroms)

Guess ($98.00)

North Face

and my personal favorite Burberry ( $458ish)

I think these three coats will not only make you look good, but also keep you warm, because thats why we wear them, no?

Taking it all off. Literally.

2009-10-21T13:09:00.000-07:00

Today I was inspired by another blogger and encouraged by some friends.....I really want to share my wieght struggles and my journey to back to my skinny body back.......In the past year I've but on an alarming amount of wieght. Call it vanity, pride, self esteem or conern but its really upsetting. I think people tend to sugar coat wieght gain, being "plus size" and its so not healthy. I want to live longer, be fit, have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby and just really I miss my old clothes!
So how am I going to go back? How am I going to shed this weight? Well, first of all Im not going to do some diet fad, Im doing what works for me, which is exercise and normal eating. This isnt a diet, this is a lifestyle change. Here I am a few weeks ago in size 16 jeans and XL sweater

And my adorable neice Aubri

In addition to eating heathy (Im doing 1400 calories a day) a nice mix of protien, veggies, carbs and Im doing a combination of running/walking and yoga. These are things and foods that I love and enjoy. Once I shed a signifigant amount and begin to plateau I will work with a trainer a few times a week.

The thing is right now its hard, sometimes Im tired and depressed about the weight, and its hard to run, the weight is hard on my knees and my back kills, but if I feel this way at 26, how wil I feel at 46? Im super concerend about diabetes and heart disease.\

I will be back to update, and post before and after, I see how my friends post pics of thier growing baby bumps! Well maybe should post pics of my shrinking lady lumps. LOL, that was corny but I couldnt resist.

I hope that I can encourage more women out there to take the weight off. Im not a skinny person telling you your not attractive, Im just saying Im right here with you, and its simply not fabulous to be unhealthy.

Purse of the Month

2009-10-09T09:44:00.001-07:00

So I totally skipped September. I should win the award for worst blogger 2009. This month's purse is the winner for three reasons:

1. Its the perfect color, its a mixture of blue and gray. Im totally loving everything and anything blue and gray, and while Im not a fan of logo bags, this is a small clutch that logo is okay. I've used it as a clutch and as a mini purse in tote and its great. I love the shine the C's have on them.
2. I'm loving Coach's new look. In recent yearsespecially with all the knock of goach bags out there, Coach has temporarily lost its luster, but In the past year or so they really stepped it up with some fresh and chic looks, and you really cant argue with the quality of Coach leather. Its fantabulous.
3. And lastly, this was a gift from my mentor and friend at my old Company. She gave it to me on my second to last day and its really special to me......it reminds me to go forward, and I love it.

so here she is:

Accesorizing 101

2009-10-09T09:37:00.000-07:00

I am have a rather conservative sense of style when it comes to my clothes. I like clothes that fit well, are versatile and can go from season to season. However when it comes to my accessories I tend to go crazy. I love my big shoes, I love my big bags and my most recent love affair........costume jewelery.

Mind you, growing up my mom and my aunts were big into thier gaudy gold chains and diamonds. What can I say, we are Italian. But thank goodness the Carmela Soprano gene didnt go to me. I only ever wear my wedding ring, watch and diamond studs.

Since I am not working and I am a professional student, my dress code has been rather casual, and albeit just fun. Ive been experimenting with costume jewlery.....I am nervous about the ensamble I have pulled together for a wedding in a few weeks.

Im wearing this dress

and I plan on accesorizing with:

( yes I know my nails need filled......)

as far as shoes go, Im thinking black suede peep toe Loubies ( it is fall after all) and a clutch of some sort.

What do you think?

Room #1 - The bedroom

2009-08-15T12:53:00.000-07:00

When we bought our house, the room I was the least excited about decorating was the bedroom. While I had my linens picked out, and E and I bought new furniture before our wedding, the odd shape of the room had made it hard to decorate. My FIL, who is fabulous professional painter, came up with a great silver blue to paint our walls with, and we did an acent wall with silver stripes. If you notice in the pictures, our sleigh bed has chrome slats, so it works well.

Right now we have the bed in the corner of the room because of its odd shape but I like it.

You can see the pretty blue color and how it accents the dark furniture. Here is a good shot of the stripes:

Also in the room we have custom blinds to match the paint color and the bedding we have now isnt going to be for much longer, we are going to go with This set from Restoration Hardware:

Which leads me to my current issue.....how would you decorate and accessories the room, some faux flower, or maybe some mirrors? Im not to sure as decorating my house is not my strong suit. Please post any ideas that you may have, or if you see any cute bedding, that might go with it.

Next up: The dining room.

The Purse of the Month

2009-08-15T12:48:00.000-07:00

This is a new blog feature I want to do, a new purse once a month, LOL. Too some that may seem excessive but I like to diversify my bags. Also, when it comes to dressing Im pretty classic in my style, I love lots of plain, well cut clothes, thus, I like my accessories to stand out. Theres wine of the month clubs, pie of the month clubs, so why not bag of the month clubs?

This month, from Valentino's Fall collection:

Black Patent Leather Historie with gold hardware.

And its a great bag, I wore it to a recent job interview, wonder if it will bring me luck? The thing I love most about this bag is the shape and the braided detail. To some this bag may be trendy but to me, its a classic. I dream of pairing it in the fall with some dark wash flaired jeans, a long white tee and a cute cropped jacket or a long cardigan, straight leg jeans and some fab boots. Or a navy blue top, gray pants and some patent leather revas.

I wonder whats in the bag ( hahahaha) for September

Coming out ( a fabulous) closet.

2009-08-13T08:47:00.000-07:00

Well for the longest time my blog was made private, but I decided to make it public again. I had some recent drama with some haters, but you know what, if they are going to be lame then that's on them. Please note the above image is not my actual closet.

Life has been interesting lately. I'm leaving my job in a few weeks to attend school full time, in pursuit of my BS in Human Resources management. I graduate this year, and I'm ready to dive in to my career. There are so many goals I have professionally and personally ( separate posts) that I'm ready to reach. I have a very near and dear friend who told me I should do what scares me the most.

And I am.

Recently I had my hair dyed brown by the most fabulous Aubrey at Salon Vivace in Mt. Lebanon. What do you think?

The new color makes a new trip to MAC necessary for a

new make up regime.

So my message to you my dear friends, do whatever it is that scares you, if its climbing mt. Everest, moving, finding a new job, leaving comfort zone. or whatever it is. DO IT. Even if its something as trivial as a darker hair color. God I sound all inspirational but that's my goal here.

Home Sweet Home

2009-07-25T11:31:00.000-07:00

We've moved! It has been the one of the biggest reality checks Ive had in my 26 years! Once we closed I had big ideas for our home. Almost ideas of pure imaginiation if you will. Once we moved in, the first week of July, things started to happen. We've discovered that our shower didn't work. How did that happen? Well, we had originally planned to do a complete bathroom renovation when we moved it in, but FIL took a last minute trip to you Europe, and we had to to wait until he came back to do anything big. So we put it off. And our first night in I wanted to take a shower only to find out the there was no hot water coming out.

WTF.

Well, you can get a plumber to come out on the 4th of July. Just sayin.

That being said, I'm so happy to be home. I'm ready to attack all projects big and small. Most importantly I'm so ready to make memories in these walls to last a lifetime.

So HGTV are you out there? I have a new idea for a show. Forget Property Virgins, how about the true story of a young couple, working full time, one pursuing an MBA, the other getting her BS in HR with little free time, a modest yet flexible budget, modern chic tastes and what happens after you get the keys. One room at a time.
While looking for houses, we could build. we had a ton of options. We put in other offers and Im so glad the others didn't work out, because this is home. I cant explain it - it just is. For now.

I cant wait to see you here! The champagne is chilled and we are ready to celebrate!

xoxo

Blogs are hardwork!

2009-06-07T05:51:00.000-07:00

You have to update constantly....especially for me since I do not have any cute babies to brag about! Catching up on my google reader this morning I realized 5 things:

a. I need to post more

b. I need to take more pics

c. I better get on the home decorating bandwagon...

d. I need a new camera

e. blogs take alot of work!

Inspiration Photos

2009-06-02T23:08:00.000-07:00

I am really wanting E to finish the hardwood floors upstairs so I can start decorating the bedroom. I want the bedroom to have a light, blue, cozy feel. Our room is nice and sunny and light colors are definitly in order. I wish I could buy new bedroom furniture because then my room would be all white. One of my all time favorite decorating blogs, Life in the fun lane is the epitome of my style. Chic, modern and lots of clean lines. Just a place you can easily call home. She has extremly fantastic taste and her daughter is adorable.

Another site im digging is All things G&D, I love how organized this chick is and she puts together some awesome ensambles. Her guest bedroom is the inspiration for my master bedroom. It wont be exact as I have a gigantic sleigh bed but Im digging the elements.

I dont want to post any pics without her permission, but I like her taste too.

As for my dining room, I want something rich and striking. Since this is our starter home, I want to something fun and flossy. If this is your dining room, please let me know so I can credit you....and Im 99.9 percent sure Im going to go this way.

However, Im thisclose to doing a light blue on the wall with houndstooth accents. Isnt this chair darling? I dont think I could pull it off with the red walls.

I would have custom curtains done and custom chair covers for the chairs at the tables and possibly a runner.

then on a wall I would do a frame wall...I think it would look unique with the red paint.

New House

2009-05-27T17:57:00.000-07:00

Well, we did it. I'm not going to post pics yet. But Ive seen amazing blogs on a board I frequent showing how they transformed their houses into some gorgeous homes and I hope to be follow in their footsteps.

Our first home in rather modest, but its the perfect size for E and I, and a dog, and hopefully a little peanut. Its not our forever home, just a starter. Its wierd, all of a sudden I cant wait to get out in the back terrace and sweep dead leaves and water my peonies. Im so excited. We've already closed but we are waiting to move because we have a month work of work a head of us:

The to do list.

Major Bathroom renovation. first on our list and new everything. this must be done and will be started this weekend.
Sand and re-finish the hardwood floors in the master bedroom and computer rooms.
Build shelves for closet in computer room as that's where my purses will live.
Paint master bedroom a silver sage-ish color and in the office maybe a bright blue or something. its a smaller room.
The 3rd and our future peanuts room is in perfect condition, painted and new carpet., just waiting on peanut. LOL
Hang photos down the stairway
Living room, paint vertical stripes in a oatmeal color. You buy two of the same color paints in different finishes ( matte and satin) and paint. Buy window treatments, buy a mirror for above the couch.
Buy some new frames for photos.
Do a photo/frame wall on one of the walls
mount our insane big TV over the fireplace.
See insanely big mirror which is there now on craigslist.

Dining Room:

Do chair rail and wainscoting.
Paint top half red.
I originally was going to do a black/white damask accent ( window treatments, wall hanging's, chair covers and reupholster two chairs) but after watching Tori and Dean ( I love them) on oxygen last night I'm thinking of accenting with black and white houndstooth instead of damask. thoughts?
Buy a mirror and a wine rack

Kitchen

Move Gas line, thus move stove
Add more cabinets and a microwave over the stove.
Ceramic tile on floor.
Add a dishwasher and more counter space
buy a d-shaped sink and new tall facet
Hang wine themed accents. That's my theme, wine how fitting.

Basement

Install new front loader washer and dryers
buy or build a shelving.storage system.

Garage

Install automatic door opener.

Outside

Pull weeds
clean dead leaves.
Buy a hanging plant
and honestly the front yard is overwhelming, so next year we are going to hire a landscaper to figure out what would work. I don't have a green thumb and Ive honestly killed ever plant I have ever owned.

This weekend, Im going to post the before pics and Im welcome to all suggestions

Things I'm loving up on.

2009-05-27T17:47:00.000-07:00

Khaki linen trouses.

White and black polkda dotted anything.

Nude pumps

My signature headbands.

And ritas italian ice.

What are you loving up on?

So my blog is not is so fabulous.

2009-03-15T21:31:00.000-07:00

Sunday night while doing my homework I often take breaks and read my friends' blogs to see whats going on with their lives. I think its important and with the photos that are included in posts its like a visit at 2 am...when I am available.

Free time is so much of a luxury to us these days....I am taking 9 credits this semester, working full time, going to the gym, and we are still house hunting. We know this is our year...and unfortunately this morning had a deal not go through... the seller seemed a tad on the delusional side so as of this morning we are back on the prowl. Yuck. People suck. Seriously.

E is doing well at work and school. And he doest it all while looking good. LOL!!!

What else?
Well I'm going to be an Aunt again this year....2x! My SIL is expecting a little boy and my Brother and his Fiance are expecting a little girl May. I'm so excited. Especially for all the clothes I want to buy for my niece.

Lastly, when I created this blog I did it to showcase my finds while shopping, and the fabulous and flossy things we did, and my chic lifestyle. Well I still am chic and fabulous...but when it comes to flossy, reality sets in and in these tough economic times, I want do my best to show how a girl can still be classy and fabulous. However, she doesn't have to spend a fortune. Unless of course, Christian Louboutin, YSL and or Theory are involved. And I just want to blog about my life in general....if that's okay with you guys?

Well what are the blogging topics to come:
Being a wifey
Quick and easy spring transitions.
What to wear!
Yummy Burgh Food
Home Sweet Home.
Britney

Xoxo,
Sami

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-14T05:50:00.000-08:00

****Spread the love*****

My First Receipe!

2008-10-27T19:10:00.000-07:00

This is a butternut squash receipe from Rachel Ray . I made it for dinner tonight. Yum O.

I could even see serving this as a side at Thanksgiving.

The Red Room

2008-10-19T17:47:00.000-07:00

Saturday evening, E and I went to dinner with one of my girls Kim, and her bf Will. I love Kim, shes like the skinner version of me. Actually people always ask if we are sisters.

Anyways, we went to the Red Room in Shadyside on Highland Street. We had reservations at 7 and the place was empty, and my inital thought was "OMG, we really are in a recession". However, by the time our appitizers arrived the place was packed.

Of of my favorite blogs is by this awesome chick in CA, and she writes wicked restaurant reviews, so to take a page from her and showcase the fabulous restaurants we have in Pittsburgh. Let me be known that I cant quite bring myself to bust out my camera in the middle of a meal, but I will get there.

So we started of the meal with some pretty good Cabrenet from Sonoma valley, it was 33 for the bottle, but it was quite good. For appitizers we shared the red bean hummus and the red pepper fondue. The hummus was served with tortilla chips and honest it was just like a regular ol' hummus. Nothing to write home, or to blog about.

But....the red pepper fondue was amazing. It was cheesy, had a nice kick of spice to it and you could still taste the sweetness of the roasted red peppers. The fonude was topped with what we believed to be a balsamic reduction and the serving bowl was practically wiped clean.

On to the Entrees....

We decided to skip the salad/soup course because when your drinking its just not nesscary, we did however have another bottle of wine. I had feasted on the seared scallops with saffron linguine with black lobster sauce. It did not look good at all. It looked rather green. But it was out of this world AMAZING!! The scallops were cooked to perfection and melted in my mouth like buttah. The linguine was cooked to al dente and the serving size was plentiful.

E had the filet au poirve. ( Did I spell that right?) I should mention that he asked to steak to be cooked medium well, and well it came out medium rare. Now, I know some may say "oh, hes ruining the steak that way, blah, blah" but thats what he likes. The steak was served on top of truffeled gnocci, baby carrots, some other veggie and a congac demi glaze. The demi glaze was very, very rich. He loved the meal, and he was too buzzed to noticed his steak wasnt cooked enough.

All in all I give the red room 4 out 5 stars. We will be back.

And to make this post with pictures, heres a pic of me and kimmy at her 25th birthday at the Sonoma Grille.

So did Aubrey get kicked out?

2008-10-14T19:14:00.000-07:00

I love Making with the Band. I remember watching Da Band in college ( the second season) and it was hilarious. So, when Puff ( love how we are on a first name basis) was making a girl band, I was like sweet! I was so excited.

So, I have to tell you that I loved Aubrey from the get, in fact, I brought several pictures of her to highlighting appointments a few years ago. Shes raw talent. She can sing and dance, and shes hot. So she was instant favorite. So after like 3 seasons, Puff finally made the band and of course, Aubrey was in it. Their first CD is great, its not the Beatles or anything but its pretty good. I requested "Showstopper" at my wedding. I love Danity Kane.

When Christina Augilera came to the 'Burgh on her Back to Basics tour I excited to find out that DK was the opening act. So were the Pussycat dolls, but they are okay. They were awesome.....

fast forward a year and have...how can Aubrey be leaving? Its not the same without her.

Team Aubrey!

Trax Farms

2008-10-12T16:51:00.000-07:00

I love fall, Saturday E and I went to Trax Farms to buy some apple cider, pumpkins and sweat. Why does it have to be 80 degress the day we go to the farm? In any case it was fab. I love seeing all the little kids climb over pumpkins and I cant wait to to that when we have kids. The pumpkins were in abundance.

Happy Autumn!

What I did on my Summer Vacation

2008-10-12T16:42:00.000-07:00

Summer is long gone, but since I'm a bad blogger I thought I would post about what I did this summer.
It was good to E and I. Summer kicked off when E returned back from a work related trip to London. I had to stay home. Then we watched my younger cousin Jenny get married. Awww.

The we had a fabulous vacation....we went to Little River, SC. Its right on the border of North and South Carolina. Lots of fabulous southern charm, cute Pirate lore and lots of sun. It was a good time.

A weekend with T.

2008-08-14T21:16:00.000-07:00

Tianna is my cousins daughter. She is a fabulous little girl. I was in the room when she was born and I remember thinking, oh my God, Jamie has a daughter!

Jaime and I were bffs growing up, unfortunatly we grown apart a bit over the years, but I see so much in her of Tianna.

T is 4, its amazing how much shes grown. She doesnt look like a little baby anymore, but now a young lady. Once a month E and I watch T for the weekend. Some months she comes twice and its always a treat for us, and I think she enjoys it too.

Last week, E and I had a heartbreaking event happen, and we were very sad. Having T come brightened our moods tremendously.

So Saturday morning, we picked her up and had a picnic at South Park with E's brothers daughter Aleda. Shes a cutie too. And the got along famously. Which is nice. We will see how well they get along 10 years from now!

Weekend in Review.

2008-08-03T14:50:00.000-07:00

Did you ever have a weekend that flew by? I cannot believe I am sitting here late Sunday afternoon....updating my blog.
This weekend started off good. Friday I went to happy hour with on my bffs blogless Kim. Shes fab. We met up with my corworkers at the Bar Room in Station Square. After a pitcher of Patron strawberry margehritas, Kim and I were ready to eat. We headed over to Kiku ( in the freight house of station square) for dinner. We noshed on the tempura platter for an appitizer, while Kim had the sushi platter for dinner and I had the chicken terriyaki. We may or may not have had sake.
The food was insanely yummy.

Saturday, I woke up at 5:30 am only to have my personal trainer kick my a**, sorely I went home and got ready for my friend Lisa's baby shower. It was fab. Lisa is seriously the cutest mommy to be. I had a great time. I also got to see my friends Sarah and Melissa which was a great treat. Melissa is getting her Masters with 2 toddlers at home. She is an inspiration.

After the shower we went to house showing #5,897,000 and the house left much to be desired. Well, the asking price was a bit high, and every room was a different, non coordinating color. E and I decided we did not want to deal with re-painting the rooms. Even though FIL is a painter.
We will eventually found a house. This I know.

Then we went to south park with BIL and SIL cutie pie Aleda. I love being an aunt. Its so much fun. Aleda calls me "Streena" which is Bosnian for Aunt. Not exactly a good translation but you get the idea. We played for 2 hours or so then E and I headed to the Bendedum Center ( THANKS AUTUMN!) to see Annie get your Gun. I liked. I walked all over downtown in 5inch heals. I must have burned 4000 calories yesterday.

However,
After my workout I came home only to find that E went out and bought my all time favorite Ben and Jerry's ice cream, Imagine World Peace. It was inspired by John Lennon. The yummy goodness of the vanilla ice cream, fudge peace signs and toffee cookie was two much. But I *really* only ate a 1/2 cup.

Happy August everyone!

Ohh I have been tagged!

2008-07-21T16:47:00.000-07:00

Jenn from http://idroolblackandgold.blogspot.com/ tagged me.

The rules are as follows:

Name five things that you can't live without. It can't be a person, it has to be something material that actually makes your life easier. It can't be something in general, it must be exact. Also, it can't be the obvious like a cell phone or computer.

1. Coffee. Seriously, I have caffine addiction like no other. I have atleast 3 cups per day. Im not a coffee snob aslong as its fresh.

2. My clarisonic. I love my clear skin. If I do not use it for a few days I feel all icky.

3. My christian louboutin very prive pumps. I wear them at least 2x a week. The make me feel very powerful and do alot for my height and my attitude.

4. Orbits mint mojito gum. yum yum yum!

5. Victoria Secret Bare bronze self tanner. Its the only self tanner that smells good and works wonders. Im really pale and without it, my whiteness would be out of control.

I am now tagging Jo!

http://joskitchen.blogspot.com/

*Summertime**

2008-05-26T08:40:00.000-07:00

So today being Memorial Day, marks the unoffical start of summer. Time to break out the white bags and white shoes! I myself just took my fendi bbag out of storage. What are your favorite things about summer?

A few of my favorite things are....
1. Reading US weekly and Intouch by the pool.
2. A healthy tan.
3. Pedicures every 2 weeks.
4. My new favorite summer drink! Thanks to my friend Rosie in Boston, it is Prosecco with a splash of grey goose pear vodka. Yum!
5. BBQ chicken, veggies and fish.
6. Getting wet.
7. Everyone is skinnier in the summer. I myself included.
8. Ice cream from Pages Dairy Mart on East Carson Street.
9. Vacations
10. Rocking my sunglasses 80% of the time.

And summer beauty products!

Clarisonic Round II

2008-05-18T14:18:00.000-07:00

OMG! I am in love with this little machine.

First let me speak of my personal experiences with it. I started using it a little over a week ago, and for the most part of the week at that. My skin is glowing! It makes face washing go fast and fun, and I am finding the days I dont use it, I can tell on my skin. I had a few breakouts in the begining of last week, as my skin was "purging" and today its honestly clear as day. Last night when E and I went to dinner I found that I did not have to use any foundation, concealer or powder. Just eye make-up and gloss.

Also, I found out today from a friend that an upscale spa in San Francisco also uses the clarisonic durings its facials. Yay!

Sami vs. The Clarisonic. Round I

2008-05-12T05:52:00.000-07:00

So, I there is an amazing group of women that I talk to each day. They are supportive, funny and quick to tell you the TRUTH, when you need it. I big puffy heart them.

Anyways, when someone discovers an a great product, shoe, bag, macaroni and cheese reciepe, we are always up for sharing. Well, Melanie discovered the Clarisonic and since then 90% of ordered them and started to use it.

My PINK clarisonic came Saturday. I started to use it last night. I've heard that it can take up to 2 weeks to seen an improvement, but honestly, my skin felt smoother ( is that a word?) after one use.

You can find more about the Clarisonic on thier website, or you can order it from Sephora. I will update you all in one week.

Things I am craving right now....

2008-05-09T16:28:00.000-07:00

1. Massage. Even though I just had one I feel the need for another one. So relaxing. I am a high stress person, what I can say?

2. Some Boston Market. Thanksgiving in May. I would have chicken, stuffing and sweet potatoes for dessert.

3. These Christian Louboutins. I cant find them in my size :(

Thats all!

Happy Birthday to my Husband!

2008-05-04T07:24:00.000-07:00

So my dear, darling husband turned 28 on Sat. He had a wonderful day he told me last night. A pastry chef from a message board I frequent, was kind enough to make his nutella, chocolate and rasberry birthday cake. It tasted out of this world amazing.

We had a great time at his dads and E is spoiled rotten and got lots of good gifts.

My Husband returns tommorrow!

2008-04-13T17:08:00.000-07:00

Yeah!

I missed E so much, and Im so happy hes coming home tommorrow.

But.

And theres a but.

I remembered what it was like to be single. The good and bad parts about being single.

First let me start of with the good.
1. Having the bed to myself.
2. Watching unlimited amounts of Keeping up with the Kardashians, Rock of Love ( TEAM AMBRE!), Whos wedding is it anyway? Lots and lots of scary movies, and my guilty please the Hills. I love the hills.
3. No one blowing my candles out.
4. No dirty dishes in my sink
5. No one drinking all of my "juice" lol.

And the bad...
1. I hate taking the garbage out.
2. I hate doing laundry.
3. No one to kiss goodnight.
4. No one to kiss good morning.
5. I miss my best friend.
+

E leaves for Europe tommorrow.

2008-03-26T17:52:00.000-07:00

My wonderful husband E is leaving to go to Europe tomorrow for 19 days. Hes is going back to see his mommy and grandma for the first time in 7 years. I hope he has a great time.

Long, time no blog.

2008-03-14T17:57:00.000-07:00

Its no secret that I havent been blogging much. Well. Thats all about to change. Major upgrades comming, and they are comming soon.

Tis the Season!

2007-12-01T15:22:00.000-08:00

Christmastime, Happy Holidays, The Holidays, whatever you want to call it is here. I cannot believe that its the Holiday season all ready, as it seems that yesterday I was looking for bathing suits and enduring self tanner trail and error.

So with all that glitters, silver and gold....what do you love about the Holidays? For me, its a mixture of family, friends, red and green kitschy ornaments that my Nana used to hang up, cut out cookies, watching my husband wrap presents and listing to Christmas songs.

To be honest ( and those who know me will not be suprised) Is that I actually love the commericalism that comes along with the Holidays ( the same thing Charlie Brown griped about, but I think I just made that word up!) I LOVE the seasonal lattes, martinis, gifts sets, a new Christmas outfit and new NYE cocktail dress.

So here are my top picks for Holiday season 2008.

Starbucks Sugar Free, non-fat latte, with whipped.
With out the whipped, its only 200 calories, but I like the think the sugar free syrup and non fat milk cancel out the whipped, and besides its CHRISTMAS TIME!

Christmas Eve Martini
My cousin Jaime and I used to drink these in plastic cups since we were 15 and 17 respectively, but since I am a grown up now, I like to put in a martini glass rimmed with chocolate syrup.

Two parts vodka ( I prefer Grey Goose)
1 part Godiva liqour
1 part kaluhaha
1 part Egg nog.

Shake with ice and strain, Merry Christmas!

Thanksgiving Day Menu!

2007-11-13T09:48:00.000-08:00

Gobble Gobble!

So this year for Thanksgiving, I will be making:

Martha Stewarts Cranberry Glazed Turkey
Stuffing with Cranberrys and Walnuts ( as well as regular ol' stuffing)
Mashed Potatoes with chives and creme fraiche
Broccolli Casserole
Sweet Potatoes with Brown Sugar and Marshmellows
Harvest Corn
Green Bean sauteed with garlic and shallots
Rolls

and for Dessert:

Pumpkin Pie and Chocolate Hazelnut Torte!

Misc. Makeup/Product Reviews!

2007-11-05T10:34:00.000-08:00

Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss -

I took advantage of NM free shipping and I ordered a limited edition Holiday color called Bronzed Pink. While I love the color on, it was a bit sticky for me. My hair got caught in it and it was a bit too tacky for me.

Bare Escuentials Eye Shadows -

My new favorite eye shadow! They are a marathon shadows, they last and last. I have been using bravo, and I think vanilla. And they work for day and night! I really love them. The color is a bit sheer, but alot of pigmint if that makes sense. They have a wide range of colors so Im sure you will be able to find something you like. Im going to try some pink, plums and blues fairly soon. My only word of caution is that these things are messy!!! Try to keep them on a flat service and keep a paper towel handy. TAP, TAP, TAP the excess away. These arent ideal if you like to apply your eye make up on the subway like me, but all in all a great buy!
BTW - if you have trouble with the BE mineral foundation line ( I did) they eyeshadow did not make me break out.

Bliss High Intensity Hand Cream with Macadamia Oil + Grapeseed Extract.

Hangnails be gone!!! This cream is ultra rich, and has a pleasant but not overpowering scent. It really bothers me when hand creams are scented but thats just me. My only complaint is that its a bit pricy for the size, but as usual The Brits scored a home run with this one. I find that you can always equate quality with Bliss.

Christian Louboutin, oh how I love thee!

2007-10-31T11:03:00.001-07:00

Nothing makes me feel better then a pair of very prive peep toe shoes!

I super puffy heart you!

Haunted Houses and High Heels

2007-10-08T11:07:00.001-07:00

This Saturday my Husband I took his parents to a haunted house for Halloween. I was very excited about this, since they are European and never been. I wore stillettos to dinner that day, unknowingly about the plans afterwards.
The experience itself was more scary then the Haunted House!!!

Due to the grates on the ground that we were walking on, my heel caught got, and I went head first on to some concrete and scraped my knee. Boo hiss. A few minutes later when someone jumped out and I got starttled, I did this sideway walk thing and landed on my deirrier ( sp). When I didnt think it could get any worse, my husband stepped on my toes!! Oh I was mortified. It hurt so bad, I am still in recovery!

We went to Hundred Acres Manor in South Park. It benefits Animal Friends so I urge all to go.

My inlaws liked the Haunted House.

I love Halloween, so this is the first of many Halloween posts to follow!

Product Review: Chanel Tulip Noir

2007-10-04T06:12:00.000-07:00

So...I plan to do a lot of beauty product reviews in this blog, so I want to start out with my favorite product of the moment.

Chanel Tulip Noir Nailpolish.

Its new for this season and its beautiful. Its ultra exclusive to, because no one can seem to get there hands on it. Im glad I scooped up two bottles when I did. I have it on my fingers and toes. I love it.
The thing about dark polish is your nails have to be well buffed and cuticles maintained for it to look good. So when you bring the bottle make sure the manicurits ( or whatever there called pays special attention to those areas. Make sure you get the bottle back.

I love Chanel. When I grow up, Im buying a shopper. Hopefully before the price increase.

First Post

2007-10-03T13:22:00.000-07:00

Welcome!

This blog is going to be a host all things I love. Shoes, bags, food, beauty reviews ( the mags arent always right) and flossy, chic and fabulous all at the same time. Some may say its an oxymoron. But its how I live!