Happy New Year's

I hope you and your family had the most wonderful Christmas.  

I am off now for the a long weekend with some great friends. 

We are ringing in this New Year together at a cabin in Luray, VA. 

Enjoy your celebrations & Be Safe!

Merry Christmas Eve, Eve

Original from Practicing Perfect

Dear Santa,

As it is officially the week of Christmas, & I can post this list without people thinking I am ACTUALLY putting these items on my Christmas list,

Here is my "Santa Baby" Wish List:

(you know all the really selfish, and extravagant things I lust after all year long)

Tory Burch Grey Flannel Reva Ballerina Flat

The warm flannel makes even these simplest of shoes look so cozy.

Not only are these tan patent leather heels simply GORGEOUS, they also have the Famous red soles of Christian Louboutin.  

What good is a pair of gorgeous, notable shoes without a Classic Chanel suit to match?  This one even follows the most recent trends with a touch of sparkle on the cuffs, collar, and waist.

Every lady needs a classic trench.  Santa, if you could make mine Burberry this year it would be much appreciated.  

While you're at it, don't forget the matching umbrella.

 To help improve my punctuality, I wouldn't mind this timepiece under my tree.

Finally the pièce de résistance.
Every woman lusts after a gorgeous diamond ring to add to her collection, & at 10 carats and $625,000, I see no reason why this little gem won't find it's way into my stocking this year.

Happy Lusting!  &more importantly. 

Merry Christmas!!!

These are a few of my favorite things....

Every year around Christmas time, Oprah Winfrey has a show identifying her 10 favorite things. 

This year as part of her series finale she reveals 40 of her favorite things ranging in price from $5 - $100+.

This year I will provide my 1st annual list of my favorite things.
These are items I currently own that I could not imagine my life without.

1. Bed Head Shampoo & Conditioner  - $37.90
   As a natural blond who has been "enhancing" my hair color since high school, I have often struggled with finding the right shampoo.  Earlier this year, I borrowed a friend's Bed Head & it changed my life.  OK, maybe it didn't change my life - but I haven't used anything since.  Not only do they have a luxurious (banana) scent but they leave my hair softer than it's ever been before.  Combined with Bed Head's leave in conditioner and split-end mender, my hair is in the best condition it's ever been in.
   
   Compare to Oprah's Andre Walker Hair Care Products
   
   
   
   
   
2. My iPad - $499
   Oprah & I both share our love for the iPad.  Since purchasing my iPad earlier this year, I have constantly relied on it as a source for entertainment.  Not only do I use it as an e-reader but I take advantage of the gaming apps, internet, and email.  It's the perfect personal "computer" to take when traveling.  It's lightweight and doesn't cause nearly as many hassles when going through airport security.
   
   What does Oprah say about her iPad?
   
    
   
3. Quilted Laptop Brief by Brookstone -  $69.99Speaking of airport security, as a traveling sales woman, I often find myself grappling with my laptop bag as I try to make it through security without incident.  On a recent trip to Orlando, I found myself stuck in the FL airport for over 6 hours.  What else to do but shop; & I'm so happy I did.  I stumbled into a Brookstone store and came out with lovely addition to my luggage collection (not to mention her sister carry-on, I acquired).  The checkpoint friendly bag opens flat so you're fumbling a work laptop in or out.  Moreover, I had been searching high and low for a bag to carry my laptop in that wasn't completely atrocious.  I love that I can carry this bag as my purse/briefcase without a problem.
   
   Compare to Oprah's Sophie Satchel by Coach
   
   
   
    
4. Kitchenaid Artisan Stand Mixer  - $199.99
   I absolutely adore cooking and baking.  I don't know how anyone does it without one of these in their Kitchen.  I have not yet purchased any additional attachments but there are for sure on my list!  The combination of this and my "Hello Cupcake" book I feel unbeatable.
   Compare to Oprah's Le Creuset Cookware 
   
   
   
   
5. Bootcut Jeans by Seven for all Mankind - $155
   The worst enemy of every woman is the swimsuit & then the jeans.  It is so hard to find a good fitting jean.  I love my Sevens and will never look back.  Don't get me wrong, I often times buy a pair of of trendy jeans from Express, or even Target; however, my tried-and-blues are my Seven for all Mankind bootcut jeans.  I have long legs, and Seven's offer a longer inseam than most the are the perfect amount of broken-in and resistant so I'm comfortable while still feeling just ever so slightly slimmer than normal.  In addition, I'm pretty sure they make my butt look good. 
   Compare to Oprah's Miraclebody Jeans by Miraclesuit 
   
   
   
   
   
6. The Little Mermaid Special Edition Soundtrack - $18
   It's a long story, but my sister will understand.  It doesn't have to be the Little Mermaid, but honestly, when's the last time you listened to a childhood soundtrack?  Try next time you're in a funk or have had a bad day; you can't help but smile....especially if you sing out loud.
   Compare to Oprah's Illuminations by Josh Groban
   
   
   
    
7. Garnet Petite Ring by David Yurman ???
   My dearest sweetheart got this ring for me last year for Christmas.  I think I've worn it all but 2 days since & that was only because I forgot to put it back on after painting my house.  I love the beautiful garnet (my birthstone) and classic band.  Every lady needs at least one piece of jewelry that makes her feel special and unique.  Thanks Hun!
   
   Compare to Oprah's Jessica Leigh Diamond Earrings by Dana Rebecca Designs
   
   
   
8. Customized Closet by Closetmaid  - Depends on your system.
   These closet organizers can actually turn any little measly closet into the perfect form of organization, optimization and efficiency.  Doesn't hurt that it requires you to reassess exactly what you're keeping in your closet and why you're keeping that tee shirt from the 3rd grade anyway. 
   Compare to Oprah's Elfa Customizable Closet System from Container Store
   
   
   
   
9. Kady Boots by Mossimo for Target - No longer Available.
   I wear these boots close to once a week.  The go with EVERYTHING and they make me feel sexy without causing enormous amounts of pain.  Skinny jeans - YES!  Casual Dress - YES!  Skirt & Top - I THINK SO!
   Compare to Oprah's Reva Ballerina Flat by Tory Burch
   
   
   
   
10.  Perdue Perfect Portions
    I'm a busy girl, so trying to eat healthy and at a reasonable time is difficult for me.  Although not too creative, these chicken breasts cook in as little as 20 minutes, can be cooked from frozen, and come pre-marinated in a number of different flavors.  When I don't have time to really cook, this is the perfect solution for me. 
    Compare to Oprah's Beecher's "World's Best" Mac-N-Cheese
    
    What are you favorite things? 

nanny-nanny-ha-ha

I think I've mentioned a time or two that I LOVE the holidays!

I'm starting to truly get into the holiday spirit.  

My co-worker was sulking about having to travel all around Northern VA this evening picking up holiday gifts from here, there, everywhere; & that was only for the gifts he's already bought.  He will eventually have to make the dreaded trip to the mall to complete his holiday shopping for gifts yet to be determined. 

I could not help but mock; nanny-nanny-ha-ha, I am DONE!!!!

 I have finished every last bit of my holiday shopping and all without stepping foot into a mall.  

I have my parents gifts, my sisters gifts, my boyfriends gifts, gifts for the office gift swap, gifts for my boyfriend's family, & even a few gifts for myself.  My dexterity and agility with online shopping has served me well.  In fact, most of my gifts have already shipped.  I'm waiting a few but for the most part all I have left is the wrapping.  

After gloating for a few minutes, I sat back and thought to myself - why do people (men in particular) wait until the very last minute?  It's so nice to be done with everything & see the gifts wrapped so nicely under the tree.  Don't they want this feeling of accomplishment that I have right now?  

Now all I have to do is sit back and enjoy....

& wrap my presents

& get my dress dry-cleaned for Thursday's office party

& bake for Friday's holiday party

& clean the house for Friday's holiday party

& put up the rest of the decorations for Friday's holiday party

& find a place for everyone to sleep after Friday's holiday party

& finish sewing handmade gifts for Saturday's holiday party

& ......

The list seems to go on and on, I guess a hostesses job is never done.

Before I felt relaxed; now I may need a little push to get me started.

Drinking may not be the solution to everything, but boy does this beer taste good. 

Nothing like a little Bud Light for motivation :)

I'll be Home for Christmas

Unfortunately, this mirrors how I feel fright now.  

During my two week blogging hiatus, the couple who had a contract in on my house backed out.  

It's a total bummer, and I've spent a significant amount of time telling myself it's for the best.

You want to know how I really feel:

Hmph!

7 Years Behind...

In 1993 Christy Turlington showed her navel ring during a fashion show in London.

The belly-button piercing quickly became a fashion accessory reaching it's peak in popularity in 1997.

In June 2000 before traveling to the illustrious "Beach Week" my parents told me to be safe.  My father added if I came home with ANY piercing's he would personally rip them out. 

(notice the work rip as opposed to take)

 

I returned piercing free.

In 2004 (7 years after the height of navel piercings), I was interning in Manhattan with a friend.  We got bored on a Saturday afternoon and decided to get my belly button pierced.  At this point, I may have been the only person I knew without a belly button piercing.  My mother had even taken my younger sisters to have theirs done, by theirs I mean my 2 younger sisters AND my mother. 

At 21, I did not bother to tell my father about additional accessory; however, he did coincidentally lose a bet to my Aunt that very same year in regards to how many piercings his daughters had. 

I now find myself in a oddly similar position. 

In 1995 Ugg Holdings, Inc sold their brand and idea to Deckers Outdoor Corporation, which started promoting the now renowned brand in the US through celebrity promotion.  The brand's popularity is marked to have taken a significant turn in the early to mid 2000s.  For the purposes of this article I will estimate 2004.

As 2011 approaches, I have my first desire for Ugg boots.

Much to the pleasure of my boyfriend, I have avoided the trend for the past 7 years; however, after attending the ACC Championship game in rainy, 30 degree weather, I have decided they may be a necessity.

I don't like the way the traditional Ugg boots look; however, I have found 1 2 styles that I like.

These are the UGG Broome II boots.  I love them!

They look a little like riding boots; however, they are also lined with the sheep-skin that everyone loves their UGGs for.  I also love the weathered look on the toe.  

Ahhhh...swoon!

These beauties are old news, I'm aware; however, I do love the classic knit look.

For those that don't already know, they are the UGG Classic Cardy. 

I could see myself wearing these similar to how most young ladies where their UGGs:  with skinny jeans, a oversized, comfy sweater, and a good book as an accessory. 

They still seem to be more of a house slipper to me but maybe one's I would be embarrassed to be seen in!

So after 7 years, I will have to see if I can finally convince myself to join this trend too.

Gobble, Gobble

Tomorrow is brought to by the letter "F"

So I'm sure you've gathered by now, I'm easily excitable, passionate, and love to celebrate with childish exuberance!

I can't wait for tomorrow.

I love Thanksgiving because:

 

What is your favorite thing about Thanksgiving?

Does your family have any unique traditions you're willing to share?

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you

Faith!

I've been having a rough day, week, month(s).  It happens to the best of us and as always it seems when it rains, it pours.  My troubles are not different than anyone else's and certainly not more significant.

I wondered what do others do to get through their rough times?

Running or working out often burns off some of the pent up anger or energy.  

In contrast, relaxing in a warm bubble bath or with a glass of wine help melt trouble away.  

I've tried, and frequently use all of these techniques; however, my tried and true is prayer. 

Now, I consider myself a religious person but not a shout it from the rooftops, church every Sunday type (although writing a blog post about my faith may lead you to believe otherwise).  I truly prefer to think of my faith as a personal relationship with the big guy/gal upstairs.  

It's been a long and winding path that got me to this point.  From a young age my father made sure I was in church each Sunday.  Much to my dismay,  I sat politely with my hands folded and head down trying to force myself to believe that church was my ticket to heaven.  My sisters and I then filed out of the sanctuary trying to beat the rush to doughnuts and lemonade without actually running.  We would socialize and meander until we heard our father's booming laugh from one of the atrium corners.   

My father's laugh can fill a room; to this day it is often how I locate him in a large crowd.

The three of us would then beg Dad to leave so we could return to a day of "normalcy."

In addition to 18 years of Sunday mornings, I also attended 10 years of parochial school where religion classes were a core part of the curriculum.  Year after year, I sat in a classroom with my closest friends studying bible scriptures, theology, and various belief systems.  My friends and I were often times required to attend mass during the school week.  

I thought to myself, I attend church 2x/week, study theology 3x/week, and overall live a wholesome life.  

I must be leaps and bounds ahead of society. 

It wasn't until I was on my own that I realized how much I relied on that time.  Somewhere in the 18 years, my relationship with church transformed from a requirement to a necessity.  I needed that time to keep myself grounded.  I don't claim to be the perfect Catholic. I still skip church more often than I would like to admit but I always seem to find some time to reflect and pray during the week.

Now, I am most comfortable praying as if I'm having a conversation with an old friend.  Much like friendships change, my relationship with God has changed.  I no longer approach him with a laundry list of things I need/want/must have.

I now ask my old friend for advice, guidance, and strength.

What helps you through the rough patches?  Has this changed over the years?

& SOLD!

My good news for today

Now just a little home inspection, HOA documents, & some packing stand between me and a life in Alexandria, VA.  I am truly looking forward to a shorter commute but will miss a space of my own to upgrade and decorate as I choose.  Now I will just have to get a little more creative about my organization and personalization of a smaller space. 

I'm excited!  I love new challenges.

Why did I wait?

So I haven't gone into much detail about it but I'm selling my precious house.  Much like myself, my townhouse is full of fun and vibrant colors HOKIE orange basement, fresh green kitchen, precious plum dining room, so on and so forth. 

As part of the home selling process I needed to touch up paint, neutralize some rooms, etc.  It's so frustrating when you're finished because it looks so nice and you never took the time to do it for yourself.  So take the time this weekend and check off one of those quick weekend projects off your to-do list. 

Here's some inspirational projects to get you started:

Install a Ceramic Tile Backsplash

 

Give Your Cabinets a Face-lift

Replace a Light Fixture

Paint

‘Tis the Season, almost….

I love the holiday season!

Each year my family and friends have to convince me not to put my decorations up before Thanksgiving. Since I'm selling my house, this year is a little different…I'm not allowed (total bummer). To keep my holiday spirits high & at bay for a little longer, I can start to plan my holiday cards. In the past, I've typically purchased cards from the dollar store, occasionally stuck a shiny new photo inside, and did my best on a budget. This year I'm DEFINITELY using Shutterfly.

I had no idea they had such wonderfully festive card ideas. I've printed pictures from Shutterfly before; however, they just ROCKED my world with their classic and elegant holiday card collection. I'm dying over these classic colors, sweet messages, and crisp simplicity.

Here are some of my favorite ideas:

No Mistletoe Necessary
The very reason I love the holidays so much, everyone LOVES so much more. Could you ask for a better way to send a holiday kiss to each recipient?

Ornamental Holiday Story
I love the idea of sharing what happened this year with your loved ones. This seems like a more practical option than the lengthy "family newsletters" that I'm almost certain no one other than your grandmother reads.

  And here is the card you can most likely expect to receive from me this year:

Shimmer, Sparkle, Shine
I love the simplicity of this card. Since I don't have my own gaggle of children to brag about (yet), I can easily insert a picture of my precious pup without seeming pretentious. It also serves as neutral well wishes to those of any religious beliefs; now I can easily wish my Jewish boss and friends a peaceful holiday season, as well as my Christian cohorts.

They have so many options, for so many types of families.
They even have some great gift ideas such as books, calendars, and stationary.

Bloggers you can even get free holiday cards. Learn More!

What do you think? What are you planning on sending out this holiday season?

Crash & Burn....

Yet another apology from me.

So soon too.

Yup my computer crashed on me.  

Thankfully, I have not resorted to shopping in real stores in my underwear.

I have had the worst luck with electronics this month.  Dropped the iPhone, my contract doesn't come up for renewal until June so I couldn't upgrade to the iPhone 4 (boo).  My computer craps out on me when I trying to start my own business, and just got into the routine habit of blogging again (Ugh).  I'm usually pretty technically savvy, after all I do sell software.  

I've set some pretty intense goals for myself at work and if I achieve them, and in turn receive the commission for them, I plan on buying myself on of these beauties:

That's right folks - I'm going to an Apple only residence.  Enough with P.C's and their Bill Gates mentality.  Steve Jobs and his brilliant marketing & questionably over priced products have won my affection for good, or now...who knows I'm a fickle girl.

In the mean time, I will try to squeeze in some time to blog in the evenings.  I have some really good blogging topics pent up from the past week without an outlet.  

God is a Hokie...

I know this because every fall the leaves turn Orange & Maroon. 

I am spending the next few days in Heaven on Earth, Blacksbug, VA.  

We are here to watch the Hokies beat up on Georgia Tech.

Here are some inspiring photos to carry you through the next few days.

Design Inspiration - Bedrooms

What fun for a young girl!

Love the contrasting pillow, and curtain backdrop.

I love a place to call my own.  I chair in the bedroom to relax and kick off your heels after a long day is perfect.

There isn't a single item in this room that doesn't gush romance.

What a good idea for a small space!

Design Inspiration - Living Rooms

I got to thinking, what would I do if I could create my dream living space.  

Today living rooms inspiration:

I love the gorgeous light blue.  It's the color my living room is currently painted.

I can't have white furniture because my darling Deja sheds more horribly than mohair sweater and she has black fur.  I like the idea of a rustic, textured, and natural fabric couch.

Love the elegance.

So simple, classic, and clean.

I've been dieing for a sofa with Queen Anne structure, especially in this gorgeous blue.

Doesn't this look like the perfect place to curl up and read a book?

 GASP!