Weekend Update

Well, it's been about a year since I last wore this skirt!  I tried it on yesterday morning expecting it to not fit, but it did!  Hooray!  So I wore this outfit to church!  Mr. Baby thought the necklace was super fun to grab.

Speaking of fun, my mom is visiting at the moment!  She got in Friday evening.  Then we took an impromptu road trip to Grand Island on Saturday to see one of her best friends.  That was really fun, but kind of ridiculous.  Babies aren't the best road trip companions, but he really did quite well.  It was his first time being on the road for more than an hour or so.   We learned pretty quickly that he was lonely in the backseat, so my mom kept him company while I played chauffeur.

We are having pretty amazing weather right now, so we've gone on a few walks, and otherwise just getting as much grandma/baby time in as possible.

Necklace: Lucky B Boutique (similar)
Cardigan: JCF (similar, similar)
Tee: Gap (similar)
Skirt: JCF (similar, similar)
Flats: Target (exact without captoe)

Copycat Aunt

So, this is my niece.  She's awesome.  You may remember her from the last time I shamelessly copied her outfit.  What can I say?  The girl has great style!  Anyway, she recently sent me these pics of her in a super cute outfit, and I thought it would be fun to do another copycat post.  I wore my version out to dinner with my 2 favorite guys, and then we walked around the duck pond.  Somehow, taking outfit pictures turned into copying all of the poses that E did.  

Tree hugging isn't my forte, especially since there was a spider on the tree.  I also sadly didn't have a red hairbow!  

There also weren't any fancy benches at the park we were at, so I had to settle for this boring green one.  

 Thanks for the inspiration, E!

Cardigan: H&M (similar)
Tee: Gap (similar)
Skirt: Banana Republic (eyelet option that I have been tempted to buy!)
Shoes: Target (similar)

Merry Christmas Eve!!!

Well, happy Christmas Eve to you!  It seems like this year flew by, probably because every year feels that way.  But anyway, I hope everyone has a lovely day tomorrow!

Cardigan: Gap (similar)
Top: Gap (similar, similar)
Skirt: Gap factory (similar, similar)
Boots: Steve Madden (exact)

Currently December

I'm starting to think these "currently" posts are just invented to make me feel bad about myself.  Do I even do anything?  Am I even a person???

making - um.  Nothing.  Should I be making something?  Like fancy DIY presents for everyone or some fabulous holiday dessert?  I guess I'm making excuses for not making anything else.  So that works.  

listening - I'm not quite in the mood for Christmas music yet, but I hope I get there soon.  And then I will be listening to the Christmas albums from Weezer and Relient K.  Any recommendations on newer Christmas music to check out?  

wrapping - I also haven't wrapped anything yet.  I've purchase just a couple Christmas presents, but most of the things I need to buy will be shipped directly to the recipients, so I don't need to wrap much this year.  

watching - Gilmore Girls!  I have been told for many many years that I should watch this show, because I apparently talk like Lorelei and Rory.  I hadn't ever seen an episode until it came out on Netflix and I've been watching a few here and there.  I like it.  I'm not sure I talk like them, but it's possible.  

anticipating - CHRISTMAS!!!  Despite my lazy answers to the above prompts, I am really excited for Christmas.  

What are you currently doing?  Link up with  In Residence and Dearest Love to share your answers!  

Cardigan: Gap Factory (similar)
Top; Gap (similar, similar)
Skirt: Old Navy (similar, similar)
Necklace: F21 (exact, similar)
Boots: Steve Madden (exact)

Striped Blazer Remix

It's been awhile since I've done a good remix collage post.  And what better item to feature than my gray and white striped blazer.  Ever since John gave me this blazer for Christmas back in 2012, it's been one of my favorite things.  I've neglected it a bit this summer, but you can expect to see it in the rotation again for fall/winter.  Here are 8 other ways I've worn it over the years:

1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8

Blazer: Gap
Necklace: F21 (exact, similar)
Tee: Gap (similar, similar)
Skirt: Limited (similar)
Shoes: Old Navy (similar without captoe)

Skirt week - Snakeskin

Well, if everyone needs a black skirt, I have to be honest that no one really needs a snakeskin skirt, but it is kind of fun, right?

Anyway, I don't have anything interesting to write today, so that's all!  Link up your skirt looks below.  I'll try to be more clever tomorrow, but I make no promises.

Cardigan: Gap (similar)
Necklace: F21 (exact, similar)
Top: Gap (similar, similar)
Skirt: H&M (exact)
Shoes: Gap Factory (similar, similar)

Funny Friday

It's Friday!  How about some funny things to kick off the weekend?

First, a story from the kids at church.  I'm hanging out with the 2-3 year old class on Wednesday nights this summer.  Let me just say that it is a good thing they are cute, because they are trouble!  This week, I was reading a book about farm animals to a couple of the kids.  One of the boys started asking me if I had any of the animals at my house.  It went something like this:

3yo boy:  Do you have chickens at your house?
Me: nope
3yo boy:  Do you have cows at your house?
Me: nope
3yo boy:  Do you have horses at your house?
Me: nope
3yo boy:  Do you have gooses at your house?
Me: nope
3yo boy (growing more and more concerned with each question):  Do you have cats at your house?
Me: nope
3yo boy:  Do you have a dog at your house?
Me: nope
3yo boy:  Well.... do you have a vacuum at your house?
Me: yes, I do have a vacuum.

So, at least I have something.  He seemed worried that I lived in an empty house.  I'm still not sure why we jumped from animals to cleaning machines.  Kids are so weird sometimes!  

And second, have you seen this video yet?  I love it for multiple reasons.  One, the original song is catchy, but so dirty/creepy.  I just can't listen to it. (especially since Robin Thicke looks so much like his dad, and I'm like "Dr. Seaver, noooo!") Weird Al keeps the tune, but cleans up the lyrics!  Two, I can get kind of riled up about grammar (exhibit A, exhibit B), so I hope this helps people figure out how to talk/write correctly!

Anyway, happy weekend!  Remember to link up next week with Ginny and me for Shorts Week!  

Cardigan: J.Crew Factory (exact)
Top: Gap (similar, similar)
Skirt: Old Navy (similar, similar)
Sandals: Carlos Santana via DSW (option, option)

Snakeskin-ish

If I happened to meet an actual snake, I'd probably try to flee the premises as quickly as possible.  But snakeskin print on clothing, I'm good with that.  I've worn this skirt twice without taking pictures.  I tend to grab it when I'm in a hurry, because it's comfortable and looks like I tried a bit.  I'd highly recommend getting a stretchy pencil skirt in a fun black and white pattern.  Or three.  I happen to love my striped and polka dot options, as well as this new snakey print.

In other news, I'm hopping on a plane after work today and heading to Indiana to see my family.  My dad's side is having a big family reunion starting Sunday, so I'm going early to hang out with my more immediate family before everyone else arrives.  I'm sure I'll be instagramming obnoxious selfies with my nieces over the next few days.  You're welcome.

Cardigan: Gap outlet (similar)
Top: Gap (similar, similar)
Skirt: H&M (exact)
Flats: Target (same without patent captoe)
Pearls: China (similar, similar)

Neglected Chevron Skirt

My first real blog post was about refashioning this skirt.  I really thought I'd do more sewing posts on the blog, but then I don't do as much sewing as I expected I might.  But this was a good project, and I was very happy with how it turned out.  And then I haven't worn it for just over a year!  What's up with that?  It doesn't transition into summer at all, so I think it just got moved to the back of the skirts and I forgot about it.  I'll have to try wearing it in the next month before it starts to warm up.

My first outfit post featured this pink cardigan.  I've worn it a lot over the years and it's getting a little faded.  I got a sort of replacement for Christmas, but it's a little bit of a different shade, so I'm not sure I am ready to get rid of this one.  I'm allowed to have 2 pink boyfriend cardigans, right?  

Linking up with
What I Wore Wednesday 

Cardigan: Marisa Kristina
Top: Gap
Necklace: InPink
Skirt: Kenneth Cole refashioned by me
Boots: Steve Madden

Literary Junkies!

I just realized it has been over a year since the Literary Junkies book club started. Time flies when you're nerding out about books, I guess.  We just finished chatting about Safe Haven.  Here are this month's questions:

1. If you could write a book, what would it be about?

Ummm, I don't think I could stay focused enough to write a novel.  I'd probably write a memoir-type book of short stories about things I've experienced.  And I don't know who would read it.  Probably my parents.   

2. If you had to read one book or trilogy for the rest of your life, what would it be?

I reject this question. I don't like to re-read books, so I have no idea. 

3. Who is your current favorite book character and why?

The first character that popped into my mind is Pat from Silver Linings Playbook.  I just loved his way of describing things.  Even though he was a little (lot) crazy, he was still sweet.   

4. Is there a book you read every year during the holiday season? If so, what is it and why?

No, I don't really re-read books.  

5. Do you have any books on your Christmas list? Name a few.

No, I'm a library girl.  I don't like to own too many books. I'm out of shelf space and they are a pain to move! 

6. What is a book you read and loved that you didn’t expect to?

How about 7?  The Harry Potter series.  I resisted reading them, because I thought they sounded stupid.  I finally gave in this summer and really liked them. 

So, have you read any good books lately?  I have about 50 pages left in Me Before You, and I'm getting nervous that it will make me cry!  

Cardigan: Limited

Tee & Shoes: Gap

Long Necklace: F21
Short necklace: gift

Jeans: Old Navy

When September Ends - Goal Review

Happy Monday!  I'm sure I'll be posting about my mom's visit soon, but unfortunately, it's the end of the month, so I have to do my goal review.  September was better than August, but still not pretty!

• Do a project, mostly sewing - nope.  But I do have an easy sewing project in mind, so that must count for something.  This dress ripped at the seam, so I'm going to chop it into a top instead of a dress.  I thought I'd have time to do it last week, but I have poor time management skills. 
• Work out 3x a week - I think so. 

• Tackle a project around the house - I did clean out the linen closet in the guest bathroom.  It's been a sort of mess since we moved in, because I'm never in there, so it's kind of "out of sight, out of mind."  But I finally organized it and threw away a bunch of stuff! 
• Cook a "real" meal at least 3 days each week - medium.  I don't know - we are home so randomly in the evenings.  I think I did okay. 
• Stick to a clothing budget - while technically over for September, I was using leftovers from prior months, so I'm still on track for the year.
• Read 50 books in 2013 - I finished 4 books in September.  I'm still 2 books behind schedule for the year, but again, once I get done with these 800 page Harry Potter books, I think I'll be able to catch up.  I'll just have to be strategic with a few shorter books.  

We're officially 75% through 2013, and I am not feeling great about my goals.  Maybe 4th quarter will be really awesome.  Are you still working on any goals or NY resolutions?  

Blazer: H&M
Top & Jeans: Gap
Necklace: InPink
Shoes: Target

Leopard Skirt Remix

 

It's Friday!  It's been a busy week, with something going on almost every evening.  Mostly just catching up with friends that I've been neglecting while I had family in town and then was gone on vacation.  It's all good, I just don't really know when I am supposed to go to the grocery store.  Maybe next week sometime.

This outfit was inspired by a guest post I did for Work Clothes, I Suppose last week.  As I was putting together my remix collage for this skirt, I realized I had never worn it with pink, and isn't that the most obvious pairing ever?  I actually started the day with my shirt tucked in, and then got tired of fighting with it.  I'm just not meant to tuck my shirt in most of the time.

Anyway, here are 8 other ways I have worn this skirt.  

Go check out the other remixers at AJ Wears Clothes!

Cardigan: Marisa Kristina
Top: Gap
Belt: Old Navy
Skirt: J.Crew
Shoes: Born

Lazy Weekend

Happy Monday!  Since this was my first and last weekend with nothing going on for quite sometime, I am happy to report that I did a whole lot of nothing!  Friday after work, John and I met up for dinner and then caught a late showing of World War Z.  It was decent, but not as good as I wanted it to be.  I started reading the book on Saturday, so I'll probably end up doing a comparison post soon.

After staying up too late on Friday, I seriously slept in on Saturday.  I think this is the secret to controlling my caloric intake.  Sleeping until noon is the new trendy diet - celebrities should be paying me for this insight.  I just need to quit my job so I can sleep for 12 hours every night.

Saturday afternoon was reserved for catching up on laundry and running errands.  I think I ironed every single item of iron-able clothing on Saturday evening.  It's a glamorous life, I know.

The above outfit is from Sunday morning church.  After church, we went to lunch with some friends, and then I spent the afternoon cleaning up in our "extra" room, so it will be ready for my nieces next weekend!  I'm pretty excited for them to get here!

Here's a bonus for your Monday morning.  When John is my photographer, he usually convinces me to do silly things, like jump or twirl.  This is a great skirt for twirling, by the way.

Top and Cardigan: Gap
Skirt: H&M dress (refashioned)
Shoes: Target

Rainy Picnic Attire

What do you wear to an engagement party/potluck in the park when it has been raining for 2 days straight?  My solution was a skirt and rain boots.  I was really wishing I had some of the fancy Hunter boots that are so popular, but I'm not willing to spend that much on boots I will only wear a few times a year.

It stopped raining right as I was leaving my house and didn't rain at all during the party, so I felt a little bit ridiculous, but no one laughed at me (that I know of), so it all worked out!

Cardigan: Marisa Kristina
Shirt: Gap
Skirt: Old Navy
Boots: Target

Thoughts on Cost Per Wear

Target week continues with skirts/pants/bottoms!  This skirt was the topic of a recent remix post, and I suspect I will be wearing it quite a bit throughout the summer.  Jenn recently mentioned a theory of shopping where you should be able to wear an item as many times as the dollars you spent on it, so the price per wear is $1 or less (and she's doing a challenge right now about it).  I think most of my clothes end up with a cost per wear of $1 or less (except for fancier dresses, probably).  This skirt cost me $8, and this is the 7th outfit I have blogged.  I don't remember if I have worn it any other times, but I think it is safe to say I will wear it again.

I really like this theory, because I think it takes into consideration how frequently an item will be worn, and how many seasons/years it will be in your wardrobe.  For example, my nude pumps were $40, which is more than I would normally spend on a pair of shoes, but I have probably worn them at least once a week for the last year and a half.  A knit pencil skirt from Target probably won't last for that many wears, so I wouldn't spend more than $10-15 for it.  

Do you have any rules or theories on how much you will spend for certain items?

Blazer and top: Gap
Skirt: Target
Shoes: Seychelles via DSW

Another Weekend

Take One, Pass It On Item:  silver belt from last Thursday's post.

**copycatting myself.  I just really liked this sweater/shirt/belt combo with my green skirt, so I wanted to try it with purple. 

On Mondays, I feel compelled to give some update about the weekend.  I started to think about it, and realized this weekend was very similar to last weekend.  During the day on Saturday, I tried to get caught up on household tasks, because who has time to to laundry during the week?  Saturday evening, John and I met up with a friend for dinner and some Red Mango, and then back to our house for another epic game of Catan.  I feel like I should mention that I won last weekend and this weekend.  I think I should retire while I am at my peak.  Sunday was church, followed by lunch, and a quick run to Ulta because I was completely out of makeup.  In the afternoon, I just tried to take it easy because I am afraid I have a cold now.  I'm trying to ignore it in the the hopes that it will go away, but so far, this is not working.  I need to move somewhere warmer, preferably where there are no germs.

How was your weekend?  


Top and Cardigan: Gap
Skirt: Sunny Leigh
Belt: Chinese Laundry
Boots: BareTraps

Weekend Recap

 

Take One, Pass It On Item:  bubble necklace from last Monday's post.
**Today, I am copycatting Kate's look from early December.  It's kind of exciting when I have the exact same item as another blogger, because it's very easy to get inspired.  Don't be surprised when I pass along this cardigan and copycat her again next week.

***I also need to get a better plan for taking photos at work, or figure out how to avoid taking photos at work.  These are not great!

Well, it's Monday again.  I swear, it's like it happens every week.  I had a pretty good weekend.  John and I finished painting our hallway bathroom (updates on that later).  I met a friend for lunch, and then we had some other friends come over for dinner and an epic game of Catan.  On Sunday, we had church and then met up with John's parents for lunch.  I also got caught up on some basic household tasks, like laundry and dishes!

I'd say it was a pretty successful weekend.  Did you do anything fun?

Cardigan: Old Navy
Necklace: Charming Charlie
Top and Jeans: Gap
Shoes: Born

Trifecta Tuesday - Colorful Scarf

This is the only legitimate outfit I wore during the week in Indy.  This was my outfit for church.  I thought my nieces would like it, because it is kind of crazy, but D said it was a little boyish.  I don't know any boys who wear pencil skirts and polka dot cardigans, but maybe I am just out of the loop.  M was excited, because she was wearing polka dots, too.  I took advantage of my parents' backyard and took pictures in several different locations!

Scarf and Tee: Gap
Cardigan: Old Navy
Skirt: Target
Boots: Wanted via Piperlime

In honor of Trifecta Tuesday, here are 2 other ways I have worn this scarf: