Something to Talk About

What I Wore

For a Target Run

Top-(Thrifted)/Sweater (Thrifted)/Black Jeans - Kohl's

Shoes - Tom's

One of the things I miss about having small children are the "play dates" we participated in and the fact that I got to have "mom dates". Those "dates" were not just fun for the kids, but also for the moms because of the conversations we had over tea or coffee.  If you and I were to sit down for a cup of tea or coffee together, it would be a conversation covering a multitude of topics.  I'm sure the weather would be mentioned since it has been so crazy - almost 70 one day followed by heavy winds the next and then snow two days later (lovely Ohio weather).  Surely some of the recent news stories would come up- a child held hostage in a bunker?!  We would talk about the upcoming Super Bowl game - what food we are going to serve, do we think Beyonce will be singing for real, won't it be an interesting game for the Harbaugh parents? Discussions about what movies we have seen recently and how many times I cried while watching Les Miserables and Brave would come up.  Then, of course, we would have to cover the SAG awards and the fashion hits and misses on the red carpet - Jennifer Lawrence and the "it did not rip" dress, January Jones and was that "high fashion" or "overboard"?  Of course, we would discuss our families, our jobs, blogs that we read and love as well as some of our recent purchases.  We would have so many topics to discuss, that we would have to have at least a second cup of our favorite drink (and at least an extra cookie/brownie/piece of pie).  Unfortunately, it seems those friend "dates" are harder to have very often for me anymore.  How often do you plan "dates" with your female friends?

Does Anyone Really Know What Time It Is?

What I Wore

Dinner out with Hubby

Blouse - Target/Brocade Pants - JCP/Boots - Thrifted

Earrings - Forever 21/Watch - MK/Bracelet -Forever 21/Sunglasses - Oakley

Almost one month of 2013 is over already. The end of a day, a week, or a month is time to reflect on what has just finished but also make plans for what lies ahead. With January ending and the month of February still ahead of us full of possibilities, my mind is racing with plans.  Super Bowl Sunday, College Signing Day, Valentine's Day, President's Day, OSCAR Sunday - and to think February is a short month of only 28 days!  Special days aside, I have other things that I want to accomplish as well - reorganizing my closet, revamping my skin care regime (any great suggestions in that area?), reading more than just blogs (what is the best book you have read lately?) for a start.  What about you, what do you have on your to do list for February?

With a Little Help From My Friends

What I Wore

Sweater - Rue 21/Jacket - (Thrifted)/Jeans - Target

Boots - (Thrifted)

I am happy to announce that I was nominated for the Liebster Award by Shaina Renae    If you have not visited her blog before, you should certainly stop by and check it out.   If you are not familiar with  The Liebster Award, it is a way for bloggers with less than 200 followers to get a little attention and make new connections.  Thanks, Shaina for the nomination!


The Liebster rules are: 

• Share 11 Facts about myself
• Answer 11 Questions from my nominator
• Nominate 11 bloggers (with less than 200 followers) for the award
• Create 11 questions for nominees to answer

Facts About Me

 1 - When I was in grade school, I always ate my dessert first at lunch.

 2 - I graduated from college with a teaching certificate for secondary education in English.

 3 - I am the youngest child in my family.

 4 - I didn't learn to swim until the summer I turned 18.

 5 - I drive 6 hours for my annual doctor visit every year.

 6 - I am two years older (to the day) than my husband.

 7 - I went to grade school in one town, junior high in a second town and high school in a third town.

 8 - I'm a preacher's kid.

 9 - I had a pen pal when I was young and we would write 40 page letters back and forth.

10 - I home schooled both of my boys.

11 - I went to Disney World on my honeymoon.

Questions From My Nominator

 1 - What would be your dream vacation? Visiting England for a month by traveling all over, followed by a month in Italy.

 2 - What was your favorite moment in 2012? When my oldest son took my youngest son to the Cowboys vs. Bengals game (he could have taken anyone and he asked his brother to go).

 3 - Favorite Song?  "Let It Be" - Beatles

 4 - What's your favorite thing about blogging? Meeting new people and feeling like it's a friend talking to me every time I read a comment.

 5 - What's your favorite show (currently airing)?  The New Normal

 6 - Dog or cat person? Dog

 7 - How many siblings (if any) do you have? Five

 8 - How would you describe your personal style (fashion-wise)? Evolving and comfortable.

 9 - What are you currently reading? Graceling by Kristin Cashore

10 - If you would describe your blog in one word, what would it be? Chatty (I want it to feel like having a conversation with a friend).

11 - What is your dream job? Working in HR at Disney.

My Nominations

 1 - Sice Family

 2 - Walking Colors

 3 - Scorching Style

 4 - A Shoe Nation

 5 - Fashion and Histrionics

 6 - Bake Glue and Trend

 7 - Redheaded Daybook

 8 - Crafty WI Mama

 9 - Selfless Ambition

10 - A Colourful Canvas

11 - Two Love Birds Without A Nest

The Eleven Questions For My Nominees To Answer

 1 - What is your favorite movie of all time?

 2 - Do you watch sports, play sports or are you not really interested in sports?

 3 - Who is the one famous living person you would love to have dinner with?

 4 - Where would you spend your next birthday if you could go anywhere you wanted?

 5 - What boy band was your favorite as a teenager?

 6 - Favorite Jane Austen novel?

 7 - Shopping at Thrift Stores - yea or nay?

 8 - Would you rather bake a dessert or make a meal?

 9 - What is your favorite scent of candle?

10 - What is your birth order rank? (Oldest/Middle/Youngest)

11 - Do you prefer watching sitcoms, dramas or reality TV?

I can't wait to read all of my nominees answers, and see who you nominate in return!  For those of you reading who aren't one of my 11 nominees (probably because you already have a zillion followers!), I would love to have you answer the questions I came up with in the comments below so I can get to know you better too!

Lipstick Promises

What I Wore

Chambray - Target/Camisole - Target (Suddenly Skinny)

Earrings - Forever 21/Necklace - Forever 21

One of the interesting things about getting my photo taken to post on a blog is how it has changed my getting ready routine.  I am generally a person who waits until the last minute to apply lipstick/lip gloss.  In the past, it wasn't rare for me to put on lipstick as I arrived at my destination.  However, what I have discovered about getting photos taken is that I need to put something on my lips even before I head to the car.  I have had a few uh-oh moments when I have looked at photos, and if you think it is hard to get someone to take photos of you once, try getting them to retake those photos! :)  It was an "ah ha" moment for my everyday life as well, because I realized how much I really need that extra pop of lip color.  The other thing I  learned is that pale lipstick is really like not wearing lipstick at all for me. So, I decided to post the dramatic  difference that wearing bright lipstick makes for me. What was the last "ah ha" moment you had?

Wild Thing

What I Wore

TShirt - WalMart/Cardigan - (Thrifted)/Skirt - (Thrifted)

Shooties - (Thrifted)/Watch - MK/Necklace and Bracelet - Gift/Earrings - Local Boutique

Skirts.  For some females, wearing a dress/skirt is an everyday occurrence.  There were years that I was one of those people who wore a two piece suit to work everyday, and those suits involved skirts.  Five days a week, fifty weeks a year, I wore a suit to work.  Maybe after all those hundreds of days of skirts, it was inevitable that I would become a pants wearing person.  I recently realized that I could count on one hand the number of times I had worn a skirt last year.  As a result, I decided I need to make a concerted effort to wear more dresses and skirts, and that at least one day a month I will be putting on a skirt.  Now, I am not limiting myself to only once a month, but even if I do that, this time next year I won't be able to count on one hand (or even two hands) how many times I had a skirt on in a year!  What about you, do you wear skirts a lot, or do you tend to wear skirts for special occasions?  

All You Need Is Love

What I Wore

Sweater - Forever 21/Red Jeans - Forever 21/Boots - Thrifted

Necklace - Gift (Best Personalized Jewelry) /Earrings - Forever 21/

Valentine's Day may be 3 1/2 weeks away, but it is never the wrong time to show love!  When I saw this sweater in Forever 21, I couldn't grab it fast enough.  The black and white stripes and that large red heart...I knew I would be wearing it with my red jeans as soon as I could.  I know that there are some that are of the opinion that Valentine's Day is a "Hallmark holiday" and that you shouldn't need a day to tell someone that you love them, so they don't put much, if any, emphasis on February 14.  However, although I do tell those people in my life that I love them whenever I feel the urge, there is something about a day set aside to celebrate love that just speaks to me.  I decorate (I spent this afternoon putting red hearts and pink flowers around the house), I make special plans and in general look forward to a special day in the middle of February that gives me another way to make sure my family knows I love them.  What about you, do you celebrate Valentine's Day with plans, candy and flowers, or are you more of a person who thinks Hallmark  and the florists have a good thing going because so many people spend money buying their products?

Judge Not

What I Wore

To a Hair Appointment

Blouse - American Eagle/Sweater - Rue 21/Green Jeans - JCP

Belt - (Thrifted)/Shoes - Target/Necklace - Gift/Earrings - Small Local Boutique

As I sit watching the Fashion Police Golden Globes Special, I have to say it is a relief that Joan Rivers is not reading my blog!  She is, of course, a comedienne first and foremost, but some of those zingers...ouch!  It is always awesome to read your comments when you like something I wrote or wore, but, if you do see or read something and have a suggestion on how I could have done it better, I also welcome that input. I really do welcome readers input no matter what that input is (although I just am not sure that Joan would find much to like). I think that many blog readers tend to only say positive things about a post (I know I fall into that category).  But I wonder if we avoid leaving any comment if we don't completely love what we read or see - even if we could be giving good input.  What about you? Do you only leave comments if you love that post, or have you ever offered constructive criticism when you commented?

Silver Lining

What I Wore

To Watch "Silver Linings Playbook"

Sweater - Target/Leggings - Target (on the recommendation of Alison at Get Your Pretty On )

Shoes - Rue 21/Necklace - gift via Under Her Charm /Earrings - Small Local Boutique

One of the fun parts of having the world wide web is that we can learn from the experiences and recommendations of others .  We have easy access to discover things from someone we may never meet (or maybe if we are lucky we will actually get a chance to meet some of these amazing people someday).  From Pinterest to other bloggers, the opportunity to learn about style, bargains, recipes, home decor and helpful hints is at our fingertips through our laptops, tablets and phones.  I have tried makeup and beauty products that I have read about from another blogger, I have gone to websites and stores that have been recommended for a specific item or a great deal, and I have made new meals for my family based on someone posting a new recipe.  The outfit I am wearing in this post is thanks to a couple of other people on the internet posting about an item.  First are the leggings.  I learned about a great pair of leggings that one of my favorite bloggers wrote about.  Alison at http://getyourprettyon.com/ convinced me that I needed to try these leggings, and can I say...she is right!!  I wish I could wear them everyday!  So, I'm passing on the word to you.  They are not in every Target, but you may want to take the time to find some Suddenly Skinny Leggings .   Another thing I am wearing in this post that I love is my new necklace.  I first saw this necklace on Pinterest and immediately repinned it.  When my husband was asking for a Christmas list from me, I included the link to this Mommy Necklace .  Although it is my first piece from the Etsy shop, I don't think it will be my last!  What was the most recent thing you discovered from another blogger or Pinterest that you would like to share with others?

(For those of you who haven't read about it already, I am now reviewing movies on my Cinema Corner page.  Look for my review of "Silver Linings Playbook" there. Being able to review films is a part of the way I am finding "JOY" this year!)

Walking On Sunshine

What I Wore

On a Rainy Day

Coat -  Bebe  (Thrifted -- and for only $10.00!)

There are many sides to each person.  Each person reading this is unique, but they may have several things in common with another person who reads it, even though they have never met. The interests and abilities we share with our family, our friends, our co-workers and an acquaintance may vary depending on how well we know someone, and also with the  interests we discover that have in common.   To some readers, fashion is a passion that they have had as long as  they can remember.  For others, trying to figure out  their personal style has become an interest more recently.  Some people are very creative while others appreciate creativity, but may need a helping hand to inspire them (I think this is why Pinterest has become so popular).  I do not claim to be a creative person, but I do enjoy creative things. With that being said, I have added a new page to my blog that I hope some of you may enjoy.  This new page will be reviews of films that I have seen.  Now, I do not have any "credentials" as a critic, I just enjoy watching movies when I have a chance.  This new page will be a chance for me to recommend (or not) a movie to you.  I hope to be just like one of your friends who has watched a movie and can't wait to tell you all about it.  I will not put in spoilers (because I don't want to ruin the movie for anyone), and I will try to post if a movie has violence or nudity that may be offensive to some (but feel free to ask if I don't specify).  I have also added a Facebook page for my blog, and if you follow me there, you will be updated on any new movie reviews (as well as updates on new postings for "What I Wore" features).  I  hope that by reviewing movies I can help you when you face that question - 'What movie should I watch tonight?'

Emerald Isle

What I Wore

Running Errands

Jacket - The North Face/T-shirt - WalMart/Green Jeans - JCP

Necklace - Vera Wang for Kohl's/Boots - (Thrifted)/Sunglasses - Oakley

This outfit features a couple of my recent Christmas gifts.  The green pants are from my husband (and yes, I tried them on before he bought them) because I had been wanting a pair of green jeans since before I knew that the Pantone color of the year was Emerald!  However, the purple jacket was a gift from my youngest son, and it was a complete surprise!  He picked it out and bought it by himself, and I have to say I think he did a great job.  One of the fun things about having older boys (I have two) is that they don't just wear sweatpants and t-shirts, they are interested in what they are wearing.  Now, don't get me wrong, they both can be found in workout worthy clothing quite frequently, but both of them clean up very nicely (if I do say so myself!).  The funny thing is, I have always said that sometimes my husband has a better idea of what looks good on me then I do, so I guess the boys inherited their clothes sense from one of us at least.  Do you have any men in your life that have the ability to know what looks good on you, or does the man in your life try to stay clear of giving his input and rely on your suggestions?

Who Are You

What I Wore

Cardigan - (Thrifted)/Tank - (Thrifted)/Jeans - NY & CO

Boots - KMart/Watch - MK

When I think about how my personal style has changed over the years, I look at it as a series of peaks and valleys. There are some really low spots (for instance that baby blue prom dress my Junior year in high school) but, there are also some very high spots (my wedding dress)!  Now, of course, not all of the highs and lows revolve around special occasion dresses, because there are also some very ordinary every day outfits that stand out in my mind too.  I remember a great pair of teal pants I had when I was 17 (I wish that I still had them... and that I could still fit in them!) and I remember the crazy track suits I wore in the mid 90's (for those of you too young to remember, there really was something that was considered a "dressy" track suit...and I had more than one).  At my age I'd like to think I have finally gotten the whole "what to wear" dilemma figured out, but have to admit that I am still a work in progress.  Are you still adapting your style to find the perfect one for you, or do you feel that your style reflects your personality perfectly right now?  

Blowin' In The Wind

What I Wore

Football Sunday/Organizing Sunday

Sweater - Forever 21/Chambray - Target/Red Skinnies - Forever 21

Boots - Uggs/Earrings - Premier Designs

If you've been in a Target (or similar store) recently, you may have noticed all of the organizational items out in the seasonal area.  There is something about a new year, with it's new beginnings, that makes us want to get our homes deep cleaned, and the marketing departments know that this is the time to put all of those items front and center! I know a few people have made resolutions to get their homes decluttered or to simplify their life by getting rid of things they don't need. Even though I didn't make a specific resolution, it seems I too am one of those people who have felt the urge to get more organized.  So, I spent my Sunday in my bedroom with football games on the TV, and started cleaning out the things that are cluttering up my closet.  Now, notice I said "start", because I haven't finished yet!   Do you go through your closet every season, once a year, as you need it, or do you just need a bigger closet like I do?!  

Black or White

What I Wore

Sweater - J Crew/Camisole - TJMaxx/Mint Jeans - (Thrifted)

Shoes - Tom's/Scarf - (Thrifted)

As much as I love gorgeous color, whether it be bold red and vibrant blue or deep burgundy and vibrant yellow, I think I will always favor classic black and crisp white.  When I look in my closet or walk into a store, I find myself reaching for black or white.  Now, don't get me wrong, I don't always end up wearing or buying only the black or the white, but sometimes I end up with one of those colors in addition to others.  So, even though I am excited about the Pantone color pick being Emerald Green (because Emerald Green really is a beautiful color), I was glad to hear that black and white is also a hot trend (has it ever been out really?!).  It made me extra happy that I had recently added a couple of new black and white sweaters to my arsenal (not that I was doing it for the trend - I just loved the sweaters!).  Oh, and don't get me started on how happy I am that "FLATS" are going to be a big trend!  What about you, is there a color that you just tend to gravitate towards, or are you more of a "any color goes, anytime, anywhere" kind of person?

Second Hand Rose

What I Wore

Dinner at our favorite "go to" local restaurant

Sweater - (Thrifted)/Shirt - Nordstrom  /Jeans - Chico's/Scarf - (Thrifted)/Watch - MK

Confession time.  I wore this outfit almost a month ago.  There was no snow on the ground.  In fact we were having lovely temperatures for December in Ohio.  So, why didn't I post before?  The same reason I am debating whether I really want to hit publish now.  I don't like something about the photos.  I'm not sure if it is the outfit I am wearing, the awfulness that was (and unfortunately continues to still be) the result of my misadventures at the hair salon, or my lack of that "POP".  I keep thinking I am not going to post because surely no one will see anything worth commenting on (except in their own minds...'What WAS she thinking?!').  But I keep thinking how I want to share the fact that I found this scarf at a thrift store for $4 right after I had told my husband how I really wanted a blue floral scarf.  I want to share that it is hard to smile with a genuine smile every time a photo is taken.  I want to share that even though I like the light pink lipcolor I was wearing, it just doesn't do anything for me!  Now, tell me, do you have an outfit that you are still not so sure you want to post on your blog?  If so, have I convinced you to post it, or have I convinced you never to post it?! :)

By the way, I got my inspiration for this outfit from a fellow blogger, Alison, when she posted here on her website Get Your Pretty On - but she looks so much cuter! 

Auld Lang Syne

What I Wore

New Year's Eve

Sweater - JCP/Brocade Pants - JCP

Shoes - Gitano /Watch - MK/Hamsa bracelet - gifted/DREAM bracelet - gifted/Earrings - Local Boutique

 The end of a year with a time of reflection and remembrance. The start of a new year full of possibilities and plans. People talk about resolutions or avoiding making resolutions. Others incorporate traditions such as eating specific foods (cabbage, pork and black eyed peas) or watching The Rose Bowl Parade and football games. What I have chosen to do is to focus, not on a list of resolutions (lose weight, eat healthier, etc.) but on a word...one word. My word... JOY.  I have done something very similar to this in the past, but this year I am finding a lot more support online from blogs and groups set up specifically to help as the year goes on. I even have put a button on my homepage thanks to Melanie, a sweet blogger who has offered to make them for free Free One Word Blog Buttons. How about you? Do you make resolutions, avoid making resolutions, have a word to focus on, or do you have another way of beginning a New Year?