tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2694966366926506722024-03-19T15:06:50.889-05:00hartbeatsCarriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-1583242116701409362012-05-03T12:56:00.000-05:002012-05-03T12:56:59.777-05:00The shore.I am quite simply overwhelmed.<br />
<br />
It's like I'm at the beach. My friends and family are there and they are all on the shore having a good time. I can hear them talking and see them laughing. I step into the water. Everyone can see me and they think I'm fine. That I'm just going for a swim. But with every step, I'm swept away. Every wave pulls me farther out to sea. At first, I can manage the waves. I can stay afloat. But before I know it I'm struggling just to keep my head above water. I can feel myself sinking and I am powerless to fight it. And the whole time I'm thinking that someone will notice me slipping away, that I am too far from the shore. But no one can see me anymore. I'm too far away. And besides, they all think I'm fine. When the truth is, I'm drowning. And I can't call out for help. And even if I did, no one would reach me in time. <br />
<br />
This is what Depression is like. A slow and painful slipping away. A gradual loss of yourself. And the most painful part is that no one else can see. It is a very private and personal Hell. <br />
<br />
I know that this is heavy stuff and that it might come as a bit of a shock to some of you. But I had to write about it. It helps me to do so. And also so you'll know why I've disappeared. This is a very real and powerful part of who I am. <br />
<br />
And because right now I am up to my neck in water. And I desperately want to swim back to shore. But I don't know how and I know I can't do it on my own. That's when I look up. And see Him standing beside me. <i>On top</i> of the waves. And I remember that I am not alone. That He has the power to save me. That He has saved us all.<br />
<br />
<br />
"...the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. Shortly before dawn, Jesus went out to them walking on the water. And Jesus spoke to them at once saying 'Do not be afraid. Take courage. I am here.'" <br />
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Matthew 14:24-25;27<br />
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<br />Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-58984082330480613032012-04-11T17:08:00.005-05:002012-04-11T17:22:59.910-05:00Thrifting: Why I love it<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75976330@N02/7068985723/" title="photo by 5hartbeats, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7097/7068985723_fba21c2194_n.jpg" width="320" height="320" alt="photo"></a><br /><br />This week since my Lenten <a href="http://hart-beats.blogspot.com/2012/03/new-beginnings.html">fast</a> is over I've been thrifting a little bit. And man have I missed it! I know that some people think that I'm crazy and that they would never shop in a old, smelly thrift shop. But I'm here to tell you, it's the best!<br /><br />The evidence is pictured above. If you can't tell what those items are, let me enlighten you. Those are Joe's Jeans chambray trousers. Price? $4. That necklace is from Anthropologie several years ago. Price? $6. And that silk maxi dress? It's a Konrad & Joseph from Anthropologie too. Price? $3.<br /><br />Y'all! You need to get yourself to the thrift store. Retail on those items was probably close to $400. I spent $13. Convinced?<br /><br />*In the interest of full disclosure, not every time is that fortuitous. The thrifting angels must have missed me and so looked on me with favor this week while I shopped.*Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-67385470863409091502012-04-02T17:17:00.003-05:002012-04-02T17:29:53.289-05:00Hippie<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75976330@N02/7040156977/" title="Hippie 2 by 5hartbeats, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7247/7040156977_15ff047604.jpg" width="267" height="500" alt="Hippie 2"></a><br /><br />So, I pick up my daughters from school today and my oldest says, <br /><br />"Mom! You look like a hippie! Like from the '80's you know? But in a good way."<br /><br />She's 12. You'll have to forgive her if she doesn't know the right decade. I'm just glad she didn't call me <span style="font-style:italic;">hippy</span>. Although I'm that too. <br /><br />I came across this <a href="http://abeautifulmess.typepad.com/my_weblog/2012/04/10-ways-to-wear-a-silk-scarf.html">post</a> yesterday and thought I would try it out. My hair was super frizzy and I thought I would spice up my top knot. The scarf was very comfortable to wear all day. I can't wait to try to braid one into my hair next.<br /><br />*And I know I look slightly awkward. It's no small thing for me to take a picture and post it for all the world to see. But it's good for my confidence building. Right?Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-81845184896693541982012-03-27T18:25:00.003-05:002012-03-27T18:47:48.939-05:00The Anti-Jessica<iframe width="400" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/H0ifIQNwXBE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />This little girl's unbridled enthusiasm never ceases to put a smile on my face. Especially her love for her Allisons (?!), her hair, her cousins and even her whole house. Even on a day like today when I feel the exact opposite.<br /><br />Some days are hard. Living in a house that is one third smaller than our previous home is challenging. Five people sharing one bathroom, washing all our dishes by hand, no pantry or laundry room challenging. <br /><br />I miss my old life. My old home. My old friends. I find it hard to like anything about where we are now. <br /><br />And then I remember my friends who are battling cancer or going through a divorce, my friends who are working single mothers. And about people who don't have enough water to drink or a proper roof over their heads.<br /><br />And I realize it's just a matter of perspective. Even if mine sucks right now. I can choose to like my whole house, my cousins and even my hair. Jessica's given me the motivation to do so.<br /><br />*Thank you for reading and bearing with me as I post this. It's helpful to just say it out loud sometimes. And if I can't be completely honest in this, my own little corner of the internet, where can I be? Right? :)Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-70907894533029527072012-03-22T10:48:00.006-05:002012-03-22T11:32:10.851-05:00Cooking the Books: Chicken Creole<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG_5iIsf3LiB1GleQq5ibdAqmyZ3vjeiAwSUzlwEwj9f3uBDSGaf25vgezuO_2Fu1P6pTeDVwLSIZndLM90mpuUjQTHdfq1j66oyx_vcdTuvbJLNtwla2MXuGvO5j76Zd6ztGKyNf3PgU/s1600/Books"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG_5iIsf3LiB1GleQq5ibdAqmyZ3vjeiAwSUzlwEwj9f3uBDSGaf25vgezuO_2Fu1P6pTeDVwLSIZndLM90mpuUjQTHdfq1j66oyx_vcdTuvbJLNtwla2MXuGvO5j76Zd6ztGKyNf3PgU/s400/Books" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722750062547097506" /></a><br /><br /><br />Who doesn't have one million cookbooks laying around? Do you ever use them? I'll admit I rarely do. The internet has become my 'modus operandi' if you will when it comes to looking for a good recipe. But some of my favorite recipes have come from books. And I love vintage cookbooks the best. (See photo.) The illustrations are priceless. In one of my books there is a woman dressed in heels and pearls and she is literally running toward her husband coming home from work, his drink in her hand. My husband awaits the day when he is greeted like that. Unfortunately for him, I don't think Hell is going to freeze over any time soon.<br /><br />Anyway, I've decided to delve into my books more often for inspiration and the occasional dinner. In flipping through the books, I came across some really odd recipes. Porcupines in cabbage leaves, Philadelphia Scrapple and Hot Dog S'mores. (I kid you not on that last one.) But I thought I'd go with something a little more tame for my first effort. Chicken creole.<br /><br /><br />A number of years ago Jason's dad made me a shrimp creole that was to die for. A spicy, tomato based thick soup. Since then I've been wanting to try one out. In reading the recipe I soon realized that creole is a baked dish and not a soup. Darn. I really had my heart set on soup. So I changed the recipe a bit. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjciP3y0B75tmj7fvUFvoBSRZX9cUTHAfLc-oJOhCHTaY40apnJFiWOBJiFe0nLCJm3bbdhHsaLqMtP1oqB5jT1hnPiT-5d_d77aKLzjhVM2fVHzbhzHaN73RGS-xRjh_KDkO4Lv1_Altk/s1600/Chicken+creole"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjciP3y0B75tmj7fvUFvoBSRZX9cUTHAfLc-oJOhCHTaY40apnJFiWOBJiFe0nLCJm3bbdhHsaLqMtP1oqB5jT1hnPiT-5d_d77aKLzjhVM2fVHzbhzHaN73RGS-xRjh_KDkO4Lv1_Altk/s400/Chicken+creole" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722759070497445154" /></a><br />It was really good but my whole family decided it tasted basically like my Chicken Jambalaya but not as good. So I won't be making this again. I'll include the recipe in case you want to make authentic Chicken Creole but I can't vouch for that recipe. Which is why you come here I know. To read about and make recipes I haven't tried. What can I say? This was a cookbook fail.<br /><br />I'll try the Hot Dog S'mores next time.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Chicken Creole</span><br /><br />The Pillsbury Family Cookbook 1963 edition<br /><br />3 pounds frying chicken, cut into pieces<br />1/4 c. olive oil<br />20 oz. can diced tomatoes<br />3 T. butter<br />1 t. salt<br />1/2 t. pepper<br />1/4 t. cayenne pepper<br />1/4 t. leaf thyme<br />1 T. parsley (fresh or dried)<br />1 bay leaf<br />3 cloves garlic, minced<br />1/2 onion, diced<br />1 green pepper, diced<br />1 T. cornstarch<br />1/2 c. white wine<br />Hot cooked white rice<br /><br />In skillet, fry chicken in oil until golden. Remove chicken. Meanwhile in saucepan, combine tomatoes, 1 T. butter, salt, pepper, cayenne, thyme, parsley, bay leaf and garlic; simmer for 30 minutes. Melt 2 T. butter in skillet. Add onions and green pepper and brown slightly. Blend cornstarch with wine until smooth. Pour into skillet, stirring until slightly thickened. Add chicken and tomato mixture. Cover. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until chicken is tender. Serve over rice.Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-89017338979483089542012-03-19T10:05:00.004-05:002012-03-19T10:54:49.572-05:00TxSC RecapWhew! It's been a busy week. I was so super motivated before the TxSC. I was going to blog 2-3 times a week and take more pictures and... life always finds a way to creep in and take over. More about my Spring Break fun next time.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.texasstylecouncil.com/">TxSC</a> was in a nutshell, awesome. I met the <a href="http://www.macmillandictionary.com/dictionary/british/bloggerati">Bloggerati </a>(as my husband named them) only it turns out it's a real thing! The lovely women I have been blog stalking for several years now. <a href="http://www.kendieveryday.com/">Kendi</a>, <a href="http://jenloveskev.com/">Jen</a>, <a href="http://myedit.blogspot.com/">Jentine</a>, <a href="http://www.styleandpepperblog.com/">Jessie</a>, <a href="http://littletinsoldier.tumblr.com/">Linda</a> and <a href="http://www.adoredaustin.com/">Indiana</a> just to name a few. And they were all as down to earth and beautiful as they appear to be on their blogs. Kendi still being my personal favorite and new BFF. She just doesn't know it yet! Or maybe she does. Hi Kendi! Remember me? I had the fancy notebook paper business card? Hello? Kendi? <br /><br />I also made some new friends. This lovely girl, <a href="http://luckygirlfinds.com/">Kristi</a>, was the first person I met and we hung out all weekend along with <a href="http://www.10thirteen.com/">Leslie</a>, who has the cutest dimple. And I met these <a href="http://everydaypresent.com/">girls</a> Liz, Laura and Kara. Girls who grounded me and calmed me. And <a href="http://themrslovesclothes.blogspot.com/">Kristen</a> who can rock a headband like no other girl I know! And so many others.<br /><br />It was exhausting and fun. Inspiring and challenging. I would go again in heartbeat. <br /><br />But I'd take more pictures.Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-66794846341178572942012-03-08T09:20:00.001-06:002012-03-08T09:20:46.674-06:00A test.First test. Can I blog from my iPad? If you're reading this it means I was successful! Hooray for technology. <br /><br />Second test. And this goes back to my earlier Lenten post. I will be attending the <a target="_blank" href="http://texasstylecouncil.com">TxSC</a> this year. I had the rather fortunate pleasure to meet <a target="_blank" href="http://kendieveryday.com">Kendi</a> a few months ago. Meeting one of your fashion icons is an unreal experience. They're a type of celebrity after all. And it was pretty intimidating. But Kendi was every bit as nice, charming and pretty as she appears to be on her blog. Plus I picked up some really cute things from her shop. Anyway, when she mentioned she was the keynote speaker this year I made my mind up to go. <br /><br />And with all of the the young, fashionable and uber-talented women bloggers out there, it will be a true test of my new found self confidence. That and the thrift store crawl on Saturday. I'm praying I can remain firm in my no shopping for Lent. Say a prayer for me my friends. I'll need it. <br /><br />The proof is in the pudding they say. Whatever that means. But here's a photo of me and Kendi. I'm her new BFF for sure!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/115735980757280646078/Hartbeats?authkey=Gv1sRgCNTy1_iAvrejeQ#5717546552104343042'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQSCN8AhhW90mxS9MRWbtl5puBVeS9w9OCdeNxAgZm-Zej3ip3bYzPXY_IP0z2BzwdW-_-g6ULxwWVo0qW06Bkb8Kycf48CggVU_hbUreEsJwXtkIPa8Aak6T3UnI2aTYKkPBzFBY1OY/s288/1.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />See y'all at TxSC!<br />Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-79766570701904789462012-03-05T13:33:00.004-06:002012-03-05T14:39:45.289-06:00New Beginnings.Well. Here we are. I've been gone and there's a reason. The biggest is that we've recently moved from a small town to the big city. But there's more to it than that. I'll explain.<br /><br />So Lent started almost two weeks ago and that's what started it. Some years I don't really feel compelled to give anything up. I might fast one day a week or give up chocolate. Nothing major. One year as a teenager my dad made us all give up TV. That was fun. But some years I feel really convicted. I know there's a thorn that needs dealing with. This year I knew I needed to give up shopping. And anyone who knows me knows what a true sacrifice this is. I don't just love shopping retail, although that's a part of my vice, I love a good deal. I love to shop the thrift stores and sale racks for those hidden gems. I mean who hasn't used shopping to make yourself feel better? (And if you haven't, clearly you are a better human being than I and you can just keep that information to yourself thank you very much.) But for me it was happening way to often. And I have a closet full of clothes I've worn one time and a house full of things I don't really need. Because while shopping initially made me feel better, it didn't last.<br /><br />And so I became really introspective. What was it that <span style="font-style:italic;">would</span> make me feel better? Maybe Lent should be something more than just giving up the physical and tangible. Maybe I needed to give up something of my very nature as well. <br /><br />I'm not an overly self-confident individual. I'm a people pleaser. Always forming myself into what others wanted me to be. But never quite sure who I wanted to be. Don't get me wrong over the years I've realized that isn't the way to live. I'm a far different individual at 36 than I was at 26. But at my core, I haven't changed much.<br /><br />I am an avid blog reader. I love blogs about fashion and crafting. Thrifting and DIY. Food blogs and all the blogs in between. There's so much to be inspired by. It's why I started this blog. I thought maybe someone would want to read what I had to say. But it's a bit of a Catch 22 isn't it? I'm inundated with all the amazing things other people do and I start to feel that I'm not good enough. My nose is too big and my hips are too wide. I have 'man hands.' And most of what I create is just something that someone else did first. And the list goes on and on.<br /><br />So there's the real thorn. The one that's been with me for far too long. The thing I really need to give up. My lack of self-confidence. My inability to see myself as I truly am. That compared to all the other women and men out there I just don't measure up. What could I possibly have to say or make or do that anyone would care about? I'm not special or unique.<br /><br />But you see I am. I realized I have my mother's nose. A beautiful woman inside and out who's taught me more about how to love and live well than any other woman I know. And my wide hips have enabled me to give birth to three beautiful daughters. Little girls who I hope will grow into lovely and confident women. And my 'man hands' have created some really pretty things. Even if someone else did it first.<br /><br />So along with shopping, I'm giving up my very nature. And it starts here. With my blog. Because I have things to say and stuff to create too. And maybe someone out there will want read it, but maybe not. And that's ok. <br /><br />Because in the end it won't matter how many people heard what I had to say. Only that I had the courage to say it.Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-33003918924851667192011-06-21T09:36:00.002-05:002011-06-21T09:39:12.812-05:00A motto for life."Live in a mansion. Marry Justin Beiber. Always wear a nightgown to bed." Emma age 7<br /><br />Well said my little one. Well said.<br /><br />(And no I didn't die. I just still haven't managed to balance real life and a blog.)Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-87289631795618538312011-05-02T19:59:00.005-05:002011-05-02T20:17:50.823-05:00A rose by any other name......wouldn't look as sweet. A little outfit post and refashion for you today. When I found this little blouse at the Goodwill I immediately saw it's potential. I mean what's not to love about little rosebuds? Right? And to be truthful it wasn't that bad before. Just a little dated. I shortened the sleeves because I knew I would want to wear it this summer and I adjusted the neck line. I love it! Hope you do to.<br /><br />Before<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRVezC_svCdIy1GRKL2bAE56zF_EqtkRz5rf-DZDPNM1sMtMRvgspEOFpWlS63a_kZZxce9URRW9ETEjFOV0LswIckZ7S7hifd3kkx3mG1KL-l6tR8IaAXKdX8Fl3NRkyeWZnN7ztOA20/s1600/IMG_0834.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRVezC_svCdIy1GRKL2bAE56zF_EqtkRz5rf-DZDPNM1sMtMRvgspEOFpWlS63a_kZZxce9URRW9ETEjFOV0LswIckZ7S7hifd3kkx3mG1KL-l6tR8IaAXKdX8Fl3NRkyeWZnN7ztOA20/s400/IMG_0834.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602289241116856226" /></a><br /><br />After<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisGwkcgFFg5sIwzZqMObCJwXl7CyX8rCkhNdTrWKtR3N5lHsHUox5pdcGD-JF1kOylAvMazLhlDMR4LSWxuWr8gs6zWAwSvi9izVlsVmemZKVOgD28bhRZP9Oa_22IMwMxiZV2DRagaGU/s1600/DSC_0010_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisGwkcgFFg5sIwzZqMObCJwXl7CyX8rCkhNdTrWKtR3N5lHsHUox5pdcGD-JF1kOylAvMazLhlDMR4LSWxuWr8gs6zWAwSvi9izVlsVmemZKVOgD28bhRZP9Oa_22IMwMxiZV2DRagaGU/s400/DSC_0010_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602292121936726018" /></a>Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-60952054224018654252011-04-20T11:33:00.008-05:002011-04-20T12:10:59.090-05:00A bad week, a good outfit and Applebee's.Sorry for the lack of posting. Last week was bad. Like work all week, someone stealing my credit card information, $40 going missing from my purse while at school, wind storm so strong it knocks our entire fence over, bad. And today my daughter is throwing up. So yeah. Looks like this week is going to be a winner too.<br /><br />But this outfit is pretty good. It was actually going to be the last outfit that I posted for my abbreviated 30 for 30. It is just so simple and classic. I felt pretty great in it too. Ironically it's the last thing I wore before my life fell apart last time and I was absent from blogging for so long. But that's a story for another day.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRITcQpol9pnkCUfH7r5k0iF23OP6ZqV3bIA6DaOfq3ih-x9hHMc5xBre8MDQTz0oHDHlt5QNdSsLl_5tyJWRcXuLYIop97kDyQwzS9uCIjFaVN_ctsvsdbR29NzEtgeXE5mC9itaoyvI/s1600/DSC_0008.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRITcQpol9pnkCUfH7r5k0iF23OP6ZqV3bIA6DaOfq3ih-x9hHMc5xBre8MDQTz0oHDHlt5QNdSsLl_5tyJWRcXuLYIop97kDyQwzS9uCIjFaVN_ctsvsdbR29NzEtgeXE5mC9itaoyvI/s400/DSC_0008.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597706537189812802" /></a><br /><br />My sweet husband and I are having this "discussion" last night. We got to talking about the royal wedding this week and that got us to talking about Princess Diana and subsequently her death. We were talking about where we were when we found out. And we both say "We were at the bar and it came on TV." And I say "Yeah we were at Applebee's." And my husband says "No. We were at the "such and such" pub in our old neighborhood." He can't remember the name of the place, which to me is suspect. But long, boring story short, we cannot agree. We are both convinced of where we were. And it just got me to thinking. Memory is a weird thing.<br /><br />And that's it really. Until next time.Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-53030310716965609902011-04-07T17:25:00.003-05:002011-04-07T17:30:30.443-05:00Take me out to the ballgame.So I am subbing at the school yesterday and I have lunch duty. I look up and see a table of 3rd grade boys fooling around. I walk up to them and say:<br /><br />"Y'all need to stop doing the wave and sit down and eat your lunch." <br /><br />They look up at me wide eyed and shocked and say:<br /><br />"You know what it's called?!" <br /><br /> "Yes." <br /><br />"Have you been to a baseball game?" <br /><br />"Yes."<br /><br />"Have you <span style="font-style:italic;">done</span> the wave?" <br /><br />"Yes I have."<br /><br />With mouths hanging open they say "Cool."Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-8051128136558244112011-04-05T17:34:00.010-05:002011-04-05T18:22:22.170-05:00The most delicious pork you will ever eat.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg13TQ8re_8Iz6yiGgfABixxpBYv_m6CNWjV_ZSImGkWp2qnn26u7aeWBw-0WIB4uzd24HbknA3-8pMatxUB2UzwqIzEnarRdBqFi9aGnld3G7Nx2ARNSSugHnSkYaO1vn6rCjF2HoBeDc/s1600/DSC_0120.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg13TQ8re_8Iz6yiGgfABixxpBYv_m6CNWjV_ZSImGkWp2qnn26u7aeWBw-0WIB4uzd24HbknA3-8pMatxUB2UzwqIzEnarRdBqFi9aGnld3G7Nx2ARNSSugHnSkYaO1vn6rCjF2HoBeDc/s400/DSC_0120.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592232500164158770" /></a><br /><br />And that's not an understatement. Admittedly this isn't the best picture. But I wasn't going to waste time retaking them because I was in too big of a hurry to eat. That's how good this pork is. It is the most delicious pork I have ever eaten. For real. And I have eaten a lot of pork. It is moist and tender and so full of flavor. I served it on both corn and flour tortillas and the corn was way better. Just ignore the half eaten beans in the background. Next time I will serve this with whole black beans and maybe some spanish rice. <br /><br />Where did this most fabulous recipe come from you ask? Well I'll tell you. Because I learned how to share in kindergarten. This fabulous <a href="http://erintheloser.wordpress.com/">girl</a> is my sweet cousin. Her blog covers her journey following her weight loss surgery. She's awesome. Really. I admire her so much for her determination to go through with the surgery and then maintain everything afterward. And she's an awesome cook. She created this <a href="http://erintheloser.wordpress.com/2011/03/13/pork-tastic/">recipe</a> all on her own. Amazing. <br /><br />The only change I made was to cook it in the oven. I baked it at 325 for 3-4 hours. Just until it was fork tender. This made it slightly crunchy and browned on the edges. And I think that you are supposed to use red salsa that has green chile in it. And even though I have learned to read, again thank you kindergarten, I used green tomatillo salsa instead. But I think it was a happy accident and would make the same mistake again.Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-33503048132473676072011-04-01T13:34:00.006-05:002011-04-01T13:45:05.565-05:00Four bean turkey chili.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR1NxOLHRuuVGT49mrQpd2bbHg02RAh2YDZ1EELvooPtTae1pxMtEUvpKvw3ou-AOQAW2VLXJ1RCeHffry9aMMwpB5UZe8j2RiUHatgVtiBuyAUtA3Hiuo7A9RhOee_NHSZ5vz8oG2qP0/s1600/DSC_0128.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR1NxOLHRuuVGT49mrQpd2bbHg02RAh2YDZ1EELvooPtTae1pxMtEUvpKvw3ou-AOQAW2VLXJ1RCeHffry9aMMwpB5UZe8j2RiUHatgVtiBuyAUtA3Hiuo7A9RhOee_NHSZ5vz8oG2qP0/s400/DSC_0128.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590686532279698754" /></a><br /><br />See, I told you I was back. I'm gonna change it up. And surprise you with a recipe today. It's been all about the cute outfits around here, but y'all I am a girl of many talents. I cook too. Among other things.<br /><br />With the cold snap here this week I was all about the soups. And this chili is a winner. Serve it with your favorite cornbread recipe and I guarantee you won't be sorry.<br /><br />Here is the link for the <a href="http://www.grouprecipes.com/1376/turkey-chili-with-four-beans.html">recipe</a>. I pretty much follow the recipe except I use about 2 cups of broth and I only drain my garbanzo beans. The others I just dump right in. It makes it a litte thicker.<br /><br />This is a really lean and healthy chili. Except when you eat it smothered in cheese as Frito pie the next day. Which in my opinion is how it should be eaten. Enjoy.Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-56951125564127490382011-03-31T11:04:00.011-05:002011-03-31T11:28:14.881-05:00We now return you to your regularly scheduled programming.Yeah. I've been gone a long time. A lot has happened. I could go into it, but I think I won't. Just know that I'm back now.<br /><br />And I am going to return with a little refashion and outfit post. It has been really chilly here in Texas this week. Which has been kinda nice. I'm not ready for summer. I've enjoyed wearing my tights, boots and sweaters one last time. I found this dress at Goodwill ages ago. It was mostly okay. But it did have this weird ruffle at the waist. And if there's one thing I don't need, it's anything extra at my waist.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ9rInCTVMl3uHTtElLhXG2iTf60QzRLQfii6Mhhx16WcE74606xOAM7eZZ3JACNMxzENa9ss0L6g0MMLdx5DnpsAYCrtK8mLuAufM5wfrd7Ius-IR6BbF7YP_LfkX3fC71gF0RcJxbrQ/s1600/IMG_0569.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ9rInCTVMl3uHTtElLhXG2iTf60QzRLQfii6Mhhx16WcE74606xOAM7eZZ3JACNMxzENa9ss0L6g0MMLdx5DnpsAYCrtK8mLuAufM5wfrd7Ius-IR6BbF7YP_LfkX3fC71gF0RcJxbrQ/s400/IMG_0569.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590280153508975586" /></a><br /><br />I just did a few minor tweaks and it ended up looking like this.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7E7WFTPLO8bSn72E08BC5JV8PPGhxGZjzTqxIVA33yzeyXkOBlIED-RriybxpEZPJD89Py_Wc6h8Av2aC-jRC9-Hr-VRJNgHoQ01ikn7Y8qANRiIxKOk4BmgvvhnK-exUAFCZ6X6VOCs/s1600/DSC_0136.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7E7WFTPLO8bSn72E08BC5JV8PPGhxGZjzTqxIVA33yzeyXkOBlIED-RriybxpEZPJD89Py_Wc6h8Av2aC-jRC9-Hr-VRJNgHoQ01ikn7Y8qANRiIxKOk4BmgvvhnK-exUAFCZ6X6VOCs/s400/DSC_0136.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590279576430190482" /></a><br /><br /> I love it. You can't really tell from these pictures but I made the hemline longer in the back and shorter in the front. I saw that same look on a dress at UO and thought it would be fun to try with this dress. That's the really great thing with buying things second hand. You can take risks with the refashion because you haven't spent that much. So if it all goes wrong, it's okay. Because you didn't spend a fortune on it. <br /><br />Thanks to my faithful few who read this little blog. I'm back. Pinky Promise.Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-23688989383993127382011-02-28T00:39:00.004-06:002011-02-28T00:51:52.115-06:00A little island wear.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNTr4v_nTnHJmhiRLGbHqDIo-bnDCe41EzmO_t7HNvAVPU97PRkhUsBxVkuHCsflydmV77usy3LhCIdxjldhY106VLV4wxgkfbkfiYxLGMcff5Yc6C6-bsnDlrRvAUwJd5D-oaDIxZObw/s1600/DSC_0153.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNTr4v_nTnHJmhiRLGbHqDIo-bnDCe41EzmO_t7HNvAVPU97PRkhUsBxVkuHCsflydmV77usy3LhCIdxjldhY106VLV4wxgkfbkfiYxLGMcff5Yc6C6-bsnDlrRvAUwJd5D-oaDIxZObw/s400/DSC_0153.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578627836421088546" /></a><br /><br />I'm so sorry it's taken me a few days to blog. When you blog everyday, you start to miss it. But we have been very busy here in the beautiful Aloha state and this is the first time that I have found time.<br /><br />I promise to come back with a fuller post and more photos. But for now I just wanted to check in and show you what I wore to church today. I gotta say, it's been nice to wear whatever I want. I only miss the 30 for 30 a little bit. And I love this dress. It is so comfortable and cute.<br /><br />Hope you everyone is doing well. You can bet that I am great. It's lovely here in paradise.<br /><br />Outfit Details<br />Dress- Maeve from Anthropologie<br />Sweater- Target<br />Wedges- PaylessCarriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-33570541435453521952011-02-23T15:56:00.008-06:002011-02-23T17:20:56.955-06:0017/30 This post is brought to you by the letter H.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5EXCj6cFXHsQpuuW_Dcidv9NxgRtIeW8ry4PcYgIEPMejDzmFjMizfnp0uaHy0_zOucgAAY-OkRod5C4F6lEMRUVO6xEXJUNVyZzClCktMDDs2PvAauhpwk33TU7x5pyYYZSFMvtOiyE/s1600/DSC_0006.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 297px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5EXCj6cFXHsQpuuW_Dcidv9NxgRtIeW8ry4PcYgIEPMejDzmFjMizfnp0uaHy0_zOucgAAY-OkRod5C4F6lEMRUVO6xEXJUNVyZzClCktMDDs2PvAauhpwk33TU7x5pyYYZSFMvtOiyE/s400/DSC_0006.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577008038510477842" /></a><br /><br />As in Hiatus, Holiday, Hawaii and Henry. <br /><br />By the time you read this I will be on my way for a little <span style="font-style:italic;">holiday</span> in <span style="font-style:italic;">Hawaii</span>. Yes you read that correctly. My sweet sister invited me to go with her and my nephew <span style="font-style:italic;">Henry</span> to visit her in-laws. And since she offered to pay for my ticket, how could I refuse? So I will be taking a bit of a <span style="font-style:italic;">hiatus</span> from the 30 for 30. This is my first time to visit the lovely state and may be my last. So I don't really want to be fettered by my clothing. <br /><br />I will be posting while I am there and you might recognize an item or two from my 30 but there won't be many. I know I am going to live in sundresses and shorts. I'll be thinking of all of you and wishing that you were there with me. Really. <br /><br />And also for Hot. Which is what I was in this outfit. I should have traded the tights for some knee high socks.<br /><br />And sorry for my absence yesterday. After my horrible day I came down with the stomach flu that night and spent all day in bed. I am so glad I am better now. Next time I check in it will be from paradise. Can't wait!<br /><br />Outfit Details<br />DKNY dress- thrifted<br />H&M sweater- thrifted<br />Frye boots- eBayCarriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-10532299419804673672011-02-21T21:21:00.008-06:002011-02-21T21:53:16.254-06:0016/30<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ztLeLb_VDGOPhuhmnippG5xOMXpJoP0M6xnDph2iAgI3KKz4p6SCcMildGIKw53w-09tpv7KJOePWAYUl7vOc28quFGwrMKzt1tlMe-vvfDz6wZEtURx2gv41_AqBOSx5QqkzQe_xJc/s1600/DSC_0054_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 258px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ztLeLb_VDGOPhuhmnippG5xOMXpJoP0M6xnDph2iAgI3KKz4p6SCcMildGIKw53w-09tpv7KJOePWAYUl7vOc28quFGwrMKzt1tlMe-vvfDz6wZEtURx2gv41_AqBOSx5QqkzQe_xJc/s400/DSC_0054_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576354219609251666" /></a><br /><br />The best laid plans all that. <br /><br />I had so many today. And here's what happened instead.<br /><br />I worked at the school (in pre-k) which was fine. Except sometimes my heart (and my eyes) weep for these kids. Today it was a little boy who was a troublemaker and quite a handful. I'd been warned about him. Well, he's raised by his Grandmother because both his parents are in PRISON. Yeah. I'm gonna go ahead and say the kid is going to have some issues. But it just breaks my heart because I know that he doesn't have much chance at a normal life. Maybe not even a happy one. And it's not his fault. And he's only 4. I'm crying right now just thinking about it. <br /><br />So, now I'm what I would call emotionally compromised. I get home and we have snack and then it's time for homework. And my 5th grader comes in after spending literally one minute working and tells me she doesn't understand. Let me just tell you that math is a problem for this kid. She has a hard time when she does understand the stuff. And it's not hard. But she's not getting it and I can't deal with it today. I get upset with her because I feel like she isn't trying and then I get upset with the school because seriously, my child can't tell me how many minutes are in a quarter of an hour. This is a problem. She should know these things. <br /><br />So, now I'm angry. And I have to go to Wal-Mart. Which is never good. But it's the only place to shop for groceries that aren't expired in the little town I call home. I wish I was kidding about the expired part. But we need to eat dinner so to Wally World I must go. And as I'm walking in a man says something to me. A much older man. I thought he was saying hello. Or something like that. I live in Texas. Most people are friendly. It takes a minute for my brain to catch up with my hears however. What he said was, "Niiiiice." <br /><br />So, now I'm depressed. Because a lecherous old cowboy hit on me while I was just trying to buy groceries. And then when I get home, I burn dinner. <br /><br />"But mom says some days are like that. Even in Australia."<br /><br />Outfit Details<br />Red cords-Gap<br />Loft sweater-Thrifted<br />Santita clogs-interwebs<br /><br />P.S. I know I started with <span style="font-style:italic;">Of Mice and Men</span> and ended with <span style="font-style:italic;">Alexander and the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day</span>. On a normal day I would've picked one theme and brought this whole post full circle. But not today. I'm hoping you'll understand.Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-51671850702181842622011-02-20T17:06:00.004-06:002011-02-20T17:51:44.704-06:0015/30<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgLEE_V7_Q5PbAcBclGE_k-NmhyphenhyphenL-8lUb-JvHZDRiYbRYNCmVyFQRHbjf5Mj41dJY_JVpEN9McxhZCXz6uBgpx1MIGzEDLqo7O6azFZi5wTa2X811yx1wrEiA7eoSe40jSKnnByypsP0k/s1600/DSC_0029.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgLEE_V7_Q5PbAcBclGE_k-NmhyphenhyphenL-8lUb-JvHZDRiYbRYNCmVyFQRHbjf5Mj41dJY_JVpEN9McxhZCXz6uBgpx1MIGzEDLqo7O6azFZi5wTa2X811yx1wrEiA7eoSe40jSKnnByypsP0k/s400/DSC_0029.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575916276768100706" /></a><br /><br />When I wore this outfit I asked my husband if he liked it. He said he liked everything but the skirt. Which is what makes the outfit in my opinion. But it got me to thinking. I didn't wear skinny jeans for forever because I'm not what you would call "skinny." And I didn't think I could wear them. This past winter I was at Target and they had some on sale for $15. How can you go wrong with that? You can't. And it turns out I loved them. They are super comfortable and look great with boots. So while I want to wear things that my husband likes, that's not the most important thing. I want to wear clothes that<span style="font-style:italic;"> I</span> like. I want to own clothes that make <span style="font-style:italic;">me</span> feel good. <br /><br />I think it all comes down to being comfortable with you are. Right now. Not after you lose 10 pounds or a new wardrobe later. If you think you look good, then other people will too. <br /><br />Confidence really is the best accessory.<br /><br />Outfit Details<br />BCBG blouse - Marshall's<br />Skirt - thrifted and refasioned<br />Seychelles Booties - eBayCarriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-68429651795081606572011-02-19T19:27:00.005-06:002011-02-19T19:35:46.102-06:0014/30<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNzs0cupepU2gr9052oKjzqTcOzn5TLSwLJ7W0dM0d-G0XxZkj_toJGBMp-ppATwxKaJqBiD9rPPotRtmEyHm4WN2gLTTYLvEmQ1S-9ir0VicnPjDs6SyTi2aBi4ytgrOFM5ZAP63uOK8/s1600/DSC_0012_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNzs0cupepU2gr9052oKjzqTcOzn5TLSwLJ7W0dM0d-G0XxZkj_toJGBMp-ppATwxKaJqBiD9rPPotRtmEyHm4WN2gLTTYLvEmQ1S-9ir0VicnPjDs6SyTi2aBi4ytgrOFM5ZAP63uOK8/s400/DSC_0012_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575578922468053826" /></a><br /><br />It was a little cooler today. Which was nice. I mean it is still winter after all. I love this sweater and am so glad that I pulled it out of the dry cleaning bag and added it my 30. I wish I had done it at the start. I wouldn't be so much of a cheater if I had. <br /><br />I had envisioned wearing a belt with this to accentuate my waist. Unfortunately, all it emphasized was my muffin top. Which wasn't pretty. And since all I did was spend my day thoroughly engrossed in the new Ken Follett book, it was more comfortable anyway. Hope you had a lovely Saturday too.<br /><br />Outfit Details<br />BCBG sweater - thrifted<br />Red Cords - Gap<br />Seychelles booties - eBay<br />Necklace - Forever 21Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-36842873746107663112011-02-17T20:34:00.008-06:002011-02-17T20:47:28.351-06:0013/30 Almost half way.I changed the venue of my photo today. I figured you might be getting tired of seeing me in the same old field. I know I was getting tired of taking pictures in it. This is my front door if you want to know. <br /><br />It's hot here y'all. I had on this sweater for pictures and I put it back on when the sun went down, but dang. Not two weeks ago our temperatures were in the single digits. It was almost 80 today. That's more than a 70 degree change in just two weeks. I am almost hoping it cools off again. I mean you've seen my 30 items. I don't have much spring wear. I should have planned better. This is Texas after all, it's gonna do that. We'll probably get snow on Easter. <br /><br />I don't remember my hands just floating out in space like that when I took the picture. They felt fine. Not awkward looking at all. And yet there they are in all their detached glory. <br /><br />I should more carefully proof my pictures before I release my photographer to go play with her Barbies. Live and learn people. Live and learn.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGzEoZxaSTXrrUZ1jzUZa1o-juCGl6ahEX6Pyu0zmA-mRSULfIo5FN64lchhkoJzdPxCKkYaqOzAJom2ErHRprSX7BB6VfxMLZMxnj0wV7VxTiNZaZbfQwXSIUWyU5ZCc5ZQGjW-kgxaA/s1600/DSC_0036_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGzEoZxaSTXrrUZ1jzUZa1o-juCGl6ahEX6Pyu0zmA-mRSULfIo5FN64lchhkoJzdPxCKkYaqOzAJom2ErHRprSX7BB6VfxMLZMxnj0wV7VxTiNZaZbfQwXSIUWyU5ZCc5ZQGjW-kgxaA/s400/DSC_0036_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574853975805546802" /></a><br /><br />Outfit Details<br /><br />Gap skinnies and tunic<br />Loft cardigan<br />Santita clogs<br />Necklace made by meCarriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-81479464196383296382011-02-16T19:25:00.002-06:002011-02-16T19:28:42.470-06:00"No post for you!"Yeah. That's a lame title. I know. But it's kinda funny. And if I don't laugh right now, I'll cry. It's been one of those days. Weeks actually. Home with a sick kid and then my photographer had a really bad headache. Poor thing. So no photo. Which is okay. <br /><br />Because I didn't like my outfit anyway.Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-91053886059518957882011-02-15T22:20:00.007-06:002011-02-15T22:31:05.035-06:0012/30<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibRqoVZxEDaqTQBMDoV3Wo5-pCDJoS34NPt6_df7OFZOJujJsr9m5-NjdkKcuYLlMlEZHJxsrKFrUJdNAOKbPy8g95dOH9dL7RbrfJeX_ZdtwwbEmzsnun54hH1mDL_YH17ioMPLKixMw/s1600/DSC_0019_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 262px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibRqoVZxEDaqTQBMDoV3Wo5-pCDJoS34NPt6_df7OFZOJujJsr9m5-NjdkKcuYLlMlEZHJxsrKFrUJdNAOKbPy8g95dOH9dL7RbrfJeX_ZdtwwbEmzsnun54hH1mDL_YH17ioMPLKixMw/s400/DSC_0019_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574139363077136338" /></a><br /><br />I wonder if there are style bloggers who ever get tired of looking at their own picture? Honestly, that's been the biggest challenge for me. I will say I am getting better at it. But still, the first thing I notice is all the flaws. My shirt tucked funny or a hair out of place. Or take today. No makeup. I was home with a sick little girl all day and I had dinner on the stove and barely had time to take a picture let alone put on makeup for one. <br /><br /> And being almost two weeks in, I am having a much harder time putting outfits together. I still have a few cute ideas left but I have worn almost all my items and I still have 18 days to go! I feel like I am going to start repeating myself. I guess we'll have to see how the whole thing plays out. Here's to another day my friends.<br /><br />Outfit Details<br />J. Crew Buffalo Check<br />Gap skinnies<br />Gold flatsCarriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-33984376111473437672011-02-14T19:24:00.005-06:002011-02-14T19:33:40.251-06:0011/30<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMuinngb_zYdf3PCxsF63YSEVb7jYwJwJAPkGHUh2UtrFqJVPrCUqNtmYKjNILqoI9H2gMJIvrPW6qre4ojF9sxAjZiEvXVFs0la72tGtaY2Vb0wihrDNILM76bfG0m16F0kAed7hdQF4/s1600/DSC_0003_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMuinngb_zYdf3PCxsF63YSEVb7jYwJwJAPkGHUh2UtrFqJVPrCUqNtmYKjNILqoI9H2gMJIvrPW6qre4ojF9sxAjZiEvXVFs0la72tGtaY2Vb0wihrDNILM76bfG0m16F0kAed7hdQF4/s400/DSC_0003_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573722866685918418" /></a><br /><br /><br />I really have no words today. My insomnia has been bad this week. So I am tired. And I have a worked a lot the last couple of weeks which I'm not used to. Which is sad. Because I know so many of you work full time, raise kids, blog, create and do a ton of other things too. Y'all have super powers I do not. So I will just leave you with a "Happy Valentime's Day" as my sweet girls would say, and I will be back tomorrow.<br /><br />Outfit Details<br />BCBG polka dot shirt -new 30x30 item- Marshall's years ago<br />Denim skirt - Thrifted and refashioned<br />Red Cardi - Target<br />Gray Boots - TargetCarriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269496636692650672.post-75735389297464910732011-02-13T21:51:00.005-06:002011-02-13T21:54:54.174-06:0010/30<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6xmz2g7LXFkOQcD49SDBRVln6LRav08cx8yuosh-jNoc9VRTMjbos-W2M5LbOvIaSYdLQWD3q6NTSlTf9l-L_tse6ldsbas4bhIa68XJm2JbWABAad3wZ2ehYA_fag4acEzWhqdgoIeM/s1600/DSC_0002_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6xmz2g7LXFkOQcD49SDBRVln6LRav08cx8yuosh-jNoc9VRTMjbos-W2M5LbOvIaSYdLQWD3q6NTSlTf9l-L_tse6ldsbas4bhIa68XJm2JbWABAad3wZ2ehYA_fag4acEzWhqdgoIeM/s400/DSC_0002_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573388597874846418" /></a><br /><br />A truly lovely day. We drove to the beautiful town of St. Jo and went to a wine tasting at the Arche vineyard. We then came home and had wine and dinner with friends. I am content. <br /><br />Outfit details<br />Vigoss boot cut jeans- Thrifted<br />BCBG gray sweater- Thrifted<br />Frye Boots - eBay<br />Blazer - thriftedCarriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05663108992288196191noreply@blogger.com0