Navy & Gray

Back into the swing of things...

2009-04-22T09:44:00.002-05:00

Sorry loyal readers for the lack of posts these past 20 days. I have been going through a bit of a quarter life crisis… but hopefully this is a start of a new me!

As for the past 2 weeks, I have had a lot of exciting things happen!

First of all, for Easter, my mom (aka: The Easter Bunny) got tickets for the whole fam to see WICKED up in Birmingham, and although I was unable to attend Bunko-it was well worth it! Wicked tells the story of the Wicked Witch of the West (from The Wizard of Oz of course) and Glinda the Good Witch. Turns out-once upon a time-they were besties! Anywho, I won’t give anymore away, you will have to go see it for yourself…

The singing-AMAZING.
Props-AMAZING.
Acting-AMAZING.
Costumes-AMAZING.

I would have loved to see this on Broadway, but this hit pretty close to home! They even had 95% of the original Broadway set! I highly recommend this to anyone who LOVE theater and The Wizard of Oz!

Secondly, I APPLIED FOR MY FIRST ART SHOW. AHHHHHHHHHHHH!

I am at work one day and check my personal email to find a note from a nice lady asking me to be a part of an art show in Calera, AL on June 6th!!! Turns out-she saw my ETSY shop and liked what she saw! WHAAAHOOOOO! I sent in the application and will hear back from her around May 16th .

Now I need to get my little butt in gear and make some stuff to actually SELL at the art show (saying as I HOPEFULLY will get in…)

Missing in Action...

2009-04-02T10:51:00.002-05:00

OMG. I have been MIA for the past 2 weeks! I have been super-busy with weddings, work and life...

Since my last post I have:

1. Hitched a ride to Destin, FL with some of my besties for a fun filled wedding weekend. (It rained the ENTIRE time we were there-but, by God's good wishes, the sun came out about 3 hours before the outside wedding took place-It was beautiful.

2. Contemplated going back to school to become a petroleum engineer.

3. Welcomed my sister back from her 2 week trip across France (she brought me back some cool stuff-will show in a later post)

4. Spent too much money on clothes...but in my defense, they are all good "basic" pieces that will last me a long time. Oh-and they were all on sale-hence why I felt the need to buy A LOT.

I swear, I am getting back into the swing of things. I am hoping to "pre-blog" in the future and have them post automatically so that all of my 5 readers will have something fresh and fun to read everyday!

Peace out. Players.

Yes, please.

2009-03-20T10:01:00.003-05:00

I am going to try this little pretty on at lunch. This is my kinda dress! Nice solid color and modern shape just waiting to be accessorized for the perfect occasion. Oh, did I mention it is UNDER 50 BUCKS?!!!!! Yup, she is on sale at 30% off and she will soon be safe and sound in my closet. Just think, some rockin' heels for a wedding or night out on the town OR throw on some gold gladiator sandals for a backyard wedding shower!

Oh, the possibilities...

Midland?!

2009-03-19T13:43:00.005-05:00

What American accent do you have? Your Result: The Midland "You have a Midland accent" is just another way of saying "you don't have an accent." You probably are from the Midland (Pennsylvania, southern Ohio, southern Indiana, southern Illinois, and Missouri) but then for all we know you could be from Florida or Charleston or one of those big southern cities like Atlanta or Dallas. You have a good voice for TV and radio.
The South
Philadelphia
The Northeast
The Inland North
The West
Boston
North Central
http://www.gotoquiz.com/what_american_accent_do_you_have">What American accent do you have? http://www.gotoquiz.com/">Quiz Created on GoToQuiz

Something is not right. If only this quiz "grader" could hear some old home movies of me... You might not hear the old southern drawl that my grandmother has but you sure would know I was born and raised in the South. And. Damn. Proud. Of. It.

Now, if yall would excuse me, I'm fixin to drank some sweet tea on the front porch and gossip about the latest scandal to hit town...because, bless her heart, if sweet Lilly-Ann did not catch the bouquet at her cousin Margaret's wedding last Saturday. Lawd-her Momma is fit to be tied!

I wish I was in Ireland...

2009-03-17T11:02:00.006-05:00

Home of my kinsmen! Seriously, how beautiful is that. Maybe I should just pack up and move there.

Here is to wishing you a Happy Saint Patrick's Day to all of my fellow lads and lassies. Please enjoy this beautiful day and have a couple of Guinness's for ol' St. Patty! He did rid Ireland of the snakes ya ken?

I leave you now with one of my favourite Irish Blessings:

May the road rise up to meet you.

May the wind always be at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face,

and rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Shop Makeover

2009-03-15T21:13:00.003-05:00

TA -DA!!!!!!

Well what do you think?!

I have been staring at the old banner all weekend thinking "Something is not right..." With the help of two very honest critics (thanks Mom and Dad!!!) I have finally settled on the above. I love it. It makes me so happy!

The little guy under the banner is my new avatar!

If you have visited the shop lately, you will see that it is under construction. Stay tuned for new , more fabulous than the last products!!!

Au revoir la Soeur ! (Goodbye Sister!)

2009-03-13T15:32:00.003-05:00

Image found here . (Check out her shop!)

My little sister is off to France! She is leaving tonight for Spring Break and a magazine shoot for school. Imagine-boarding a plane, going to sleep and waking up in Paris! What a lucky gal! She has created a blog so that we (her friends and family) can keep track of all that she is doing while oversees... check it out too if you would like here.

Maybe she will fall in love with a handsome French photographer, marry him, move to Paris and take me with her. ***sigh***

Lost...

2009-03-12T08:58:00.007-05:00

"Lost" by yaelfran

Find it here and other like it on Etsy!

I am in a funky mood this morning. I feel like this little girl lost in the forest of life. You ever feel that way?I know the three people who read this blog probably don't want to hear about my "problems" but this is why I started this blog. To act as a journal-to express myself.

Ok, maybe "problems" is not a good word, more like concerns? Hmmm. Who knows, but get ready because here I go:

On Life: I gained 1.5 lbs this week. I knew I was doing it too when I slammed the ENTIRE Totino's Combination Pizza last Thursday for lunch-and had another one for dinner.

On the Home Front: My house collects more dust than any other house in the world. I have fuzz-bunnies for days. I could probably make a fuzz-bunny blanket right now-AND I SWEPT AND DUSTED 2 DAYS AGO!!! Also, I forgot my towels were in the washer and now they have that weird mildew smell-gross. Now I have to wash them again.

On the Creative Side: I think I am in over my head. There are so many things I want to do with Katie Company, Inc-I just don't have the time-OR maybe it is because I am afraid of failing... My blog is fugly. My Esty shop lacks professional looking photos and really great products because they are all floating around in my head. I was going to take some really great pictures this weekend but I have read that you are supposed to use natural light and it supposed to rain here ALL WEEKEND. Definitely not going to help my mood. Also, I can't decided if I should start a new blog focused on Katie Company, Inc and use this blog for my "journal". That might be WAY to much for me right now.

I am really good at being other people's "Life Coach"but I am HORRIBLE at being my own. I need someone to guide me. Any takers? I am now accepting applications.

Applicants must be able to:

give me constructive criticism-if not brutal honesty (if need be)

praise me when I have done good then give me a cookie (but I will settle for a cupcake)

be a sounding board for all of my wild idea's

tell me when I am in over my head.

Oh yeah-did I mention I am most likely the most stubborn person you will or have ever met?

Good luck, I look forward to working with you.

Tuesday...

2009-03-10T15:07:00.003-05:00

I meant to post yesterday to tell all of you about my wonderful weekend in NEW ORLEANS, however, the day got away from me and before you know it I was hitting snooze on my alarm this morning...

I will be posting more about my little "surprise" trip tomorrow...

Tonight, I am SUPER EXCITED because I am starting Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred! You all know my slight obsession with The Biggest Loser (which just so happens to come on tonight), right? Well, low and behold I was flipping through my On Demand Exercise TV and landed...JACKPOT. If anyone can get my but in gear it is none other that the hard-ass, don't give a damn if you are going to throw up, you better WORK-Jillian Michaels. She is one tough cookie ladies and gents...and puppies. (Hey, you never know who reads this.)

So, that being said, I proceeded to check this whole 30 Day shred thing out while I sat on my couch, eating Chick-fil-a (I know, not CORE, wha-wha-wha-I was STARVING with nothing in the fridge except for beef bouon-gross). After watching this kick ass cardio/strength training awesomeness that was happening on my TV, I think I am up for the challenge. I also think it will help me drop the last 10lbs of Mexican food and beer I have been lugging around for say the past 4 years.

I will keep you all updated on my progress... if I don't drop dead while jumping imaginary rope.

***Update***
Jillian Michaels kicked. my. ass.

I woke up this morning thinking "WOW, I must be in better shape than I thought because I am TOTALLY not sore." Fast forward to about an hour ago when I almost fell down the steps at work due to my shaky legs. I can barely raise my hands over my head.

Is it okay to take a day off when you are sore?

A girl can dream right?

2009-03-03T19:06:00.004-06:00

In my next life I will be this organized and have lots of money to spend in this eye candy. Seen here at Pottery Barn.

Yes, please.

2009-03-02T13:53:00.003-06:00

It is hard to imagine that this happened Sunday and we are supposed to hit mid 70's by Thursday or Friday! Welcome to South ladies and gents-home of the wackiest weather around.

All I can think about it this....

Picture Credit: Alicia

I will be here (or Destin, FL) rather at the end of March for a dear friends wedding to an amazing man. I can't wait for the sun, sand, and celebration!

Funny thing-Spring Break is coming up for the University students and I am a wee bit jealous-as I get no Spring Break now that I am a "grown up". In college-and high school even-I would go out and buy Suave Coconut Shampoo every March 1st to prepare me for Spring Break, saying as how we always ended up somewhere near the ocean. That smell will always remind me of my best girlfriends, rum-runners and No-AD Dark Suntan Oil (spf 4-because a "sunburn turns to tan anyways...").

I am tired of the cold, of dry skin, of runny noses and dead plants everywhere. I am much more happy in the sun, under blue skies, surrounded by green trees, and evenings that don't see darkness until 9:00 pm.

I was born in the dead of summer after all...

I am the next American Idol!

2009-02-25T19:50:00.002-06:00

Not really. I am just writing this while I watch American Idol... Allison is really good! The girl who sang HEART!!! OMG-she is only 16.

Anywhoo- I tried to post earlier today, but I was SWAMPED at work. Sooooo, here I am. Not much to post about today (how many times can I say post in this...post? I am a loser.)

I have been keeping a little notebook with me at all times to jot down post (omg-stop) ideas. I have them all in the down and just need to get them organized. This guy in AI right now is smokin hot...

I have been reading a lot about Twitter lately. What is it? Just a place to write your random thoughts for people to see? Dang-hot AI guy is married... I think it like your status updates on Facebook. I also think your goal is to have people "follow" you. Why would anyone want to see your random thoughts? This intrigues me. I might have to do some more research...

P.S. Paula-lay off the pills.

P.S.S. I think Simon and I would get along. Maybe we could be best friends...

More sneak peeks...

2009-02-24T10:36:00.003-06:00

I have been working my little creative behind off!!! I can't wait to finally get some stuff in the shop! I am perfecting my photography skills this week and the goal is to have products listed by March 1st...soooooo....stay tuned!

I will give a little hint to some subject matter for the shop:

Flora

Fauna

Nautical

Yes, please...

2009-02-20T13:52:00.005-06:00

All of these little pretties are from the ever wallet friendly Forever 21. Oh, yeah-also all under 10 bones. I kinda want to go thrifting/antiquing/estate sale-ing this weekend... I might even make a game out of it! I can take along an x amount of cash money and see what kinda good loot I can score on my budget! MAYBE I can even find some great old fashion "jerr-ry" like my loves pictured above! Anyone wanna come?

Sneak Peek

2009-02-20T08:23:00.003-06:00

Just a little sample of what I have been working on for Katie Company, Inc.

You know you want one...

Introducing...

2009-02-19T10:57:00.007-06:00

Katie Company, Inc.

Here she is in all of her finest. I spent last night coming up with a logo per-say and a "brand identity" for all of you marketing majors out there...

What do ya think?!?!?!?!?!?!?!

I am kinda fond of the little hopping marsupial/rat/mouse/kangaroo critter that is adorning the top of the shop. I even named him...Burrito, the Hopping Mouse Man. For those of you who know me-this is quite fitting.

Stay tuned for products soon to be for sale!

Blagh

2009-02-18T15:31:00.003-06:00

I am having a blagh day. Weather is sucky and I am not feeling up to par. (Bunko got a little wild last night)

I promise some more fabulous posts later in the week.

Stay tuned for tomorrow... I will be sharing something I am working on for my Etsy shop...

Boo

2009-02-12T10:19:00.002-06:00

I wish I could start today over. I forgot I had my allergy shot this morning and got to work thinking "I am forgetting something really important" and sure enough, checked my calendar and there it was. Plain as day. ALLERGY SHOT 8:00 am. Crap. Now I have to reschedule.

I woke up late-like usual- and rushed to get ready, resulting in a stoopid lookin' outfit. I look like a 3rd grader. I mean, I have cute clothes, but sometimes I put them together in a gross way. Ugh. I have every intention of waking up early everyday. My alarm clock is set for 5:30 every morning-except weekends-AND I even put it across my room so I have to GET OUT OF BED to turn in off. But what do I do? Snooze. For an hour. Damnit. Why?!!!!!! I am fully awake when it goes off, so why do I get back in bed? Well today, I was having a dream that they made my FAVORITE book series (Outlander) into a movie and I wanted to see where it left off. Yes, I can wake up and go back to sleep and pick up where the dream stopped. Jealous?

Oh yeah, I weighed this morning and I am up 0.6 lbs. Damn. The sad part? When I was eating Chick-fil-a last night and drinking a Dr. Pepper (real-not diet) I said, "I am going to be mad at myself tomorrow when I weigh in". UGH!!!!!

I guess I need to realize that I am in control of my choices. I make the choice to hit snooze every morning-resulting in stoopid outfits, gross breakfasts, and bad hair. I also make the choice to eat what I do. I could have very well walked past Chick-fil-a, gone home and had something CORE.

But really, who can pass up waffle fries?

Biggest Loser ROCKS

2009-02-10T19:06:00.003-06:00

Just chilln' here on the couch watching The Biggest Loser. This is the most inspirational show EVER! I used to have my weigh-ins scheduled on Tuesdays so I could feel the success as the contestants do. Now I am weighing in on Thursdays. I weigh in at my house after I get out of the shower in the morning-naked as a jaybird-because I do not want 3 extra pounds of clothes messn' up my game. So far-down 6.8 from my highest weight!!!! Goal is to get down to the last 3.2 lbs by March 1st!!!! I will have to buckle down and really work but I think I can do it.

Hey, speaking of goals- lets see what I actually accomplished on my weekend to-do list...

Re-grout bathtub-DONE! How nice it is to take a bath in non-grossness.
Touch up paint in bathroom.
Hang new paper shade in den. ATTEMPTED-after being stores at Mom's house for oh, say-4 years, it was a little worse for wear. Could have been salvaged but got fed up with it and promptly threw away.
Hook up new printer and crank out prototypes for new Etsy shop-DONE! Perfect in every way...
Cook Roast.-DONE! Delish.
Vacuum, sweep, dust...-DONE! However when you live in an old house like me this will always be a re-occurring chore.
Contributing more to my inspiration notebook.-DONE! Added about 20 more pages...
Get more organized.-STARTED-in my craft room.
Clean out car. And trunk.

All in all it was a pretty productive weekend.

P.S. I bought a new diffuser tonight at Ulta. Maybe it will help me tame my wild, crazy hair.

P.S.S. I am wearing a really cute outfit tomorrow that incorporates my work and I am really excited!!!

TGIF

2009-02-06T09:55:00.005-06:00

Thank goodness it is Friday! The weather this weekend here in Bama is supposed to be B. E. UTIFUL! Perfect for lots of little jobs I would like to get done around the house. Here is a list of things I am looking forward to completing this weekend.

Re-grout the bathtub.
Touch up paint in the bathroom.
Hanging my new paper shade in the living room.
Hook up my new printer and crank out some prototypes for my Etsy shop.
Cook a roast.
Vacuum, dust, sweep...
Contributing more to my inspiration notebook.
A little more organizing.
Clean out my car. And trunk.

Oh, and I think I need this set of tools. What girl doesn't LOVE pink tools! Maybe they can be a Valentines Day present from someone special...

Yes, Please.

2009-02-05T16:07:00.002-06:00

I really, really, really, really want this dress. Perfect to throw on in the spring. Now, if I can walk the fine line of waiting for it to go on sale and yet not waiting too long for it to sell out of my size... True talent I tell you. Thank you Gap for always making my heart flutter with your simple, classic clothes.

Dear Golden

2009-02-03T15:42:00.007-06:00

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and what better way to celebrate with a pair of shoes like these! These would be mine if only my foot was a little bigger. But for the price (only 31 buck-a-roos!), I might just have to order them anyway.

Mom sent me a link to my new favorite Etsy store, Dear Golden. It is filled with fun vintage finds and if any one know me, this store SCREAMS Katie. It is so my style that I think the owner and I are lost souls. I mean even her favorite color is gray!

Speaking of Etsy, keep your eyes peeled for something opening soon by yours truly...

Photo Credit: Dear Golden

Six More Weeks...

2009-02-02T13:49:00.003-06:00

Of Winter.

Yup, Phil saw his shadow this morning meaning we have to endure six more cold weeks of winter. Normally I would be upset BUT I came home for lunch today to find these little babies waiting on me...

This is not my house - I do not own a wooden rocking horse, although it would be fun...

And THESE should be coming in any day now... I CAN'T WAIT!!!!!!!!!!!!

TGIF

2009-01-30T16:03:00.002-06:00

I will be enjoying some "authentic" Mexican food tonight and celebrating a good friend's birthday.

I will have a margarita (or two) for you.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Domino is Dead

2009-01-29T16:56:00.000-06:00

You made me so happy. Please tell Cottage Living "Hello!" up there in magazine heaven.

You will be missed.

Creative Inspiration

2009-01-28T14:24:00.000-06:00

I have a lot of ideas floating around in this little head of mine. All having to do with a shop I will be opening soon on Etsy (details will be coming soon!!!!). I have been talking about this for about 2 years now, lurking in the shadows of other stores and blogs that contain images and things that I find inspirational and that stimulate my creative juices.I have taken a idea from fellow blogger Rebekaha and have started an "Inspirational Journal" filled with images, quotes and colors that inspire me to create! Hopefully there will be no more creative blocks in my future...

Photo Credit: Rebekaha

Sammies

2009-01-27T16:37:00.000-06:00

Who doesn't love a good sammie now an then? (yes-I am channeling Rachel Ray-even though she drives me crazy)

Since I have been watching my figure in hope to beat out Heidi Klum in the running for the title of "The Body" I have not been able to enjoy my favorite sammies...(ok I will stop now). I have been know to eat a few strange sandwiches now and then. When I was little, I had may different choices to choose from...

Ham, Cheese and Applesauce sandwich (sometimes sans bread)

Ham, Cheese and Ketchup tucked neatly between 2 pieces of white bread

White bread and Sharp Cheddar Cheese, except I took this concept a little further and would "squish" the bread down and make the sandwich as thin as possible. It was delicious.

Bama Apple Jelly on "Mama Bread" (Pepperidge Farm Thin White Bread)

As I grew older, my taste buds grew and I got a little more adventurous. I was meeting new friends and becoming more creative with my sandwiches. Typical lunches would include...

Turkey, Cheese and Mustard sandwiches with Nacho Cheese Doritos smashed inside. This added a little extra crunch, and yes, I was the 'weirdo" at the lunch table in High School.

Double Cheeseburgers with French Fries in between both pieces of meat

After all of this experimenting I think I have found the JACKPOT of ALL SANDWICHES. Some think it is gross but those who have tasted it is all of it glory have begged for more. So, without further adue, I give to you...

..................................

"The World's Most Awesome Sandwich Ever Made By Me"

Turkey, Cheese and Mustard on Whole Wheat "Mama" bread (referenced above), grilled in a pan of butter (Grilled Cheese Style)-topped with a Fried Egg (over easy), and smothered with Green Taco Sauce.

**I was not under the influence of ANYTHING at the time of the latter sandwiches creation-I'm just that good.

Fugly...

2009-01-26T15:26:00.000-06:00

My blog is fugly.

I am working on a new blog color scheme/look/overall make-over as we speak.

Stay tuned.

What's Your Therapy?

2009-01-26T15:04:00.000-06:00

Mine is piddling with (piddling-is this a real word?) and organizing things around my house on a lazy Saturday or Sunday.

After Mom and I went shopping to find some pillows to "bighten up" my "beige" den, as my sister put it, I was a woman on a mission. Den down, the rest of the house to go... (Soon I will post some pics for all to see...)

I happen to have A LOT of storage space in my little duplex but for some reason still had STUFF EVERYWHERE. Crap in one draw and more crap in another. Tell me, how does one person accumulate so much crap?

I get a little bit of this from my mother who finds things such as paint, paper, string and whatnot and, by not having somewhere to put it, it ends up in draws and on shelves lookin' like a bunch of crap. To artists like us, this "crap" means something. A new project to take on or the remenets of a project never competed.

Well this weekend I took hold of my "crap" and cleaned it up. Most of it went in the garbage, because lets face it--most of it was crap. I re-arranged, laundered, dusted, labeled, organized and vacuumed. All while Stevie Wonder sang to me about love, life and a Reggae Woman.

It was so nice to wake up to a clean, organized house. I tell you what, putting on make-up in the morning is so fun now that I don't have to dig through the drawer to find my eyeliner.

What is your therapy?

New Year Resolutions....

2009-01-23T09:39:00.000-06:00

"Success means having the courage, the determination and the will to become the person you believe you were meant to be"

-George Sheehan

I didn't make a New Years Resolution this year. I couldn't think of just ONE thing. I think that when you make just one resolution such as "I am going to lose 15 lbs" or "I am going to quite (insert vice here)" you are setting yourself up for failure. Why should we only make a resolution on New Years Day? Shouldn't we make resolutions to ourselves everyday? That being said, I have compiled a set of goals I would like to reach before 2010 rolls around:

Get healthy (this includes learning how to eat better and exercises more).
Learn how to build a website.
Open an Etsy shop.
Save at least $2,000 for a trip to Scotland.
Take better care of my friendships.
Learn how to pick my battles with people.
Finish the ENTIRE Outlander Book Series by Diana Gabaldon before the 7th book comes out in the fall (one down 5 more to go, and yes...this is my 3rd time to read them...)
Learn how to screen print.
Learn how to tile my back splash in my kitchen.
To realize EVERYDAY how blessed I am to have both arms, both legs, a loving family, fantastic friends, a great job and a wonderful boyfriend. ( No matter how much I bitch about all of these things)

So, what are your GOALS for 2009?

New Year, New Me, New Blog...

2009-01-22T15:09:00.000-06:00

So I haven't blogged since July of 2008...and I have missed it.

I don't know why I stopped blogging-maybe the newness wore off? Maybe I just forgot to post for so long that it seemed kinda silly to start back? Maybe I didn't know what to post about? Maybe I was intimidated by all the other bloggers that seem to have a purpose about their blogs? Maybe I was afraid of letting my inner thoughts out?

I know I probably let some of you down (Mom, Dad...Carli) by not updating this thing or simply by not finishing what I started, but, like the title of this post suggests...New Year, New Me, New Blog.

Hmmm, where to begin-

The last half of 2008 was great! I joined a bunko group (haven't won yet but have impressed my new friends with some sweet skills). I gained about 7 lbs--this is not so great in the since that my clothes didn't fit--BUT it has motivated me to get healthy and fit. I spent a lot of time with family and friends. Traveled to Nashville to pursue my singing career (by this I mean a late night karaoke performance of Reba McIntire's "Fancy" with 7 of the best back-up singers a gal could ask for!). FYI-We got a standing ovation. You know, lots of other fun stuff that I will not bore you with now.

2009 is a brand new year. I can not promise a post everyday-but I will try. You might notice a few changes in my posting personality. I plan on making Navy & Gray (how do we feel about this name? I'm thinking of changing it...) a bit of a "journal" blog. Not really focused on anything but what is going on in my head, and for those of you who know me--THAT. IS. ALOT. I once diagnosed myself with A.D.D and when I explained this revelation to my mother, she simply smiled and said, "We have always known that about you". I replied in the most grown up way possible: "Well, you have it to so you can't say ANYTHING". How adult of me, I know...

Anywhoo- there you go and there you have it-and in the words of one of my pledge sister... "Here's to Lookin' fine, feelin' fine, and gettin' mine in 2009"

P.S. I have lost 2.6 lbs. My dream of looking like Heidi Klum in my bikini is slowly becoming a reality. Eat your heart out Gisiele...

Yes, Please.

2008-07-29T11:09:00.000-05:00

Epson Stylus 1400

I am in the market for a new printer and I think this is just the one me!

Before and After: Bedroom Edition

2008-07-22T18:57:00.000-05:00

Before

As you may recall from a previous post, I showed you a glimpse into my bedroom. I got a few responses from some pretty fantastic bloggers complementing me on the change. I was happy with it for a while however, it was not finished....

For your viewing pleasure...

After

The first change you will notice is the headboard. One of my Saturday projects, with the help of my mother. Just some wood, quilt batting and super cheap fabric and wha-la! A glorious new padded headboard! All for the low cost of about 80 bucks!

Some of you may recognize the pillow, from Pottery Barn's Summer collection. It was an early birthday gift to me from the fam. I LOVE IT. I know some of you loath coral print (Decorno had had a commenter or two with this opinion) but I don't care what you people say. If done in the right way, I don't think coral will ever go out of style. Just don't go overboard.

Now, let the coral bashing begin...

Hooray! I'm back!!!

2008-07-22T15:44:00.001-05:00

For the 5 people who actually read this blog:

PUT ON YOUR PARTY PANTS BECAUSE I'M BACK AND BETTER THAN EVER!

After a few months of getting my little blogging feet wet, I took a small sabbatical to re-group. Look for new and exciting changes to be made to the look of my blog as well as fresh new posts! I was going through a creative block for a while and the something triggered it ........ I am BURSTING with ideas! I feel just like the little girl in the photograph. UTTERLY ECSTATIC!

Whoa, sorry. Got a little excited.

See you soon!

Photo by: Shanghai Sky

:Blogging Break:

2008-05-02T13:33:00.000-05:00

For all of you that have noticed, my posts have been few and far between. You see, I have this tendency to RUSH into new things, blogging for example, then as the newness wears off I get bored, lazy, and overwhelmed. Thank you Mom for this trait you have passed down to me. I am struggling creatively on the direction I would like this blog to go. Should it contain a plethora of thoughts and musings from my mind however random they may be? Pretty things I like to look at? Decor that I love? Favorite etsy finds? A starting point for my design and graphic work?

I like things to have a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing look that reflects my design style. This is not the case with my blog. Frankly, it looks like shit. I envy other bloggers with their pretty headers and eye-catching pages. And yes I could sit down one weekend and learn how to make this page look fantastic but alas, thanks to all of my friend who have decided to get married this year, I have little time to work on my design...stuff. Don't get me wrong, I love my friends and I love weddings but, as much as they are fun, they are taking a toll on my mental health, not to mention wallet. (Even more reason to start on my design stuff.........this is the procrastination setting in.)

I have a very weird way of doing things. Ask anyone who knows me. I will get back to yall soon enough, hopefully with a brand new look to the page and tons more posts full of the greatness and creativity that is my mind. For now I leave you with this photo by Cig Harvey. Her dream-like photos depict a world full of fantasy and fun that I want to live in.

If You Can't Duck It...

2008-04-17T09:01:00.000-05:00

As I was snooping around on Etsy: the Storque this morning I came across this lovely photo of duck tape. Who knew it came in all of these fantastic colors?!

I went to high school with a guy who always had duck tape with him. In his car. In his back pack. In his lunch-box. It was very strange. Anyways, his motto in life, if you can't tell from the title of this post was "If you can't duck it, f*ck it". Simple, yet surprisingly deep for a young country boy. I thought duck tape came in 2 colors, silver and camouflage.

My sister could have used the dark green duck tape when her window of her piece of shit car fell down and she had to tape it back up with silver duck tape. Ghetto.

There is actually a contest called Stuck at Prom where contestants make their own prom dress from nothing but Duck Tape! This sh*t is crazy yall!

Dear Blogger,

2008-04-14T16:28:00.001-05:00

Why is it that when I just now get back into the swing of things, you decide to:

Take FOREVER to upload a photo?
Screw up the layout on my last post and make me look like I have retarded typing skills?

Why, I ask.

P.S. For the record, I have mad typing skills, when I am not in a hurry and I use spell check.

Project Runway's Christian Siriano

2008-04-14T16:09:00.000-05:00

"http://www.youtube.com/v/u74A7iehaQY&hl=en">

Although I don't get the Bravo Channel here in Bible Belt Alabama, I still have love for Christian Siriano, the winner of this season "Project Runway". Here he is in all of his

glory. I want him to be my best friend an make me fabulous things to wear.

Happy Birthday you Hot Mess Tranny!

2008-04-14T14:53:00.000-05:00

Miss. J "America's Next Top Model"

Yesterday was my mother's _ _ birthday. She is the fiercest, hottest, tickity-tac tranny mess I have ever known! Happy Birthday Mom, get it girl! You can check out how fierce she really is here.

The lovely birthday cake my sister and I decorated for Mom. She LOVED it.

Pottery Barn?!?

2008-03-26T13:47:00.001-05:00

Seriously?! Props to you Pottery Barn. All of the colors, patterns, EVERYTHING rocks! I got tired of the same old stripes and check. You have really stepped up your game. Now, if only I had the money to buy everything and re-decorate my house...

This scene makes me really happy:)

This would look BAD ASS in my new office/art room. I am going with black and white theme... However, this might compete with the curtains I hung up but you know what that means, NEW curtains!

A graphic designer's dream pillow.

How can you not be ready for summer by looking at this!

I am walking on sunshine!

2008-03-20T08:56:00.001-05:00

Literally! I picked up these cute little bundles of sunshine by Isaac Mizrahi at Target last night. OK, I only went in there to get some small hand weights.....(who am I kidding, they will probably sit in the drawer with all of the other exercise equipment I own and laugh at me while I attempt to master the art of Yoga) I strolled down the shoe isle just to look and these pretty little things were staring at me from their box on the bottom shelf. I looked around and they were the only yellow pair to be found, and they were also a 5 1/2, just my size! It was fate. It was almost like they were the last puppy at the pound, staring up at me with those sad eyes... Don't worry, I took them home with me where they slept next to my bed.

Isaac Mizrahi has completely changed the look and feel of Target's clothes. He does really great, classic, cool and sophisticated stuff for the average gal, like myself . I am a sucker for good lines and solid colors, with a little bit of fun thrown in the mix every now and then. I swear, owe half of my closet to Mr. Mizrahi. Keep up the good work you D.I.V.A.!

Does any one remember the Isaac Mizrahi Show from E!? It was fabulous!!!!!

Weekends with friends are the best!

2008-03-18T20:04:00.000-05:00

I just got back from a fabulous weekend with my pledge sisters from college. We traveled to New Orleans to visit Julie and her fiance Matt. They had a Crawfish Boil engagement party (and if you look closely to the picture, you can see Julie's bomb ass engagement ring). I can't actually eat crawfish, as that I am allergic to shellfish. Sad. I know. So what did I do? Drank beer, lots of beer. I am just know feeling like myself again.

Why, do when my girlfriends and I get together, we think we can recreate freshman year?

Happy St. Patricks Day!

2008-03-17T11:14:00.001-05:00

So Lucky Fancy Gocco Flat Note $3.50

Over at Esty, stumbled upon this cute little card and thought it would be perfect for today. I love Angela's work. Her shop, Paper Menagerie is filled with wonderful gocco images like this. I want a gocco SOOOOOO bad!

Happy Birthday Mary Keeley!

2008-03-07T13:18:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday to the best sister/next door neighbor/friend/partner in crime in the WORLD!

Pardon my absence...

2008-03-05T09:19:00.000-06:00

Hey peeps!

It has been a crazy week! I have been very busy with work, life, and play. I am back now and hopefully these posts will be more regular. I have lots of posts lined up so get ready!...

I have just died and gone to heaven...

2008-02-26T09:01:00.000-06:00

Photo from Flickr: speckledegg

I LOVE cardigans! If I only had this collection of delectable colors, I would be the happiest girl in the world! Oh how I envy you, Jane. I was playing around on your blog and happened to stumble onto your flicker page. Oh, the color in your photographs! Oh, the marvelous stack of cardigans! Oh, the humanity!

Bad, Bad Blogger...

2008-02-26T08:57:00.001-06:00

I am sorry for the long delay in posts. I have been in the middle of a complete overhaul with my life. Re-organizing things, catching up with old friends, getting in shape (o.k. attempting to get in shape), you know the usual...

I swear I will be a better blogger and I will have multiple posts in the next few days. Check back with me!

Who doesn't love heart-shaped cupcakes?

2008-02-17T19:05:00.001-06:00

I always have a hard time with Valentine's Day. Some gifts are cute, some gifts can scare someone, some gifts are just right. The perfect gift, to me, is one that comes from the heart. I am also partial to home-made gifts. They seem to mean more that your generic shirt or tie from the mall. I was wandering though my favorite place on earth, Target, last Sunday and ran across these little happys... HEART SHAPED CUPCAKE MOLDS! OMG. I flipped! What a great idea! Why didn't I think of that?! I grabbed up 2 packs and headed to the cake mix isle. Hmmm, I found some hot pink sprinkles and butter cream icing. I really wanted to get confetti cake mix but the were out so I grabbed generic vanilla cake mix. I headed home to take on the kitchen...

I am not a baker. I can cook a mean poppy-seed chicken casserole as well as any side dish you can think of but I can not bake. By the end of this, I had icing in my hair, cake mix dripping down the side of the refrigerator, and sprinkles down my shirt. Don't ask. Oh, and not to mention the smoke alarm has gone off...twice. This is turning into a disaster. The bf better appreciate these cupcakes of love.

All in all, they turned out...not that bad! You couldn't really tell that they were heart-shaped from the top but you could tell from the side. How cute! I only had 20 heart shaped molds and the box of cake mix made 24. Yes, I ate the rest of the cake batter. Raw. I was in heaven. Until I got a HUGE sugar rush followed by a horrible stomach ache. Whatever. It was totally worth it.

Why does cake batter, cookie dough and brownie mix taste so good?!

My next baking challenge? A birthday cake for someone special :)

Holy Crap.

2008-02-10T21:00:00.000-06:00

One of my all time FAVORITE bloggers has posted about ME! Thank you so much Decorno!

Sunday, Sunday.

2008-02-10T20:29:00.001-06:00

Hey guys! I apologize for the sporadic posting. I can't promise a post everyday but I will try to be a little bit better with them. I hope everyone is having/had a great weekend. I am sitting down after spring cleaning all day and enjoying the Grammys!

P.S. Tina Turner is more in shape than me. Not. Fair.

P.S.S. Do you think Beyonce will let me be her friend?

Lamps and Duvets, Oh My!

2008-02-09T17:17:00.000-06:00

Thanks for everyone's lovely complements on my bedroom! I am still working in there so I will keep you all updated. Soon to come, a new headboard! (I need to find a weekend to do that...)

Ok, Lets get started. The lamps came from Pier 1 (on sale) and I nearly fell over when I found them. Great bargain. I have not seen them on the website but you might still be able to get them in the store. I have looked around and found some things similar...

Teal Drum Lamp. Peir 1. $25

Serena Table Lamp

(Reg. 125/ON SALE $99)

Target. $69.99

Target. This one is pretty steep ($220) but with a larger drum shade added it is almost an exact match!

Morgan Duvet Cover. Pottery Barn. This comes in Dark Porcelain Blue (similar to mine)

Small Spaces

2008-02-07T09:31:00.000-06:00

I stumbled onto Small Space Style's blog this morning and realized that there is just something so quaint about living in a small space that makes me feel all warm and toasty inside. Check out this small space found on Better Homes and Gardens website. Do we see a pattern here in my taste of decorating?...

Love. Love. Love. I wonder how picture molding would look in my house?

Pictures courtesy of Emily J. Followil Better Homes and Gardens

Roll Tide!!!

2008-02-06T16:30:00.000-06:00

Alabama has the #1 recruting class this year! I think I like the way 13 National Championships sound. I also think the the Bear would be proud.

Oh, be still my heart!

2008-02-06T15:18:00.000-06:00

Country Living February Issue "House of the Year"

I am absoultley IN LOVE with this house! Almost every room is a different shade of blue or gray! YES! (wow, to many exclamation points....)

Living Room: OMG. This is the exact look I am going for in my house. Ok, maybe this is a little more frilly than I would like but you get the point.
Bedroom: I believe this is the color scheme I am going to go with in my office. Speaking of color schemes... does anyone know the website where you scan a picture in an it pulls the colors out for you? I know I have seen it on of the fabulous blogs I look at everyday, I just can't remember which one! ARGH!
Library: How freaking great is this library. I can never make my books look good on my shelves like that. (Maybe because most of them have half naked Fabio on the cover/spine embracing a half naked beautiful woman....). Oh! And that pillow!

Country Living has really outdone themselves this time with the 2008 House of the Year. Ok, HGTV and Cottage Living, get you game face on. You've got some stiff competition.

Office Space

2008-02-06T15:03:00.000-06:00

BEFORE

This is a corner piece that I inherited from my grandfather's sister. It is not very pretty to look at now but I am sure it was all the rage back in the day. Besides the ugly wood finish, it is actually a really great piece. I have had it in my spare/craft/office room for about a month and last weekend I decided that it needed a new coat of high gloss black paint. After a trip to Home Depot and 4 hours later, it turned out better than I could have thought!

AFTER

Yes, I know the curtains do not match. They are retired from the bedroom. I really liked them and didn't want to throw them away. I will eventually find a place for them. Maybe some pillows...? Oh, the desk is made out of 2 black filing cabinets and door, laid on top. THE BEST DESK EVER! I. swear.

My Lil' Duplex

2008-02-06T14:05:00.000-06:00

AFTER

BEFORE

I have been living in my little duplex for about 3 years. After 3 roomates have come and gone, I now have the place COMPLETELY to myself. Not that I didnt LOVE haveing them them there but I need space to pile thing up, move stuff around, paint, and what-not with out bothering someone. This time is now. I have made a few changes to the bedroom, which is still in progress...

Cupcakes!

2008-01-31T09:31:00.000-06:00

Cupcakes! by Elinor Klivans. $16.95 at Barnes and Noble.

I think this might be the most fabulous book I have ever seen. I saw it in Barnes & Noble (my home away from home) before Christmas and never bought it. I am seriously thinking about purchasing it with a sweet little B&N gift card that ended up in my stocking. Really, who doesn't like cupcakes?! My bff "C" makes cupcakes EVERY time we cook out at her house and for everyones birthday. What is not to like? I like any food that is "mini", mini cheeseburgers, mini hot-dogs, mini muffins.... And that is really what cupcakes are, mini cakes. I like to make cupcakes and not put any icing on them so that are like little sweet muffins! If you love cupcakes as much as my bff "C" and I do then you should check out this delicious little blog!

Freelance Jobs

2008-01-31T09:02:00.000-06:00

After graduating with a degree in Graphic Design and taking a job that has NOTHING to do with GD, I am able to do some freelance work around town after work and on the weekends.... Here is a little something I worked on last night for one of my good friends and fellow creative spirit, MCD. He is planning a wedding coming up and asked me to "cook up some design Jumbalya" (I thought this was appropriate considering the groom is from New Orleans). These will hang outside of the Reception hall. With MCD's direction, here is what I came up with. Color are subject to change. but I would LOVE know what you think!

Cool People Rule!

2008-01-29T20:47:00.000-06:00

Jenny Gordy is probably one of the coolest people I have never met. She just seems so...neat. I know what a crappy word but come on. This girl is cute as a button and can sew her little butt off! I LOVE everything that she makes. (I think this is because they resemble so many shirts in my closet). As my friends would say, "This is soooooo you". I mean come on, who would not want to wear something like this EVERY day in EVERY color? (It is a sickness I know, more on multiple color purchasing in a later post) She has a neat little blog, too!

Some Things Are Never Okay...

2008-01-25T15:16:00.000-06:00

People, what year/planet are these two living in/on?! Yes, my girlfriends and I spotted these two lovely creatures out on the prowl Wednesday night. They were a hoot, and after 2 bottles of wine my bf and I downed during Wine Not Wednesday I was about to pee my pants watching them "dance". Ladies please, I know that you think you look hot but really, you look ridiculous. The short one, lets call her "Tammy", was the first in the door. She rocked the tights and boots in a sexy little denim mini and black sparkly tube top. After showing the bouncer her I.D. she turned and waited on her friend to come in. Because lets face it, a girl like that doesn't fly solo.

Then she walked in...

Tall. thin. Modelesque. A girl with that figure can pull off almost any fashion trend. I would have loved to have seen her in wide-leg pants, white t-shirt and fabulous pea-coat. Oohh, and with a beret on. Very Parisian Chic! (which, by the way, is very "in" right now) Oh, no, she far surpassed any of our expectations. As C and I casually sipped our beers, waiting in anticipation, H was up on the stage, singing with/annoying the dirty, yet strangely sexy, guitar player. She, let's call her "Nicky", takes off her coat and BINGO. Just what we were waiting on. Faux leather/suede leopard zip-up-the-back tube top and this sweet glitter belt. (Do they even make glitter belts any more?!) Seriously.

I am not a fashion expert but at least I know that some things are never okay.

Let it SNOW!!!

2008-01-24T22:24:00.000-06:00

It freakin' snowed in ALABAMA! Holy crap. This NEVER happens.

I know it is not a lot of snow but hey, enough to make a little mini snowman. How cute!

I am YELLOW!

2008-01-21T15:49:00.001-06:00

What's Your True Color?

My Result: Yellow

You're yellow, the color of joy and energy — two things you definitely bring to everyone around you. It's hard for anyone to be sad or lonely in your presence; your sunny disposition and cheery outlook just won't allow it. The warmth of your personality shines through in the kindness you show friends and family (and strangers, too). Always ready with a lighthearted joke or heartfelt compliment, you know how to make people feel good about themselves, so they can't get enough of you. Yellow is a warm and inviting color for a warm and inviting person — you!

Take this test >

An organized life...

2008-01-16T11:14:00.000-06:00

I have just purchased the Smart Date Set/Planner from Russell & Hazel. Better yet, I got it ON SALE at a local office supply store. I don't know what I did right, but I have had really good shopping karma this week. More on the other good buys in a later post...

ANYWAYS, back to the planner: It is beautiful. I choose the lime color ( it looks more yellow to me) partly because it is rainy and gross here and it made me think of sunshine. I love this stuff! You choose a 3-ring binder color then mix and match what you want to put in there. I choose the month at a glance pages, notebook pages, colored dividers, paper pockets, Smart date A-Z tabs and the contact pages! ( I know, it sound out of control BUT it was all 30% off. I got everything for 60 bucks!) Oh I am going to be in heaven organizing every aspect of life.

Now, if I could just get started on organizing my spare bedroom/guest room/office...

OMG.

2008-01-11T15:36:00.000-06:00

I. must. have. these.

Feel Good Songs

2008-01-11T13:24:00.001-06:00

Some days all you need is a great feel good song. I am having one of those days. One of those days I wish my lunch break lasted all day and I was surrounded by friends who have since left town and are hard at work at their "Real Jobs". It is absolutely GORGEOUS outside and all I want to do is drive around with all the windows down sining my heart out to a feel good song. For those of you who don't know what exactly a feel good song is, let me explain...

One of those songs that make you laugh out loud while you are singing it. One that even though you haven't herd it in 3 years, you still know every single word. One that ALWAYS put you in a good mood. Oh, and one that you sound good singing to (even if you are tone deaf). That my friends, is a feel good song.

My current feel good song happens to be "Love Song" by Sarah Bareilles. It is amazing. It is nestled right in-between Earth, Wind and Fire's "September" and The Doobie Brother's "What a Fool Believes" (originally done by Aretha Franklin and one of my mother's favorites) in my Feel Good Song playlist on my iPod.

Do you have a feel good song?

I love rugs

2008-01-10T18:28:00.000-06:00

I simply must have one of these rugs! These would look GREAT in my house. I'm thinking my new office/craft room. Oh and the best part....they are all 40% off! Hmmmmm, new rug or groceries? Why should a girl have to choose?

Here Goes Nothin'...

2008-01-10T13:54:00.000-06:00

This is my first offical post.

GEEZ why is it so hard to do that?! It's like having a beautiful, clean, white, canvas sitting right in front of you. You have your medium of choice in one hand and a Dr. Pepper in the other. Stevie Wonder is blasting from your iPod. Nothing. You can't even bring yourself to make one small mark on the canvas! Why should you, it looks so beautiful, all clean and white and whatnot...

Someone please! Tell me I am not the only one!