5.31.2011

The Long Weekend

Wow. What an excellent weekend! Not that I had any doubts…but I guess I kind of did. The weather has been very wacky this year so far. Less than two months ago, we were still experiencing snow flurries and bundled up in our winter coats. Then, we didn’t really have much of a spring. Tons of cold and rainy and gray days, it was discouraging. I was starting to fret that this summer would not be as epic as last. But, this weekend was HOT and SUNNY. The rain came overnight and we were left with temps in the 80s to go about our days. I’m so excited for summer to finally and actually be here. BBQs, swimming all day, reading by the pool, driving around with the windows down…all of it.

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Ice cold beer, macaroni and potato salads, grilled burgers with all the fixin’s, mixed drink concoctions, floating in the pool. I’m ready for this.

5.27.2011

Friday

And it’s here again, everyone! Time for another weekend…and a holiday weekend, at that! Memorial Day is Monday, so I am lucky to have a three day weekend. I’m very excited. Brad and I have double date plans for tonight (there’s chicken nachos, sangria, and margaritas involved…yum!), and then we will be attending a wedding on Saturday.
After that, the weekend is open for cookouts and lounging by the pool, because the temperatures are supposed to be in the 80s all weekend!

Memorial Day weekend is always great, because it seems to be the kickoff for summer. The first of a few long weekends to come, vacations planned for the near future, the start of summer heat. It’s hard not to stay positive when the weather is warm, the sun finally pokes it’s head out, and you get some time to really relax and shut your brain off.

Have a great weekend, everyone! See ya Tuesday!

5.26.2011

More Tyler Shields Inspirado…

A couple of months ago, I posted about Tyler Shields and his video portraits. I’ve become a huge fan, keeping track of his ever-expanding collection of videos and photography. His work is often not for the faint of heart, but you know a Tyler Shields photo when you’re looking at one. He is incredibly unique and has an amazing vision. His work and creativity really inspire me (and the stuff can be rather titillating…)

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Check out his website here! There’s so much more.

5.25.2011

Esther Williams

A few months ago, on a whim, I decided to splurge and get this bathing suit from Mod Cloth. I am really into retro-style swimsuits that offer a modest yet sexy look. The high-waisted bottom is what cinched the deal, offering tummy coverage (and, therefore, no worries about chubby days) and an adorable shape. I didn’t realize until I received the thing in the mail that it was designed by Esther Williams. I also didn’t know who the heck she is. Cut to last week, skimming through TV channels at Brad’s house, when I stumble upon a little show about the career of Esther Williams…a beautiful swimming champion turned MGM actress in the 1940’s. She embodies that classic, retro swim gal look - the pin-up hair, the gorgeous bathing suits, and perfect makeup that wouldn’t run even as she swam and danced under the water.

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I am desperately in love with the bathing suit three photos down. She should consider making a replica…

5.24.2011

Bridesmaids

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Yes, I had to jump on the bandwagon and talk about Bridesmaids. If you haven’t seen this movie yet, please do! I’m a huge Kristen Wiig fan, but when I first saw the trailer, I really didn’t know what to think. This probably sounds awful coming from a woman, but I had a tendency to feel like women-driven comedies don’t really work. Before everyone freaks out at me, I have realized why I thought this. Comedies with a woman in a lead role tend to go down two paths, in my opinion: The Romantic Comedy and the Raunchy Sex Fest.

Romantic Comedies shouldn’t even count as comedies. Are there funny ones? Sure. But is it usually the lead woman playing the funny role? No. It’s usually her quirky best friend sidekick who is only on the screen for a quarter of the movie or her best guy friend who is sweet and awkward and inevitably wins the girl. Whatever, the formula is old. I still enjoy these movies, but they are usually just entertaining, popcorn and couch movies.

Then there’s the Raunchy Sex Fest. I won’t name movie names, but it seems that Cameron Diaz has a lot to do with this genre. In these films, it’s my belief that women go above and beyond the call of duty, trying to outdo the men in sex and fart and excrement jokes. I guess it can work for some people, but not me. It’s not real. Women are funny, but in a different way. Why try to prove how funny you are by acting like one of the guys?

Which is why I loved Bridesmaids. I found this movie completely relatable. I don’t want to give the movie away to those who haven’t seen it, but prior to seeing it, I heard a lot of reviewers applaud it’s approach to female friendships. And that was my favorite part about the movie. The relationships, the insecurities, the jealousy, the competitive nature that runs in our blood. It’s silly, but it’s true. As for the humor, it was pretty perfect to me. I saw a lot of reviews call the film “raunchy.” And yes, there is one particularly nasty part. But it didn’t really change the movie for me. It was silly, but it did it in it’s own way. I guess I found it realistic. Women curse, but don’t have to be potty-mouthed sex fiends all the time to do so. Women talk about sex, but it’s usually a mix of Samantha and Charlotte (Sex and the City, obvz). And friendships and other women, though we may hate to admit it it, are really important to us, sometimes to the point of insanity.

The movie was great, but for many reasons aside from comedy. I choked up at a few parts. I found it relatable, for funny and serious reasons. And, it should be mentioned, I want to shop Kristen Wiig’s wardrobe.

Don’t knock Bridesmaids ‘til you tried it, guys. I really enjoyed it, and I hope you will too!

5.23.2011

Weekend

This weekend was too short, but still very sweet. Saturday, we had excellent warm weather and sunshine. But it was too was short-lived. I am tired and sick of the gray, gloomy, foggy, groggy weather that’s become the norm in NEPA. It’s exhausting. It’s hard to believe May is almost over when it still feels like I haven’t become acclimated with spring.

This weekend was the Fine Arts Fiesta in downtown Wilkes-Barre. Last time I went was in 2009, days before graduation (yes, it’d been two years…oy). The weather on Sunday when we went wasn’t ideal, but it was still an inspiring place to be nonetheless. I have slipped out of my photographic ways recently, and I’m ashamed. But I can honestly say that my location and the poor weather have definitely been detrimental to my motivation. I feel like I can only take so many pictures of the same neighborhoods and of trees without leaves. So, I really need to travel. And to focus on the kind of photography I really love: portraiture and capturing the moment.

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The number one thing, though, is that I stop getting shy about taking out the camera. As I’ve come to realize, most people really don’t care if you take their picture (especially in these situations, where they PREFER it). I let my insecurity and fear get the best of me all too often.

In other news, I’m not so bummed out about the week ahead…mostly because I have good things to look forward to! A half-day on Wednesday, and a three-day weekend. Brad cutely suggested we set the alarm on Monday for normal our work wake-up call  just to remind ourselves that we can shut it off and sleep for another few hours. Mostly, I’m excited for that extra day, the breather. It’s so silly how much an extra day, 24 hours of your whole life, can make such a difference. I must admit, the only thing I’m nervous about is the damn weather! Last memorial day was spent floating in Brad’s pool on a raft and drinking cosmos. I’m nervous this won’t happen again. So, Mr. Sun, do make an appearance and stick around for a while. We all miss you and your company would be welcomed with open arms!

5.20.2011

Friday

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The Birthday Cheesecake!

I wish I could say this week was over but, alas, I still have another (4 hour, but still) shift tomorrow. Yes, it sucks. But, then I get to take a half day next Wednesday and next weekend, I have a three day! Yay, Memorial Day! As much as it sucks to do Fridays boring-style and early-night-style, it’s always nice to have some time to myself. Catch up on my programs (haha), eat some pizza, drink some wine, and enjoy some leftover cheesecake slices. The weekend, though short, will still be nice. And there’s always the next one.

Hope y’all have a good one!

5.19.2011

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Ya heard it here, folks. Today is my birthday! Lucky for you, I’m not really big on the whole birthday thang. It’s nice to have people give me well wishes and it’s nice to have my pick of dessert, don’t get me wrong. But there are more important days to me, especially this year.

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I used to be a little kid…cannot get over how fast the time goes (not that I remember anything from this time, equally strange).

I’ll be celebrating small. Last night, I did a bit of a feast with Brad at Rustic Kitchen, and it was fabulous.
Tonight, I will be seeing Bridesmaids finally with my lady friends!

When it comes down to it, all I want is to spend time with family and friends and enjoy the day. I know it won’t always be perfect…it can even suck. But you just make the best of what you have, and be thankful because the whole reason you celebrate the day is because it is why you are here to enjoy the world in the first place!

5.18.2011

Outfit Post : Date Night

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It’s been a while since I did an outfit post, partly because I’m still new to the concept here on the blog. But the weather has been fickle lately, and I’m sick of wearing a coat or working the coat into the outfit…I’m ready for warmth! This weekend was mostly coat-free, so I’m down with that. Anyways, this was my outfit for date night on Friday. Date Night is always important to me, even if it’s just a quick meal, because it also means the weekend has officially arrived! This date night, we decided to head to Red Lobster because I got a gift card through work. Topped off the night by renting Blue Valentine, which maybe isn’t the best date night movie, but we enjoy a good discussion post-movie and we got it. Back to the outfit (and date night), after a tough week, I love getting a little girly and fun with my clothes.

About the socks…I’ve had these black knit thigh-highs since last Fall, but rarely found the time/place to wear them. Before you know it, it was too cold to do it without tights, and then it was too cold to wear skirts at all! Friday was the perfect thigh-high weather. I decided that I would definitely be wearing them, and that I would shape the rest of the outfit around them.

The socks are from Urban Outfitters, as is the skirt. The top, a favorite of mine, is from the Gap, and the flats are years old from Old Navy.

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5.17.2011

Sally Hansen Salon Effects - Nail Polish Strips

Okay, y’all, I sure hope you’re ready for me to geek out! I’m a pretty avid fashion magazine subscriber/buyer/reader.
And nowadays, it’s hard to go through a magazine without stopping on ads this.

At first, I ignored it like all the other advertisements. But then I started to see Sally Hansen Salon Effects pop up in articles, beauty Q&As, and blogs. I never paint my fingernails. I think the last time I had them painted was in 2005. The main reason I never paint them? I suck at it! I can’t paint in the lines, they smudge, and I just gave up. I also felt like my hands looked strange, and couldn’t stop stressing about the little imperfections. I decided I would stick with toenails…I can’t see them so close to analyze them and it’s a quick process. The more I started to hear about the supposedly easy and fun nail polish strips, the more curious I became. Not only could I get easy, nice looking nails, but I could do fun designs! So I finally picked up a little box, Misbehaved.

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Girrrrrrrllllll, I’m in LOVE! I couldn’t stop staring at my nails. The whole process took about 20 minutes (the length of an episode of 30 Rock, which I listened to as I concentrated) but it was easy! Once you smooth the correct size strip on the nail, you file the remains off and you’re left with nails that look professionally done! They cost about 10 bucks, which is cheaper than most manicures. I still can’t believe I’m the one that put them on because they look great! I am dying to try other designs! First, I want to see how long these last. It’s been two full days and they are still goin’ strong. According to the box, they should last up to 10 days. But seriously…if I can do it, anyone can!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THESE TO ANYONE INTERESTED!

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Just a couple extra random pics from my iPhone showcasing the nails…

5.16.2011

Weekend

It’s always hard to say goodbye to the weekend, but this one is especially tough. Mostly because I will be working 6 days straight, but also because it was a fantastic weekend! Red Lobster date night with boyfriend, Blue Valentine viewing (Ryan Gosling, how I love thee), sleeping in, running fun errands, Sally Hansen nail polish strips (more on that later), wearing my H&M jumpsuit for the first time (I’ve had it since January), Mexican food with the family, casino night (I actually left with more money, a rarity!), and a lazy Sunday filled with food.

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It’s my birthday on Thursday! Funny enough, I could care less. I’m actually hoping this week goes by quickly…but I’ll make it through. And I’m sure there will be plenty of lovely things that will make the otherwise long and poopy week go by at a nice and easy and painless pace. Hope you all have a very happy Monday and that your week is fantastic!

5.13.2011

Surprise! It’s Friday!

So, the weekend is here! I’m very thankful, because I will be celebrating my birthday a little early with my family (actual birthday is next Thursday, the 19th). Favorite Mexican restaurant and casino! Both firsts for my dad. Couldn’t be more excited to show him a glimpse into my weekend world. Aside from that, I plan on sleeping in and just taking my days of freedom at a nice, slow, easy pace. Since next week will be longer and a bit more hectic, I’m thankful for this restful weekend right in front of me.

On a different note…I cut my hair! Perhaps you remember this post? Well, I went a bit further with the cut.

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I’m aware this isn’t the best picture, but this is fresh from the hairdresser. I can’t wait to play around with it. It’s the perfect length for me…short enough that I can’t always resort to a ponytail but long enough that I’m not shocked from the change. I was getting sick of the same ol’ same ol’ and, when it comes down to it, long hair isn’t really…me. (I know, you were dying to know that!)

It’s about that time to wish you all a fabulous weekend, whether you’re partying until the sun comes up or lazing your days away in bed! As always, here’s a song to kick off your weekend. Enjoy!

5.11.2011

Lykke Li

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A couple of years ago, my sister introduced me to Lykke Li. I automatically fell in love, specifically with her song “Little Bit.” It was the perfect spring song, because I find this time of year to be perfect for falling in love/lust/crush. When it comes to female singers, I have always been inclined to appreciate a different sound (Sia, Bjork, Florence to name a few…).  Lykke Li has this perfect, whispery sound that can go from innocent and sweet to passionate and strong. Her voice is instantly recognizable and, in my opinion, makes everything better. Still not sure how I feel about her second album, Wounded Rhymes, just yet. But I will always highly recommend Youth Novels.

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Midweek

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Brad took this picture over the weekend. I have quite the crush on it. It’s funny how a simple, little photo can tell a story. It defines Spring for me. Bare legs, colorful flats, bright green grass, and the sun finally shining (thus the shadow). You can’t see what I’m doing from the knees up, but who cares? What has been captured says it all. Feet firmly planted on the green Earth, basking in the sunshine, outdoors and away from obligation. I don’t remember him taking this photo of me, but I’m so glad he did. It makes me very happy.

We are in the middle of the week, and it’s all downhill (uphill, really) from here. Just a couple more days of work and the weekend will arrive!

5.10.2011

Shoe Lust : ModCloth

For many, shoes are a guilty pleasure. There are girls who will fess up to owning more pairs than they need, spending obscene amounts on pairs that they’ll never wear again, and needing extra closet space just for their shoes. I have never been this way. With that being said, I do adore shoes. It’s just that I’ve always stuck with basic colors and styles (simple flats, Chucks, and a few different neutral boots) that go with any and everything. Okay, I DO have a few guilty pleasure pairs (not very practical, I know). And I certainly long for some shoes that I’ll never have, that I can’t afford with my kind of budget. ModCloth’s shoes are somewhere in between.  They aren’t Louboutins or Jimmy Choos by any means (we’re talking hundreds+ dollas for them suckas), but they aren’t Payless or Target, the stores I frequent the most for shoes under 30 bucks (what can I say? I’m a bargain hunter, I still live at home, and I’m extremely far from rich). It’s hard for me to spend more than 50 bucks on a pair of shoes, because I won’t even spend that much on a pair of jeans that I’d wear everyday (again, I’m cheap!).
But they’re more attainable. And cute. And seemingly comfortable and…well…that’s what window shopping is all about.

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Sensing a pattern here? Easy breezy cutesy shoes, with comfortable heels, and an affinity for t-straps. If I got any of these shoes, I’d probably get the last pair because I know I would wear them. But I love heels. I feel so feminine in them, and I adore them on everyone else. Unfortunately,  I’ve always felt too tall, awkward, and uncomfortable over time. Above, the heels are mostly thick, seemingly everyday. My favorite pair? Numero uno. They would go with any and everything. Maybe one day I’ll feel confident enough to treat myself…

Click on each photo to get linked to each page/purchase/get more info!