Curious Chase

Valentine's Replay

2013-02-17T08:53:00.001-05:00

Valentine's consisted of card, candy and love making. Making cards is kinda my thing. And, puppies, PUPPIES are cute and create that fuzzy, warm feeling.

I found the recipe here. I've been really digging this blog. She has some great pancake recipes and healthy alternatives to your favorite foods. I had been wanting to try the peanut butter cups and V-Day seemed like the perfect occasion.

They were delicious.

XOXO

Thrifting Adventures Lately

2013-02-14T16:42:00.003-05:00

I go through phases with thrift stores. Months will go by with barely a thought of thrifting -- it's like I forget they exist. Whatever the reason, I eventually decide to go and am quickly reminded why I love it so much. It's like a treasure hunt. It never gets old to me. It's this ongoing, thrilling infatuation. And buyer's remorse is never a problem. Over the years, I've struggled to draw the line between those incredible, one-of-a-kind finds, and those others that trick you into believing they're great after 45 fruitless minutes of searching. I've been fooled so many times because I'm stoked to find something that's semi-wearable. I know it seems like two extremes, but the lines get blurry when you're in thrift-store shopping mode. I get anxious.

Lately, I've been stopping in a few different spots, scanning the place and walking out with some sick pieces. Giving myself a time limit has proved to be very successful.

Regardless of the store, I always browse the bags. It's a weakness. Or maybe a strength considering I scored this Dooney and Bourke bag for $7! It's totally legit and in impeccable condition. A little secret in thrifting: shop the suburban thrifts. They are so unaware of their products, which should be fully exploited. I left the Goodwill feeling elated and energized. It's a total rush. The same feeling I have after a great workout. Strange, I know.

This is such a classic gone trendy. The point is it's timeless Coach circa 1970's. My mission was to find some birthday presents. A recent goal of mine is to minimize purchasing brand new items and buying used whenever possible. It gets tricky with presents, and though it is more work,it is far more gratifying. I snagged not just one, but two of these bags, slightly different, but equally beautiful. The leather on these bags is buttery, soft and flawless. Coincidentally, I hate modern Coach, but love vintage Coach. It was PERFECT. I stayed true to my goal and had better luck than imagined.

The price is so low, I can't tell you(mostly because it's a gift). Let's just say it was cheaper than your daily coffee habit, but only if you're drinking specialty coffee.

These boots are Joan and David and retail for around 200-300 bucks! Now, it's not about the brand or the retail value, but the discovery! -- it feels like you're stealing. I had been searching for simple, black boots and BAM -- I found them for $10!

Patience is key in thrifting. It may take some time, but it is so worth it.

It's the Whole Package

2013-02-01T06:38:00.000-05:00

From birthdays to Christmas, Valentine's to Mother's Day and various special occasions are exciting for me, and not because I'm receiving something. I won't deny that I love receiving, but the magic is in giving. And it's not just the solitary present. No, it's the entire package. Everything from the envelope to the wrapping is carefully curated and intentional. Obviously, the present is the main course, but the wrapping and cards are like the appetizers. This past Christmas I was dead set on using recycling materials from my house for wrapping. I did buy one roll of this vibrant, textured paper that I couldn't pass up. Mostly, I used brown grocery bags. This took the entire Christmas wrapping experience to another level. I got creative with it. I wrote on the paper, used funky ribbon, cut and pasted. It was not a chore, but a fun project!

Let's rewind a little to the gifting part. Pre-Christmas I was extremely eager to work on some projects and, if all went well, gift them. Body scrub was at the top of my list. I recently bought some locally made scrub and am obsessed with the scent and silky smooth skin it gives you. Perfect gift for any girl and pretty inexpensive.

I used coffee grinds, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and olive oil. Then I bottled them in some mason jars and VOILA- a gift that's awesome. Something to be proud of and shock people by your crafty ways. Main advantage to body scrub is baby-soft skin. MAKE IT, even if it's for yourself.

Second project was jewelry making. I am really feeling the industrial vibe/look. So I headed over to Honestly WTF and what a great variety of DIY's there. And here's what I did. This and this.

I raided my uncle's garage and "borrowed" some supplies that I liked more than the suggested ones. Also, the local hardware store didn't have them. I was pretty satisfied with the outcome, but not enough to give as gifts. I just kept them for myself and hope to perfect it a little. But, the steps provided were very thorough and easy to follow. This site will definitely be revisited.

Valentine's Day is coming soon. Enough said.

Really, a resurrection? Yeah.

2013-01-16T15:32:00.000-05:00

Maybe some of you wondered what happened to this blog. Or maybe you never saw it in your life. Judging by the recent activity, you probably assumed it was yet another much too ambitious blogger plunging into the growing trend, but couldn't maintain. A fair attempt, but not substantial. We've all stumbled upon some incredible blog just to discover it was abandoned months or years prior. How anti-climacetic. Oh well, just the millionth blog left untouched. This very thought haunted me throughout my entire absence! Every time I wanted to blog, I didn't because I wasn't ready to commit again. It's like going through a break up and realizing you need to make some life changes before continuing the relationship. Taking a step back, as people like to say, and hopefully the relationship is more amazing than imaginable. I knew I needed to make adjustments in my life. I was losing my vision and intention for my blog. And in order to present authentic posts, I had to unplug and refocus.

During this near year hiatus from blogging, I channeled my energy into deeper matters. I decided to make my mind and body; family and friends; spirit and faith the main priority. Some outside events pushed me to the realization of a clean break from the blogosphere. I didn't want to browse hundreds of blogs everyday and waste countless hours on the internet feeling I had nothing new to offer. My creativity and unique spirit felt squashed and lost. There was this deep desire to find inspiration from myself again, but that part of me felt muddled and unclear by all these outside influences. Constant stimulation through blogs, fashion sites, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and emails eventually cramped my style. It was oppressive. I was turning into a social media, fashion-crazed, modern technological junkie. It became this addiction.

These infographics exaggerate and perfectly describe what I felt.

There are entire articles devoted to this new addiction AND say it's more addictive than cigarettes and sex! WHAT!?? I'm not sure I believe that, but the fact it's competing with that speaks a lot about our society.

It was this constant social interaction with complete strangers. I had become someone who checked her phone constantly and rudely, when hanging out, which is a major pet peeve of mine. What a huge insult! It sends the message- "these people on the internet are way more interesting than you. Even though I'm with you now, I'd rather be in this fake cyber world where people think I'm super cool". LAME. It's embarrassing to admit, but if I woke up in the middle of the night I checked twitter. Having too many influences can create a fake and that's what was transforming, a fake imposter. AH! If there is one thing I despise, it's a fraud. I slammed the brakes on this hard. SCREECHING HALT! I realized it would be better to kill the blog than continue something that wasn't 100% authentic.

Over this time, I've gone on some incredible trips: Charlottesville, Asheville, Deep Creep Lake, Ocean City, NYC and the long haul to California. All road trips, in fact. Which I hated until recently, but a new love for the road has grown. The spontaneity of jumping in the car with access to all these new places within a few hours is so exciting. The options multiply. Traveling and exploring new places with my husband, family and friends has been a doggone blast! I also completed my very first half-marathon in 2 hours and 49 minutes! Two years ago if someone suggested would have suggested running 13 miles I would have scoffed and laughed. It seemed to unachievable. But I'm learning to set the stakes higher. Afterwards I began reading Born to Run, which impacted my life so much that for months every thought and action was related to this book. It was near religion. Also, I began managing and successfully running an independent coffeeshop, which consumed my life. I drank, dreamed and breathed coffee all spring and summer. Which isn't terrible, right?

St. Michael's Half Marathon, pushing hard at the end.

Recovered and stoked!

I learned how to do this and became an aspiring coffee snob.

Climbed to the top of the Flatirons in Boulder, CO

Driving through Utah and staring at the most gnarly terrain.

Which brings us to present time. I'm just settling into an awesome new house in Washington DC's neighborhood Petworth and a new job slinging espresso. And now seems like the appropriate time to begin again. I waited to relaunch until I had a clear focus and purpose. Blogs can be so personal; this one is a peek into my life, passions and personality. It's a representation of me. It should reflect authenticity. Nobody respects posers and sell outs. They are everywhere: on the corner, the coffee shop, art openings, the hippest social events, the grocery, they are waiting to stare you down and size you up on the Metro.

This is ridiculous, but so true! What people truly want is something raw and genuine. I'm setting the stakes high here, I know. But I have to draw the line and deliver what's real.

CapFABB Meet-up at Madewell

2012-02-06T17:00:00.000-05:00

Another successful bloggers event set the Georgetown Madewell in a frenzy. The store was packed with the finest DC fashionistas and fine fellows. The question if DC has style has been answered. Now, if only they could flash a little more swagger and let it permeate to all innocent bystanders. Everyone would benefit from that interaction.

These high waisted hot pants paired with cropped tops worn by Mila and Fire made heads turn!

The color blocking happening here is on point. Even the subtle purple frames matched perfectly.

Franky J was rocking some stellar accessories.

Co-founder of CapFabb, Lacey and Alina from The Hyperbalist share some love. This loud, floral suit is shouting, "Love me" and I do. Freaking awesome vintage Moschino belt! My heart is beating a little faster.

A stunning gold-painted basket purse.

This vintage, sparkly, sequenced jacket caught my attention and had me drooling.

Working Girl

2012-02-02T17:13:00.000-05:00

(courtesy of Gwynne Davis)

It's been all work and no play. Staring at this picture has me wishing for some sunny days I can actually enjoy. This week has been unusually warm (60 degrees warm) and I've been inside! It's torture. Truly painful. Also, very painful are my skinned knees. An epic fall, which resulted in skinned knees, tattered clothes and a shattered, but still functioning iphone occurred a few days ago.

Here's the scene: the bus was scheduled to arrive in 3 minutes and I took off jogging, phone in hand. Less than a block away and skuuurtt! A solid plummet on the concrete. Pants AND shoes ripped. Knees bruised and bleeding. Skinned palms. My phone sacrificed itself for my hand, although, I think that hurt more. With that said, this week I've been slightly handicapped and sleep deprived. Must heal quickly! Loose fitting pants are not my best look.

Tuesday Food Day: Beets

2012-01-31T20:42:00.000-05:00

Roasted or raw, beets are delicious. They are nature's candy. I fell in love with beets about 4 years ago. Since then, I've found a variety of ways to prepare them. Jamie Oliver recently introduced me to raw beets. However, my favorite way is roasted. Then combining them into a salad with avocado, nuts, basil, onion, balsamic vinegar and goat's cheese. Also, beet chips make a great snack. Of course, beets tend to have an earthy flavor, but there is a sweetness, too.

(via savorsa)

(via Tony Fitts)

For quite some time, I never knew there were golden beets. How brilliant are these colors! Not only do they taste amazing, but it looks beautiful.

Last week I roasted beets and ate them plain with a little olive oil. Yum!

Be adventurous and try this beet salad.

One bunch of beets

1 avocado

chopped walnuts

chopped onion

basil

balsamic vinegar

extra virgin olive oil

1/4 cup or less of water

Cut the beets into medium sized cubes, toss in olive oil and place in a pan. Add the water, but it should only be touching the bottom of the beets. This is so they don't dry out. Also, add salt and pepper and a little balsamic vinegar to taste. Let them roast for 30-45 minutes on 375* checking and stirring occasionally. After they've cooled, add the other ingredients. Beet juice will stain anything it touches and the color overpowers other ingredients. Be sure to combine the other ingredients first, then add the beets. It will be more attractive if combined in that process.

Eat some beets, peeps!

Ode to Andy

2012-01-30T16:12:00.000-05:00

These sketches by Andy Warhol are so simple and whimsical. Andy was the pioneer in bridging fashion and art. In present time, fashion and art are inseparable. Well, Mr. Warhol, we salute you for revolutionizing the fashion culture.

Tuesday is Food Day

2012-01-24T15:14:00.000-05:00

I've never committed a day to anything in particular on my blog, so from henceforth Tuesday is now named Food Day. Recipes, inspiration, features, restaurants, questions, etc will all be on Tuesday, but not limited to Tuesday. Which guarantees Tuesday as some fun and exciting libations, but don't believe food can be limited to only one day of the week. How can it when our lives revolve around food.

Continuing to last night's dinner: Salmon Fish Tacos. And, WOW! It was completely unexpected, unplanned and undeniably phenomenal. With my creative and innovative mind, I was able to stretch a very small piece of left-over Salmon into a mouth-watering, satisfying meal for two.

So here's the rundown: coconut brown rice, black beans, red onion, salmon, shredded cheese (cheddar is good) & salsa. If I could only eat rice one way the rest of my life, it would be with coconut milk. I use the light kind because it can be very caloric. Cook the rice in the milk just as you would any liquid, rice tip down below. A can of black beans- I didn't make any ahead. Black beans are another favorite of mine. Chopped red onion for a kick. The salmon had been sauteed previously in red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic, seasoned with S&P and thyme. Simple. After all the ingredients are ready make you tacos.

Ingredients:

Coconut Milk

Brown Rice

Can of Black Beans

Chopped Onion

Salmon

Cheddar Cheese

Salsa or Hot Sauce

There is no firm measurements for these except for the rice. Always double the liquid to your rice measurement. If you are cooking 1/2 cup rice, then 1 cup of water. With brown rice, sometimes you add a tad more liquid, maybe a tablespoon. My Mexican mother shared the secret with cooking rice after many failed attempts.

Cooking Rice: sauteed onions and garlic in olive oil for a couple minutes, add the rice for another minute or two. Then add the water, let it boil, cover and simmer for about 35 minutes.

Other add-ons: avocado, roasted red pepper, lime, cilantro, greens. Unfortunately, I had none of these, but would add great flavor. And don't forget your veggies! I steamed some broccoli. Yum!

I think I covered all the important things. Hope you enjoy and please pass it along.

A Cathedral and a Rooftop

2012-01-23T06:04:00.000-05:00

The rain nearly ruined this rooftop shoot. Gwynne and I took advantage of the surprising sunshine and warm weather that followed the dreary rain. This 55 degree January day had me confused about winter. It seems she's clarified any confusion over the weekend though, it's freezing! Winter has me hibernating and slightly depressed. Spring must come soon for my sanity. It's killing my social life. I rarely leave my house besides work.

So, the rooftop and the National Cathedral. Well, about a month ago I realized I have unauthorized access to the roof. How fortunate that one of the keys opens the door. With the cathedral directly across the street, this location seemed rather perfect for a photo shoot. Gwynne, a fellow blogger and jewelry maker, joined me and, boy, was it a blast. She also brought me a funky, recycled earring she made! Of course, I wore it. We gave our best posh looks, but couldn't help laughing at our, well, my, failed attempts. And the shadows, well, that was plain fun.

(seater and velvet pants-thrifted, necklace-Madewell, boots-Loeffler Randall, scarf-Valerie Stevens)

Friday Feature: Sorelle in Style

2012-01-20T17:06:00.000-05:00

Sorelle in Style is about two fashion-loving sisters showcasing their style, sharing recipes and admiring each other. Having two sisters of my own, I detected that special sister connection immediately and became a follower. Also, a tad jealous I don't share some fun project with them!

Introducing Jilly and Sally of Sorelle in Style:
One of our favorite trends this season was the winterized maxi dress! An effortlessly cool way to sneak in a bit of your summer wardrobe during the frigid months. As Spring approaches, however, it's about time we all reveal the maxi dress within, so step-by-step let's ditch those winter layers!

Now that Jilly's left with a fresh Spring palette, it's Sally's turn to help accessorize! Take a peek at Sally's picks below to seriously max(i) out your Spring look!

How long have you been blogging? And what is your objective?

We have been blogging since March 2011. Since we were little, we've always loved playing dress up. Our love of fashion has inspired so many of our friends and we're hoping to inspire countless others in the blog world, too!

How does being sisters influence your blog?

Even though we're sisters, our styles are very different, so it spices up the blog a little. We often buy the same pieces (like bright skinny jeans, for example), but end up wearing them in completely different ways!

If you had five grand you would buy....

Jilly: A classic Chanel tweed jacket.

Sally: A Cartier LOVE bracelet.

Favorite place to shop?

Jilly: Forever 21 or H&M - they always have the greatest things, and you don't feel bad if you only wear what you buy once or twice.

Sally: Sephora or Ralph Lauren

What or who is your inspiration/influence?

Our Mommy and Grandma are endless sources of inspiration - in terms of style AND life in general!

What is your favorite era?

The 70s - nothing beats the music!

Describe your perfect day.

Jilly: Lying on the beach from sunrise to sunset with my family and lovey <3

Sally: I'd definitely start with a yummy breakfast, then go to the gym, shower, and get my hair done, maybe a pedicure, then go shopping with my Momma, go home, and read.

Music you are listening to lately?
Jilly: Jay-Z, Maroon 5, Beyonce, Lady Gaga, the Beatles.

Sally: Jay-Z and Kanye, Benny Benassi, Swedish House Mafia.

Name some games/activities you played as a child that you wish you did now.

Definitely more arts and crafts! We were constantly drawing and creating when we were little. And more naps - everyone needs a good nap.

3 essentials you don't leave your house without.

Jilly: My sunglasses, my camera, and my cellphone

Sally: My cellphone, a good bag, and some lipgloss

Thanks Jilly and Sally for sharing your style, thoughts and inspirations. You two are so sweet! Make sure to visit their blog Sorelle in Style to see more of their lovely faces.

Faux Fur, Fo' Sho'

2012-01-17T13:01:00.000-05:00

I picked up this faux fur while Christmas shopping. A little prezzie for myself, right? For $30, how could i refuse? This jacket has super powers that transfer me back to the 20's immediately upon wearing. I envision women with dropped waist, sequenced dress and the winger wave surrounding me. This is what I daydream about.

More photos to come from this day. It was 60's on this January day and I took advantage of the fleeting, sunny weather.

Free People: From LA to NYC

2012-01-15T11:45:00.000-05:00

What a perfect mesh of bohemian, grunge and chic. I adore every piece here. The sequined harem pants make my heart skip a beat. The cut-out dress is, oh, so perfectly 90's; and as seen here, it's evident I have a sore spot for that style. The wide legged pants, the fringe, the flowy, the sheer, head bands, ripped pants, midriff-bearing blouse, asymmetric hems, the edge, the flirty- all of this and more is portrayed through these looks. It's the everyday, relatable girl. She's fun, relaxed, classy, playful, sultry. It's skateboarding and roller-skates; long strolls through the neighborhood and market; a night out feeling sexy and feminine. She sounds like a rock star. And I am digging the style hard core!

What's Your Patagonia?

2012-01-13T18:11:00.000-05:00

I recently watched the documentary 180° South, which records a journey to Patagonia in South America. The adventurous attitude in the film is infectious and inspiring. They are dreamers pursuing their greatest passion in life and while watching it I'm reminded of my own.

The film documents two separate trips that connect over the span of 40 years. The beauty in the film was breathtaking: mountains, waterfalls, and desolate lands that few humans have traversed. When the first trip was taken in 1968, Yvon Chouinard and Doug Tompkins explored untouched mountains and unsurfed coasts. Can you imagine setting foot on virgin lands? The peace and beauty of nature would consume your soul.

It seems modern life distractions are inescapable. Most of the time life controls us instead of the reverse. We are at it's mercy. No longer is it a conscious decision to live as a middle class working woman or man, but routine. Always waiting for the weekend or anticipating the next event or trip, but why? When will everyone realize that daily life is our adventure? If you're constantly awaiting the next brilliant experience, you've just sacrificed your current one. Personally, I'm continuously buying or wanting better clothes, better cameras, to visit better places, eat better food, look better, exercise more, etc. It's the BETTER and MORE game. And it's a little exhausting. And boring. Sometimes, I'm overcome with these terrible thoughts of letting my dreams fall. But dreams are what really keep us alive. Dreaming and adventures inspire us to pursue our passions in life. So the dreams and passions those young men pursued became reality. Obviously, it's uncommon that any one of us will leave our job and trek 5,000 miles down to South America in a hippie van with our surf boards and hiking gear in tow to explore the Patagonia, but shouldn't we? Watching that film reminded me of my passions. It reminded me of those things that move my soul, that stir me inside. It's pure joy that embodies me. Maybe for you it's art or music, fashion or photography, animals or nature: the point is we should be living our dreams. Dreaming isn't simply for kids. It begins there, but should be never ending. So sail away from your safe harbor and LIVE.

Find Patagonia again.

Balenciaga Giveaway!

2012-01-12T20:55:00.001-05:00

Since I was 18-ish I have wanted a Balenciaga bag. Mary-Kate and Ashley toted these leathers around like it was their J-O-B while envy burned in my chest for one of these beautiful bags. Winning this bag will satisfy a long-awaited desire! I have my fingers crossed. Check out Fashion Chalet for more info on the giveaway.

2011 in Rewind

2012-01-09T23:35:00.001-05:00

Let's start at the beginning of 2011, which kicked off with a snazzy, drastic haircut. Taking extreme measures with fashion and hair satisfies my daring, wild side. When I feel too predictable, BAM! chop hair or in past years, go blond. A new do is a-brewing and coming soon. It was quite liberating, but initially I felt I had lost my beauty. It took a bit to be comfortable.

Next up: Mardi Gras. And it was bittersweet. The last one before we made the move back to the northeast. The month long festivities leading up to Fat Tuesday create the experience. Planning your costumes, biking night after night following parades, standing on ladders and returning with bags of "throws" that serve no purpose other than the satisfaction of "winning" them are all missed, fond memories.

Climbed the beautiful oak trees

Attended the first New Orleans Fashion Week!

Played in the park

Husband graduated from law school, yay!

my blog was born...and I was introduced to the world of bloggers

and did fun outfit posts

We moved to DC and left New Orleans behind.

Also, joined a bloggers network in DC and have met some intelligent, talented, lovely ladies.

1. Lacey- A Lacey Perspective & Ally- Chain Strap Purse

2. Katherine- La Petite Marmoset
3. Wavery- Pich & Roor
4. Krystin- Be Loud Be You
5. Cheralee- Lyle Style

a few of my favorite shots from the year

It has been a year of change and adventure; discovering new places and experiencing new things. I love the "first time"occasion. Biking in a new city is always a thrill and a great first time affair. Truthfully, the transition was not without many tears and obstacles. Beginning this new year, there are plans to conquer these imposing hurdles. The best and worst event of the year was moving-paradox. Being near family has been a true comfort in my life, but leaving New Orleans still seems like a mistake. It's difficult when your two desires are in such opposition. For now, DC is treating me kindly.

Not a New Year's Resolution

2012-01-02T21:39:00.000-05:00

It seems most New Year's resolutions fail within the first week. With great effort a long, sincere well-intended list of changes are written, but are rarely implemented. This is why I don't do resolutions. Well, not the typical, empty resolution. I like to reflect and assess the past year and decide how this year can be different. Generally, I don't follow the mentality of stopping a bad habit later so soak it up now. I believe if you want to achieve a goal, then start small now. So, yes, make resolutions, but continue to set goals throughout the year and accomplish them.

Here are a few ways I want 2012 to be different.

weekend brunch

2011-12-19T15:51:00.000-05:00

It's the egg sandwich remixed. Everyone needs to vamp up their breakfast sandwich.
So here's what you need: slim sandwich bread (or English muffin, but the slims are only 100 cals), cheddar cheese, avocado, arugula(mixed greens or spinach), black bean purée, and of course, the egg.

To make the black bean purée, simply use a fork to mash up the beans or blend them. This sandwich works well for me because I keep these ingredients stocked. If you don't have these, but want to create a spin off the typical egg sandwich, add something different. Roasted peppers, apples, lettuce, basil and the list goes on. There are so many options.

And this is a beautiful sunrise from my bedroom on Sunday morning! Snapped a picture and crawled back into bed. Some other exciting news: discovered we have rooftop access (unauthorized), but we have a key that works! Who could resist?

2011-12-13T16:42:00.001-05:00

Visiting Deep Creek Lake guarantees 3 things: red necks, outdoor sports enthusiasts, and a lapse of time. It's as if time slows and is of no concern to me.

We played scrabble and obviously I did not win. My start was strong, but it ended badly. I did however succeed in baking delish cookies. Also, the thrift store was very kind to me. It was a volunteer, church organized thrift with insanely low prices. A seasoned thrifter looks at a $10 dress and complains that prices are rising! Not here though, I scored a pair of virgin loafers, broken in hiker boots(in photo) and a winter vest for $9.50. What! The entire weekend was basically lounging, eating, cooking, repeat. Also, admiring the beauty of the mountains and lake. My lungs really enjoyed inhaling the frigid mountain air.

Reminiscent of the 90's

2011-12-12T22:43:00.003-05:00

After flipping through these photos, all I could think of was Claire Danes in My So Called Life. And that made me happy. The hiker boots(bought them for $2 at the thrift store here), the backpack, and oversized sweater scream 90's. It developed so naturally, though. This may be my uniform this winter. Well, it was a gorgeous day by the lake with a little snow lingering.
Next stop: the fireplace!

Two Parties, One Night on a bike

2011-12-10T15:54:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, I battle with riding my bike everywhere. So this evening I convinced myself to bike with the compromise of bussing home. These promises are persuading, but the outcome is usually something quite different. It's an internal struggle the entire ride home. I accuse myself of being a sissy for considering the bus. Truthfully, biking to fashion events creates this tough persona. I actually feel cooler. It's my best attempt toward it, anyway.

The temperature was in the 30's and I wasn't thrilled about biking, but the other options were complicated. The bus is unreliable and the routes confuse me. Each metro stop is an inconvenient mile distance. The last option would be driving, but parking and traffic were a major deterrent. I tucked my palazzo pants into my leg warmers, slid into my TOMS, brought my heels, and bundled up and embraced the cold.

Hope that was a laugh. There were some questioning looks from the passers-by.

The schedule for the night was Fly Girl Blog's 5th birthday party at Anthropologie. Also, La Petite Marmoset Holiday Lookbook celebration. Neither one could be missed. It was questionable if I would make it when I was sandwiched between a party bus and a car right before arriving to Anthropologie! I brushed death's door. It's incomprehensible that I wasn't harmed. I envisioned these vehicles smashing my body. Seriously. During this incident, I was angry I might miss such an exciting night due to some idiot's negligence! Unharmed and impatient, I arrived fashionably late. Right on schedule.

What a sweet, fly hostess! Thanks, Andrea.

Colorer blocking at it's finest! Hot Italian booties.

Brie's fur scarf is the perfect accessory for the winter. I loved this chic, simple style.

Dana is the master at pattern mixing! And they are all her own creations. I can only dream of styling my hair like that. See more of Dana here.

I respect any lady who rocks green lips!

Caught in action wearing a bold Indian print poncho.

Always layered in the most unique vintage, I admired her camera bag and mink fur.

Event No. 2 at Violet Boutique with La Petite Marmoset.

photo courtesy of Be Loud Be You

Katherine, the designer behind LPM is beaming and beautiful. The collaboration with The President Wears Prada, Spicy Candy DC and A Lacey Perspective did not disappoint. Check out the Lookbook.

Created by Denisio herself, a killer gem skirt which reminded me of an upgraded version of bedazzle.

La Petite Marmoset's pieces are available at Violet Boutique and online.

Quite the transformation from the first picture. I adjusted my outfit outside before joining the party. More curious stares. All for fashion.

Orange you glad it's winter?

2011-12-08T07:31:00.000-05:00

Last year I decided shorts and tights were acceptable. For some reason I was completely opposed to the combinaiton. It's seemed so contrary. Clearly, fashion isn't always practical. It's about expression and art. Not prancing around in sensible apparel, but choosing an outfit that reflects your mood and maybe the weather. With just a few days together, this cardigan is quickly becoming a regular . And hats, hats, hats. I've always been a lover of hats since I was a wee girl. They are so fun!

P. S. Am I really wearing shorts in December? I thought moving back North nothing but my finger would be exposed this winter. Seems this season can't be trusted.

A Buffalo Recap

2011-12-07T07:34:00.000-05:00

The weekend kicked off with lots of traffic and failure to upload music and audiobooks. Seems it was a major road trip fail. But after long hours of trekking through the mountains, I stretched my legs and greeted the cold with pleasure.

Nestled in a Rochester neighborhood was an incredible vegetarian restaurant called The Owl House. The ambiance was just my style: cute, local art, select local brews, and tatted hipsters, who were, in fact nice! Shocking, I know. We shared our food which included: a flatbread pizza topped with seitan, a lentil burger, nachos loaded with cheese, avocado, & tofu! and crispy fish tacos. For dessert, it was yule log and cranberry rhubarb! Sublime. Everything was fresh and delish!

Green peppers stuffed with rice, beans and "meat". Normally, I don't prefer fake meat, but this combination was excellent. The cheese completed the dish.

And, yes, we ran a race. A 5K in fact. It was a brisk morning, but we warmed up quickly.

Did a little Christmas shopping and snagged these for myself. Hit the jackpot at Urban Outfitters. Both of these items for $20! I have been eyeing those palazzos for a while and almost bought them at full price. Patience is key.

The trip concluded with a shortage in gas! Unbeknownst to me, the gas light was broken. I realize quickly, I need fuel fast. As I'm approaching the exit for gas station, the car begins jerking and after a gallant attempt, dies. With no other choice, I reach for my sneakers and decide to sprint to the gas station, grab a gas can, and sprint back. Fortunately, some fine country folk offer a ride and I return quickly. The remaining 6 hours were uneventful. I did however, manage to stream netflix! I love technology.

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Buffalo Bound

2011-12-01T07:37:00.000-05:00

It's here! Finally, the day I've been anticipating for over a year. A road trip to Buffalo, New York! It's been quite some time since the last one. You must be thinking what Buffalo has to offer other than frostbite and the General Mills plant. And it only seems cool because the state shares the first two words of the city. The similarities end there. So why then would I subject myself to traveling upstate in the nearly-winter time? Only for two of my favorite ladies. It happens rarely; but it's the highlight of my year. This weekend guarantees the following: we will cook/bake through the pantry/fridge, exercise until we collapse, laugh until our stomach hurts, finish each other's sentences and sandwiches, and an ongoing photo shoot. The rest is a mystery. Soon to be discovered. Will report back.

Here's a few photos from last time.

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Thanksgiving Recap

2011-11-27T00:13:00.000-05:00

{BUTTERNUT SQUASH WITH APPLES & BALSAMIC GLAZE}

{ROASTED BRUSSEL SPROUTS}

Don't forget the pie!

Maci loves the camera.

More pie!

It's all about the pie!

This little girl wants her pie, too! {darling niece, Lucia}

Looking dapper, Jeremy.

Thanksgiving involved a birthday, birthday pancakes, cooking, eating, playing, family, children, dogs, Wii dancing(after food, my favorite part. Sorry, family!), a tea party and lastly the dread of working on Black Friday., which wasn't too awful.

It was the first time in four years I've been with my family for Thanksgiving. Man, did I miss it!
I cooked half the day and ate the other half. I didn't eat the day. How clever you are! Never reached the limit that is demobilizing, which is an accomplishment on Thankgiving. And to keep a healthy appetite, we played Wii Just Dance, which is my new obsession. Unfortunately, no photo documentation. Maybe not so unfortunate for me. I'm sure it would be a good laugh for you.

And about the outfit, can you guess my favorite part? That's right-the shoes. What did you think I would say? These shoes sent me into a state of pure bliss. The perfect blend of wild yet chic. These killer Leifsdottir babies were the steal of the year. The original $300 shoes were purchased for a mere $40! Are you gobsmacked? Indeed. This purchase began a new holiday tradition- a Thanksgiving present.

In closing, I was so grateful to share this holiday with my family again. Sometimes, we forget how wonderful life is. Aw, shucks, these folks are simple grand!