Fabulous Florida Mommy

Weekly Recap

2012-01-29T06:05:00.000-05:00

Sunday: Weekly Recap

Monday: Inspiration: Enjoy Life

Tuesday: You Look Very Familiar...Have I Seen You Some Place Before?

Wednesday: J.Crew Promo-Priced {aka Already Marked Down} Items Receive 40% Off Today

Thursday: A Little This, A Little That...

Friday: Etsy Seller Spotlight: 'Livable Style'

Saturday: Yes Please!!!

xoxo,

Yes Please!!!

2012-01-28T15:15:00.000-05:00

Kate Spade New York Anchors Away pendant necklace

How absolutely adorable is this necklace? I love how dainty and feminine it is, plus the little anchor is just way too cute! Love, love, love!!! :)

xoxo,

Etsy Seller Spotlight: 'Livable Style'

2012-01-27T06:17:00.001-05:00

Today is the first post in a new series here on the Fabulous Florida Mommy blog, called the 'Etsy Seller Spotlight'. In case you aren't yet familiar with Etsy, it is an online site where you can buy unique handmade and vintage items directly from independent sellers around the world.

After purchasing an apron (which I blogged about in this post) from Etsy at the beginning of January, I began to do more window shopping on the site and to my delight, discovered that there are a LOT of women making beautiful and unique items out there! I mean, I always knew that there were a lot of sellers with shops on Etsy, but hadn't spent much time on there until recently. Trust me when I say there is a lot to see, and a lot of women making and/or selling lovely merchandise. I feel they should be given a little bit of 'spotlight' and that is why I decided to begin my 'Etsy Seller Spotlight' series.

The 'Spotlight' today is on the Etsy shop Livable Style and seller Cortney, who is the designer and creator of a delightful line of handmade home decor and accessories. Her shop is currently featuring The Dressy, The Mini Dressy, and The Mini Jet Setter, which are stylish and functional hanging jewelry storage and accessory organizers. I had the chance to chat with Cortney and asked her to tell us a little bit more about herself:

"I live in Beaverton, Oregon, a city right outside of Portland. My husband and I enjoy spending as much time in the outdoors as possible. The forest, ocean, and mountains are so beautiful here, and are such an inspiration to me. My background in interior design and love of art has helped me realize my dream of creating home products. I started Livable Style as a way to incorporate accessories, organizing, and a bit of fashion to provide unique items that are not only functional, but also beautiful. I am currently designing fun new accessories, and will have those on Etsy soon!”

I had the opportunity to try out The Dressy this past week and have thoroughly enjoyed using it. What is The Dressy, you ask? Cortney describes it on her site for us:

"The Dressy hanging organizer is a unique and pretty way to keep your jewelry and accessories organized, while saving space. Each piece is carefully handcrafted using the highest quality materials so you can enjoy your Dressy organizer for many years to come. I have designed every organizer to be unique by selecting beautiful fabric prints and decorative trims that will coordinate with your individual style.

Your organizer will be made with fabric on one side. The reverse side is solid black with black trim. This item will be available to ship in two weeks.

The Dressy is reversible with clear vinyl pockets on one side and hook and loop closures on the other. The sturdy swivel hanger makes it easy to access either side. Keep your smaller items like rings, pins, earrings, watches, and hair clips safe and easy to find in the clear pockets. Your necklaces, scarves, and belts will stay tangle free in the hook and loop closures.

Hang this in your closet, or show off your fabulous collection on your wall. There are so many uses - jewelry, accessories, makeup, crafts, sewing notions, beading supplies… They make wonderful gifts too!

- Size: 19” wide x 43 ½” high x 1 ½” thick

- 6 large clear vinyl pockets: 5 ¾” wide x 5” high

- 32 small clear vinyl pockets: 4” wide x 3” high

- 29 hook and loop closures

- Reversible design on fabric covered metal hanger

- 100% Cotton fabric body

I also asked Cortney how she came up with the idea and design for the dressy and here's what she had to say:

"Like many women, I had all of my jewelry in a drawer. My necklaces were tangled, I couldn’t even tell what jewelry I had in there most of the time. It was a mess! I had always seen fabric organizers but thought they were plain and didn’t hold enough. So I thought I would make one myself, and went to work creating! I wanted it to be unique, coordinate with my bedroom, hold all of my jewelry, and not take up too much valuable space in my small closet. I now have all of my jewelry organized on my Dressy and hanging in my closet."

I have been using my Dressy to store my jewelry (instead of my silver J.Crew boxes, jewelry box, and jewelry corkboard) all week long and have been so pleased at the ease of finding the pieces I want to wear with my outfit each day. No more looking in each box to find a pair of earrings, or in my drawer to find a watch or bracelet...now I just walk to my Dressy and pull out what I need immediately, since it is right there in plain view. I snapped some photos so you can see what my Dressy looks like.

Love the way it came packaged...

I chose the Black and White Damask fabric since it coordinates so well with the Black and White Toile in our Master Bedroom.

The other side...

With my bits and baubles...

and my necklaces.

From my photos you can see what I mean about the ease of finding the pieces. No more 'treasure hunting' in order to finish getting ready...everything is in plain view and easily accessible. :)

Cortney has additional jewelry storage and organizers in her Etsy shop here. Stop in and have a look...there are many lovely things to see. :)

That concludes the debut post for my new series 'Etsy Seller Spotlight'...I hope you've enjoyed it.

As, always...thank you for stopping by! Have a lovely day! :)

xoxo,

A Little This, A Little That...

2012-01-26T05:07:00.000-05:00

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Talk about an absolute 'You Had Me At Hello...' moment for me! That is exactly the way I felt when I laid my eyes on this photo from the Christian Dior Spring 2012 Couture line. This dress is so gorgeous and absolutely something I would love to wear if I had the lifestyle and means to do so.

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Speaking of gorgeous...this vintage Lanvin c.1954 dress is absolutely stunning! Still 'In Vogue', it could easily be worn to a party or special event now. I know that I, for one, would love wear it. :)

A personal 'go to' item in my wardrobe arsenal is the Instant Button® For Jeans by KTR. I originally blogged about them here back in August of 2010, and have been using them ever since. Most of my pants and jeans end up being too large at the waist because I have to size up one to fit my hip/thigh area. I used to either wear a belt or have them tailored to fit until I discovered the Instant Button® which acts like a 'temporary tailor', allowing me to adjust the waistband of my jeans/pants to fit perfectly...no needle and thread required. They were invented by Dana Hanh Contey, who writes on her website:

"I am the mom inventor of the patent pending Instant Button®. Instant Button® is the original removable and reusable button that allows you to add or reduce your pants size instantly for that tailored fit, without requiring a belt or an alteration.

I designed the Instant Button® to solve the common problems that impact the waistline and therefore, the fit of the waistband. Whether you lose weight; you gained weight; you have that embarrassing gap in the back, or a missing button, the Instant Button® is your solution. No sewing needed.

No matter the situation, with Instant Button® is your solution. You will never need to use a safety pin for a perfect fit, again!

With thanks and kind regards,

Dana Hanh Contey

Mom Inventor & Founder"

If you have the same problem with the fit of the waist on your jeans and pants like I do, then definitely give these a try...highly recommend! :)

I've been doing some window shopping on the ASOS website recently and discovered that they still carry one of the bags I reviewed here in September 2010. It's the Quilted Lock Across Body Bag available now in colors 'Nude', White and Black. I own the bag in the color 'Mink' seen here:

You can see my entire review with more photos in this post.

A reminder that you can save 20% when you spend $75 on clothing, shoes & accessories for the whole family now through Saturday, 1.28.12 at Target.com (click here to shop), and it appears that most of the eligible merchandise also qualifies for Free Shipping, as well.

My picks:

*Merona® Womens Faux Wrap Dress

*Merona® Womens Ruffle Wrap Dress

*Merona® Womens Printed Faux Wrap Dress

*Merona® Womens Pleated Front Dress

*Merona® Womens Essential Cardigan Sweater - Assorted Prints

Sunset last evening...

Last night's dessert...Chocolate Mud Cake with French Vanilla Ice Cream.

This recipe comes from a cookbook put together by some lovely ladies at a local church and it is absolutely delicious!

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
6 T. butter
2 oz. semi-sweet chocolate (or 1/3 cup chocolate chips- I used milk chocolate chips)
2/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup baking cocoa (powder)
3 T. backing cocoa (powder)
1 T. vanilla extract
1/4 tsp. salt
1/3 cup milk
1 egg yolk
1 1/2 cups hot water
Whipped Cream or ice cream

Directions:

Coat the inside of a 2.5 to 5-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. (Note: the cake's cooking time and final appearance will vary depending on your crock's size.)
Whisk together the flour and baking powder in a medium bowl and set aside.
In a large bowl, melt the butter and chocolate in the microwave or over a pan of simmering water and mix well.
Whisk in the 2/3 cup of sugar, 3 tablespoons of cocoa, vanilla extract, salt, milk, and egg yolk.
Add the flour mixture and stir until thoroughly mixed.
Pour the batter into the slow cooker and spread it evenly.
In a medium bowl, whisk the 1/3 cup sugar, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup cocoa powder, and hot water until the sugar is dissolved.
Pour the mixture over the batter in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on high for 1.25 to 2.25 hour, depending on the size of the crockpot.

Even when done, the cake will be very moist and 'floating' on a layer of molten chocolate (which I poured on the ice cream). You'll know it's ready when nearly all of the cake is set and the edges begin to pull away from the sides of the pot. (As you check, try not to let the condensed steam from the lid drip onto the cake.)

Turn off the power, remove the lid, and let it cool for 25 minutes. Serve in bowls topped with whipped cream or ice cream. Makes 6 to 8 servings.

What have you been up to lately? Are you planning to take advantage of the promo at Target? Shopped at ASOS recently? Tried any new dessert recipes lately? Please do share...I'd love to hear from you! :)

xoxo,

J.Crew Promo-Priced {aka Already Marked Down} Items Receive 40% Off Today

2012-01-25T07:57:00.001-05:00

As most of you already know, J.Crew is offering 40% off Final Sale with code OURTREAT at checkout (extra % off deal ends today). There are currently many Promo-priced items (aka already marked down items) on the website that are also eligible for the extra % off (making them an even better deal) plus they are NOT Final Sale...yay! I have noted the majority of them here:

*Natasha top in wildcat

*Scalloped lace shell

*Hacking jacket in herringbone

*Aubrey jacket in pinstripe Super 120s

*Aubrey jacket in wool crepe

*1035 jacket in wool gabardine

*1035 jacket in wool crepe

*New élan trouser in Super 120s

*Belstaff® Liss blazer

*Ruthie dress in silk taffeta

*Melanie dress in silk organza

*Principessa dress in lace and organza

*Arabelle long dress in silk taffeta

*Classic café capri

*Everyday chino

*Bootcut jean in classic rinse wash

*Bootcut jean in pitch black wash

*Classic flare jean in jezebel wash

*Trouser jean in classic rinse wash

*Billie short buckle boots

*Ryder boots

*Ryder short buckle boots

*Converse® distressed Jack Purcell® sneakers

*Suede shearling-lined MacAlister boots

*Newsstand tote in leopard suede

*Feathered crystal necklace

*Solid watch strap

Have a lovely day and Happy Shopping! :)

xoxo,

You Look Very Familiar...Have I Seen You Some Place Before?

2012-01-24T00:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone! I hope you're having a great week so far! It's time for another edition of *You Look Very Familiar...Have I Seen You Some Place Before?*, so let's get started! :)

J.Crew Lana Cami

*Solid Pleated Tank

J.Crew Rowboat Dress

*Striped Ponte Dress

J.Crew Hacking jacket in tipped double-serge wool

*Color-tipped Blazer

J.Crew Classic leather ballet flats

*Bow ballet flat

The Bayberry print that J.Crew offered in 2010 on a the washed-wool scarf

and the Flouncette blouse

reminds me of the print on THIS cardigan at Target.

J.Crew Cailey Cord Trouser

*Flare Leg Corduroy Pants

J.Crew 'Vintage' Cashmere Shrunken Polka-dot Cardigan

*Polka-dot Cardigan

Blumarine Leopard Print Pencil Skirt

*Leopard Print skirt

Tory Burch 'Abitha' Flip Flop Sandal

*'Farley' Sandal

Stella McCartney Kelly Wool-twill skirt

*Skirt with Front Pleat

If you have a *Familiar Find* you would like to share, please feel free to email it to me: FabulousFloridaMommy@cfl.rr.com.

That's it for this week's edition...I hope you've enjoyed it!

Have a lovely day! :)

xoxo,

Inspiration: Enjoy Life

2012-01-23T00:00:00.001-05:00

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xoxo,

Weekly Recap

2012-01-22T00:00:00.002-05:00

Sunday: Weekly Recap

Monday: Inspiration: Happiness

Tuesday: You Look Very Familiar...Have I Seen You Some Place Before?

Wednesday: NEWYOU Promo at Piperlime, Banana Republic, GAP, and Old Navy

Thursday and Friday: A Little This, A Little That...

Saturday: Love This...

xoxo,

Love This...

2012-01-21T00:00:00.001-05:00

Shala Monroque

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xoxo,

A Little This, A Little That...

2012-01-19T12:00:00.022-05:00

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Love this photo...Jackie's dress is so pretty and feminine. It actually reminds me of this one from Milly that is one of several dresses on my spring wishlist.

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The Rummage Sale this past weekend went well, and it's nice to finally have all that extra 'stuff' out of my house. In the process of cleaning out, I came across a tote filled with some of my childhood memorabilia that my mother saved for me many, many years ago. Included in it were several Barbies, a Ken doll, and plenty of clothing to go along with them, as well as the doll case. I do admit to playing with Barbies as a young girl...had the dream house, corvette, pool, and much more. Anyone else a Barbie fan in your younger years? If so, do you still have any of your Barbies?

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I placed an order for my favorite lipstick this week from Barneys New York. If you would love to wear red lipstick, but have perhaps felt that you cannot pull it off, or that your skin tone is too ruddy, then you should give this one a try. (Shipping is FREE at Barneys, btw).

We are big fans of Doctor Who at our house and have been watching for many years now. Any other Doctor Who fans out there? The tenth Doctor, played by David Tennant is my personal favorite so far...love the way he portrayed the character. Do you have a favorite 'Doctor'?

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Related trivia...I recently read that he was married on December 30, 2011 to Georgia Moffett, who many of you fans may remember played the Doctor's cloned daughter Jenny back in 2008. (Her father Peter Davidson had played the fifth Time Lord (Doctor Who) from 1982 to 1984, as well.) David and Georgia have a daughter named Olive who was born in March 2011 and they appear to be very happy together...here's wishing them many years of wedded bliss! :)

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You can save 20% when you spend $75 on clothing, shoes & accessories for the whole family now through 1.28.12 at Target.com (click here to shop), and it appears that most of the eligible merchandise also qualifies for Free Shipping, as well.

My picks:

*Merona® Womens Faux Wrap Dress

*Merona® Womens Ruffle Wrap Dress

*Timex Weekender

*Merona® Womens Pleated Front Dress

*Merona® Womens Essential Cardigan Sweater - Assorted Prints

Scones are a 'Family Favorite' when it comes to breakfast in our home. I have tried several different versions so far, and the one my boys' especially like are Chocolate Chip Scones. They are very delicious, filling, and easy to make:

Ingredients:

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup white sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
5 tablespoons butter, chilled and cubed
1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
3 tablespoons orange juice

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. With a pastry blender or a large fork, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chocolate chips. Mix in the orange juice to form a dough.

Turn out the dough on a floured surface. Pat or roll into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick, and with a biscuit cutter or knife, cut out 12 scones. I like to spread some butter on the dough and sprinkle with a bit of sugar, but this step is completely optional. Transfer the scones to the baking sheet.

Bake in preheated oven until golden brown, about 12 minutes. Move to wire racks to cool a bit before serving. (We spread butter on ours before eating, but once again...this step is completely optional.)

What have you been up to lately? Are you doing any sale shopping? Does your family have a favorite breakfast food or meal? Please do share...I'd love to hear from you! :)

xoxo,

NEWYOU Promo at Piperlime, Banana Republic, GAP, and Old Navy

2012-01-18T00:00:00.002-05:00

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I had not planned on writing a promo or sale watch post this week, but there are so many lovely items available with the NEWYOU promo going on at Piperlime, Banana Republic, GAP, and Old Navy that I decided to go ahead and share my personal picks today. :)

Promo Details:

Piperlime:

*Tinley Road Bleeker Blazer

*Tinley Road Star Print Drapey Blazer

*Milly Lettie Dress. I am in love with this print and the silhouette of this dress is so feminine and flattering.

*Jack Rogers Navajo Sandal. I own these in Silver and plan on purchasing another color this year. They are incredibly comfortable and very cute on, too.

*La Canadienne May boots. Such a fabulous deal on these with the promo!

Banana Republic:

*Zoey Striped Wrap Dress. I saw this one on the mannequin at BR over the weekend and it was adorable. I have ordered this one for myself and really look forward to receiving it. :)

*Modern Sleek A-line skirt. I ordered this one in black the week before last but had to exchange for a smaller size, which I expect to arrive later on today. The skirt reminds me of the Sterling skirt from J.Crew (which I absolutely love), but in a lighterweight fabric that will be perfect for spring and summer. The skirt is well-made and worth the price with this promo, IMO.

*Ashley bow ballet flat. So adorable and the reviews are excellent! I have been searching for a comfortable and cute pair of black ballet flats for awhile now to fill a definite void in my wardrobe, so I ordered these earlier this morning. Fingers crossed they work out for me! :)

*Faceted drop earring. Adorable...love the way they look on the 'model'.

*Color-tipped blazer

GAP:

*Striped ponte dress

*Printed Pleated Tank

*Bright ponte blazer. Such fun colors...love the 'pomegranate juice', especially!

*Dot print scarf

*Contrast piping crossbody bag

Old Navy:

*Western Chambray Shirts. Great price and quality on this shirt...very nice IRL.

*Chiffon Maxi Skirts. Love the print on the 'Caspian Sea Blue'.

*Linen-Blend Blazers

*Printed Blanket-Wrap Cardigans

*Variegated Multi-Stripe Scarf

Remember that shipping and returns are always FREE at Piperlime and orders of $50+ ship for FREE at the other 3 stores. Also, if you have a Piperlime item included in your order along with items from any of the other 3 stores, then the order automatically ships for FREE, as well.

Are you planning on taking advantage of the NEWYOU promo at the '4 Stores'? Have you already placed an order? Do you own any items you would recommend? Please do share...I always love to hear from you!

Have a lovely day and Happy Shopping! :)

xoxo,

You Look Very Familiar...Have I Seen You Some Place Before?

2012-01-17T00:00:00.007-05:00

Hello Everyone! I hope you're having a great week so far! It's time for another edition of *You Look Very Familiar...Have I Seen You Some Place Before?*, so let's get started! :)

J.Crew Nolita Denim Jacket

*Denim Jacket

Anthropologie Cissus Button-Up, Gingham

*Check Western Pocket shirt

J.Crew Navy Schoolboy Blazer

*Chic Two Button Jacket

J.Crew Liquid Dot skirt

*Polka Dot Skirt

J.Crew Sequin-shell Jacket

*Sequin Shawl Collar Blazer

J.Crew Flamenco-dot Popover

*Polka Dots Slub Tee

This Textured Sheath Dress that LOFT offered a couple years ago reminds me of...

*THIS dress from Milly.

Banana Republic Polka-dot Cardigan

*Polka Dot Cardigan

J.Crew Edie Purse

*Top-Handle Bag

J.Crew Blouson Dress in Polka-dot

*Midi Dress in Spot

A big THANK YOU goes to JulieStyles (check out her blog here) for sharing the next 'Familiar Find' with us:

J.Crew Valentina Slingbacks

*'Janice' Pump

Thanks again JulieStyles! Btw, if you have a *Familiar Find* you would like to share, please feel free to email it to me: FabulousFloridaMommy@cfl.rr.com.

That's it for this week's edition...I hope you've enjoyed it!

Have a lovely day!

xoxo,

Inspiration: Happiness

2012-01-16T00:00:00.001-05:00

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xoxo,

Weekly Recap

2012-01-15T00:00:00.003-05:00

Sunday: Weekly Recap

Monday: Inspiration: 50 Life Lessons...

Tuesday: You Look Very Familiar...Have I Seen You Some Place Before?

Wednesday: In Love With...Dotted Dresses

Thursday and Friday: A Little This, A Little That...

Saturday: Yes Please!!!

xoxo,

Yes Please!!!

2012-01-14T00:00:00.004-05:00

Kate Spade New York 'Pippa' Dress

How incredibly adorable is this dress? The floral print, full-skirt, and ruffle hem are so pretty and feminine...love, love, love!!! Another addition to my spring wishlist. :)

xoxo,

A Little This, A Little That...

2012-01-12T00:00:00.006-05:00

How gorgeous is this photo of Grace Kelly? Such effortless Style and Glamour...I long for a return to the days of 'Old Hollywood Glamour' where people actually 'dressed' for events (traveling on a plane, parties, church, etc.), made an effort on their appearance, and most importantly were well-groomed.

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Speaking of Glamour...how is this as a follow-up to my In Love With...Dotted Dresses post? I came across this photo of Elizabeth Taylor in a polka-dotted dress...absolutely stunning! Her beauty never ceases to amaze and astound me...

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I am still cleaning, sorting, and decluttering in preparation for my rummage sale this coming weekend. It has been a slow going process, but I am getting it done little by little, at least, and all rooms are done in the house except for the master bedroom and bath. I hope to complete both of them today if all goes well. :)

If you haven't already heard, there are some New Arrivals added to the J.Crew website. You can check them out here...let me know what you think. I'm not planning on much shopping right now, but I do think the Gimlet skirt in Coastal stripe (not a new arrival today though) is pretty cute and would like to give it a try. Has anyone seen this or tried it on IRL? I'd love to hear what you think about it. :)

Thanks to Royaltygirl (check out her fabulous blog here), I am now following Kate Spade New York on Pinterest. The company recently joined and has 8 colorful boards of inspiration right here. I also have my own Pinterest inspiration boards and would love for you to join me. You can either click through the 'Follow Me on Pinterest' tab in the right sidebar, or simply click here to find me. :)

This Chocolate Wasted Cake is one of the recipes I found on Pinterest recently...this has to be a chocolate lover's ultimate dream cake! I haven't tried it personally, but if you're interested in making one yourself, you can find the complete recipe here.

Here are a few photos taken on our recent trip to Legoland Florida with our Homeschool Group. My boys absolutely LOVE Legos and are quite the little 'master builders' themselves. I'm sure you can imagine how thrilled they were to visit the 'Land of Legos'...it was really a very fun-filled day, and we look forward to another visit soon.

Speaking of Legos...I found these little characters hanging on the door handle of my frig when I went to fix lunch one day last week...they are part of the Lego Pharoahs Quest. We are studying Egypt in our lessons this year, so these Lego guys (and their sets) were one of the items on the boys' Christmas lists.

Remember this Milly Dress from my You Had Me At Hello... post last week? Well, it also comes in this beautiful Grass Green...I really love the pink included on the dress. (Pink and Green is one of my favorite color combinations). The Lourdes Tank dress is high on my wishlist for spring...now I'm just not sure which color to get. What are your thoughts?

Tuesday was my second-born son's 8th birthday. It seems like just yesterday that he was a baby and now he's riding his little dirt bike...time really does pass by so quickly.

So what have you been up to lately? Have you checked out the new arrivals at J.Crew? Do you ever visit Pinterest for inspiration or recipes? Have you found any good sales or deals recently? Please do share...I'd love to hear from you! :)

xoxo,

In Love With...Dotted Dresses

2012-01-11T00:00:00.002-05:00

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Ever since posting this photo of Viviana Volpicella here back in November of last year, I have been searching for a similar dress to wear with my own leopard calf-hair pumps. So far I haven't found 'The One', but thought I would share some of the polka-dot dresses I have come across during my quest. Which one is your favorite?

I am seriously contemplating this one to wear with sandals this coming spring...

xoxo,

You Look Very Familiar...Have I Seen You Some Place Before?

2012-01-10T00:00:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone! I hope you're having a great week so far! It's time for another edition of *You Look Very Familiar...Have I Seen You Some Place Before?*, so let's get started! :)

J.Crew Shrunken Sequin Cardigan

*Sequin Front Merino Wool Cardigan

J.Crew Denim vest in workwear wash

*Denim Vest

Marc by Marc Jacobs Hot Dot Blouse

*Sleeveless Dot Blouse

J.Crew Jules Dress in Wildcat

*'Ugola'

J.Crew Watercolor Floral Schoolgirl skirt

*Perlina Rose Party skirt

J.Crew Cashmere Martine Cardigan

*Colorblock Crop Cardigan

J.Crew Maritime-stripe blazer

*Barbara Striped knit blazer

J.Crew Sterling Skirt

*Modern Sleek a-line skirt

A big THANK YOU goes to Gigi of Gigi's Gone Shopping for sharing the next 'Familiar Find' with us:

J.Crew Merino Cambon Cardigan

*Contrast Cable Knit Cardigan

**If you have a *Familiar Find* you would like to share, please feel free to email it to me: FabulousFloridaMommy@cfl.rr.com.

That's it for this week's edition...I hope you've enjoyed it!

Have a lovely day!

xoxo,

Inspiration: 50 Life Lessons...

2012-01-09T00:00:00.003-05:00

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.

17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today.

18. A writer writes. If you want to be a writer, write.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Overprepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

36. Growing old beats the alternative - dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.

38. Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

41. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

42. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

44. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

45. The best is yet to come.

46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

48. If you don't ask, you don't get.

49. Yield.

50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

Author: Regina Brett

The 45 were originally published in The Plain Dealer on Sunday, May 28, 2006 then updated on September 20, 2007 with the 5 to *grow on*.

***I've posted this one before, but feel it's worth repeating. :)

Have a lovely day! :)

xoxo,

Weekly Recap

2012-01-08T00:00:00.010-05:00

Sunday: Happy New Year!, Weekly Recap, and Sunday Shopping: Kate Spade Outlet Printable Coupon {Plus Another One Of My Own 'Fabulous Finds' At The Kate Spade Outlet Store}

Monday: Inspiration: Don't Look Back...

Tuesday: You Look Very Familiar...Have I Seen You Some Place Before?

Wednesday: You Had Me At Hello...

Thursday and Friday: A Little This, A Little That...

Saturday: Love This...

xoxo,

Love This...

2012-01-07T00:00:00.000-05:00

(Source)

I think this is such a fun 'Casual Chic' look! I especially love the mix of the Leopard and Hawaiian prints...fabulous! :)

The outfit looks comfortable to wear and fairly easy to re-create, as well. I'm pretty sure the shirt is from Madewell and can be seen/purchased here. I haven't yet identified the skirt or clutch, but there is a pretty skirt at Anthropologie that could be substituted and this bag or this bag (both from J.Crew) could work in place of the clutch in the photo.

This is a look I personally plan on re-creating to wear myself...love, love, love! :)

xoxo,

A Little This, A Little That...

2012-01-05T00:00:00.001-05:00

(Source)
My Christmas decorations came down on 1.2.12, and now I am in the process of cleaning out kitchen cupboards, all the closets in the house, underneath beds, etc., as I prepare for a Yard Sale that my friend and I are having the weekend after next. It feels good to once again de-clutter, especially after the Holidays...anyone else feel the same way?

(Source)
I am also concentrating on eating healthier and getting back into my routine of daily exercise after my 2 weeks of over indulging/no workouts during the Holidays. I don't know about you, but I find it incredibly frustrating when I can't fit properly into all of my clothes and that is where I am now. Determined to drop my 'holiday pounds' and regain my entire wardrobe I have been preparing homeade soups, vegetable juice (in my juicer), leafy green salads (with numerous other veggies added), and have also once again eliminated sweets and desserts from my diet.

The weather finally cooperated this week and made it actually feel like January for the past couple of days...yay! The boys and I have been enjoying the cooler temps, and have spent a good deal of time outside. I think that enjoying the outdoors is a great stress reliever and really good for the spirit, especially when the 'after-holiday' doldrums or gloomies show up like they have for me this year.

Even though we have had a couple of winter-like days, I have to say that at this point I am just about ready to give up on many more cold days this year. I have resigned myself to a warm winter and the fact that my jackets and coats won't be getting much use this year. As of right now I am ok with that and will just continue to enjoy temps in the 70's. :)

You may remember from my 'A Little This, A Little That' post last week that I had found this black leather mid-heel Mary Jane at Endless.com. Well, I want to let you know that I wore them out shopping last Sunday and they were very comfortable, not to mention very cute (much more so in person than the online pics). Highly recommend! :)

Kate Spade is offering 25% off Sale Items with code NEWYEAR25 at checkout. The Dorothy Leopard-print dress that I found at my local outlet store is part of the sale, and a couple of sizes are still available here.. This is the same dress that Kate (an assistant designer at J.Crew) was wearing in this photo on the 770/Behind The Line J.Crew blog. I loved the dress from the moment I saw it on Kate, so you can imagine that I am extremely pleased to now own it myself. :)

Piperlime is offering an additional 20% Off sale items with code LIME at checkout until tomorrow. Some great deals to be found...click here to shop. :)

A handful of my picks:

*Indigo by Clarks Buena Vista

*Tucker Pleated Skirt

*La Canadienne 'Bette' Boot

*Milly 'Linda' Shirtdress

*Frye Harlow Campus Boot

I had been searching for another pinafore apron and much to my delight, my friend DaniBP came across an Etsy seller who makes them and mentioned it in this post on her blog. The seller's shop is Terrace-Hill, which you can see HERE. My apron shipped very quickly and came packaged very nicely, as well.

The apron is pretty and made very well, the only thing I would prefer is that it had straps going down the back connecting it to the ties at the waist, like my other pinafore apron does. This one slips over your head and 'sits' just over your shoulders on your upper back. You can see an example of what I'm talking about here. Not a deal breaker for me, as I think the apron is lovely, but I would still prefer to find one with the straps over the shoulders like I mentioned previously...please chime in if you have any suggestions on where to get one.

So what have you been up to lately? Have you taken down your Holiday decorations? Have you done any after-Christmas sale shopping? Please do share! :)

xoxo,

You Had Me At Hello...

2012-01-04T00:00:00.000-05:00

Milly 'Lourdes Olivier' Printed Tank Dress

Dressed up with a pair of heels, or worn more casually with a pair of sandals...such a pretty and versatile dress! The colors, pattern, decorative buttons on the front bodice, and feminine silhouette are just so lovely. This one is high on my wishlist for spring...love, love, love! :)

xoxo,

You Look Very Familiar...Have I Seen You Some Place Before?

2012-01-03T00:00:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone! I hope you're having a great week so far! It's time for another edition of *You Look Very Familiar...Have I Seen You Some Place Before?*, so let's get started! :)

J.Crew Talitha Blouse

*'Marina' Silk top

J.Crew Café Capri in Bright Dahlia

*Stretch Cropped pants

Tory Burch Alexandra Cardigan

*Tiger Stripe Cardigan Sweater

J.Crew Martina Calf Hair Wedges

*'Allie' Calf Hair Wedge

J.Crew Langford leather high-heel oxfords

*'Paige' Oxford

Alice + Olivia Haven Colorblock Shift Dress

*Different colors, but still similar...'Boogie Board' Colorblock Sleeveless Dress

J.Crew Cluster Pearl Bracelet

*Chain with Charm

Michael Kors Large Gold Runway Watch

*Gold Round Case Bracelet Watch

Taylor Dresses Belted Twill Fit & Flare Dress

*Winter Waltz Dress

J.Crew Paddy high-heel loafers

*'Carlyle Tassel' Pump

**If you have a *Familiar Find* you would like to share, please feel free to email it to me: FabulousFloridaMommy@cfl.rr.com.

That's it for this week's edition...I hope you've enjoyed it!

Have a lovely day!

xoxo,

Inspiration: Don't Look Back...

2012-01-02T00:00:00.000-05:00

Don't Look Back...

You're Not Going That Way

As you travel through life
there are always those times
when decisions just
have to be made
when the choices are hard,
and solutions seem scarce
and the rain seems
to soak your parade!

There are some situations
where all you can do
is to simply let go and move on
gather courage together
and choose a direction
that carries you toward
a new dawn.

So pack up your troubles
and take a step forward
the process of change
can be tough
but think about all the
excitement ahead
if you can be stalwart enough!

There could be adventures
you never imagined
just waiting around the next bend
and wishes and dreams
just about to come true
in ways you can't
yet comprehend!

Perhaps you'll find friendships
that spring from new interests
as you challenge your status quo
and learn there are so many
options in life,
and so many ways you can grow!

Perhaps you'll go places
you never expected
and see things that
you've never seen
or travel to fabulous,
faraway worlds
and wonderful spots in between!

Perhaps you'll find warmth
and affection and caring-
a "somebody special"
who's there
to help you stay centered
and listen with interest
to stories and
feelings you share.

Perhaps you'll find comfort
in knowing your friends are
supportive of all that you do
and believe that whatever
decisions you make,
they'll be the right
choices for you!

So keep putting one foot
in front of the other
and taking your life
day by day.

There's a brighter tomorrow
that's just down the road.
Don't look back-
you're not going that way!

~~ Author Unknown ~~

*I've posted this one before, but felt it was worth posting again. Have a beautiful and blessed week! :)

xoxo,