Just fab

Tender is the night

2011-10-03T21:36:00.003-04:00

Well, time seems to a limited commodity these days, so I have done very little blogging. Then, between my computer not working, my camera deciding to act strange and shorter days and limited daylight, getting and posting any pictures has proven to be quite the feat! I'm wondering if it's a sign that I shouldn't be blogging?

So...here we have some very dark pictures from last week. I swear we started taking them before sunset, but it seems it must have been after?

But even dusk can't stop Ashton from being, well, Ashton! HAHA!

Shirt:thrifted/Skirt:H&M/Shoes:target/Necklace:The Shine Project/Bracelet:Gift/Ring:Ruche

Meanwhile, for the 100 day stretch I have continued not to shop despite the frequent e-mails I get from my favorite stores trying to lure me back! Sooooooo tempting! I also somehow managed to only pick up my moms prescriptions at Target over the weekend, this is a feat of extraordinary proportions! I can't enter Target without leaving with some sort of unnecessary clothing item for any member of my household or something for my home itself. Yes, I have virtually broken my own arm as I pat myself on the back! I'm really only having limited shopping withdrawal for which I am very grateful, and strangely enough I feel kind of liberated to not be plagued with either shopping desire or post-shopping guilt! At this rate, I may actually start to save money! whoa! You're right, let's not get too carried away yet.

The Most Beautiful Sound I ever Heard. Maria.

2011-10-02T20:57:00.000-04:00

I previously mentioned that you may be seeing some different faces around here. I know some incredible women...well, every woman I know is incredible, and I want to introduce you to some of them. In a world where we tend to focus on celebrity and fortune, I really want to see women who can be role models for my two girls (and me). So, let me introduce you to Maria.

Maria shielded from scorching TX sun. Dorman Pacific Co. hat from TJ Maxx.

For Cheryl
First off, I want to thank Cheryl for inviting me as a guest on her Just Fab
fashion blog. I see by her entries that this site is not only about looking
fabulous, but feeling fabulous too, sometimes despite feelings of inadequacy or
shortcomings.

I was asked to tell about who I am and what I believe. Wow! I had no idea how
difficult those questions would be to answer. What happened to easy questions
like, "What's your favorite color?" "Indigo, like the midnight sky, or green,
like the canopy of a tropical forest," I would have answered.

As you may have guessed from my would-be response, I love nature and am, in
fact, often wrapped in it's arms as I go about an active contemplative lifestyle
in response to local and personal needs. Now, on to Cheryl's questions.

Ring a little girl gave me off her birthday cake at a garden birthday party

Who am I?

Life is a journey in identifying who we are. Even at my age, I still often
struggle with the question of who I am. My mind too easily answers with recorded
responses originated by other people, which are no good because only we can ever
truly know ourselves, or worse yet, it sometimes auto-generates putdowns. The
question of who I am can be answered adequately only by first tapping my roots.

I was brought up by two women with a strong work ethic and an unwavering faith
in a higher power - both knew poverty, hope, hard labor, and ingenuity. With
their resources, those two women practiced charity and neighborliness, and thus
made very good role models.

My second set of role models were the Jesuits, the Sisters of Charity, the
Marianists, and the School Sisters of Notre Dame. These, along with a small
group of dedicated laity, were the parents that formally educated me and laid
the foundation for my global outlook.

In youth, my imagination was taken by nature and adventure. I fancied being like
St. Francis of Assisi, Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Indiana Jones, and McGyver,
but the first two were too saintly and fatalistic (what will be will be), and
the other two were too aggressive and ambitious. Instead, I chose the middle
road and dreamed about becoming a Peace Corps volunteer, which I did after my
first college degree.

In my life, I have been an aide and activist for different social causes, a
community educator, and a global advocate for the environment and the poor. Some
have described me as a Peace Worker - a title I believe accurately describes me,
no matter what my job title might be.

Maria @ Time Dollar Garden. Merona dress from Goodwill.Tiger's-Eye stone earrings & necklace from Avon.
Hello Kitty ring from HER birthday cake. Rafters sandals from Nordstrom Rack.
Artisan Women's Group recycled silk purse from Africa.
Foster Grant sunglasses from Walgreens.

What do I believe?

Life is also a journey in discovering what we stand for. Along with the question
of who I am, I have also struggled with the question of what I believe. The
world is filled both with marketers that vie for fertile mental ground to seed
for self-serving purposes, and false prophets that pave the road to catastrophe
through good intentions.

The journey in identifying my beliefs has recently led me to understand myself
as a mission oriented naturalist (or pantheist). This means that nothing in life
makes me happier than knowing my efforts and resources are benefitting not only
humanity, but the entire global system. I analyze my daily decisions to
determine global impact, and when I take on a job, I take it for it's ethical
uprightness, not for the money.

As you may have guessed by now, the majority of my life is spent living in
voluntary poverty because to live otherwise, in my opinion, would be unethical -
personal and social greed, in my experience, has a way of throwing the world off
balance. Experience has also taught me that interdependent (symbiotic)
relationships - in humanity, in nature, and across both - are the way to
restoring balance. Both people and nature (biotic or not) deserve respect
because we share kinship as global citizens.

I realize I may sound a little strange to most folks out there, but if you dig
my counter-cultural lifestyle and think it worthy of respect (or maybe even of
following), let me add this:
The road to self determining an identity can be laborious because one has to
sift through input and different schools of thought from multiple sources, and
lonesome because one defies going along with crowd mentality, which can leave
one feeling at the edge. This road less taken takes courage to follow, but it
builds strength of character, which is necessary to make a real difference in
the world. With that stated, I will conclude by saying this: Life just isn't
worth living unless your living on the edge. Discover who you are, discover what
you stand for ... and then go out and make a fabulous difference, whether in the
world at large, or in the life of an individual that really needs you.

Thanks for hosting me, Cheryl!

Cheers,
Maria

I mean wow...amazing woman right? I think she may be channeling one of her idols, Indiana Jones with her hat!
Look around you, you may be really inspired by the women you know.

Hello!

2011-09-27T20:49:00.000-04:00

Hi all! I have surprisingly little to say today...it was a long (though wonderful) day at work, followed by helping my mom out as she continues to recover from her surgery. Somehow, we squeezed in pictures, but that's about all I've got for you. Well that, and life is so exciting right now!

Skirt and Shoes:Kohl's/Long Sleeve Tee:J. Crew/Necklace, Earrings, Bangles, Belt:Target/Cuff: Ruche/Charm Bracelet: Lia Sophia

See how excited I am? I'm busting at the seams!

And look at how much my little "Monkey" adores me...I'm the luckiest!

10 and 2:A Recap

2011-09-26T17:35:00.001-04:00

Well my friends, I officially finished with the 10 and 2 challenge and am so happy that Megan started this. It was much fun and it's helping me to "trim some fat" from my closet. So, here is a run down, let's start with the items I am tossing!

You're Outta Here!

Say goodbye diaper pants! There will be no more mystery...I do not pee my pants yet!

Adieu to you, strange shaped top! No one will ask me my due date ever again!

You get a second chance to make me feel special!

Here are the items I'll be keeping

Yes, little white blouse...I have been reintroduced to your possibilities, you may stay!

You may be tight and low cut and have a lot going on, but the masses have saved you with votes to keep you in the closet...the flower, however will be removed! Weep not little friend, consider it as a face lift!

Sweet little birdies! You can stay...I don't know why I ever avoided you in the first place!

Lovely little dress, you may be too short, but I own tights and leggings...we can make it work!

I may look a little like Captain Jack Black in you pirate blouse, but you are a keeper! I will not be pairing you with a eye patch!

Slouchy sweater, I have decided I like you enough to keep you. Let's style on together!

??????

Little black flats with the bow, you may stay!

Blazer, you are an 11th item that was thrown into the mix as well...I am undecided as to your fate! Perhaps the masses(all 3 of them) will help me decide? hehe

Truth Be Told

2011-09-25T14:34:00.002-04:00

Since signing up for the 100 day stretch and participating in the 10 and 2 challenge, I started to reflect on my blog experience thus far. I started this blog a few months ago after stumbling onto fashion blogs last year. I've always loved clothes and being feminine and really believe that women should feel great about being women! I decided to try blogging on a whim as something fun to do. I've mentioned my 3 jobs I know, and in the course of my work which is my passion, I am often dealing with really complicated and heart breaking things...abuse, loneliness, bullying, lives controlled by people who hold extreme power over other human beings. At the end of the day, I want something light-hearted to pull me out of that world, and so was the genesis of this blog. It was meant to be a place where I could be me, talk about fun things and the reality of being a woman and wanting to feel my best and hopefully encourage others to accept themselves and embrace who they are.

It started out as a lot of fun! Then I started to add more and more blogs to my reading list, and realized the bulk of people reading fashion blogs are other fashion bloggers. Suddenly, I felt that I had to somehow "compete," and felt as though my style, which works just fine in Western Pennsylvania, wasn't enough. I added a few things to my closet to stay up to date and somewhere along the line in the process of trying to do something fun lost a little focus. In the past few weeks while doing the 10 and 2, when I wasn't actually trying to look "fashionable" I had fun again!

So, here is some truth. I am not a model...doing anything other than looking at the camera and smiling feels strange and looks preposterous on me, so I'm not going to be trying any of the "bloggy" poses, that work great for others and not so much on me.

I do not get free clothes nor will I ever and I'm not a full time blogger, nor will I ever be. It's great for those who make a career out of it, and I know they have worked really hard at it, but I live in a different world. In my world, I have to buy the things I wear and it will rarely look like something from the streets of Milan. The clothes I wear are what feel good to me, not what's trendy today and will be forgotten tomorrow, because frankly I can't afford to live like that!

That brings me to the 100 day stretch. I should be wearing what I've already got and be making the most of my closet! Isn't that what we all do most of the time? I can't pretend to live some glamorous life when I don't, everything I have I have struggled for and earned, it doesn't magically appear. Like most women, raising a family and working, I go from pay to pay hoping to make it. I can't pretend otherwise, or not be honest about finances.

Here is some honesty, we literally have about $50.00 to make it to our next pay right now! I just paid for my car to be fixed and will be stretching every penny over the next several days so that I can actually put gas in it to get to work! I'm not writing that for a pity party, it is simply the truth and that is the reality for most families nowadays!

Money is an uncomfortable topic, but I think some truth about finances is important. I don't work 3 jobs because I want to, I have to. I don't have credit cards because I ran up incredible debt when I was young in college and just finished paying it off. I now have school loans to pay back and regret going to grad. school, because now I'm just paying out more money than there is coming in.

Raising children is expensive! and, my children's needs come before mine. Sometimes, we have to postpone paying one bill to catch up on another....

So there it is, some cold hard truth about money. Again, this isn't written to start a pity party, I just couldn't live with myself if I weren't honest. I want to participate in something that makes me and others feel good, not inadequate or broke!

I want to get back to blogging fun and focusing on what most of us can do and who we are...not striving to be anything else but me in all my flawed fabulosity! I also want to start focusing on other women, who are living their lives with integrity and can be real role models for others, so expect to see some other faces beyond my own!

If you read all of this, thank you. If it was "too honest," I hope I haven't distressed you or pulled out a little too much reality on a Sunday afternoon! I'll be more perky again tomorrow...I really am a "perky" person!

2011-09-24T18:44:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I boldly pronounced that it was my last misfit...I fibbed, I'm throwing in a "bonus" item. Yup, just when you thought it was safe to return to fabland, I throw in more misfits!

Pants, Tee, Flats, Earrings, Gold Bangles:Target/Blazer and Silver Bangles: H&M/Necklace: Lia Sophia/Toggle Bracelet: Tiffany's

It's this blazer. It is really big, I mean, that's how it was designed, but when I brought it home and started wearing it, I discovered that I really "swim" in it. I also feel a little "Miami Vice", you know, Don Johnson and the rolled up sleeves on the odd bright blazers... I did wear my little black bow flats again today, and I have to say, even though the blazer is big, this was all easy to pull together and comfortable while I ran errands today. So I don't know..maybe I can make the blazer work? I have two items that I'm definitely donating after doing the 10 and 2..I'm not sure if I should add this to the pile?

The Final Misfit

2011-09-23T18:28:00.002-04:00

My day was spent at the hospital with my mom and sister. While my mom had surgery, my sister and I prowled hospital grounds, made fools of ourselves and garnered the occasional giggle from onlookers. What can I say, we are an amusing family! So pictures today were taken with my phone while we waited for mom in surgery.

The misfit is this sweater. It was an impulse buy while I shopped for my son's birthday over the summer. I saw it and thought how cute it would look with little short shorts at the end of summer. I forgot...I don't wear short shorts, and the world thanks me for it! So, since bringing it home, I think my daughter has worn it more than I.

Sweater:American Eagle/Dress (Worn as skirt) and Ring:Ruche/Scarf and Boots: Ross/Purse:Coach/Necklace:Lia Sophia/Watch:Eddie Bauer/Belt:Thrifted/Purple Tights, Gold Bangles and Wooden Bead Bracelet:Target/Silver Bangles:H&M

At first I wondered if this combination was a little too "busy," but I got tons of compliments from all the fabulous strangers at the hospital! Who woulda thunk it?

...And, to put any worries to rest, my mom is well. There she is being wheeled out of the hospital by my gorgeous sister. I know, you can't see her face, but look at that awesome balloon! It sings! We spotted it in the gift shop and had to get it for mom, it plays "I'll be there for you" the theme song from Friends! Before giving it to mom, my sister and I may have run around the hospital singing to it. What can I say, we're two year olds! Amazingly, that wasn't the worst, or most embarrassing thing we did today!

Aye Matey!

2011-09-22T16:59:00.000-04:00

While taking pictures today, Savannah kept referring to my blouse as "your pirate shirt"...wonder why it's my next misfit?

Blouse:Old Navy/Crop Pants:Ross/Shoes:The Shoe Dept./Earrings,Bracelet, Necklace: Lia Sophia

Not only does this blouse have a multitude of ruffles, but it also has a tie front...holy multiple trends combined batman! I actually like it...but it kinda reminds of that Seinfeld episode...ya know, the one with the shirt? Meanwhile, I think I want to wear these shoes everywhere everyday! I can't even stop at the gas station without getting buckets of compliments!

Don't forget to visit Megan!

Misfit #8:You can see right through me

2011-09-21T20:06:00.000-04:00

So, I can't say I don't like misfit #8. In fact I really like it, which is why I bought it this past summer, but I've only worn it once since that time because I'm not sure what to do with it.

I slipped the shirt on today with jeans and I have worn it once before. (see here), but because it is so sheer and has a boxy shape, I'm never quite certain what to do with it, so I avoid it. I'm not sure I should toss it, but I need to stop avoiding it and just get to styling it!

Meanwhile, this evening was Ashton's open house...so we made the rounds and she excitedly introduced me to every room in the school building as if it were the first time I had been there! (This is her third year at the same school)But if she's excited about anything school related, then I'm all about it. The most excitement I can get out of my 15 year old regarding school is the occasional grunt at the question "how was your day?"

hehe...see Ashton's arm?

On me-Blouse(remix):H&M/Jeans and Beaded Necklace:Target/Ring: Ruche/Shine Necklace:The Shine Project/Shoes:The Shoe Dept.

On Ashton-Dress: Hollister/Shoes:Adidas

Misfit #7:Shawty

2011-09-20T19:30:00.000-04:00

Number 7 in my misfit collection is this dress.

Now, don't get me wrong...I love the dress, but it is really, really short! In fact, you may notice that my cardigan actually hangs lower than the dress itself.

It really is a shame, because it's such a sweet little dress and it really is very "me," but flashing my thong as I walk to school to pick up my youngest isn't so "me". (Stop picturing my underwear thank you! haha)

Styling the dress in the summer is difficult, because it's too warm to pair with tights (although I did pair with a skirt seen here), but fall has brought more options for wearing this dress, whether with tights, leggings or even jeans. So, thankfully I can enjoy some wear out of it without the fear of flashing everyone!

Dress(remix), Belt (Came with another cardigan) and Cuff:Ruche/Tights and Necklace:Target/Booties:Kohl's/Purse:Coach/Cardigan:NY&Co.

I don't think I'll be tossing this misfit, I'll just be wearing it more like a tunic and keeping all the "bits" under wraps!

And how about we are almost done with the 10 and 2 challenge! Wow...only 3 more pieces to go and then there will be some restyling of the ones I've decided to keep!

With regard to the 100 day Stretch, thank you so much for all your supportive comments, it really means a lot to me to know you're all behind me...especially since everyone close to me is pretty insistent that I won't be able to do it! Glad I can count on all of you!

Birds of a Feather

2011-09-19T17:20:00.000-04:00

Well...my next installment in the 10 and 2 is this lovely little eco friendly top. I don't know why I don't wear it! I rather like it after all!

I still feel yucky today, but I forced myself to get dressed at least. The upside to this maxi is that it's more like wearing pajamas and I have to say this top is also comfy...again, no idea why I don't wear it?

Maxi Skirt, Flip Flops, Wooden Bead Bracelet and Bangle:Target/Top, Necklace and Earrings:Ruche/Ring:LOFT

So...please don't tell me you want me to toss this one, because I've decided I rather love it! It's this sweet plummy (yes I made up a word) kind of color, and has the great birds on it, and it's an eco friendly shirt so I also did my part for the environment! Cool beans!

Meanwhile, I'm off on my adventure of the 100 day stretch...no shopping in all those days? Thank goodness, I'm not in it alone! Misty and Company will also be along on the adventure, so we can stick together-like birds of a feather! haha, birds on my shirt and now using the expression in another way, yes, you may marvel at my genius!

Hopefully, this no shopping thing will turn me into a financial genius as well...that's what I'm hoping for! I'm planning on sticking to the rule of no shopping for 100 days. I may have to make 1 exception because we are going to a benefit in October, but I'd like to try to make do with a cocktail dress I already have. I really should huh? otherwise, we just wear those things once. But I'm not ready to commit to saying that I definitely won't buy a new dress for that. Otherwise, nothing new for 100 days! Oh, and I'm including the little extras, like nail polish that I pick up every time I get groceries, I have tons, why do I feel compelled to buy more? No, don't need it, so I'm cutting that out as well!

When I mentioned no shopping for 100 days to my lovely partner James last night, I imagined a response like, "Woman, are you mad?! you should never have to sacrifice in such a way...don't do it! You're a hero!" The response I got was much less grandiose and kind of involved a grunt and an "oh?" Yes, he was completely unimpressed. So, I'm counting on all you "birds of a feather" to cheer me on...wait I hear the applause in my head! You're right, I am a hero! feel free to take pictures, I'll sign autographs too...

Glutton For Punishment

2011-09-18T12:52:00.000-04:00

I'm still here, I promise. I know I have skipped a few days, but I'm sick. In fact, today I'm cheating and my latest installment in the 10 and 2 is from a few weeks ago. I am dressed today in leggings and a sweater, and I'm all snotty and probably smelly...sexy image right?

Sorry for the grainy image, when we took these pics we didn't focus on the shoes, but they are in fact what I'm writing about today. Several years ago, I bought a wonderful pair of little ballet flats at Gap. They were so comfy and I wore them all over despite my affection for heels. I wore them so much that they fell apart and finally I had to retire them. I loved them so dearly that I immediately wanted a replacement, and ran to Target to see what I could find. I picked up these flats because they were black and flat, even though at the time I didn't care for the odd bow.

And even though I wear them every once in a while, I'm still not sure about the bow, but I long for those flats that are now buried in the backyard!

Tee, Shoes and Cardigan:Target/Skinnies:H&M/Scarf:D&Y via Ross/Necklace: Lia Sophia/Silver Bangles:H&M/Respect Bracelet:Special Olympics/Cut it Out Bracelet:Clarion Venango Arc/Ring:Ruche

Now, you may be asking yourself why I am a glutton for punishment? Silly me, on top of doing the 10 and 2 challenge, I'm also going to participate in the 100 day stretch.

What is wrong with me? As I'm wearing items I avoid and will probably be tossing, I am pledging to not shop for 100 days when I should be buying replacements for the items I toss? Truth is, the day Misty posted her plans to stretch her closet for 100 days without shopping, I had been praying for wisdom in managing finances for my family. Paying back grad school loans, supporting 3 kids and eating can't all be done with bad shopping habits! So here goes...I'm already twitching!

P.S. Keep the shoes or toss them?

Taxicab Confessions

2011-09-15T19:19:00.002-04:00

My 4th misfit, this black and white dress, was a little dull on it's own, but I didn't want to pair it with a black cardigan or blazer, so I went with my mustard cardi. The result of which has left me looking a little too much like a checkered cab!

So, why is this thrifted find my next installment in the 10 and 2? It is extremely tight...which is OK, but it is also extremely low cut. Without my olive scarf tucked into the neckline, my little tater tots would be popping out all over the place! Frequent readers may recall my aversion to flaunting the funbags, and this dress flaunts them and then some!

So, for a woman who enjoys some good ol' fashioned mammary flashing moments, this dress is well suited, but for this pancake breasted woman, it doesn't work. I'd love to tuck a white button down beneath the dress, but sadly, it's tight enough that trying to tuck a shirt into it this morning was a definite no go and I couldn't leave the house with exposed tots, so I grabbed my favorite scarf and convinced myself that it totally worked!

This dress also has some rather interesting(?) details. Such as the flower on the front and these ruffles in the rear, because if you're not impressed enough with breasts that go taytay in a win(swaying in the wind, thanks "Nell"), then how about a flower? And, if that doesn't do it for you, just watch my heini ruffles as I walk away...oh yeah!

Dress:Thrifted/Cardigan and Scarf:Target/Patterned Tights:Anne Klein/Jewelry:Lia Sophia/Shoes:Kohl's

I'm not sure...The jury is still out on this one. I may be able to do some styling tweaking and hang on to it, but do I feel that strongly about it? eh...no.

What do you think?

Another Misfit...Mystery Pants!

2011-09-14T16:14:00.000-04:00

The mystery you ask? Am I or am I not wearing a diaper under these puppies? No offense to anyone who use diapers...some day, I'm sure I'll rock me some depends. I've had three kids, and my bladder isn't what it used to be...but aside from the occasional unexpected sneeze I don't wet myself yet. Just kidding about the sneeze, maybe? I'll leave it to your imagination, you know, keep the mystery alive in our relationship...kinda like the mystery of these pants. HAHA, see I made it full circle to the mystery pants!

See how they are all saggy and strange in the area of precious bits? C'mon, take a close look, I'll wait.

See! I COULD be wearing a diaper under there! I suppose I could also be smuggling something in there too? oooh more mystery! Hence I chose these as my third misfit in the 10 and 2 Challenge. (Don't forget to go see Megan!)I picked them up several years ago and no, I didn't try them on! Sadly they are very comfortable corduroys, but I can't really leave the house in them. I did today, I actually wore these to do a presentation on bullying. I even asked participants why they thought I got bullied-a perfect opportunity for someone to point out that I appear to wear diapers, yet everyone was too gracious to mention it! To be fair, these pants are actually a size or two big now (I have mentioned that I hoard clothes right? doesn't matter if they fit or not!)

Blouse:Old Navy/Tank:Target/Mystery Pants:Jimmy'Z/Shoes:The Shoe Dept./Ring:Trendz The Salon Spa/Elephant Necklace:Ruche/Silver Bangles:H&M/Gold Bankles and Wooden Bracelet:Target/Watch:Eddie Bauer/Belt:Thrifted

Yup, even princess saggy pants here can't make these puppies work. They're outta here!

Misfit Part Two: Don't ask me when I'm due!

2011-09-13T19:48:00.000-04:00

In middle school, I had a French teacher who was probably in her 50's. She had this very slender frame and always wore long dresses. Her stomach always confused me. For most of the school year, I couldn't figure out why she hadn't given birth! Her slender frame was carrying a paunch that was highlighted by her dresses and she looked as though she was pregnant. Fortunately, I never quite got up the nerve to ask when she was due...I would have promptly discovered that she was in fact not pregnant and I'm sure I would have found myself failing French that year!

That is exactly what THIS misfit top makes me think of! I had no problem deciding which item would go next in the 10 and 2 challenge

I bought this puppy several years ago, and on the rack it looked all feminine and "flowy" and I liked the print. The first time I wore it, I knew I had made a mistake...I was terrified someone would ask me my due date. So, no, I'm not pregnant...I'm just the victim of poor choice (and never trying anything on before I buy). There will be no re-styling or tweaking with this puppy...It's outta here!

Blouse:B.Moss/Capri pants and Gold Bangles:Target/Ring, Necklace and Earrings: Ruche/Shoes: TJ Maxx

Should I Stay or Should I go?

2011-09-12T18:35:00.002-04:00

Megan over at Feathers and Freckles has started a challenge for herself and all of us (Should we choose to accept the mission-hehe). Over the next two weeks, the goal is to pick 10 items from our closets that we either avoid or have never worn. We should wear at least one of these 10 items once a day for 2 weeks and make a final decision on whether or not to toss said item.

Everyone who knows me says I have too many clothes. (No mom, I don't...really I NEED all of them!) I keep things forever, accumulate more and never seem to toss anything. There are items that I just avoid or don't know what to do with, so this is a great opportunity for me to make some space ~~for new stuff~~ to breath. But I want your help. I'd like you to tell me what you think, I'll never make final decisions on my own and I'll still have tons of things that I don't know what to do with!

So, here goes. Item #1, this blouse from Ruche.

I bought it last winter with a dress they had it paired with in a lookbook. I was totally unoriginal and wore it the way they had styled it, and now I don't know what else to do with it. Today I tried with a skirt. I pull it out a lot and then decide I don't think it will look right with the items I've picked. (Styling suggestions welcome!)

Blouse and Belt:Ruche/Skirt:JCPenney/Shoes, Necklace and Bangles:Target/Charm Bracelet:Lia Sophia

Wow, maybe if I smiled? LOL so, what do you think it? Keep it, donate it or styling thoughts?

Meanwhile, go visit Megan and check out everyone else's items.

This Dress

2011-09-11T22:24:00.000-04:00

This dress is the one by which all my other dresses should be compared. I want to introduce it to all my other dresses and tell them this is what they should aspire to be...but I won't, because I'd still like to wear my other dresses some time and I don't want my closet to revolt!

Dress with Belt:MNG By Mango Via J.C. Penney/Shoes:Kohl's/Earrings:1928 (gift)

Weekends and boots

2011-09-10T18:41:00.000-04:00

Well, it's the weekend! I'm happy to have some time to rest, sad that my poor car Bessie is still out of commission until Thursday! Today has been spent helping my mom find shoes and grocery shopping and cleaning. Hence, I went with comfort today! I was so excited to pull out my riding boots...have I mentioned that I love fall? My boots were perfect for all the walking I have done today!

See, I'm just a little excited to be able to donne boots and scarves again! Not to mention the Blue Moon Pumpkin Spiced Ale I enjoyed upon arriving home! I can't wait until I see some fall color around here!

Boots and Scarf:Ross/Jeans:Target/Top:J.Crew/Belt:Thrifted/Bracelet:Lia Sophia

At the mall today, Ashton enjoyed the Spider Jump...My mom and I had so much fun watching her!

Spotted and Random

2011-09-09T18:38:00.001-04:00

Today's Shine Project challenge is about getting to know each other better by posting random things about ourselves. Stop by Ashley's blog to see more and check out her new store!

Shoes: The Shoe Dept./Cropped Pants:Ross/Tee:Target/Scarf:J.C.Penny/Gold Charm Bracelet:Lia Sophia/Bracelet:Gift/Earrings:Ruche/Sweater:H&M

So...here's some randomness.

1.Today is the first time I have ever worn an animal print of any kind! (what? what kind of style blogger is she?)

2.I am afraid of math and the dentist, they both make me want to cry!

3. My favorite meal is liver and onions! for real...my mom makes it for me on my birthday!

4. Sometimes, I will eat spaghettio's with meatballs...on toast.

5. I can swear like a trucker!

6. I can be reserved like a nun!

7. I hate talking on the phone! texting was the best invention!

8. I love people but I'm so uncomfortable around people sometimes and I don't know how to make small talk!

9. I love the movie "So I Married an Axe Murderer," Mostly because the Scottish Dad (played by Mike Myers) reminds me of my own family! "Head, Pants, Now!" (seriously, British families speak in sarcasm and ridicule!)

10. My favorite thing is a hug from any one of my 3 kids! But I don't like being touched!

Acceptance

2011-09-07T17:24:00.001-04:00

We all have "things" about ourselves we would prefer were different or don't like. For example, after three children and an amazingly expandable stomach (who knew they could get that big!), my abs are no more and shall never return. In their place I have this soft mass, covered in what looks like a road map...also known as stretch marks! For this reason, you will never see me in a bikini, I mean NEVER! Perhaps I could get laser surgery to fix the road map, and I understand they can even give ab implants (no way!), however, rather than worrying about what I would prefer were different, I accept it as it is and move on.

I don't look at other women's stomach's with envy either. Jealousy makes no sense...that only makes ME feel bad, and why would I want that?

I also have that incredible gummy smile you see there. Huge teeth and massive gums right?! I used to only half smile when I was much younger as I felt embarrassed by my smile.Now I smile almost constantly...really, people have called me "smiley," and do you know I get tons of compliments on my smile? Do you know why? Not because my gums are sexy, but because my smile is genuine, when it's offered it is from a place of sincerity and that's what people see! I learned a while ago to accept me as I am...even when there were things I needed to change. For example before I lost a little weight, I accepted myself at the weight I was and was happier that way, but my low cholesterol diet resulted in some weight loss and I'm OK with that too.

Whatever you do. start it by accepting your own appearance. Love the skin you are in, love your body in all it's flawed perfection, it's your temple, carrying you through this world...no one elses body can do that for you and wishing it were different hurts one person...you! See that flawed smile of mine up there, as flawed as it is, my lips are my favorite feature, you will rarely see me without lipstick because I like to accentuate the positive! So accept you as YOU are RIGHT NOW! and feel free to play with parts of you that you love, rock that cinched belt to highlight your hourglass figure, wear those rockin heels to show off your hot legs, but most of all wear the confidence of knowing you are so beautiful! You are fabulous! You are so uniquely and amazingly and perfectly YOU! I love that about you!

Dress, Scarf and Belt/H&M/Cardigan:Kohl's/Shoes:Kohl's/Necklace:Lia Sophia/Ring:Ruche

P.S. you'll note that I'm wearing H&M, and I had mentioned them in my post the other day. Well, I've continued my research and found this: Worthy of praise H&M demonstrates a sophisticated understanding and commitment to improving their ethical credentials for all their clothes. They're up-front about what they've done and how much more there is to do and have more than the odd tokenistic project or case study to prove they're serious. They have a great Corporate Social Responsibility section on their website - something markedly lacking amongst less pro-active stores. So, for now, I'm thinking H&M is working really hard and I'm grateful!

Rainy Day

2011-09-05T16:44:00.000-04:00

Last February, James, Scott, Kristy and I went to a formal Valentines Dinner at the University.

See, there we all are. It was lovely night, cocktail attire required. For which I bought this terrific black lace wrap dress!

Please excuse the quality of the pics, they were taken with my phone. But, the dress was beautiful, perhaps a little revealing, but on this occasion, I didn't mind letting the tots out to play a little! HAHAHAHA!

(neither did James).

Anyway, I love the dress, but cocktail attire isn't frequently required in my day to day to life, so on this rainy Labor day, I decided to try a little mixing to see if I could make it work more for day to day....

Sorry about these pics too...we had to shoot indoors due to the rain and we're still getting the hang of it!

Dress:Ark and Co. Via Ruche/Dollman Sweater:Ruche/Shoes:Kohl's/Belt:Ruche/Silver Necklace:Lia Sophia/Earrings:Vintage/Beaded Bracelet and Necklace:Made by Ashton for me!

Boomer was very excited by indoor pictures on this rainy day, so he just had to get in on the action!

Also, I must mention, you may notice the beaded necklace and bracelet? Ashton made them for me last night, and was so excited when I told her I'd wear them on the blog!

Anyway, what do you think? Did I take this cocktail dress from formal to everyday?

Not To Be a Debbie Downer...

2011-09-04T20:40:00.001-04:00

I know, we fashionista's love our clothes, we love shopping and shiny things and bargains! Have you ever wondered where those clothes and bargains come from though? Me, being me, I'm always checking with my conscience...I frequently object to things other people are okay with. I once boycotted China for years...honestly, do you know how hard it is to boycott China? Seriously, like everything is made there nowadays! I have refused to buy anything Nike for as long as I can remember because they have been known to contract with "sweatshops" abroad. I can deal with knockoffs, I mean for me, it's not really an ethical violation to copy something great and make it available for the masses (i.e. Forever 21), but I'm not OK with human rights violations!

I can gladly say this dress is free from any human rights violations, as it is thrifted and vintage, I can't say the same for the other contents of my closet. I am sad to report that I have quite a few pieces from The Gap (and Banana Republic and Old Navy). I don't plan to toss them, but I won't be gifting them with my business in the future. The Gap and it's other stores, have been charged with having contracts with sweatshops, some of which force children as young as 8 to work and have forced women to have abortions so they can continue to work. While the Gap isn't directly doing this, they are employing those who are, so with good conscience, I can't shop there. But in this day of Fast-Fashion, where can I shop? Apparently very few places...similar charges have been made against Zara, H&M, Forever 21 and Target! Doing some research, it's been hard to tell if the charges are accurate, or if the companies have cleaned up their acts, but it is certainly worth some more investigation!

Dress:Thrifted/Necklace:Kohl's/Bracelet:Lia Sophia/Shoes:Journeys

So, sadly, as much as I love clothes and expressing myself and encouraging everyone to embrace their "fab," I also have to ensure that I am not promoting or purchasing items that have in any way hurt my fellow human beings. I'll be a lot more cautious in the future, especially when I see a bargain, the true price of which is usually human life and dignity. Not to be a Debbie downer, but how about you? Ya wanna boycott China with me?

Summer's Almost Gone

2011-09-03T19:02:00.000-04:00

Quoting songs again...I know, but at least this time it's not Queen! Speaking of Queen, James and I went out last night and enjoyed Karaoke with friends...some may think it's lame, but I have a blast and if it makes me happy, that's all that matters!

So, there we are. James and I hanging out at the Youngstown Club and me singing my heart out to some Queen! As you can see, we only spend our time having fun in high style! LOL

Meanwhile, it's in the 90's again today, but starting tomorrow temperatures will be dropping to more September-like numbers. I love fall, can't wait for fall, it's my favorite season and I'm ready to layer my clothes, see changing colors on the trees and drink apple cider! But, since it was so hot today, I felt as though I was getting a chance to say a final goodbye to summer...being aware that today will probably be the last humid 90+ day of the year. So goodbye summer...see you again next year!

Shirt:Target/Skirt:H&M/Wedges:American Eagle For Payless/Necklace:Lia Sophia/Earrings:NY&Co.

To kiss summer goodbye, I felt it only appropriate to wear summer colors and take the opportunity to go sleeveless while I still can!

I did it again...

2011-09-02T19:16:00.001-04:00

Well, there was no post yesterday because I looked like this...

I was comfy and cozy in my house all day as I worked from home and attempted to get over this flare up I'm having. Today I did get dressed, but I've gone and done it again...I'm wearing pleats!

Well...I was wearing pleats. I've since changed into black skinnies as I'll be hanging out with James this evening. But, for at least part of the day I looked much better than I did yesterday!

Blouse, Shoes and Necklace:Target/Skirt:H&M/Ring:Trendz The Salon Spa

Hopefully, tomorrow I'll feel some inspiration for something new...but inspiration is hard to come by when it's back to 95 degrees and muggy and my body is being a big meanie! worry not...I shall overcome big meanie body and yucky temps!

It's not labor day yet!

2011-08-31T20:20:00.000-04:00

Wearing white while I can? no, not really, I'll still wear white after labor day....this is not a rule I follow! But the mustard paired with navy and white seems like a great way to transition to fall, but that's just my perspective!

While it looks like Ashton and I are having a "stand off"...she was just being goofy...no stand off's in our house! LOL

Pants:Kohl's/Shoes:Payless/Blouse:Ruche/Cardigan:Target/Ring:Avon/Necklace and Bracelet:Lia Sophia