LoveIt

valentine nails

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 04:35:00 +0000

I'm OBSESSED with all of these Valentine's Nails I have been seeing on Pinterest. If only I were this nail talented.

I could actually probably do this one:

all via

Are you in to nail art?? What are you liking?

SAG Awards: Emma Thompson

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Tue, 21 Jan 2014 17:07:00 +0000

Emma Thompson has more fun than ANYONE at award shows in 2014. Screen Actors Guild proof:

photo bombing Lupita

but it's all cool girlfriend.

Next up: Meryl

pose off

It's MERYL STREEP guys. Let's all point at her.

What do you think of some sister wives Rita? What about you Tom? Emma Hanks has a nice ring.

She doesn't just present an award. She dances whilst doing it.

She also asks the important questions

Look-- Ewan McGregor is in LOVE.

So is Bryan Cranston

Emma also loves a solo cup and straw combo.

She really loves those speeches too.

Gosh. really Academy Awards---WHY DID YOU NOT NOMINATE HER?? I love Judi Dench, but she won't show up....EMMA WILL SHOW UP and BRING A PARTY with her.

pics via

4 things

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Fri, 17 Jan 2014 04:06:00 +0000

1. I am on the hunt for a solid color blush knee length dress that is wedding appropriate. My sweet, sweet college sorority sister Savannah is getting married and has asked me to be one of her bridesmaids. Savannah is the "I'll just make something myself kind of girl" so she is MAKING her own wedding dress. I can't even imagine such a daunting task, but if anyone can do it and make it fabulous it is Savannah. She also didn't want us to all have the same uniformed dress. She just told us she wants our dresses to be BLUSH and to find the dress that fits our personality. She also started a secret Pinterest board where she's pinned some ideas for us. So all this being said....if you come across a BLUSH pretty dress online, in a store, in a magazine or wherever shoot me an email or a text.

2. We have been working on the window displays where I work. Today to add a little Valentine's touch I made these heart paper chains to hang among our bigger displays. They are so EASY!

via just bella

We also added smaller gold, glittery hearts to the inside of these by hot gluing them to the center. They turned out really cute. In addition to these paper chain hearts, we cut out circles and hearts from silver glitter paper and alternated each on going down a line of fishing wire to hang in the window. It was quite the arts and crafts day. I didn't take any pictures, but I'll try to remember to get some of the windows to share here.

3. Oscar nominations: I can't believe America's treasure Tom Hanks was snubbed, and --from her Golden Globes appearance would have been a hilarious addition to the Oscars-- Emma Thompson. The Academy missed out on that one. Here's the thing, I love Judi Dench, but she's not going to show up to the ceremony. She never does. You should have gone with Emma because she would have at least showed up to the party. I mean we all know Cate Blanchett or Amy Adams is going to win anyway...should have gone with Emma people. {but now I really hope Judi shows up to prove me wrong}

4. Did anyone watch American Idol Wednesday night or Tonight? I didn't aim to but I just couldn't take my eyes off of Jenny from the Block. Like J. Lo {to this rocking this business}, GIRL why are you so beautiful? I'm not fooled by the rocks that you got, but girl you don't like like no Jenny from the Block, you look like PERFECTION. ---I'll stop now with the songs. The last time she was a judge I felt the same way. She knows how to present herself to the American Idol audience. She is perfection, while wearing almost normal, but a glam version of normal clothes. She knows how to draw us in....oh that Jenny. I WANT YOUR HAIR. AND MAKEUP TEAM. I really want to know her whole makeup regime. I would buy it all. I want that JLO GLOW---and I'm not talking about the perfume.

Happy Thursday.

urge to redecorate

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Wed, 15 Jan 2014 17:01:00 +0000

via

I want this piece from Ikea for my room. I want to line my Essie nail polish up on it. I want to get baskets to store things in it. I'm obsessed with this piece. My sister-in-law has it in turquoise in her dining area to store all of her dishes and barware items. I NEED this in my bedroom. I have an itch to redecorate. Move some pieces in and out. This is one of my inspiration photos. I also want to repaint my bathroom, but I know I will never get enough motivation to buy paint....so I'm going to focus on this project for now.

I also want a small white desk like this to put in my little window cubby. I think it will create more space in my bedroom to remove the piece of furniture I currently have in the window that isn't getting much use and replace it with a small little desk, and then remove the current bulkier desk that's on the other side wall of my bedroom. I don't ever sit at it and it just compiles junk that I have to clean up every week. I think this style will lend itself to more use and be out of the way tucked in the window cubby.

I'll keep you updated on my progress {if any materializes} on this project.

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Tue, 14 Jan 2014 14:55:00 +0000

Golden Globes 2014: Fashion

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Mon, 13 Jan 2014 17:47:00 +0000

Last nights biggest trends on the red carpet seemed to be: Color Block, Black and White, Geometric, Red, Metallic, and Pregnancy.

A dress in the Geometric category that really stuck out to me was Elisabeth Moss. I don't know if I love the bottom half of the dress but this top half is fantastic. And those earrings are perfect.

COLOR BLOCK

1. Taylor Swift 2. Sandra Bullock 3. Julie Bowen 4. Amy Adams 5. Aubrey Plaza

Julie Bowen and Taylor Swift are the best of these 5 dresses. I like Amy Adams dress just not the hair and makeup. Aubrey Plaza looks a little early 2000 prom, but I do like the colors.

BLACK AND WHITE

1. Julia Roberts 2. Jennifer Lawrence 3. Hayden Panettiere 4. Laura Carmichael 5. Jenna Dewan-Tatum

The only one I really LOVE is Laura Carmichael {Lady Edith has the best clothes this season....so only fitting} I think the Julia Roberts dress would be great...if she didn't have the button up shirt under it. I just don't get that. Jennifer Lawrence is too like her last year award season dresses. I need her in something besides the strapless, low boob belted long dress. Hayden--I hate the hair and I don't love the dress. Jenna- she looks fantastic in that dress and her hair looks great. I just don't LOVE the dress. But I think she looks fabulous in it.

LADIES IN RED: two of my top 5 looks of the night. Emma Watson's dress/pant ensemble. I love, love, loved it. It was elegant and still young and fun! Lupita Nyong' o was the most stunning on the red carpet last night. Absolutely beautiful.

BATTLE OF THE EXPECTANT MOTHERS

1. Olivia Wilde 2. Drew Berrymore 3. Kerry Washington

Olivia Wilde---is she really pregnant or is that just a pillow?? She could have worn that dress pregnant or not. Drew Berrymore looks like a Valentine. I don't love the dress, but I think it's fun. Kerry Washington's look is a little boring for me, but it looks great with her pregnancy glow. It's very elegant.

METALLIC

1. Lizzy Caplan 2. Kate Beckinsale 3. Naomi Watts 4. Mila Kunis

Kate Beckinsale's dress is another of my BEST DRESSED. So so pretty. I love the sleeves/top of Lizzy Caplan's dress so much.

CATE BLANCHETT. SO PRETTY. SO ELEGANT.

Zooey Deschanel: Just so dainty and so pretty.

This is just a few of the fashion statements made at the Globes last night. It was hard to pick which ones to include and which ones to leave off. I didn't include the ones that I absolutely HATED: I'm looking at you Lena Dunham, Zoe Saldana, Rashida Jones, and Paula Patton.

Who were you lovin' and hatin'????

Linking up for Monday Morning Gossip.

Golden Globes 2014: Winners

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Mon, 13 Jan 2014 07:01:00 +0000

You know if anything was going to bring me back to my blog it would AWARD SHOW SEASON {In my head I am hearing "It's the most wonderful time of the yearrrrr!"}

I just wrapped up watching the Golden Globes. I love it so much. I can't help it. I just do.

I haven't been as diligent with my movie going this year. I'm so ashamed. At this point I have only seen {of the nominated films tonight}: Dallas Buyers Club, Saving Mr. Banks, Gravity, and Frozen. I know, I know. NOT MANY AT ALL. I plan to rectify this as much as possible before the Academy Awards. {I just don't know if I can sit through another 3 hour Scorsese/Leo man fest known THIS year as The Wolf of Wall Street. And I don't knock Scorsese or Leo or man fest films because I think The Departed is a great movie. I think Gangs of New York is a great movie. I think All of the Leo/Scorsese movies are great----but THREE HOURS IS LONG!!!} I digress... Of the television shows nominated, I currently watch Downton Abbey, Scandal, Parks and Rec, Modern Family and House of Cards.

The Host: Tina and Amy were great as last year. I just wish, like last year that we got to see more of them.
My favorite joke:

"Gravity is nominated for best film: It’s the story about how George Clooney would rather float away into space and die than spend one more minute with a woman his own age.”

Movie Winners:

Supporting Actress
I was super excited about Jennifer Lawrence winning again. I haven't seen the movie, American Hustle but like the rest of the world I hang on every awkward anecdote/ slip of the tongue JLaw throws out there.

Supporting Actor: Jared Leto, Dallas Buyers Club. His acceptance speech was kind of weird. I don't know why he had to discuss waxing and shaving of his body. But whatevs. He had a stellar performance in this movie.

Best Actress-Comedy:
Amy Adams. She's the kind of actress who's a real actress and not the star of the year. She's consistently nominated and she's consistently in all the BEST movies of the year.This may finally be her year. Or she just might be another DiCaprio come Oscar Sunday...I don't know yet.... I just wish she had some lipstick on at the ceremony or something. Her face was so washed out.

Best Actress-Drama
Cate Blanchett is an actress too. I don't know anything about her personal life and I don't care to either. I just know she's a great actress and I'm going to be satisfied whenever I pay money to see one of her films. She's going to be the character. I like that there are still actress who are great and still have a mystery about them. I think that's the key to the longevity. Just be consistently brilliant...not consistently in a magazine or on twitter or in the news. {ummm MEYRL STREEP anyone}

Best Actor-Comedy:
Y'all Leonardo DiCaprio won him an award. He's been going after it for so long and he finally got him one. That baby face might finally be an adult in the eyes of Hollywood. I'm so proud of him. I bet the millions of Tumblr posts dedicated to "Losing Leo" images doesn't know what to do with themselves now.

Best Actor-Drama:
"Alright, Alright, Alright" Classic McConaughey. I have seen Dallas Buyers Club and IT. IS. INTENSE. There is no trace of FULL ON McConaughey like we got in his acceptance speech. He transformed not only his body but everything to become this character. It's an uncomfortable movie because it is so raw and so real. He's definitely deserving.

Diane Keaton accepted the Cecil B DeMille Award on behalf of Woody Allen. She was her usual quirky, Annie Hall self. Complete with a moving, A Capella singing of "Make New Friends, But Keep The Old"

Television:
Best Actress-Comedy and Best Actress-Drama are two of my favorite characters Leslie Knope and Claire Underwood. Thank you Amy Poehler and Robin Wright for these women.
Also..Amy celebrated her win with a make out with Bono.

via

Best Actor- two shows I've never watched
Best Supporting Actor- Jon Vought, he creeps me out and we all know you were trying to insinuate Angelina into that ending of that acceptance speech. We know she's your daughter. You don't have to try to inconspicuously name drop your own kid mister.

Best Supporting Actress- Ummmm... was Jacqueline Bissett aware she was nominated. Like get up and walk to the stage women. Don't take 40 minutes. I feel like we missed a few good Amy/Tina jokes and moments do that death, deer in the headlights slow walk to the stage. And then when she got there she just stared. I mean did she know where she was? It was awkward.

Random Notes and Opinions:

I think Rita Wilson and Tom Hanks had a couples Spray Tan prior to the night. They had an unusual glow.
To have been allowed the chance to pull up a chair in between Julia Roberts and Meryl Streep....the things one might have heard. That my friends was the POWER TABLE.
Taylor Swift shouldn't be allowed at anymore Hollywood gatherings. She seems so awkward around them.
I think that the whole Matt Damon bit would have had a major payoff if Michael Douglas hadn't been too cool for school to be in on the joke. Dude, you should have directed her praise of Matt Damon to Melissa McCarthy's face. It would have been gold. Instead, you were an old man about it.
That joke Tina made about Leo DiCaprio, Super Models and Vjayjays was HILARIOUS.
Was anyone else surprised about Andy Samburg winning AND his show?! I've never watched it but the previews look so dumb. I guess I'm missing the next great thing....
Emma Thompson, please present at every award show...carrying your shoes and casually sipping from a martini
Can Matt Damon be my garbage man?

Fashion Review coming soon....

images via

um. hey.

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Fri, 03 Jan 2014 14:51:00 +0000

Sooooooo....I REALLY AM GOING TO TRY TO KEEP UP WITH MY BLOG THIS ENTIRE YEAR.

Seriously, for real this time. I know you probably don't believe because I exited in May of last year and haven't set foot back....BUT I am going to TRY. I really do love blogging, I just get out of the habit and it's hard to get back in. If you visit and comment it will make it easier to stay around!

2013 Roundup

Okay. Keep me accountable people!!

Jessica

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Thu, 09 May 2013 04:06:00 +0000

Breathe, my friend.

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Thu, 09 May 2013 02:50:00 +0000

2013 #MetGala

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Wed, 08 May 2013 18:47:00 +0000

I know I'm a day late on the Met Gala fashion, but here are my thoughts.

First, when viewing these looks you have to remember this the Costume Institute Gala at the Met so everything is couture, costumey, and over-the-top in {hopefully} the best ways possible..

1. I think Taylor Swift was the BEST of the night in incorporating theme, but also being tasteful and PRETTY. {She also reminds me of Nicole Kidman with this look}

2. I'm in love with everything Kerry Washington does at this point. Including this Vera Wang number. I also love how she's all of sudden the new long glove girl {watch last weeks Scandal episode for some amazing casual long white glove wearing, with a perfectly dramatic and intense take off before battling with President Grant in the Oval---sorry I digress--but watch it}

3. I am surely not a Cameron Diaz fan by any means, but I was obsessed with this look. That spiked belt was fabulously theme appropriate, but the rest was solid, simple classic look to let the studs shine.

4. Kimye....Stay home next time...PLEASE. This was just horrendous. AWFUL. You're pregnant---couture is not made for pregnant---it's made for rail thin models. Lets keep it that way. Although even nonpregnant Kim would not look good in this and look at Kayne---dude KNOWS the truth. He's not loving it either.

5. I'm not sure these four were aware a theme existed. All pretty, but not really fitting with the rest of the group. Maybe they're just too good to theme.

6. The girls in black. I support Ginnifer Goodwin's look {just not the eye shadow}, I like Dakota Fanning & Carry Mulligan's geometric looks{just kinda plain and forgettable} I know this is a shocker but I loved Anne Hathaway's overall look but I didn't enjoy the side-boob action. It made it look like it didn't fit. And Miley SCARY and TERRIBLE...AWFUL. NO. I don't mind the dress really, but that hair...NOPE. NO.

7. Sienna Miller: LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE.

I can't get enough of that jacket and headband. So punk appropriate yet super cute. She pulled it off so perfect. Her carefree hair and simple white dress was the perfect contrast. I loved it. She used accessories to her complete advantage. Get it Sienna. {oh, but your date is scary}

There were many more celebs and looks to remember, but these are the ones that stuck out in my mind. Who were your hits and misses?

images via

loves of the week

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Fri, 03 May 2013 14:56:00 +0000

Loves of the Week:

1. Lydia McLaughlin: The newest housewife on Real Housewives of Orange County. She's a Jesus loving, pre-teen looking, living out her fairy tale OC life with her husband she met at church camp. When she entered the picture I didn't think I was going to be a fan, seeing that she was friends with Alexis, but as soon as she got into that limo and said, "I kind of agree with them" after Tamra's disaster gym party, I knew I was going to like her. The best moment was "I can see why they don't like her!" hahaha oh Lydia, you're my new favorite, Even if you have a abnormally small head that is disproportionate to your big eyes, mouth, and amount of hair.

2. Vine: I didn't see the point of ANOTHER app to document things, but I fell in with the crowd. I've had Vine on my phone for a while, mainly just to watch Al Roker's videos from bts at the Today Show, but I started posting a few this week. It's actually pretty fun, although I don't think anyone actually watches them. If you have Vine, come follow me @jessicaclayton! The best Viner out there is Eric Stonestreet {Cam, Modern Family} I mean he's a Vine genius. I would get Vine just to watch his stuff, hilarious, and the right amount of inappropriate at times!

3. OLITZ: Lets face it I love Scandal every day and every week, but last nights episode was one of the best EVER. So many jaw dropping, can't breathe moments.

via

I don't count on this lasting too long, but man was it exhilarating to watch. Also, I LOVE Mellie in that way that you LOVE LOVE to hate something. I think she is fantastic, so I look forward to more First Lady in your face, not backing down moments.

4. Diane Keaton has twitter and she just obsesses over things she finds on Pinterest. I love it. Follow her here. I love her bio.

5. Reese Witherspoon arrest video: I don't think it's funny, and it doesn't make me love her more like the rest of America, I just think it's interesting, and REALLLLY embarrassing for her. TMZ has it, watch here. What would have made it GOLD: If Reese would have turned and said "...And you can't walk NO LINE!"

Happy Friday!

I dream of Kentucky Derby Attendance

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Thu, 02 May 2013 17:47:00 +0000

The Run of the Roses is this weekend! Attending the Kentucky Derby is on my bucket list. I want to wear a pretty dress, a big ol' hat, pearls around my neck with a mint julep in my hand. During campaign season I became fast friends with a few Kentuckians so I'm hoping that will help me get closer to my goal of actually attending. They promised me they would show me a good and proper Derby time someday! I visited Churchill Downs in 2009 with my parents because my dad had an FBI conference in Louisville. The tour is really fun and I highly recommend if you are ever in the area, but it just made me want to attend the full on Derby even more.

In front of the famous spires at Churchill Downs in 2009 with my parents

Until I make it there, I'll just dream of these Derby inspired outfits from Polyvore and watch with K in my parents living room.

Beautiful Blue

Kentucky Derby Contest #2 by angkclaxton featuring a raffia handbag

Orla Kiely dress, $445 / Rupert Sanderson patent shoes / Diane Von Furstenberg raffia handbag / Fantasy Jewelry Box birthstone earrings / Eastex , $100 / Plush Red Rose Bouquet

Daring Red

Kentucky Derby Contest by angkclaxton featuring a box clutch

Full Circle shift dress, $205 / Christian Louboutin / Alexander McQueen box clutch, $1,280 / Pieces bracelet bangle, $7.54 / Lab / Hat, $185

Classic Beige and Black

DOTS AT THE DERBY by happygirljlc featuring a vintage style dress

People Tree vintage style dress, $58 / Oscar de la Renta patent shoes / Givenchy / Henri Bendel bracelet bangle / White pearl earrings, $765 / Wallis round sunglasses

Equestrian Brown

What I would wear to the Derby! by diane-fritz-sager featuring a bracelet bangle

Antonino Valenti mini dress, $775 / High heel shoes / Rebecca Minkoff / Pieces bracelet bangle, $6.97 / Rossana Fani bead jewelry, $170 / J.Crew straw hat / Warehouse leopard scarve, $15 / H&M h m, $3.86

Fabulous Florals

Kentucky Derby 2012 by kellybench featuring a gold bracelet

Sleeveless dress / Miu Miu lace cocktail dress, $635 / Jigsaw gold bracelet, $60 / Astley Clarke gold jewelry, $970 / Bakers straw hat / Straw hat / Nail polish / Buy Kentucky Derby 10.25" Icon Plastic Plates-Caufields.com

Here's to "my ole-Kentucky {in my dreams} home" Happy Derby Weekend!

Welcome {lusty} May

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Wed, 01 May 2013 13:54:00 +0000

I'm OBSESSED with this song from the Lerner & Lowe musical Camelot. Perfect for May 1 listening. Especially when sung by Dame Julie Andrews who originated the role on Broadway.

Tra la! It's May!

The lusty month of May!

That lovely month when everyone goes

Blissfully astray.

Tra la! It's here!

That shocking time of year

When tons of wicked little thoughts

Merrily appear!

It's May! It's May!

That gorgeous holiday

When every maiden prays that her lad

Will be a cad!

It's mad! It's gay!

A libelous display!

Those dreary vows that everyone takes,

Everyone breaks.

Everyone makes divine mistakes

The lusty month of May!

Whence this fragrance wafting through the air?

What sweet feelings does its scent transmute?

Whence this perfume floating everywhere?

Don't you know it's that dear forbidden fruit!

Tra la la la la! That dear forbidden fruit!

Tra la! It's May!

The lusty month of May!

That darling month when everyone throws

Self-control away.

It's time to do

A wretched thing or two,

And try to make each precious day

One you'll always rue!

It's May! It's May!

The month of "yes you may,"

The time for every frivolous whim,

Proper or "im."

It's wild! It's gay!

A blot in every way.

The birds and bees with all of their vast

Amorous past

Gaze at the human race aghast,

The lusty month of May.

Tra la! It's May!

The lusty month of May!

That lovely month when everyone goes

Blissfully astray.

Tra la! It's here!

That shocking time of year

When tons of wicked little thoughts

Merrily appear.

It's May! It's May!

The month of great dismay.

When all the world is brimming with fun,

Wholesome or "un."

It's mad! It's gay!

A libelous display!

Those dreary vows that everyone takes,

Everyone breaks.

Everyone makes divine mistakes

The lusty month of May!

Welcome MAY flowers! We certainly had enough April showers to bring some beautiful ones. This month I'm very much looking forward to TWO events. 1st: Mother's Day Weekend trip to Ann Arbor, Michigan for my brother John's Law School Graduation. It will be a fun family event and celebration. 2nd: My best friends Brooke's Bachelorette Beach Trip to Destin .Hello, Lusty Month of May, I'm excited to see you!

What are you looking forward to this month?

the weekend.

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 13:37:00 +0000

My weekend.

photo via

Friday was a day of friend catch up. My bestie Brooke and I had been missing each others calls for about two weeks and we finally connected Friday morning while she was driving back to Starkville from a work presentation. We chatted for a good hour and a half. During that call Bayley beeped in so I promptly called her back when I got off with Brooke. Before all the phone calls started I had been in the middle of cleaning...I thought I was finally going to get back to it when I got a lovely surprise call from Anna Claire. She was driving to Tupelo for the weekend from Nashville. We chatted for 2 hours. I seriously haven't been on the phone this much in AGES. But its fun to catch up with good friends. I guess I'm the go-to-girl to call when you've got two hours of driving to kill.

My brother Josh came for a visit this weekend. He arrived Friday evening and then along with my parents we all went to eat some Japanese at the local Kyoto restaurant. So yummy. Saturday started with a lazy morning. My mom made us ham and biscuits and we ate them right up then all set out on the back patio and drank coffee and chatted for a few hours. Josh and I then went through my parents old record collection from college and such and went on the search for a turntable. We didn't have any luck, but he took some records back home with him and he was going to look online for one. I would have loved to have known the Karen that owned that record collection. It was fun hearing her talk about listening to them in her room as a teenager.

Saturday afternoon I went to Sam's and Kroger with my mom. Always an interesting experience. We did enjoy some good samples as always at Sams. Mom and I piled up on the magazines. I realize I get my love for the glossy pages from her. I don't why she ever admonishes me for the habit because she is just as bad or maybe even worse. We spent the afternoon on the patio reading through these:

Saturday night my Grandmother came over to have a spaghetti dinner with us. We all hung out on the patio and chatted while we waited for supper to be ready. We ate and then had some wonderful fresh cut strawberries, angel food cake and homemade whip cream for dessert.

After Grandmother left, I indulged in my favorite Washington event of the year via CSPAN and my DVR: The Annual White House Correspondent's Dinner. It's held every year at the Washington Hilton. The press comes, the President comes, celebrities come and everyone makes fun of the President and/or the Press. This years spotlight comedian was Conan O'Brien. It was quite fun to watch. Here's a look at President Obama's speech. Funny stuff.

And here's Conan:

I really think the person in charge of the invitations just decided to put all my FAVORITE people in one room that happens to be my favorite event and torture me. ALL OF THESE PEOPLE WERE THERE:

1. Josh Lyman & Joe Quincy, West Wing {Bradley Whitford & Matthew Perry}

2. Olivia Pope & President Fitzgerald Grant, Scandal {Kerry Washington & Tony Goldwyn

3. Congressman Francis and Claire Underwood, House of Cards {Kevin Spacey & Robin Wright}

4. President Andrew Shepard, The American President {Michael Douglas}

5. Lady Mary Crawley, Downton Abbey {Michelle Dockery}

6. Elaine Benes, Seinfeld--She was there because of her show VEEP but she's always Elaine to me {Julia Louis-Dryfus}

7. Jamie Lanister, Game of Thrones {Nikolaj Coster-Waldau}

I MEAN SERIOUSLY.

Sunday consisted of church services, amazing roasted chicken with potatoes & carrots, asparagus & apple turnovers, a great nap, wonderful ladies Bible study on Grandmothers, and some leftovers for dinner.

I'd say it's been a pretty good weekend. How was yours?

Linking up with

the royals & Harry Potter

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 15:27:00 +0000

Okay. William, Catherine, & Harry. Warner Brother's Harry Potter movie museum. So cute.

brotherly love

Kate and William have mad wand skills. They are precious.

Maybe the Royals really aren't Muggles after all.

It was a polka dot day for Princess Kate and Harry Potter mastermind JK Rowling

That face kills me. She's real into this event.

all images via

Friday Links

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 13:51:00 +0000

Start it off with a look at my favorite links from around the web this week:

So Kareem Abdul-Jabbar discusses How the Real Housewives Have Made America Better over at HuffPostTV blog {I seriously love this so much, he makes some very interesting points}

If you're a fan of Game of Thrones, therefore hater of all things King Joffrey, & not too big of a Blieber enjoy this Tumblr where fiction's biggest brat and real life's biggest brat become one

As a 90s girl myself and proud owner of Samantha, Felicity, Kirsten, & Molly and reader of all their stories--- I totally understand Emma Gray's position on why American Girl Dolls Really Need to Remember Their Roots at HuffPostWomen

Haven't we all seen some version of These People at the Gym. Sami's Shenanigans tells it like she sees it.

I'm obsessing over these handbags featured on from Ainsley, with love designed by up and coming newbie Kelly White

BuzzFeed compiled the 23 George W Bush Moments That Probably Won't Make It Into His Presidential Library {they may not make it, but we will always remember them}

linking up with thedwellingtree for bloglovin' hop Friday

dubya.

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:12:00 +0000

This morning I tuned into C-SPAN 3 to watch the dedication of the George W Bush Presidential Library and Museum. It officially opens to the public May 1, and I know it will be first on my list of things to do when I visit John and Bayley in Dallas soon.

I think one of the best things about our country is this:

All living former Presidents, getting together to celebrate one of their own. Amazing.

And I love me some First Lady fashion {obsessed with LB's gold necklace} and history, so it was equally fun seeing these ladies too.

41 & 43 enjoyed some laughs during the ceremony. After giving a very brief statement 41 turned to Dubya and said "What, too long?" He's still got it.

But not as funny as his wife. I really want to know what Barbara Bush's aside comments to President Obama all throughout the ceremony were, because she had him cracking up. Like seriously cracking up.

I was also fascinated by Dick Cheney's choice of head gear...I guess, when you're in Texas, do as the Texans do {I also want to know if his hunting gun is in the museum}

Karl Rove {also known as Turd Blossom in the Bush White House} was there, the brains behind the entire operation. The genius of presidential campaignin'

But the real star of the whole day: Bush 41's pink socks

I can't wait to visit!

"There was a time in my life I wouldn't have been found at a library, much less found one.”- George W Bush

all photos via

Living: The Graduate

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 20:54:00 +0000

The Graduate is a classic American film. I remember watching it for the first time in high school, but I didn't really appreciate it until I was a little older and re watched after college. I loved the music of Simon & Garfunkel, the sexy black & animal print style of Anne Bancroft, and the complete awkwardness of Dustin Hoffman mixed with the 60s Pasadena lifestyle. This movie impacted an entire generation and inspired classic decor and fashion that is still popular today.

Mango glitter dress, $68 / Vero Moda leopard print coat / Stella McCartney / Fogal black tight / Myla demi bra / Rupert Sanderson shoes / Tory Burch clutch / Oasis gold earrings, $6.05 / Etro Slim-Fit Contrast-Placket Cotton Shirt / Ludwig Mies van der Rohe Barcelona® Couch / Picnic Green Bamboo Decorative Pillow / Safari Cheetah Giclee Glow Black Bronze Table Lamp / DiSinistra 26" Stainless Steel and Ivory Counter Stool / Abstract Square 25" Wide Antiqued Gold Mirror / Worlds Away Carr Gold Leafed Bar Cart / Wild And Wolf Black Series 302 Telephone, $83

my {messy} closet life

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 21:43:00 +0000

So yesterday afternoon I decided I was finally going to tackle it. MY CLOSET. This thing hasn't been properly cleaned out since probably I was in middle school. I didn't even know what I was bound to find in the back corners. They hadn't seen light in probably a decade. Four massive Hefty Bags later everything {pretty much} has been cleared out. All clothes now residing on top of my bed or piled high on the floor. All things headed for the carport sale right outside my bedroom door and all over the upstairs hallway and spilling into other bedrooms. I refuse to hang my clothes back up until I have proper all uniformed hangers...because really whats the point of all the work if you won't be able to tell once all the dreaded "WIREEEEE hangers" are put back in. I'm planning to head to TJ Maxx in search for discounted velvet hangers tonight. I also really want to extend the clothes bar across the whole room: I'm coming for you Home Depot.

My closet is hard to explain. It's more like a tiny dwarf room. When I was a teenager it had a chair and a tv. It was a little lounge area but now I just want a massive CLOSET. To be continued....

Here's the dream:

FRIDAY links

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 14:07:00 +0000

Some of my FAVORITE things around the web this week:

Very inspired by the honesty and self improvement happening over at Sami's Shenanigans.

Helene explains those celebrity Coachella fashion choices

Audrey Hepburn's Fashionable Life in Rome from Vanity Fair's May 2013 Cover Story

Who doesn't love a good .gif, especially from some Reality TV? My new guilty pleasure in Tumblr world.

Girls, lets just stop scrutinizing ourselves! Ainsley speaks the truth about us being our own worst enemies when it comes to self image and confidence.

Maggie Smith’s Portraitist on Painting the Dowager Countess, Criticism of Kate Middleton’s Portrait

I did a guest post over at Significance or Nothing this week. Please check it out!

linking up with the dwelling tree for Blog Hop Friday

Why I'm Obsessing over RHOBH

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 15:10:00 +0000

The theme parties
No one loves a theme party more than Taylor Armstrong, even if it's planning a $50,000 Mad Hatter tea party for her daughters 4th birthday party. {yep, you read that correctly}She also loves a Roaring Twenties party, a dude ranch 5th birthday party {complete with Ace Young----I couldn't contain my laughter on that one} The only theme Kyle can stick with is her annual White Party that always includes Fatburger. Lisa doesn't like theme parties or as she calls them "fancy dress" due to a mishap with her and Ken believing a party to be one and turned out...NOT one ala Legally Blonde. The notorious party planner Dana hosted her own themed Game Night party with real fun random desserts in the shape of dominoes but that's as far as her theme went---not too good for business.

The Giggy
I want Giggy's day to day. {even if he has Alopecia and constant itching} I mean really he has the life. He doesn't even have to walk anywhere {except for the occasional "four walks and a wee wee" --read in Kyle's faux British accent} He has custom made clothes to coordinate with Ken&Lisa and he eats in the best restaurants in Beverly Hills and travels the world. Everyone loves that little sex monster.

The trips
Whether they are sprinting to Vegas for a quick weekend trip, overnighting to Hawaii for some sun or jet-setting to Paris for a romantic couples get-a-way these ladies no how to travel and see the best the destination has to offer.

The husbands
Meet Mauricio, Paul, & Ken. These three are the constants in Seasons 1-3. They often bring the voice of reason or at least colorful commentary to the happenings of a dinner party mishap....and occasionally they do cause the issue themselves {Ken, looking at you and your therapy comments to Taylor or Mauricio's comments to Brandi at the Morocco restaurant} but no matter what they move on from any disagreement, unlike their wives.

The houses

The quotes
There are so many amazing lines spoken in every single episode. These are some of my many favorites:

The fashion

These ladies never back just one bag, even if it is for an overnight. Expect two suitcases just devoted to shoes and/or makeup. Just one peak into their store like closets and one knows that clothes are more than just a "something to wear everyday" it's more like collecting art for these woman. It's fun to see them just pull out a custom dress for a last minute dinner party and wear Louboutin's for the casual lunch.

The Vanderpump
The housewife of all housewives. I mean seriously, she's the best of all the Real Housewife shows. She's the richest, she's got a British accent, she's a great cook, she's cheeky, the most honest & truthful, has the longest marriage, and always has the right amount of pink, bling and sass for every occasion. Read her best lines here. I give you Mrs. Vanderpump-Todd.

Demonstrating what one needs when walking around a stripper pole:

The Taylor Armstrong method for eating cotton candy:

Probably why she was picked for DWTS:

How she gets through most RHOBH situations:

When she gets bored with the group activities:

When Kim Richards gives another excuse for not showing up:

When Camille tries to attack her and fails miserably:

Reaction to the rest of her casts net worth: {not really, I just imagine that it would be this}

And I'm out

Also I did a guest post over at Christa's blog Significance or Nothing today. Be sure to check it out!

song of the moment

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 16:36:00 +0000

Carry On by Fun.

If you're lost and alone

Or you're sinking like a stone

Carry on

May your past be the sound

Of your feet upon the ground

Carry on

fresh face summer makeup essentials

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 15:28:00 +0000

Winter is outta here, so it's time to indulge in some fresh face cosmetics. Nothing is more summer, warm weather to me than pinks. Here's a look into my make up bag:

1 and 4: I love L'Oreal Paris' Colour Rich lipstick in "Blushing Sequin". You can pick it up at Wal-Greens and then I like to gloss it over with Stila's lip glaze in "Grapefruit". It's more Barbie pink in the tube than the picture shows, but it looks really bright and makes the lip standout over the L'Oreal lipstick.

2 and 3: I love, love Urban Decay eye shadow. I have their NAKED palate and I have never found a better and more versatile palate. For summer, I love the shade"Sin". It's a soft pink shimmer that's low key but still stands out. Like my mother, I have very sensitive skin and am prone to breakouts or allergic reactions to some makeup, so I've been on the hunt for a mascara for a while that didn't irritate or cause bumps around my eye. After many unsuccessful attempts and a long chat with a makeup girl at Sephora, I think I've finally found the perfect one. benefit's-They're REAL mascara. I sampled it for a month and went back for a large tube a few weeks ago. FINALLY.

5 and 6: I'm a foundation girl. My skin is prone to break outs and imperfections so I have to have something cover it up, but I don't like my face to feel heavy-especially in the summer. I discovered this Make Up Forever High Definition foundation at Sephora about two years ago. It's PERFECT. It covers like no other, but still feels light and makes your skin so soft. Also it comes in this great pump so it's easy to put on. I've recently fallen into the world of BB creams. They seem to have exploded everywhere in the last year. I'm partial to this one from Smashbox. I dab it on in key sections of my face just to smooth things out and then proceed with foundation over. I think further into the summer once I get some sun I might just use to the BB Cream and give the foundation some rest.

7: As everyone knows, NARS blush in "Orgasm" is the quintessential go-to blush. Yes, it's pricey, but it's so completely worth it. I have the blush/bronzer duo with the "Laguna" bronzer included. I'm running low at the moment, thank goodness for Sephora gift cards.

8: This is my new Essie summer toe polish "Peach Daiquiri . It's way more hot pink than this photo shows. It's very close to OPI's famous "Strawberry Margarita". I like to switch up my fingernails weekly, but my toes don't change as often so I usually keep them a shade of red or pink.

What's in your makeup bag this summer?

What I'm In to Right About Now

noreply@blogger.com (jessica clayton) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 21:28:00 +0000