...this and that...

Introducing Antonio, aka Mr. S!

2013-06-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

Howdy ya'll!

I've been asked to participate as a guest writer in my friend (BFF) Heather's blog and I truly hope she does not regret this idea. See, her blog is all nice, prim and proper, whereas mine, is just a hedonistic hot mess of verbal dysentery, abuse of the English language and bad things all around. Bad things in a good way of course.

So my pen name on here shall be Antonio, for the most obvious of reasons. See, just like mr. Banderas, I also possess that exquisite oral dexterity of speaking with an accent because I also happen to be a Latino, and while our looks may differ, mine being of superior genetics of course, I'm also quite the celebrity myself. In my own hyperbolic spaced-out brain.

I've been blogging for years, and while in the past couple of years I've posted sporadically, with gaps of up to 1.5 years, I plan to at least be regular on Heather's blog and try to revive mine, if the impulses of my index finger so dictate it and my lazy ass feels like it.

Currently I am located in New York city and my official work is related to writing, brain cracking numbers, bs ingesting from other people and dealing with a lot of drama. This provides me with enough ammunition and pent up energy to spank the monkey in the form of a blog post.

See, when you are part of a big metropolis where time does not exist, not because it's all magical but because there are not enough hours in the day, and where making business and personal decisions include a lot of red tape and ass kissing, it's no wonder that we all here end up with flaring tempers and a knack for meanness.

Me, personally, I totally enjoy the latter. It's just an added bonus to my own spicy, toasty charm. (insert smiley face)

Writing is an innate passion as it is eating gummy bears, which I truly enjoy. And deflowering this most beautiful language with my masterful mix of attitude, lascivious imagination and shortness of patience thanks to living in NY is quite my area of expertise.

Therefore I hope not to bore anyone with the type of writing that may permeate these pages once in a while, because I can almost assure you, that you'd leave here shaking your head or at least with little chuckle and blushing.

Motivation Monday: No Regrets.

2013-06-17T19:32:00.003-07:00

Do you have a mantra? This one pretty much says it all for me.

{via here}

Sassy Stylin' Sunday: Casual Comfort.

2013-06-02T09:25:00.001-07:00

Sunday: Casual Comfort. by heatherpranitis featuring reebok shoes

Mrs. P: Every Mom Needs Allies.

2013-06-01T10:24:00.002-07:00

Sometimes we just need allies. The world requires us to be politically correct and leaves little room for error. Sometimes we just need to be able to talk with no filter. We are all part of this crazy, chaotic, weird, wonderful world of parenting and we need to engage with those that are just as quirky as us. It boils down to this: we need each other. We need to feel connected. We need to know that we are not crazy, that there are others that discipline their kids, and that it's okay that we don't stand in the kitchen with our hair and nails perfectly done holding a fresh baked apple pie in each hand.

To all of us our children are perfect no matter what their flaws. I love my children. Our daughter was diagnosed with anxiety a little less than a year ago. I have fought a courageous battle since she was just two years old. There were not a lot of options for her being so young. I researched and researched and finally was able to find an institution that would see her. I will go into this in a later blog, but my point is that I could have used a support system of other moms who had experienced some of these same issues. At that time I had no one. This is why we need allies.

{via here}

Every morning we just have to wake up and continue to be awesome. We drag ourselves out of a restful sleep, drag our arms beside us until we reach the counter. At the glorious counter is the coffee pot. We tired-eyed reach up four our mug and fill it with an amazing brown substance and in a split second we transform into a woman with a cape and a superpowers. We suddenly in a matter of minutes have breakfasts and lunches made, clothes are folded and put away and we are in the car, coffee mug in hand, driving the little's to school.

We are a close knit family. Moms know moms and there is a certain understanding that we can come together at any time for support. We need allies. We need each other.

Until next time - Mrs. P

Motivation: Patience and Attitude.

2013-05-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

This says it all. No explanation needed.

Sometimes, you just need a reminder.

Consider this your reminder.

{via here}

It's simple: Life is Short. Buy the Shoes.

2013-05-29T18:32:00.000-07:00

Short, sweet and to the point.

{via here}

Enough said, right?!

PS - I'm watching the Blackhawks (it's do or die time) game so, I'll catch you tomorrrow. And yes, I am showing team spirit here at home - team gear ON!!! Go Hawks!!!

Let's Workout: Ab Challenge.

2013-05-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'll admit it - I'm an ab fanatic. I'm obsessed. Truly, I am. It's a definite obsession for me. A personal obsession - my own body. And others. It's a lot of hard work. I've put in a lot of work overall on my own. It isn't just a workout and ab exercises but eating right as well. And if you know me personally, you know this post is oh so true! I bet your laughing right now too!

On a side note, I think Joe Manganiello's abs are incredible. You know Joe. Trust me you do. Joe from True Blood, Magic Mike, Spiderman, What to Expect When Your Expecting.

{via here}

Long story short. I'm including an ab workout from Back on Pointe - a challenge if you will. to start you off in the right direction. Here goes...

{via here}

Alright, it's your turn to admit your workout "obsession"... Do tell.

Introducing Mrs. P!

2013-05-23T20:04:00.002-07:00

Let me introduce a new part of ...this & that... one of my guest contributors. Here is Mrs. P! She also happens to be a really great friend that I've known for many years - we've got history!

Without further ado, Mrs. P... (she's on the left).

Meet the Pick's

There is me...Mom and Superwife (wink wink). Then there is The Husband (equally awesome). Little 1 (who I will lovingly refer to as L1) is 4 years old and Little 2 (L2) is 6 months old. Little 3 (L3) will hopefully be mobilizing soon! Our superpowers have united so we will see what happens. Last but not least are Milli (the craziest puppy ever) and Batman (the poor 18 pound cat).

The odds are evenly played in our house. 3 girls and 3 boys if you include the pets. Nonetheless, equal at the present time. I am hoping that with L3 the girls will end with a win!

I have been racking my brain trying to think of everything I wanted to start with but of course only come up with fabulous ideas while driving or showering or riding my bike none of which where I have a pen handy and can write down my thoughts. Suddenly, when I remember that I hold a rectangular electronic device that will remember these thoughts for me I have already been sidetracked and lost the thought that was once awesome.

It happened again. I lost my train of thought. L1 should be home from school any minute. I have to be ready to hear about how today she did not push anyone or kick sand. She will also tell me that Jacob is her boyfriend and that Christopher said he was going to pee on Landon. Every day is an adventure with L1. L2 is going to need me at the exact same time so I should probably go for now.

I hope you can keep up....Until next time...

Mrs. P

Let's Workout: Running for Beginners.

2013-05-21T19:56:00.000-07:00

Early last year I was inspired to begin running. I've had ups. I've had downs. I've stopped. I've re-started. Most importantly I was challenged. In a very major way.

I'm starting again. I found this "Running for Beginners" schedule over at Back on Pointe and thought I would re-start and try it out.

Let me know what you think? Do you run? Any tips?

{via here}

Tuesday Tidbit: Live in such a way that...

2013-05-21T19:48:00.003-07:00

{via here}

Motiviation on a Monday by ACRONYM with Yoga!

2013-05-20T05:30:00.000-07:00

{via here}

It's Monday Baby & Let's Motivate with a little Humor!

2013-05-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

{via here}

GILT.com TV Commercial: High Noon.

2013-05-17T10:11:00.003-07:00

I died and went to heaven when I saw this GILT commercial.

It definitely had my attention and then I saw the shoes!!!

I ~~want~~ NEED the white sparkly shoes!

I went into overdrive to "find" the shoes.

Yes, I found them.

However, the Fashion Fairy, has yet to deliver them to me...

I'm thinking an early birthday present to myself.

One day... Soon.

...this and that... Thursday and Movie Review: Star Trek - Into the Darkness.

2013-05-16T20:31:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, I'll have one "official" day left of my staycation. As a result, I went to the movies today. I saw Star Trek - Into the Darkness. Earlier, I spent several hours outside poolside. And the pool was actually warm enough to in. Yes, I indulged myself. Oh, and I read the first 19 chapters of Inferno the new Dan Brown book, read about that here from an earlier blog post this week. Love it by the way! Love it.

Let me clarify... S has been working all week so I've been entertaining myself. No worries though. I've been reading a lot. Doing a bunch of "blog" research. Working on writing blog posts. Yes, I'm in the process of "re-inventing" ...this & that... and that means full of ideas for writing. In essence, I've actually been reading all the blogs that I follow; news blogs included.

Oh, and let me not forgot to mention I simply relaxed. Yep, I have been relaxing. Relaxing. Can you believe it?! A small admission though that I did go to work for a few hours on Wednesday morning - had to finish billing.

After my few hours at work Wednesday morning I headed to the hair salon for cut and color. Awesome! More details to come on that...stay tuned. Mom, met up with me at the hair salon and we (well I) shopped in the salon boutique for a few summer outfits. And I must say, that my choices look fabulous! Yep, more to come on those too. I need a full length mirror to take outfit pics. Mom and I wrapped up the afternoon with lunch at Portillo's --- YES!!!! It was delicious as always and just like back home. If you are from Chicago - I don't even need to explain any of this to you - you just get it. You, simply, just do.

Anyhow, movie review time. I liked the movie. I enjoyed it. However, I must say it was predictable. Let me explain I've been watching Star Trek since the very beginning - well re-runs of course but, I've watched all of the series (every single episode) and every movie. My Dad's a big Star Trek fan. Anyhow, I thought the storyline and action sequences were great! It's a must see if you are a Star Trek fan. And of course, if you are a Chris Pine fan it's a no-brainer to see it (aka Captain Kirk).

I need to point out that the majority of the day leading up to seeing the movie I read Inferno... Yep, so, I went from Professor Langdon, his tweed jacket (lack there of), and his concern for where his vintage Mickey Mouse watch was among other things... I'm trying not to give away anything from the book... And then switched gears completely to a sci-fi movie, Star Trek. So, you can see where I'm a little torn with my interest and satisfaction of the movie (in comparison). Now, if Professor Langdon would have made an appearance in Star Trek it would have been perfect!!!! Haha. Funny, I know.

Hope you had a great day. My plan tomorrow is to see Iron Man 2 in the morning and then pool time with S in the afternoon. Sounds like a pretty good day right?! Today and tomorrow.

Have a wonderful day! Have you seen Star Trek or Iron Man yet? Have you picked up your copy of Inferno yet?

Fashion Likes: Let's Spice Up Work Wear.

2013-05-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

A little "spin" on an outfit for work...minus, the shoes. I don't think those would work for me (or my office). They are more for switching to the "night-time" look for me...your thoughts? Typically, my shoes come off under my desk every single day. However, the shoes would be in my bag so, I could slip them on for my lunch with a girlfriend and when heading to my dinner date with S after work.

What about you? What do you think?

Bag on a Budget #2 by shakerhaallen featuring bourne

What I'm Reading: Inferno by Dan Brown.

2013-05-14T16:51:00.002-07:00

{via here}

Dan Brown's new book came out today. Inferno.

You guessed it. I headed right to the bookstore to pick it up. Well, actually while running an errand this morning Barnes & Noble happened to be right there and S stopped in for me.

Now, how did I know this what out... Thanks of course to an email from Barnes & Noble this morning and Dan Brown being interviewed this morning on Good Morning America. I haven't started it yet but, I plan on it this evening. Don't worry I'll definitely let you know what I think.

Doing a little research for this post it dawned on me there is one book of Mr. Brown's I still have yet to read...Digital Fortress. I am not quite sure how I could have missed this one - I've read all of the others! Well, it's "officially" added to my summer reading list as of today!

The storyline of Inferno (directly from the Dan Brown website):

In his international blockbusters The Da Vinci Code, Angels & Demons, and The Lost Symbol, Dan Brown masterfully fused history, art, codes, and symbols. In this riveting new thriller, Brown returns to his element and has crafted his highest-stakes novel to date.

In the heart of Italy, Harvard professor of symbology Robert Langdon is drawn into a harrowing world centered on one of history’s most enduring and mysterious literary masterpieces . . . Dante’s Inferno.

Against this backdrop, Langdon battles a chilling adversary and grapples with an ingenious riddle that pulls him into a landscape of classic art, secret passageways, and futuristic science. Drawing from Dante’s dark epic poem, Langdon races to find answers and decide whom to trust . . . before the world is irrevocably altered.

Will you be adding Inferno to your summer reading list?

Motivation Monday: Relaxation.

2013-05-13T14:57:00.000-07:00

{via here}

Today I am simply "relaxing".

I'm snuggling up with plenty of pillows in very comfy clothes.

I'm reading a book by one of my favorite authors. Almost Heaven by Judith McNaught.

I'm listening to a few of my favorite tunes on my Ipod as well.

We all need a little down time. What's your down time like?

{via here}

I'm Shoe Crazy!

2013-05-10T05:30:00.000-07:00

Guess

BCBG

Guess

Michael Kors

Jessica Simpson

Nine west

INC International Concepts

Jessica Simpson

I'm shoe crazy!!! Here is a few of my faves. Just a few. Literally. I have many, many, many more.

If you follow me on instagram you know I love shoes. Hence, my "shoe" shots.

Do you take pictures of your shoes? Do tell.

Fashion Likes: Bright Orange Boyfriend Blazer.

2013-05-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

Look what I found! Oh, Fashion Fairy...I hope you are paying attention to this post. I want one! Pretty please. What about you? This is a must have for each one of us.

{via here}

Making a Statement.

2013-05-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

I never thought I'd follow a trend. Never. Well, maybe. However, I jumped on the bandwagon. Yep, I sure did.

Last year, I clicked on a link on Facebook of a fellow blogger that I follow - can't remember who to this day. Anyhow, I ordered an incredible statement necklace for under $20. Actually, ordered two! One in ivory and one in turquoise. Now, I wish I would have ordered one of each color. Too funny, right?!

Side note - I'm pretty sure the necklaces are J Crew knock-offs. Some of you fashionista's out there may know. If you get The Glitter Guide, you saw Mrs. Lilien had the pink one on here.

If you follow me on instagram you've already seen me make a statement.

What do you think? Do you make a statement?

Looking Back...What's the Tackiest Outfit You've Worn?

2013-05-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, while the boyfriend and I were watching My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding on TLC and an interesting conversation ensued... What's the tackiest outfit either of us have every worn...?

If you've ever watched the show you know exactly how our conversation went. I'm laughing as I type this. Literally. We like the drama. Correction, we love the drama. S and I love discussing the outfits, behavior, drama, etc. Side note: we watch Myrtle Manor too! It's one of our favorites.

The outfits on the show are over the top, purposely so. The more bling the better.

We both agreed that we would never wear something with that much bling. Ever.

However, we did discuss what our "tackiest" outfit ever was. There was a lot of smiling and laughter during this conversation.

S's outfit, back in the Miami Vice days. He wore a bright turquoise (we are talking almost neon) mesh shirt and a white linen blazer complete with matching white pants and shoes. No socks of course (he adds this tidbit).

{via here}

My outfit, dates back to my mid-twenties and mid 1990's. Let's just say this was during my participation in the "club scene". I wore a silver mesh barely there top with skin type pleather pants and sky high heels. And to think I danced in this outfit as well!

Anyhow, we all have outfits that we look "back on" now and think what were we thinking... But, then again, we did look absolutely fabulous back in the day! Too funny, I know.

So, what's the tackiest outfit you've even worn...? Do tell.

Set Goals Then Kick Em' in the Face!

2013-05-06T18:00:00.000-07:00

{via here}

Wanderlust Wednesday: The Beach & a Cocktail.

2013-05-02T06:13:00.003-07:00

It's been awhile since I've been to the beach. Well, sort of. I was in San Clemente, California for a last minute trip back in February. We stayed on the beach. I was there for roughly 24-hours. Yep, it sure was quick! But, tons of fun.

When was the last time you were at the beach? What's your favorite part?

My favorite part of going to the beach is the surf, the sand, the relaxation. I like squishing my toes in the sand. It's pure zen! There is nothing quite like a tranquil walk along the beach, all while sharing it with that special someone.

I need an escape today. How about you? I think a cocktail or two is in order as well... We are after all at the beach.

{via here}

Guava Orange Margarita

What I've Been Doing & Interesting Finds on the Web.

2013-04-30T14:12:00.001-07:00

I know exactly what you are thinking. Where has she been? She's back "again"...she'll disappear again. Nope, I've made a conscious decision to stay put and blog up a storm for the month of May! Be ready.

An update on what's going on in my neck of the woods.

Well, the Valley of the Sun has finally reached 100 degrees. Woohoo! Now, I just can't wait until the pool is actually warm enough to go in. It's a tad bit nippy still, at about 60-65 degrees. It will be bath water temperature in a few weeks. No joke!

I've been reading a ton and have been branching out. No more romance, mystery. Well, it's still there in the background but, not the forefront of my reading "stack" for now. Yes, I am reading Fifty Shades of Grey for the second or third time (can't remember) and I just started Book II. My reading topics are more for the educational benefit and submersing myself in the freelance world of writing and bookkeeping (extra money for now). Yes, I'm reading for more than just "pure" enjoyment. I'll switch it up though for summertime reading poolside. I've been reading books on business and freelancing. Stay tuned for a post on these books.

Last week I read an article on Levo League that states I should be saving 25-50% of my salary... I'm like what?! You've got to be kidding me. I totally agree with 25% but, more...?! You see, I'm in the process of paying off all of my credit card debt. I'll be debt-free by March 2014 - if I have it my way it will be much sooner! Yay Heather!

I'm still struggling with the marketing plan for Blondie's Shop and whether or not I need a virtual assistant for some tasks that need to be done regularly. I'm still pondering it for now. Who would have thought that having an online shop to sell my note cards, baby shower invites and announcements, wedding thank you cards would need an assistant?!

I'm jonesing for a weekend getaway. Airfare right now isn't the best. Even months out and airfare is still very high. I've got some trips in the works - so be on the lookout for research posts on: Key West, Disneyland (California) and New Orleans. I've got schedule fall trips already - more to come on those.

I saw Bon Jovi in concert last week! What a show! Jon can definitely sing. It is rather unpleasant when you go see an individual, band or group in concert and they are just horrible live. Seeing a favorite musician live is the best ever!!!! I'm going to see Bruno Mars in July! Ellie Goulding is opening so that should be fun.

What to get my Mom for Mother's Day...? Haven't a clue at this point. Currently, the plan is to take her out to lunch and spend some quality time with her. You can find some gift ideas here and a few DIY here (over at TAGG).

I have daily writing goals. I'm being realistic. Speaking of which is there any topics you'd like to see more on ...this & that...? I've get a few new series in the works and a few old ones that will be re-visited. And a few other new series by guest authors. Be on the lookout as May is going to be a spectacular month for ...this & that...

Have a wonderful Tuesday and do tell what's been going on in YOUR neck of the woods.

Motivation on a Monday: Meditation and Yoga.

2013-04-29T14:02:00.002-07:00

{via here}

Back to the basics. Yep, that is where I am headed. Sometimes it's the only thing in sight.

I'm back to working out in the morning. By working out I mean - run a mile on the treadmill and do my abs exercises. My goal is to run a solid, complete mile and step it up a notch to 1.25, then 1.5, etc. You get the hint. I ran for 6.4 minutes and had to walk for a minute. Wow. Little did I know it would be a challenge yet again. This is what happens when you stop your workout routine for a bit.

I'm adding evening yoga. In my ~~yoga studio~~, aka the bedroom. Two weeks ago, I did yoga for 30 minutes in the evening after my hour long commute and it definitely took the edge off. Let's just say I'm sure my boyfriend was pleased as well.

It's important to point out that it's not just the running or yoga it is what comes along with it. The overall experience. What I feel as I do it and how I feel after. Correct? You know what I mean?

At 6 a.m., I'm still not awake so, I stretch my legs real quick, pop the ear buds in my ears, hit play and start the treadmill. Then I turn on the TV and mute it. Typically, in that order as well. Funny, I know. But, it's the honest to goodness truth!

My commute home is a pain in the butt sometimes but, I have to do it. So, I get home between 6:25-6:45 p.m. and then head right upstairs to change and get my "yoga" on! After I kiss the boyfriend and say a quick hello.

I like the breathing, repetition, poses. Come on the benefits of yoga are endless! The yoga videos that I watch have an inspirational setting and I listen to that - the poses are explained in addition to a little extra motivation for focus and breath. Candidly, I love it. I'll do another post this week on the instructor and videos that I watch as I'd love to hear your feedback. However, I do wish that my schedule allowed for the "occasional" hot yoga class... Wishful thinking on my part...one day soon. Hopefully.

Any who, it back to the basics. Mind, body and spirit. I need my zen back. In order to get it - I'm going back to the basics: meditation and yoga. It's a no brainer, right?!

What about you? Do you do meditation and yoga? What's your zen after work? Do tell.