...this and that...

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?

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

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

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Motiviation on a Monday by ACRONYM with Yoga!

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

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

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

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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

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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.

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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).

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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

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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.

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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.

Goal this Week. No. 2

2013-03-25T04:00:00.000-07:00

What to do or not to do...? That is the question.

I'm going out on a limb here. An admission on ...this & that...

Ok, here goes...

Blondie's Shop marketing plan in non-existent. First things first, I need to write one and then stick to it. And I need to determine a budget. You see, I want to spread the word about my shop. Grow it! I want Blondie's Shop to be the "go-to" online shop for note cards, baby invites and thank you cards, and wedding thank you cards. Hmmm, how am I going to do ALL of this without a marketing plan?! Hmmm, I'm not.

So, this week I'm going to DECIDE and write-out a marketing plan. Type it out. Commit to it. And Succeed!

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What about you? What's your plan for the week? Any goals? What's your plan of attack when you want to meet a goal? What steps do you take?

Have a wonderful start to the week!

Goal this Week. No. 1

2013-03-11T05:30:00.000-07:00

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I have several workout goals however, I'm starting with morning workouts first. Due to my work schedule and travel times to and from work - I've decided morning is the only option, period.

So, wish me luck and think good thoughts.

Today's the day, the morning workout routine commences! By the time, this post "posts" I'll be on the treadmill already.

What's your goal this week? Is it a workout goal? Do share.

Motivation on a Monday: Wild Thing.

2013-03-11T04:00:00.000-07:00

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Happy Monday!

So, has your wild side made it's appearance recently?

Have a wonderfully "wild" week!

Blondie's Shop: Monogram Division.

2013-03-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

The monogram division of Blondie's Shop came about by two things. My love of note cards (and personalization of them) and the blog, Hi Sugarplum! See the blog header here...can you tell "where" the inspiration came from? Don't worry I got Cassie of Hi Sugarplum's permission - the cards are after all named the Sugarplum Monogram series.

To create the monogram series I had the assistance of my graphic artist, Kathy, that "designs" the graphic digital paper I use. You can check out her etsy shop, Katie's Wish.

I've decided to limit the color choices from 8 down to 4. So, the colors: aqua, navy, grey, and gold.

Work in progress monogram cards. Color theme: grey and fuschia.

Hi Sugarplum: aqua and fuschia.

Sugarplum: navy blue and fuschia.

Color scheme: red and black.

Color scheme: light grey and fuschia.

These cards were created for Meaghan over at District Sparkle...these are the "District Sparkle" monogram set.

So, what's your favorite monogram set? Any suggestions for a new color combo?

Should We?

2013-03-09T09:57:00.000-07:00

This "letter" I found directly on Tyler's website.

And let's just say it definitely hot and sexy.

The question is "should we"?

I think say YES, we should!

And you?

A Love Letter.

2013-03-09T09:52:00.000-07:00

I stumbled on this completely by accident while on Pinterest.

Tyler Knott Gregson definitely has my attention. Does he have your's?

He is one very talented guy. Wow!

{via here}

Cocktails and a Chat. No. 1

2013-03-06T21:30:00.000-07:00

This is a fun new series that will appear every Wednesday, Hump Day. Short and sweet. Blunt and bold.

I've got two bloggy friends who've agreed to participate in my weekly series! Sergio from LePorkstar and Kori from Blonde Episodes. And yes, I have met them in person and consider them both to be great friends!

So, this is how each post will work: Sergio, Kori and I will let you know our cocktail of choice for the "chat" and then give you the topic, and then our commentary. Then it's time for you to weigh in!

Here we go...

What cocktails are we having this fine Wednesday evening?

Sergio: a fruity cognac wine that I can't remember the name of...

Kori: my new Malbec from Argentina

Heather: Coppola Pinot Noir

The topic up for discussion this evening is first dates and love at first sight. A special shout out and thanks to my boyfriend, Scott, for the topic. Thanks sweetie!

Sergio: No such thing as love at first sight... More like lust at first sight yes, no.  I think as time passes by, it is more difficult to get that love at first sight thing. To me is more like, an incredible attraction at first sight... Something that shuffles all of your senses, but the heart? Just not yet. There certainly can be a strong chemistry between two people, and people with little experience may say yes - as in, I'm marrying that person but, yeah it can happen. But emotional love per se, on a first date, only creepy men would feel that, in my opinion. First dates... Exciting. Anticipation build up, making out, and (for me) ok to bump uglies on the first date.

Kori: ...first dates are either super fun or completely suck. I think you have the connection or you don't. I don't remember someone growing on me. I've liked them from the beginning or not. The love at first sight thing, not so sure about.

Heather: Hmmm...love at first sight? Nope. For me, it's more of a "hot and sexy" feeling or a "WOW" factor. It's more of a feeling "that I really like this person and definitely want to get to know them better"; it's kind of like the date that you don't want to end, you know what I mean? Don't get me wrong, I've definitely felt a "connection" or "vibe" hence, why else would I want to see the person again but, not love at first sight -- nope, not me.  And first dates...make me really nervous - it's amazing the person actually can "experience" the real me on the date because I'm normally very nervous. Extremely! Every single time. It's funny I know, but so very true! However, first dates can be so-so, go really well or be very unpleasant! Been there, done that!

Alright, it's time for you to add your two-sense and let Sergio, Kori and I know what you think...?

Let us know what's your cocktail this evening and your comments!

Motivation on a Monday.

2013-03-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

{via here}

To me this makes definite sense.

From time to time we all need to step outside of our comfort zone.

Sometimes you just need to go with that feeling deep down inside.

Go with your gut. Just DO IT!

I'll be the first to admit it can be really scary. Very.

But, then I just ask myself what have I got to lose?

Have a wonderful Monday!