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Beauty Favorites

2013-05-21T20:50:00.000-07:00

I know, I know. You're shocked that a knockout like me uses any beauty products. But I admit, I don't roll outta bed looking like a million bucks. Only $999,999,999 ;)

Here are the beauty products that I swear by and could live without, but wouldn't want to.

1. Urban Decay matte foundation: Cruelty-free foundation that provides great coverage. Need I say more?

2. N.Y.C. Big Bold Curl Mascara: I was given this mascara by a friend and instantly feel in love. It goes on smooth and doesn't clump and makes my lashes look long. Plus it's $5. No brainer.

3. Living Proof hair care: Thanks to Kathrin this is my newest beauty obsession. She always gets me hooked on the expensive products. It's worth the spend though if you like the textured, messy hair look.

4. Bath & Body Works Paris Amour Shimmer & Shea: I do NOT like lotion. It's a weird thing, the feeling on it on my hands drives me crazy. But this one is great because it's shimmery and smells amazing.

Are any of these items on your must-have list? Want to try one but unsure? Feel free to ask and I can tell you more about an item!

SoCal bloggers: Did you hear that Meg of henning love and I are hosting a meetup at a J.Crew Factory? Come check out the details and RSVP if you can come. We'd love to meet you!

Linking up for Random Wednesday & Four Favorites

J.Crew Factory SoCal Blogger Meetup

2013-05-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

SoCal bloggers (or anyone else in the area willing to drive to Southern California): I am excited to announce that Meg of henning love and I are hosting a meetup at the J.Crew Factory store in Ontario Mills this June!

It's going to be a lot of fun and a great opportunity to meet local bloggers. Plus, they are closing the store down for us and offering a discount! J.Crew Factory, just us bloggers hanging out. Um, awesome! We hope you can join us. Here are the deets:

Date: Saturday, June 29

Time: 5-8pm

Location: J.Crew Factory

Ontario Mills
1 Mills Cir #839D
Ontario, CA 91764
Special Discount: 20% off $125 or more
RSVP

Be sure to check out the info on EventBrite and RSVP to reserve your spot. Can't wait to see you on June 29!

~~Most~~ All of the credit goes to the wonderful Meg who really is the mastermind behind this all. Thanks, Meg!!

Rock Royalty

2013-05-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

Can we talk about how epic my weekend was? I mean, I saw The Rolling Stones in concert for their 50 and Counting Tour. Rock legends. 50+ years as a band. Amazing. As far as music goes that's pretty much the ultimate experience. This may very well be The Stones last tour and I am so grateful I got to experience it in person.

And you'd think that at their age (Mick Jagger turns 70 this year!!) they'd be boring and sluggish. Not at all. They still command the stage. I wish I had the energy that they do and I'm 40 years younger. Seriously though, what is Mick? Maybe 120 lbs...soaking wet? I wish I had his figure ha!

Each night they have guest artists, for our show it was Dave Grohl of the Foo Fighters and Nirvana. He's a genius and always puts on an entertaining live show.

I went with my parents and had a great time. Totally worth the ridiculous ticket prices to see them.

And then this happened...I tweeted and they favorited. Yeah it's just a PR person that probably favorites all tweets. But still. Life complete.

Hey look, my fav Christina favorited the tweet too ;)

Your turn to gossip. All topics are accepted for this weekly blog hop. Link up and meet new friends!

Here's how it works:

1. Blog about your gossip
2. Include the badge (below) in your post and/or link back to Join the Gossip
3. Add your link to the list below.

Spring Stripes

2013-05-16T21:29:00.001-07:00

How is it that every week for Friday's Fancies I can put together an outfit in minutes, yet each day I struggle with putting things from my closet together? I mean, other than the fact that any article of clothing from any store can be added. But stiil.

Saturday I'm going to see The Rolling Stones. Lifelong dream! That's pretty much all I can think about. So with that, I bid you all a happy weekend.

Linking up for Friday's Fancies

Come back Monday for Monday Morning Gossip!

Keep Calm and Stay Positive

2013-05-14T21:32:00.000-07:00

Here are the four favorite things keeping me happy this week:

Peonies I bought for my mom. Every day they open more and she sends me a picture.

I'm a big worrier and too hard on myself. This quote will help me look at the positive.

$15 necklace, 50% off, at Target. Hell to the yeah!

New sandals, also from Target. The ankle straps can be worn two different ways.

Linking up for Random Wednesday & Four Favorites

Birthdays & Mother's Day

2013-05-12T20:40:00.000-07:00

This weekend was low-key - a birthday party and family time.

Saturday my friend hosted a birthday party at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel for her twins who turned 3. Their birthday cake was adorable and so we they as they blew out their three candles together!

Sunday I hung out with my parents for a relaxed Mother's Day and we enjoyed a BBQ and cupcakes.

New Glasses & Curled Hair // Strawberry Julep

Disney-themed birthday cake // The twins blowing out the candles!

My mutt // My mom's Mother's Day gift from 10 years ago (he looks cute but he's a men little dog!)

Cupcakes for the family

What are you blogging about today? It's your turn to gossip. All topics are accepted for this weekly blog hop. Link up and meet new friends!

Here's how it works:

1. Blog about your gossip
2. Include the badge (below) in your post and/or link back to Join the Gossip
3. Add your link to the list below

Everybody's Workin' For the Weekend

2013-05-09T20:30:00.000-07:00

Weekend Wear: Casual by leeannm

Hellllo Friday! It's going to be a glorious spring weekend and I am ready for it. Nothing too crazy planned. A birthday party for my favorite 3-year-old twins (my sorority Big Sis' kids) and something low-key with my family for Mother's Day. I'm pretty sure I need this tee to complete my plans, though. It's effortlessly cool and scream Southern California. Am I right?

What are you up to this weekend? Have fun and come back Monday to link up for Monday Morning Gossip. ALL topics welcomed.

In the past week...

2013-05-05T23:00:00.000-07:00

1. With Nautical Kate at Della for Urban Outfitters launch party/ 2. New Elle blazer from Kohl's

3. Research at work / 4. My favorite necklace, also from Kohl's

Now it's your turn to gossip! What are you blogging about today? Link up and meet new friends.

Here's how it works:

1. Blog about your gossip - be it the weekend, big news, or anything else
2. Include the badge (below) in your post and/or link back to Join the Gossip
3. Add your link to the list below

May Flowers

2013-05-02T20:31:00.000-07:00

I'm kinda in love with these floral shorts. I think because the faded color makes them look a little distressed and not so sweet. Paired with a plain bag and top I'm good to go.

The only problem I have with this look I came up with is the fact that I want to recreate it. The problem? TAXES!

When I took my new job I got a bump in pay. Yay, wonderful! Great! Not so much. Because I make more, I get taxed more. In the end, I am actually making $100 less EACH paycheck - $200 less a month. That seems fair doesn't it?

Without sounding too poor, poor pitiful me, instead of celebrating my first full paycheck at my new job, I'm going to stay home this weekend. Please go out and enjoy yourself then come back and link up for Monday Morning Gossip sharing your fun stories so I can live vicariously through you!!

Linking up for Friday's Fancies

I'm Jealous of My Dog

2013-05-01T20:59:00.001-07:00

Today is the very first installment of The Meowpocalypse, hosted by none other than my LP, Tiffany of Polka Dotted Cats. What is The Meowpocalypse you ask? Besides being a word that I cannot spell or pronounce, it's also a blog hop dedicated to pet stories.

As of late my dog Coco has been really good, no disaster stories to report this time. She's come a long way from eating bras and walls to being able to hang out alone in my apartment all day while I'm at work.

But there's another issue I'm having with her. She's a scene stealer.

You know that friend who all the guys flock to because she looks exotic? That's my dog. Not only is she brindle, she's also got a unique shape (she's half pit half basset hound) so people stop to tell me how they've never seen a dog quite like her. And how beautiful she is. And how pretty and shiny her hair is. And how she looks like she's always smiling. I GET IT, PEOPLE. SHE'S A-FREAKING-DORABLE! But what about me? You can say hi to me. You don't have to ignore me and talk to my dog only. I have feelings too, stranger on the street.

Best part? Coco is a diva when it comes to pictures. It's so hard to get her to look at the camera. Today, the streets of Hollywood, tomorrow the runways of Paris. I have to remind her that she's just plain ol' Coco, not Coco Chanel.

BaubleBar: Got it, Want it!

2013-04-30T21:57:00.000-07:00

BaubleBar graduation jewelry / BaubleBar bohemian jewelry

BaubleBar bangle bracelet / BaubleBar metal ring

BaubleBar is on point right now! I am really refraining from not going on a shopping spree. But, I am human after all, so I caved and made a few purchases this month. I bought the necklace as a Platimim Buried Bauble. For $20, how could I not? And the stackable rings have been on my wish list for months so when they were offering 20% off on tax day I figured it was a sign from the jewelry gods.

Now I have that beautiful knot pave bracelet in my sights. Their rhinestones are really pretty and classy. They don't look cheap at all. The rings above feature them and they are beautiful in person. I also need a nice pair of stone earrings for dressy events. I think these ones would go with many different outfits.

Who is with me? Have you made any BaubleBar purchases lately?

Go check out Lena B, Actually and enter to win a $15 Starbucks gift card that I'm giving away!

Linking up for Random Wednesday and Four Favorites!

Angels in the Outfield

2013-04-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

Last week I finally went to my first Angels game of the season. They got their butts kicked. As in it was 13-0 by the 4th. And it even started drizzling by the 5th. That's when I took off. I've been a fan of the team for my whole life, but rain and a mercy is where I draw the line. Despite all of that it was nice to get out to the park and enjoy a beer.

It always feels good to be back in Orange County.

Be sure to stop by Lena B, Actually and enter to win a $15 Starbucks gift card that I'm giving away!

Spring 2013 Wardrobe

2013-04-28T23:13:00.000-07:00

It's Monday, Monday, Mondaaaaaay...sang no one ever. But alas, another work week is upon us. To help a little with the Monday blues, I'm guest blogging over at Lena B, Actually. Go check it out and enter to win a $15 Starbucks gift card. And while you're there, check out Lena's blog. She is a kick ass mama who has the cutest style, and two adorable kiddos.

Now onto a little fashion. At my new job we sell designer labels - DVF, Marc Jacobs, Derek Lam, and other big names in the industry. The place I worked at before, people literally wore yoga pants to work. So while I have lots of cute clothes, some are far too casual. I don't feel like I am a the level of my co-workers.

I am still waiting on my first real paycheck (this Thursday, thank you baby Jesus!) and eventually will be taking advantage of the great perks (aka discounts) that come along with the current gig, but until then I'm adding some cute clothes from places I can afford like Forever 21, H&M, and Kohl's. Let's keep it real. Even though adding designer names to my closet will be accessible, I'll still always be a bargain shopper and look to these cheaper stores.

Check out the purchases I made this weekend:

Vera Wang leggings from Kohl's / Tank from Forever 21

Elle blazer from Kohl's / Khakis from H&M

Black pants from H&M / Top from H&M

This week I'll feel a little more fashionable and hopefully more confident with my attire. Fake it until you make it, right?

Now it's your turn to gossip! What are you blogging about today?

Here's how it works:

1. Blog about your gossip - be it the weekend, big news, or anything else
2. Include the badge (below) in your post and/or link back to Join the Gossip
3. Add your link to the list below

April Showers

2013-04-25T20:30:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the most basic outfits often say much more. For this week's Friday's Fancies look I decided to pair a sweet polka dot pants and a feminine necklace with a edgy boots and a simple sweater. Right now I'm really into the juxtaposition of soft and hard pieces. And the great thing about all of these pieces are that they can all be used for multiple looks since they are wardrobe staples.

What's your rainy day style?

Linking up for Friday's Fancies.

See you here for Monday for Monday Morning Gossip, my weekly blog hop. All topics accepted!

After Sunset Giveaway

2013-04-21T23:00:00.000-07:00

This week I have another great giveaway for you, a $25 credit to the wonderful shop, After Sunset! I'm a fan of the jewelry and had my eye on the Mint & Champagne bracelet below for a few weeks and actually tweeted about how pretty it is. Chelsea, the woman behind After Sunset, reached out to me after that tweet and was sweet enough to offer it to me to review AND offer a giveaway for my readers.

I'm obsessed with the bracelet. It's so pretty and perfect for stacking or worn as a stand alone piece. Even the clasp is adorable! Here I've paired it with a Michael Kors Showstopper watch and Forever 21 spike bracelet.

As described by Chelsea, "After Sunset consists of handmade jewelry that is inspired by the colors of the sunset, the sea, and the sand." You can totally see this in her collection of brightly colored bracelets and earrings mixed with gold tones. Want something special? Be sure to check out After Sunset and reach out to Chelsea for custom orders, she can create something special just for you.

Now though the end of April, use coupon code "JOINTHEGOSSIP" for free domestic shipping.

Here's your chance to snag a $25 After Sunset credit. One winner will be selected on Sunday, May 6. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Your turn to gossip! Here's how it works:

1. Blog about your gossip - be it the weekend, big news, or anything else
2. Include the badge (below) in your post and/or link back to Join the Gossip
3. Add your link to the list below

IF YOU LINK UP FOR MMG, YOU GET 5 EXTRA GIVEAWAY ENTRIES. DON'T MISS OUT!

Tribal + Neon

2013-04-18T20:45:00.000-07:00

Ah, neon. My love affair with bright colors really started last year. If it is the same color as a highlighter, I'm all about it. Neons are just fun! Back in October I went to Australia and it was their spring. Everywhere I turned was neon. Now that's a country that does brights well. Now that it's back on trend for this year I couldn't be happier.

Pair neon with a tribal print and you're good to go for Spring 2013!

Linking up for Friday's Fancies

Be sure to come back Monday for Monday Morning Gossip, my weekly blog hop. All topics accepted!

It's Only Rock 'n' Roll, But I Like It

2013-04-16T21:58:00.000-07:00

This week my four favorites are Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood, and Charlie Watts - The Rolling Stones. I managed to score tickets to the 50 & Counting Tour! There are only a handful of shows on what may very well be the last tour for the band, so getting tickets was not easy. I couldn't get them on pre-sale and then for public on-sale I tried for over two hours until I got lucky.

Mick Jagger is the man and I am super excited to see therm perform live. They're one of my favorite bands and it's pretty incredible that they've been together for 51 years.

Linking up with for Random Wednesday and Four Favorites!

1 / 2 / 3 / 4

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Be sure to enter my latest giveaway - a sweatshirt and pair of PJ boxers embroidered with your sorority letters or monogram.

Greek Life Girl Giveaway

2013-04-14T23:30:00.000-07:00

Today for Monday Morning Gossip I have a giveaway I'm really excited about! One lucky reader will win a pair of PJ boxers and a ¼ zip sweatshirt brought to you by Greek Life Girl, a brand by Memento. Memento makes all things monogrammed and preppy. Their Greek line features a long list of sororities they are licensed to create items for, and if your sorority is not on the list, they can start the process to become licensed. Pretty cool!

I was lucky enough to be given a sweatshirt to review. I chose my sorority letters and the colors of thread and sweatshirt - Delta Zeta/pink and green. Love it! It's comfy and looks really nice. I've been wearing it non-stop. I honestly am so impressed with the quality that I plan on ordering more from Memento.

In addition to the Greek line, Memento offers a large selection of raincoats, monogrammed boot socks, sweatshirts, T-shirts, pocket tees, jerseys, pajamas, yoga pants, running shorts, jewelry, technology cases, and more. Pretty much anything you would want monogrammed. Best part is it's all adorable AND affordable!

Onto the giveaway!

One luck lady will win a ¼ zip sweatshirt (like the one I'm wearing above) and PJ boxers both in the colors, sizes, sorority letters, and thread colors for embroidery. Not affiliated with a sorority? That's OK. You can still enter the giveaway. Instead of sorority letters you can elect to do a monogram!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: I was given a sweatshirt for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinion are truthful and my own.

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What are you blogging about today? Join the blog hop. Here's how it works:

1. Blog about your gossip - be it the weekend, big news, or anything else
2. Include the badge (below) in your post and/or link back to Join the Gossip
3. Add your link to the list below

IF YOU'RE LINKING UP TODAY, BE SURE TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY. YOU'LL GET 5 EXTRA ENTRIES!

Wedge Sandals

2013-04-11T20:58:00.003-07:00

I'm in love with these Bandolino FillUp Wedge Sandals from DSW! They literally go with everything. I easily styled them with three outfits to show their versatility. Only problem is they are $70, meh. I know that's not that much but I am still waiting on my first paycheck from the new company. Maybe I'll find an online coupon and buy them once I get paaaaaid!

To see more shoes head on over to Long Distance Loving for Friday's Fancies.

Be sure to come back Monday for Monday Morning Gossip, my weekly blog hop. You can link up with any topic, so join us! I also have a giveaway Monday. Here's a hint: sorority ladies will want to enter ;)

Fashion Go-Tos

2013-04-09T21:58:00.000-07:00

If you haven't yet heard, here's my 17,367th announcement: I GOT A NEW JOB! Point is, it's been a bit tough to get into the swing of things. It's a new routine after 4+ years. I no longer work a three-minute drive away from home. I'm learning new skills and procedures and have no downtime during the work day. It's overwhelming. A good overwhelming, though. BUT as a result I've had no time to blog or visit blogs. Eventually I'll get back into my routine. In the meantime, please bear with me. I'm not ignoring you and I do miss reading & interacting with everyone.

Now that I have anywhere from a 1-1 1/2 hour commute mornings, are a rush. There are a few fashion staples that I look to for finishing outfit touches, like my favorite leopard scarf and some new jewelry purchases. It's the little things to keep you sane right?

Linking up for Random Wednesday, Four Favorites, & Fashion Must Haves.

Giveaway: 9 Magazine Subscriptions

2013-04-08T00:00:00.000-07:00

Today my Monday Morning Gossip involves a great giveaway sponsored by Zinio! Nine magazine subscriptions are up for grabs.

Never heard of Zinio? Let me break it down. Zinio showcases over 5,000 digital magazines on their digital newsstand. You can use your desktop, mobile phone, or Kindle Fire to download and read subscriptions.

In 2012, Zinio delivered more than 70 million digital issues to readers in more than 200 countries. On top of winning numerous awards, consumers also back Zinio. The company has Four-Star ratings in iTunes and Android app stores.

Not sold yet? Subscriptions are priced reasonably. 12 issues of Vanity Fair, Cosmo, or Marie Claire for $19.99. Fashion, DIY, cooking, news, men & many, many more categories. And right now, there's an Earth Day promo going on. So if you don't win this giveaway you can still snag a subscription at a great price. The promo features over 50 titles offered at 50% off and is good through April 16.

But for nine of you, you'll get a full subscription for free! Select ANY of the magazines offered by Zinio. Giveaway ends on Friday, April 12 at midnight PST.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: I was offered a free subscription as well in exchange for this post.

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A Little Dirt Before a Clean Slate

2013-03-31T23:51:00.000-07:00

Today is my FIRST day at my new job! I'm super nervous but also really excited. I'll be doing what I want and love, and as an added bonus I'll be in the fashion industry. Because of this huge change, I'll probably be a bit MIA with commenting this week but I will eventually get back to you. Sorry in advance!

And speaking of MIA, this past week I wasn't working so I spent very little time on the computer. Instead, I went to Northern Arizona with my family. We spent a few days playing in the desert and mountains surrounded by family. Here are some of the scenes from my last several days:

I'm also linking up for Yolo Monday and showing a little Monday blog hop love to other hosts :)

Pretty in Pastels

2013-03-28T20:35:00.000-07:00

Easter weekend in upon us, already! When I think of the holiday I think of pastels. The outfit I created below is perfect for Easter mass and spring in general. Would you wear it?

Pretty in Pastels by leeannm

Linking up for Friday's Fancies over at Long Distance Loving

Enjoy your Easter, if you celebrate. See you back here on Monday for my weekly blog hop, Monday Morning Gossip. All topics are accepted. Stop by, link up, and make new friends!

Customized By eShakti

2013-03-26T22:00:00.000-07:00

I know you've probably seen the reviews about eShakti.com on several blogs by now, and now it's my turn. I'm here to tell you that they really do have a great service! You literally get to customize your order to fit every inch of your body. You can select a standard size or input all of your measurements - including shoulders, upper arms, chest, bust, arm length, under bust, waist, and hip. They then take those measurements and make a dress specifically for you. On top of that, you can also decide what hem and arm length of your dress/skirt you'd like. The most difficult part of the process is trying to pick an item!

I decided to order the Trellis pleat knit dress in emerald.

I ordered my dress a few weeks ago and now there are many more items available in their spring line. I want to place another order since I know and trust their products! And if you want to place an order, be sure to use the special discount code JTGSP for 20% off your order, valid from 03/20/13 thru 04/07/13.

Linking up for Random Wednesday & Style Sessions.

Jobless for a Week

2013-03-24T23:50:00.000-07:00

Guess who has this week off? MEEE! No work until April 1. I'm super excited to have moved on from my last job but a little nervous to embark on my new journey. I'm going to take this week to relax and enjoy doing a whole lot of nothing combined with traveling to see family for Easter. Sounds glorious, right?

Before I left, my co-workers gave me a little going away surprise complete with a toilet papered desk and treats. And I my treat to myself was a few celebratory drinks.

What are you gossiping about today? Join the blog hop and share! Here's how it works:

1. Blog about your gossip - it can be about the weekend, big news, or anything else.
2. Include the badge (below) in your post and/or link back to Join the Gossip. Please mention Monday Morning Gossip if you are participating.
3. Add your link to the list below.