One Day at a Time

Cafe Maude

2012-01-28T12:56:00.002-06:00

Tim and I dined at an excellent little gem called Cafe Maude in Minneapolis last Sunday. I enjoyed the ambiance as much as the food (and the company wasn't bad either). Both of our entrees were delicious. Tim ordered the Steak Frites and I had the Wood Grilled Pork Tenderloin. The meats were tender and moist as well as savory. I recommend it. Here is a picture of my beautiful dinner before I devoured it like a wild animal.

100 List-Knit Something Entirely

2012-01-28T12:50:00.004-06:00

So althought my list was made some time ago aspiring to learn to how knit (again), I ended up having it be a required learning project in one of my OT classes! We actually only had to do a few small samples of different types of knitting and crocheting however I decided to continue to practice to possibly make it more of a hobby for my "free time". I made Jennie a circle scarf for Christmas with some delightfully soft alpaca yarn. I also learned how to crochet and made some coffee cup holders for people for gifts. We shall see what the future holds for creating-sky is the limit!

100 List-Receive a Dozen Roses

2012-01-28T12:06:00.002-06:00

This wasn't originally on my list but when Tim surprised me with these beauts I realized I had never received a dozen roses and it made me extremely excited. Enough so that I added it to my list!

Bring It On 2012

2012-01-02T13:22:00.003-06:00

Mmm...

2011-12-26T15:16:00.003-06:00

Can't decide which is the lesser of the evils: the land being brown and weather being cold or snow that is soon to come... either way this is a frequent thought of mine

100 List-See a Musical/Show

2011-12-19T18:22:00.003-06:00

Was given the opportunity to see Les Miserables with Tim and his parents and was very impressed! I enjoyed it much more than I thought I even would. Next stop Wicked hopefully!

I'm in love I'm in love and I don't care who knows it!

2011-12-18T11:47:00.005-06:00

With Eileen Kirby. Lady knows how to cut a dress just the way I like + lots of sparkle. Looking for a gift idea for me yet? This should help...

Time to start bundling up again...

2011-12-11T15:22:00.001-06:00

Fantastic!

2011-12-05T21:20:00.002-06:00

Yummers

2011-10-29T20:50:00.002-05:00

I almost don't want to share this because it's too amazing, but I recommend checking this website out: http://foodgawker.com/

MonsterDash

2011-10-29T20:39:00.006-05:00

I ran the MonsterDash this morning! It was extremely hard to estimate our time having a slow start due to mass amounts of runners and dodging people the whole way but believe we did great. It's so much more enjoyable to run with people even if you can hardly have a decent conversation. Christine and I were 'Where's Waldo?' and Kerry joined up with us last minute also. The people watching was spectacular! Can you find us? Hint, look for the red and white striped shirts and hats.

Life Saver

2011-10-29T20:07:00.003-05:00

Between working 28 hours a week (on the phone), school, spending 8 hours driving to and from class M-Th, fitting in workouts, homework, and a minimal social life-I'm worn out. All the time. This stuff may save my life for the next couple years. It's soothing and delicious.

Want these on my feet right meow

2011-10-26T19:51:00.001-05:00

Minnetonka Moccasins

True story.

2011-10-25T21:25:00.002-05:00

Genius!

2011-10-25T20:02:00.001-05:00

This could potentially be the best investment for the next 2 years. Post-it watches!

A girl can dream...

2011-10-25T18:13:00.001-05:00

Peanut Sauce

2011-09-30T06:18:00.009-05:00

I learned how to make a delicious peanut sauce last year and thought I would share. There aren't very precise measurements because most of the seasonings would be to one's liking and also depends on how many people it's being made for. Here is the general recipe and instructions though:

Olive Oil (EVOO)

Yellow or Red Onion

Garlic

Salt

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes

Ground Ginger

Chicken or Vegetable Stock

Creamy Peanut Butter

In frying or sauce pan drizzle EVOO, sautee garlic and onion. Bring heat down to Medium. Add crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and ginger. Add Peanut Butter and once melted add chicken or vegetable stock until desired consistency. Will thicken slightly upon standing.

Mix sauce with Chicken, Rice Noodles, Spaghetti Noodles, Rice, Steamed Veggies, etc.

Nautical At Heart

2011-09-30T05:59:00.005-05:00

I have a thing for navy and white... any shape, size, pattern, or combination.

Lady In Red

2011-08-02T14:48:00.002-05:00

I'm a little too into this new ice cream I found... Stone Ridge Creamery Red Velvet Ice Cream. I recommend giving it a whirl!

Vacation All I Ever Wanted

2011-07-28T19:52:00.000-05:00

TacoTime

2011-07-28T18:58:00.005-05:00

I could eat Mexican food everyday. Probably because there is such a huge variation in such food genre. In the summer, or whatever you call 114 degrees, I kind of lose my appetite. I only want cold, crunchy, healthy-but flavorful-food. Thus, I bring you some of the freshest, tastiest tacos that actually bring me back to ones I ate in Chihuahua, Mexico.

I used some leftover Oil and Vinegar Coleslaw I had made a couple days prior but you can use regular shredded cabbage with some lime squirts, lil' vinegar, lil' evoo, S&P.

Marinate a chicken breast for about 15-20 minutes in lime squirts, cumin, S&P, cilantro.

Cook chicken in frying pan with lid on the keep it moist. Cut up chicken once fully cooked.

In another frying pan lightly drizzled evoo and lay in a small soft corn tortilla. Sizzle for a minute. Flip. Place on papertowel. Repeat with another tortilla.

Optional: whip up a lil' sour cream and ripe avocado for a cool, light, and flavorful drizzle.

Top with tomato. Mozz. Lime juice. Avocado drizzle. Enjoy!

Quality>Quantity

2011-07-28T18:00:00.005-05:00

This is going to be my new motto. With so many things going on lately I'm all about simplying my life and hopefully my style. The less I have to think the better. I sadly and oddly packed up 3 bags of clothes and 2 bags of shoes in the middle of last night while not being able to sleep. I'll be having family and friends rummage before giving them to a place where people need it more than myself: GoodWill.

Playing with your Food

2011-07-26T10:54:00.004-05:00

It's ok when you have these neat plates!

Back to Skewl

2011-07-22T00:04:00.002-05:00

I am officially going back to school to be an Occupational Therapy Assistant! I was on a waiting list for a year and confirmed it would be another year when [SURPRISE!] they said I was starting August 22nd. At least I have no worries when it comes to my future school supplies: it will be Russell+Hazel of course! Best of luck to all of those either starting or continuing their education as well.

Dreaming of...

2011-07-21T23:40:00.001-05:00

Summer=Smores!

2011-07-19T20:40:00.003-05:00

I was making some S'mores the other night here in the great outdoors and I was thinking how, although traditional S'mores are DELICIOUS, there are so many more variations out there! The first idea that popped into my mind would be using chocolate graham crackers, white chocolate, and a marshmallow... maybe even one of those pink/berry flavored marshmallows. What about a cinnamon graham crackers (do they still make those?) with butterscotch chips and a marshmallow. Andes mints, peanut butter, banana, etc. The possibilities are endless! Found this great pic to illustrate some of them!

LOVING this Color Combo!

2011-06-24T11:20:00.002-05:00

Green Machine

2011-06-24T10:44:00.007-05:00

I broke down and bought a Coach purse. Which is not really my style... I'm a shoe girl. I have high hopes for it to last me a very long time for how much it is worth. Love that the color can go with everything and there are handles AND a longer crossbody strap. And did I mention it was originally $350 and I got it for... $70!? From the Premium Outlets in Seattle, WA. What a nice souvenir!

100 List-East Lobster

2011-04-15T17:01:00.006-05:00

I ate Lobster! I was pleasantly surprised. Although I would prefer to eat it on the coast it was pretty scrumptious with a breadcrumb topping and dipped in butter. perfect birthday dinner.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!

2011-04-15T16:19:00.003-05:00

It was my birthday a couple weeks ago. I had the BEST birthday week ever. Going to Cheesecake Factory with co-workers, Stillwater with Jennie (took my birthday off of work of course), and 2 great birthday dinners with my family. Here are some pictures documenting the best 25th birthday a girl could ask for!

Papa's Birthday

2011-04-15T16:10:00.004-05:00

In the beginning of March we went up to Walker, MN and stayed at our favorite hotel, Chase on the Lake, for my Dad's birthday. We have been staying up on Leech Lake in Walker, MN for about 10 years but I have never been up there between the months of October and May. It was so neat to see everything so...white. A recap of the weekend can be summed up simply: sleeping, watching movies, eating and drinking. Delightful. Everything was just fantastic except witnessing 5 car accidents within 1/2 mile on the way home. Typical.

100 List-Walk on Frozen Lake

2011-04-15T15:32:00.004-05:00

Living in a state with 10,000+ lakes, one would think I had walked on a frozen lake by now. But that's apparently not the case. I finally got a chance to go walk on Leech Lake [the lake that I stay on every summer] however this time it was frozen solid! It's hard to tell in picture because the lake is so large you can't see trees in the background.

Bye Bye Elizabeth Taylor

2011-03-23T14:43:00.005-05:00

Elizabeth Taylor passed away yesterday, March 23, after struggling for decades with health issues including congestive heart failure. Although the only movie of hers that I have seen is National Velvet, from when she is a child, I have always been stunned by her beauty. Amongst many other attributes, how many people can pull off and look amazing with such full and shapely eyebrows? She truly aged incredibly-I wouldn't have guessed she was 79 by looking at her. It is sad that iconic figures and legends from that era are quickly diminishing. Who will be the people our children look up to? She will not be forgotten.

Jump Jump

2011-03-21T21:43:00.002-05:00

Jennie found this fantastic website where you put pictures together to create an animation. Thought this was fun!

Make avatar

100 List-Go Rock Climbing!

2011-03-21T16:02:00.003-05:00

I went Rock Climbing at Vertical Endeavors a couple weeks ago with Jennie. I was very scared at first. I'm not too keen on heights. The first time I got latched to the wall I went up about 3 feet and was about to call it a day until Jennie "encouraged" me to go further. By the end I was climbing to the top of the ones easy enough for me. I get kind of competitive with myself so I want to go back and do it again. Here is some blurry proof I was there. (Note the harness and ugly shoes). Woo!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2011-03-21T15:28:00.006-05:00

Well it's actually March 30th... but who is counting?? Anyone who knows me knows how much I LOVE my birthday. I love birthdays in general but especially my own. I got my $15 LOFT Birthday Card and headed over there ASAP to find something fantastic. I found the most perfect top for this birthday girl.

And I may be getting ahead of myself but I also found a cute pair of light pinkish shorts... they were 30% off...

Curveball

2011-02-27T10:20:00.003-06:00

Eddie Bauer isn't exactly in my style genre but flipping through the catalog left in our break room at work, I was delightfully surprised to see how trendy and functional their clothes are this season. And I LOVE the colors used: muted tones with bright pops of color. Everything is simple with a slightly girly flair added and easy to layer-a necessity in MN. Check it out... you might find it pleasantly surprising as well!

Go Bananas!

2011-02-27T10:16:00.004-06:00

Oh Banana Republic, how I [loathe] LOVE thee. The best colors, styles, everything. You have to see it to believe it! Good luck.

YUM-O

2011-02-27T09:56:00.004-06:00

Check out this DELICIOUS new website a coworker introduced me to: www.tastespotting.com
In the search box you can specify: Desserts, Gluten Free, Dairy Free, etc. and it will find all those recipes for you. Enjoy!

Martin Luther King Jr Day

2011-01-17T19:35:00.004-06:00

I took a class in college called Martin Luther King, Jr. So, as you can probably tell from the course name, I studied MLK Jr.'s life through documentaries and a thick book To the Mountaintop (which I HIGHLY recommend everyone to read). What a remarkable and substantial life he led; how much he accomplished in only 39 years. He forged through extreme oppression and made a huge impact on what he may or may not have known would continue to be a source of struggle for years to come. We have a ways to go yet as our country continues to be a melting pot and so many people are stuck in their ways. We are all God's children and created equal by Him.

"There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Galatians 3:28.

"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal." Martin Luther King, Jr.

A Play on my Natasha Suede Pumps from ATL

2011-01-08T14:59:00.002-06:00

Crate and Barrel

2011-01-08T13:19:00.003-06:00

I LOVE THE BRIGHT WHITE COLLECTION RIGHT NOW!!! What's better than crisp white and bright colors combined in bedding, towels and other textiles? Well... cake and shoes... but that's about it! Oh, and did I mention they're on sale on it right now?

Winter Collage

2011-01-07T17:58:00.001-06:00

Winter is in full swing. All day I dream about these things...

100 List-Take A Jumping Picture

2011-01-04T20:08:00.003-06:00

100 List-Visit Portland, Ride a Train & Eat Seafood

2010-12-06T19:18:00.007-06:00

I just got back a few hours ago from the West Coast. I flew out to Portland to visit my 3 cousins and their wives + new baby!!! I took the train up the coast to Seattle from there and visited Jennie and my Aunt and Uncle. While down in Portland we went to the coast where I had Crab Cakes and Clam Chowder as well as Crab Legs. It was interesting-stringy but not bad! I have a thing about food texture and the texture of Seafood isn't usually my thing. I probably wouldn't order it on a menu but I won't throw up in my mouth at the thought of it anymore either. I got a LOT accomplished in a matter of days! Hard to come back but looking forward to the next time I get to go back out there!

Chocolate Macaroons with Caramel Cream Filling

2010-11-05T11:29:00.001-05:00

Look what I can do! I made these (and they were delicious):

100 List-Learn How to Make French Macaroons

2010-11-02T16:05:00.005-05:00

I did it I did it!! I learned how to make French Macaroons! They were a lot easier than I thought they would be also. It's amazing how you can take a simple recipe and change it in so many ways via color, flavoring, and filling. I decided to do a darker purple for my friend's Bachelorette Party last weekend but fully intend on exploring many varities in the future. I found the recipe on Bakerella. The pictures isn't of mine but they pretty much looked the same...

SALE!!!!!!!!!

2010-10-26T16:36:00.002-05:00

Ann Taylor Loft currently has 70% all sale items. That means 70% off the lowest marked down price! Check it out online or at your local ATL Store. ENJOI!

100 List Update

2010-10-15T12:37:00.003-05:00

My 100 List has kind of been put on hold the last few months. I'd really like to accomplish a few before the end of the year. Watch for updates on the following:

1. Learn to Make French Macaroons
2. Refurbish Grandma's Chairs for Leah
3. Lose 5 pounds
4. Ride on a Train
5. Be in a Wedding---> 11/12/10 AND 8/13/11!!!

North Face

2010-10-11T14:39:00.003-05:00

If you're interested in a Brand New North Face Jacket you should consider Ebay first. I just bought an unused black Denali with tags on for $30!!! I think people or businesses buy them wholesale and resell them? I don't know how it works. But check it out!

Not Corny At All!

2010-09-28T17:21:00.004-05:00

Check out this year's Severs Corn Maze! I have to be honest-I have never been to it but always have wanted to go. I even used to work for Severs! Ridiculous. Someday. Unfortunately they may have dedicated it to the Vikings a little too soon... get with the program boys! Anyway it's still amazing, take a look:

Yuckies

2010-09-24T09:04:00.004-05:00

I've had a cold for the last few days-bummer! I found this COLD SAMPLER at Jerry's made by Yogi Tea this spring when I caught something icky. It has 4 different kinds of tea: Throat Comfort, Breathe Deep, Echinacea Immune Support, and Cold Season. It's a perfect array of teas to hit every cold road block-including avoiding sickness. They leave kind of a cooling comforting feeling in your throat. I highly recommend it if you're feeling a little under the weather or work in an office of sickies. Visit their website for more varities.

OMG YUM

2010-09-16T09:28:00.004-05:00

I'm not big on sweet coffee drinks but WOW! This Pumpkin White Chocolate Mocha from Caribou Coffee is to die for! I stuck with a small but if you like sweet you might want an XL! The Pumpkin flavoring toned down the sweet White Chocolate. Sidenote: I love the look I get when I order a soy drink but keep the whipped cream on it; it adds a little extra creaminess. And cuteness. Try one before Fall is over (not that we ever know when that will actually be here in MN)-it'll make you want to wear orange and jump in a pile of leaves!

Accessorize!

2010-09-15T14:13:00.004-05:00

My sister is an excellent Accesorizer. She has a knack for always matching her jewelry and shoes and purse but making it seem effortless. I'm the kind of girl who wears the same earrings, necklace and ring everyday. Silver and diamonds-they go with everything. For Christmas I got her a jewelry stand trying to get her organized from her ways of throwing everything in a bag-ew. Turns out she needs about 3 of those stands but they still helped. She's learning the ways of bargain clothes shopping but has always been good at getting good deals on jewelry. To follow her ways of shopping for all sorts of accessories, visit some of her favs:

-Charlotte Russe

-American Eagle

-Von Maur Juniors Dept

-Old Navy

-Target

FASHION WEEK!

2010-09-13T21:03:00.001-05:00

Wish I were there.... someday!! For a bunch of samples from great lines check out my buddy Jennie's Blog!

Weekend Finds

2010-09-13T17:34:00.005-05:00

I got a wicked deal on this adorable jacket this weekend at the LOFT. Not only is it one of my favorite colors but I love how I can wear it to work, for fun, or cuddle up on the couch in it. The picture doesn't so justice to how cute it looks with it zipped up and tied. I'm a sucker for large collars too.

And I may or may not have bought this sweater too... I bought the regular size so that it's a little longer and looks comfycute with skinnies.

My Favorite Sandwich

2010-09-10T12:25:00.005-05:00

The Cafe in our building makes the most delicious sandwich a girl (well, this girl) could dream of. This sandwich has fed to my deep love for Pesto which I have begun to make homemade and use in every way possible. Let me just start off telling you that I am that person. You know, the person that changes her order all around. However I'm no Sally (From When Harry Met Sally). If I'm paying I want to get exactly what I want (if they mess it up I don't make them redo it though). With further ado, here is the sandwich (I'll try to take a picture before I eat it next time):

-Whole Wheat Bread
-No butter on the outside
-Turkey

-Provolone

-Tomatoes

-Very Light spread of Mayo

-Lots of Pesto*

-Put in Panini Press

-EAT!

*To make Homemade Pesto (which is a really healthy way to add flavor to foods), simply put lots of basil, olive oil, salt and pepper, and maybe a little parmesan cheese into a food processor. Start with a little olive oil and add enough just until it become like a paste. Stuff inside chicken breast, top on pasta, or spread on sandwich!

Good News All Around!

2010-09-09T11:36:00.003-05:00

I just wanted to say Congratulation to my sister for getting a real people job!! It's just what she was looking for and MORE! Also my brother was approved by the Federal Gov't to be a JAG, we are just waiting to have one more thing passed-will find out Sept 21. PLEASE PRAY!!! I started teaching swimming lessons last night. It's been a great week for the Frank Family!

Birthday Partay

2010-09-08T14:12:00.004-05:00

Being that my roomie Lindsay turned a whopping 25 years old a couple weeks ago, I decided to throw her the birthday of her dreams. Well..... maybe close..... We went to the Cafeteria in Uptown for drinks and food. Proceeded to come back to our apartment for the most amazing homemade birthday cake known to [wo]man (made by yours truly), then went to Lindsay's parents house for a slumber party. Of course it was nothing too wild because at the age of 24 and 25, we're a bit of a few old ladies. Just kidding! Always great to catch up!! It was all really a blast. Here's us on the rooftop of the Cafeteria:

I didn't get a chance to take a picture of the ice cream cake because before it was cut it looked like a white square and once we cut in it got devoured. Instantly. But here is the recipe if you're interested!

-24 - 30 stuffed oreo cookies crushed
-1/2 Cup very softened butter
-Mix ingredients above and pat together in a 9 x 13 cake pan.
-Partially thaw one 1/2 gallon peppermint bon bon ice cream enough so that it spreads easily over cookie crumb mixture.Freeze this part overnight.

Hot Fudge Topping:
-1/2 Cup butter
-1 Cup powdered sugar
-5 oz. evaporated milk
-1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
-Melt the above together until smooth....cool in refrigerator for a while and then spread over frozen ice cream.Spread with one 8 oz. cool whip. Put in freezer until serving time.
-Be sure to take it out of the freezer at least 1/2 hour before serving so that you can cut it.

****I changed the recipe to have a layer of cookies and cream ice cream, fudge, then coffee ice cream. I also made homemade whipped cream adding a touch of vanilla to it.

LABOR DAY SALES!!

2010-09-08T09:23:00.003-05:00

It is a good thing I am always out of town for Memorial Day and Labor Day because they have some of the best sales around. And I would go WILD. But incase you're interested here are some great sales going on:

LOFT :Extra 40% off sale. $25 Savings Card when you spend $50 on Full Price Items.
JCREW: Extra 30% off final sale.
OLD NAVY: $10 Sweaters, $5 Tanks and Tees, and MORE!
MACYS: Save an extra 20-50%.
GAP: Women's Pants only $35.
JCPENNEY: 30-60% off Home.

ENJOI!

Christian Louboutin

2010-09-02T12:29:00.002-05:00

KNOCKOFFS!!!!!!!! Check this website out. They actually look good! If you're looking for an early Christmas present for me, I like these ones:

Liquid Yuminess

2010-08-30T13:13:00.003-05:00

I went to Potbelly yesterday and my mom introduced me to MASH. A delicious and nutritious somewhat sparkling fruit drink. Low in sugar, high in flavor. I tried the Pomegranate Blueberry and looking them up online I found several other quenching flavors. Try them out or look for them in your local grocery store. (We are beginning the search of trying to find them near us. I'll let you know what I find out!). Cute small, fat little bottle too!

Personalized Footwear

2010-08-25T13:01:00.003-05:00

I love shoes. More than life. What could make them even more awesome? Designing your own! Check out Converse and Nike's Websites to design your own shoes! And if you're looking for some fun flip flops check out Havaiana's Wesbite too. More colors and design than you could imagine. Enjoi! I would never actually wear these, but check them out:

100 List-Buy a Sewing Machine

2010-08-24T18:10:00.005-05:00

I actually inherited my grandma's Singer from roughly the 1930's. It works like a charm! I'm blessed to have had the best grandma in the world and am sad she's gone but glad that I have something so special to remember her by. It has a pedal and even a little light to help see. And it weights about 40 lbs. It looks like this picture (I will put up the real picture soon).

Busy Busy Bumble Bee

2010-08-23T16:25:00.003-05:00

In an effort to make a few extra dollars, cross something off my 100 List, and make good use of my time outside of work, I have decided to teach swimming lessons for little kiddies! I have to get in 30 hours of shadowing in a matter of a few weeks so almost every day before or after work I have been at the pool. Essentially "working" 12-13 hour days. I love it dearly but obviously haven't found much time to get on here. Looking forward to the Fall Fashions coming out though (and the AWESOME summer ending sales!!). Did I mention I got a pair of pants at Ann Taylor Loft for $4.88?!

Mmm Cupcake

2010-08-19T11:37:00.003-05:00

There is nothing I love more than a sweet treat topped with LOTS of frosting. If I had no self control I'd eat a tub of it everyday for every meal. You think I'm kidding but I am not. Therefore, I make a point to try new bakeries and Cupcake shops in the area whenever I can. I have only been to Cupcake in Mpls once but I fully intend on making it a more regular place for me to go in the future. Take a look and you will see why!!

Meet Marc Fisher

2010-08-17T15:14:00.007-05:00

Marc Fisher is #1 on my list of shoe designers that I love (and can afford). It's like Marc Fisher can read my mind. He creates shoes that I seriously dream about: not too pointy, not too round, not square, not too high, not too low, different textures and styles, and simple but with a cutesy flare to each one. The prices are very reasonable for a designer and there's always a great sale at Macy's (where they're sold in store). You can also check Amazon and Ebay for even greater deals! Just look below and fall in love. Also check his website frequently because new styles are always being added!

Online Shopping

2010-08-10T17:16:00.004-05:00

Here are some websites that feature knock-offs of celebrity trends:

http://www.fashionjunkee.com/

http://www.tabloidstyle.com/

Discount Designer:

http://www.hautelook.com/

http://www.ruelala.com/

http://www.gilt.com/

Well Known Websites Where Celebrities Shop:

us.topshop.com

http://www.shopkitson.com/

Boyfriend Blazer

2010-08-10T16:18:00.007-05:00

I am in love with Boyfriend Blazers. I don't own one yet... but I love them. Nothing beats a blazer that fits like a charm. Except when you can get a cute look-a-like for way cheaper!! Compare this Alicia & Olivia Blazer that sells for $385:

With LC Lauren Conrad from Kohls for $24:

American Eagle $69:

Or Target:

I've Got a Lifetime of Knowledge

2010-08-05T15:30:00.004-05:00

I'm going to let you in on a secret. Probably the most beneficial thing you'll ever learn. I very rarely pay full price, even half price for clothes, shoes, and accessories. How, you might ask yourself. Tactics:

Not shopping when I'm in a hurry. Going when it's not really busy either (lunch break, right after work, before work, Sunday evening), starting in the Clearance/Sale section then looking around at Discount signs (i.e. $12 Regularily $19 or 2 for $20). Then just looking around because what is new will almost always be discounted in the next few weeks. I'll try to pop my head in that store once a week or so to see if something I really like gets marked down.

Picking a store you love and getting on their email list is a must. I'm on an email list for Ann Taylor Loft and they send me emails when they're having a really good sale (50% off anything full price, extra 40-50% off sale, 30% entire purchase, etc.).

Shoes=Target, Von Maur Clearance Room (aka HEAVEN!), JCpenney (mom has a 20% discount card that can be even on Final Sale items), and Macys. Marshalls/TJMaxx have good discounts too.

Found an Online Store Only sale?? See if you can find the article of clothing in the store and try it on, otherwise follow Size Chart and buy 2 sizes if you're just not sure. Make sure you check return policy!

Do not use Pre-Paid shipping labels if you don't have to. Go to anywhere local that you can ship out because shipping back a single shirt, pants, swimsuit, etc. will only cost you roughly $2. Those Pre-Paid labels will deduct usually about $6-$8 from your return.

Last but not least, buy things that you know you can wear several different ways and for more than one season. You can always add accessories to change it up! Spread the wisdom!

A Play on Shorts

2010-08-05T15:18:00.002-05:00

I got these shorts from Ann Taylor Loft this spring for a mere $15. I went through my closet last week to find some possible combinations I can wear with them, being they're a little unique. Here's what I created!

A Good Look For All

2010-08-05T14:31:00.004-05:00

No one can go wrong with this look (Both pieces are from Old Navy):

Good Find! Denim Sale!

2010-08-05T14:24:00.002-05:00

Old Navy is having a Denim Sale until August 19th! Jeans starting at $19! Get them while they're hot ;) my favorite is the Diva Skinny. They're just skinny enough but not jeggings.

New and Improved

2010-08-04T14:04:00.004-05:00

I will be breaking my blog down into the following categories from this point forward:

-Outfit Variations-with clothes I already own and maybe some new things here and there
-Good Finds-I've been known to find some amazing deals and other interesting things
-Collages-Just can't beat a good collage
-100 List
-Nourishment-Both concoctions I've made and found around town
-Etc.-For a random post every now and then

Dog Days of Summer

2010-08-04T13:34:00.003-05:00

They're here! 95 Degrees, 80% humidity. Below are a few necessities for days like these.

100 List-Learn to Make Sushi

2010-06-28T10:13:00.008-05:00

I officially made sushi!! This was a yummy endeavor. Jennie taught me and Molly on Friday night. Molly also made cream cheese puffs, fried rice, and edamame. Mmm Mmm Mmm. We used avacado, cucumber, and crab. We made all sorts of varities from those. I will definitely make more sushi in the future, it was fun and delicious. Here are some pictures of proof!

Papa Bear Day

2010-06-21T10:59:00.004-05:00

In honor of Father's Day, I thought I would dedicate a post to my papa. I am truly blessed to have the dad that I have. Here are some reasons:

-Always looking out for others before himself.

-Most caring person I know.

-Will take time out of his busy schedule to do anything for anyone.

-Is a great resource for anything you might be looking for or need.

-He is a big teddy bear.

-We both live according the same motto: 'give respect, get respect'.

-Even if someone hurts him he continues to be nice to them and give people a second chance.

-He laughs a lot at his own jokes and things he says.

-He has a very strong work ethic-hardest worker I know. Yet always has time for family too.

-Always looks out for my best interest even when I may not see that at first.

-He is the standard for my future husband.

-Always concerned about my money even though I'm not. Keeps me on task.

-We always work on projects together like laying sod, fixing things, etc. I don't think he needs the help but enjoys the company.

-Loves meeting new people and talking to people almost everywhere we go.

-Never expects gifts but is always very thankful when we get him stuff. Even if it's socks.

-He's smart but he pretends he's not to make me feel smarter about figuring stuff out sometimes.

-Etc., Etc., Etc.,

I love my dad!!!

LOVE THIS

2010-06-08T16:31:00.002-05:00

Jyl is an amazing writer. But besides that she seems to have a lifetime of knowledge at the age of 25. Which I LOVE! I love it when people do and think things that make sense. Check this amazing post out!!

Discontent

2010-06-03T08:20:00.003-05:00

I went and saw Sex and the City 2 last night. For some reason today I'm slightly discontent. Keep in mind, I don't go see movies very often. Mostly because of price. But also because I lose myself in them and that sometimes makes reality a bit... boring compared to movies. It also probably wasn't a good idea to go see one late last night. So, as I'm getting ready this morning I'm trying to figure out what it is that is bothering me. Is it because I don't live in a glam city like NYC? Cause I don't get to take free luxurious trips (or even paid for) to Abu Dabi? Because I don't own designer clothes? I don't have a handsome husband and an apartment with a huge walk in closet of every girl's dream? An abundance of money? Those are the questions I'm asking myself and when I look at them typed out realize how shallow they all are. Obviously I don't think any of those are in my cards but that's just it! It's a movie-what percentage of people do have all or a few of those? I am happy with my life without those things. I live in a beautiful fun city. I have a nice apartment. I will travel someday. Money doesn't equal happiness. I do think I need a change in my life, but striving for those things might not make me happy; they may not be for me. I'd like to move somewhere else for a while, have more single friends to do spontaneous things with, go back to school, etc.

I was listening to Sheryl Crow the other day and a line in her song says, "it's not having what you want, it's wanting what you got". Isn't that the truth?

100 List-Figure Out What To Do With My Life

2010-05-19T12:42:00.001-05:00

I FIGURED IT OUT!!!!!!!!! I am going to go back to school to be an Occupational Therapist. Yippee!

Catch-Up

2010-05-10T12:26:00.005-05:00

I had a looooooooooooooooooooooooong weekend. A GREAT long weekend though! Went down to Winona Thursday night to see my sister graduate on Friday-CONGRATS!!! I'm very proud of my sister, as I wrote in her card (which made her cry... not out of the norm however for her) that I admire her and I know she is going to do BIG things with her life. She's motivated, ambitious, and driven. All great qualities. Not to mention her amazing skillz. 2nd most exciting day of my life (next to my College graduation of course)!

I also was able to spend the whole day Saturday unpacking, running to Target, Walmart, HomeGoods, and the Good Will (you never know what treasures you might find there). I rearranged my furniture-a past time of mine, put together a new storage system I bought, and shoved a lot of things under my new comfy big bed...another past time of mine. Things are starting to shape up! We'll get a couch and kitchen table and chairs this week hopefully which will make it more homey. A cable/internet next Sunday-HALLELUJAH!!

Sunday of course was MOTHER'S DAY!!! We had such an amazing sermon at Church and a great faithstory. It made me sad though thinking about how many people don't have mothers to celebrate whether they've passed away, left the family, or for orphans-who have no one. I'm so incredibly blessed to have such a great mama. I think about what life might've been like if I weren't adopted-what if she had to work so much to provide for both of us that I never saw her? What if she just couldn't love me? I'm so lucky to have been adopted by the best parents around. I love my mom veeeeeeeeeeery much! I was so glad to spend the entire day with her. After church we went to brunch at Redstone and watched Hallmark movies on the porch. Simply delightful.

It was a very productive weekend I must say and I enjoyed all the time I got to spend with my family and celebrating them.

Cindi Deem

2010-05-06T09:47:00.006-05:00

My mom's best friend Cindi graduated from Le Cordon Bleu last year. She is an AMAZING cake maker!

Isn't it Ironic, Don't You Think?

2010-05-06T09:30:00.005-05:00

I was given 2 Dove Milk Chocolates yesterday (one of the highlights of my day for sure). The messages inside them couldn't have been more applicable and appropriate to my life right now:

"Embrace Change-it May be a Blessing in Disguise"

"Shoe Shopping is Therapy."

Just Breathe

2010-05-04T17:15:00.004-05:00

I think I give out this advice a lot more than I use it. The last few weeks I've been having such bad allergies that it's effecting my breathing. I've found myself short of breath quite frequently and waking up feeling like I'm gasping for air. This makes me truly value a hearty breath of air. But besides that context, I think we all forget to just take a deep breath, slow down for a second (yeah, an entire second), gather yourself, relax a little bit. We live in such a fast paced world. Why? Apparently at some point someone, or the general population, decided they wanted something (everything) and they wanted it NOW. Who says that's the way it should be? Why don't we slow down a little bit more, take a second to enjoy a good breath of air; to take a second and just remember to breath.

MAY DAY!!!

2010-04-21T10:13:00.003-05:00

Like the saying when you're getting bombed and you need to take cover. That is what my May is going to be like. Here is my itinerary- if you don't hear from me until June 1, this is why:

May 1-Move
May 5-Parents 38th Anniversary
May 6-7-Sister's Graduation in Winona
May 9-Mother's Day
May 22-Brother's Birthday
May 28-31-Go Up North
May 30-Sister's Birthday
May 31-Mom's Birthday

For All My Friends

2010-04-14T09:32:00.001-05:00

To Dry For

2010-04-14T09:18:00.005-05:00

These tea towels are so cute!

100 List-Before and After Project

2010-04-11T00:05:00.007-05:00

I needed a dresser for my apt. Grandma had a dresser from my grandpa's work room. She gave me it and it looked like this:

I lightly sanded it down with one of these cool sanding sponges (Even though it was discouraged from my uncle because it might be lead paint). Then I painted it with a primer:

Added some liners in the drawers since there were some weird things in them I didn't want my clothes sitting on:

Came back a few days later and painted using Behr Almond Cream in an Eggshell finish. Which by the way you could easily do this with a Quart of paint. Not a Gallon. Lesson learned. Filled in holes with wood putty. Added Hardware from Anthropologie:

VUALA!!!

Can't wait to use it. This is also the 2nd thing from my 100 List that I've accomplished! On a roll.

Birthdayz

2010-04-06T17:51:00.002-05:00

In Lieu of all the birthdays, here are some yummys to look at. And also check out CupCake on University in Mpls.

The Birds

2010-04-06T14:42:00.004-05:00

Anna and Jennie looooove birds. Bird statues, pictures, paintings, anything bird. I stumbled upon a few birdy things and thought I'd post them because they are cute.

24 (No, not the show. Or the number of hours in a day)

2010-04-05T17:28:00.005-05:00

Well, I'm the big 2-4 now. I've been thinking about things I accomplished during the 23rd year of my life:
-I went to Seattle (TWICE technically).
-Went on a date.
-Got a new [and 100 times better] job. And moved from New Brighton to 3 miles from home.
-Went a whole year without significantly cutting my hair.
-Joined a gym, did personal training, didn't lose a pound. But learned a lot!
-Got to go up north for an entire week for the first time in years.
-Decided it's time to move out.
-Ran a 5K.
-Slept over at my grandma's for like the first time in 10 years.
-Visited my sister in Winona 3 times.
-Learned to take advantage of my time outside of work better.
-Survived another winter with no car accidents.
-Hosted some fun get togethers and learned new things to cook.
-Started volunteering with the 3rd graders at church on Wednesday nights.
-Learned how to wear eyeshadow.
-Visited my grandpa's grave (I hate cemetaries more than you'd know... this was a big deal).
-Have embraced and grown in the friendships I have that show longevity and depth.
-Dressed up for Halloween (Sandy from Grease).
-Went on a mini girls trip up north.
-Had a stranger give me their phone number.

I suppose there are even more to add to this list. But in the end I feel I had a pretty productive year! I'm excited to see what the next year holds-especially with a list to work on.

Easter Bunny

2010-04-04T19:00:00.005-05:00

I still get an Easter Basket. Why not?? Nothing wrong with getting someone a little candy. I know the true meaning and importance of Easter (I seriously love Easter), so there's no harm done. We had a really great sermon this morning about it-Leith Anderson (the Pastor) is a man of overwhelming knowledge. He talked about where the word Easter comes from and that many countries are now calling Easter "Resurrection Day" because the word Easter comes from a word that can take on so many different meaning when translated from Hebrew. My aunt and uncle also came over for brunch after and shared about their very informative sermon also. I hate that I forget until this time of year all the pain Jesus endured and how important this holiday and every day should be to Christians. Oh, and not the mention the miracle of Jesus resurrecting from the dead, dying for ours sins, and taking on our burdens. It's truly amazing. Without further ado, here is my Easter Basket.

SEATTLE and 100 List-Learn Thriller Dance

2010-04-02T12:46:00.006-05:00

I went to Seattle for roughly 5 days leading up to my birthday. I had SOOO much fun!! Jyl, Mykell, and Jennie were even so nice to celebrate my birthday by leading me around a bunch of surprises and buying me Macaroons (A first!). Some other firsts were: going up in the Space Needle, eating authentic Thai Food, and getting a Pedicure (I've just had one before... so more of a second I guess). Jennie's mom was also there for a few days so we got to spend time with her (growing up next door she's like a 2nd mom). And I met Jennie's friend/coworker Jenna-LOVED HER! Crazy girl. It was so nice to spend time with Jennie too, duh! We went to some fun restuarants-Wild Ginger and Umi. I FINALLY had Molly Moons, yum! It was really hard time leaving; I really felt at home there. These are all people that are so down to earth, so friendly, genuine, nice. Jennie is such a good friend and it's hard only seeing her a few times a year. We are hoping to both move out of state somewhere... maybe next year? I don't know. It's a dream of both of ours. Anyway! I just had a blast and wish I didn't have to leave!!! I will post pictures soon :)

Did I mention that I did the first thing on my list and learned the Thriller dance?? Well, about as good as I could hope to at least! Click here to see! Yikes.

Letter Pictures

2010-03-24T08:46:00.003-05:00

Walking through Von Maur one day I saw these great frames/pictures. I don't know if they're the same brand, but very similar to this. The first thing I thought about when I saw it was a great graduation gift for my very creative sister. Then I looked at the price and thought differently. I've decided to take this idea and do it myself. Finding pictures of things that look like letters and snapping them myself. I want to do something to the extent of "Love Life". Finding a frame with 8 openings is hard... thinking 2 frames with 4 openings? Anyway...any ideas let me know. Otherwise this will be one of my many projects to come in the next month. Yikes.

Grandpa

2010-03-11T15:04:00.004-06:00

One year ago today my grandpa passed away. I was lucky to be with him merely hours before. My grandpa was an interesting man... my sister and I were scared of him when we were younger because he was a stern military man. Over the years he softened up though. For a couple years before he died I would bring him candy and hang out with him and my grandma (they live only 3 miles away so we all spent a lot of time together). I loved all my grandpa's stories about his life. When he was 17 he went to work in Alaska on the Alaskan Highway. He came back then joined the NAVY. He later joined the Marines and served in WWII and Vietnam. He had these two light blue tattoos of swallows (birds) on his chest and it wasn't until after he died that we found out he had told my brother how/when he got them. He always told all of us not to get tattoos. My grandpa accomplished a lot of things in his lifetime. He loved to camp, golf, travel, hunt, and skiied well into his 80's. He was very spry until September 2008 when he just got very sick and from then until March 11, 2009 he was in and out of hospitals, nursing homes, and his own home. His hearing got very bad (although always not so great) and he refused to wear his hearing aids hahaha. I don't really blame him. I was proud that because of my high pitched voice I seemed to be the only person he could hear without his hearing aids in. He suffered a couple strokes after that as well and was on Atavan with induced sleep for the last couple weeks. They told us he 'would likely pass in the next couple days' about 8 times. I loved to think that was due to his stubborness. My grandpa just loved to have a good time and loved being around family. I miss him but I'm so glad he's not suffering and is in heaven doing whatever he wants. Typical.

He told me that seeing me graduate college was one of his proudest moments.

3 Ring Circus

2010-03-11T11:14:00.003-06:00

Let me just tell you about my Wednesday Night 3rd grade group at church. To start things, most of them aren't much shorter than I am. There begins the lack of respect. And did I mention there are 9 of them? The boys can't keep their hands off each other-little wrestlemaniacs. They also can find a way to relate everything about God to poop and farting. It's really almost impressive. There are a few sweet and quiet girls in the group. There are also a few who, well, let's just say they place hockey (yes, even tiny little 3rd grade girls! They have the personalities of high school hockey girls though :/ ). Now, don't get me wrong-I actually love them all a lot! But I'm guessing this is the highlight of their week and all they want to do is have some fun with their friends. Totally understandable right? Well, I the problem lies in that I have duties and responsibilities. I can stand up and talk about as loud as possible, verging on yelling, and it's like they're deaf. Seriously. They don't blink, turn my direction, or listen. All the other group leaders happen to already know that my group is a little... overly rambunctious. Well, at this point I figure, they listen attentively during the big group, they work well together on the activity book, they at least play even if they're not following the directions, and they love singing the worship songs. So it's not all that bad. I love seeing them and vice versa (I think they like me because I bring candy but I'll take what I can get). Let me just tell you about them:

Annika-smallest little 3rd grader I've ever seen. Plays Hockey. Wears huge skater tennis shoes.
Tori-Annika's friend. A bad influence with a bad attitude. But she's there and that's what matters. Last night her and Annika decided only one of them could talk at a time-for long periods of time. I couldn't decide if this was good or annoying.
Lena-A very quiet and smart little girl. Very gentle and always wanting to participate.
Allison-striving for attention. Painted her fingers and fingernails red with a marker last night and tried to cheat me out of getting more candy.
Josh-farts proudly every week. Taught me a game he plays with your fingers like they're kicking. There are a lot of levels to the game. I made it pretty far. His dad used to lead the group....now he doesn't. Couldn't sit in his chair for more than 30 seconds if it had to save his life.
Ilja-Doesn't want to do anything we're supposed to do but asks about doing whatever we are not doing (EXAMPLE: When we have small group time he says "I want to do the activity!". When we are doing the activity he says "I want to sing!" etc. etc.) He also likes to scare me, pull my chair out from under me, trick me, play under the table, not bring a bible to big group (they're all supposed to), yell, and pout. There something about him though that's growing on me. He is starting to get more involved-think it just takes him time to adjust. He also won't sit the entire time.
Roxanne-who I was originally told was a "spitfire" and that's the correct description! She's very sweet, super funny, and has an adult laugh. Hard to explain. I think she's wise beyond her years. She also tried to convince me last night to give her more candy because she "was the only good one".
Nolan: Isn't able to come every week but when he does he challenges me and competes with everyone about everything.
Vincent: tries to be sneaky but pretty much fails. Not only does he not sit in his chair-he is always jumping up and down. He also likes to stick his eyelids insideout. Vincent LOVES to wrestle with Josh. Any chance they get.

Desktop

2010-03-10T13:00:00.003-06:00

This is my new desktop background (dream away):

Funny Story

2010-03-10T11:50:00.002-06:00

I had an experience today that felt like it should be in an episode of punk'd or something. I went to get a soda with $1 bill. None of the machines would take it. So I went back up and got change. As I put the change in the machine, it spit it back out. So I go and get more change because the other vending machines have bottles that cost more. I return to the vending machines and I put the change in the machine and hit the button for Dr. Pepper. Sold out. Diet Mtn Dew. Sold out (all 4 of the Mtn Dew buttons). Pepsi. Sold out. Ooooook. Got my change and went to the other machine and put my change in. All the sodas in that machine are sold out too. Total defeat. I returned to my office like 10 minutes later and paid Carin 50 cents for a can of her soda.

Hoping that story makes someone laugh. hahaha

JAG

2010-03-09T18:56:00.004-06:00

I'm sure the name sounds familiar-it was a hit show in the 90's (well... a show nonethless). But the JAG actually exists! And my brother is going to be a part of it. It stands for Judge Advocate General (according to my google search). He'd basically be a lawyer for the National Guard overseas(yeah???). I'm sure he'll correct me if I'm wrong. Which is pretty likely. Anyway, he applied in April 2009 and we are still waiting to hear back. News comes in bits and pieces. Like how they've lost his packet a couple times. And keep having him fill out the same forms over and over (get with the program National Guard). But it sounds like the ending (or beginning) is near... potentially May or the latest being July. I think this is exciting. Of course I'm terrified for my brother to go to a country that's at war. But I'm proud of him! Please pray or cross your fingers he gets sent sooner rather than later as this has just been a very drawn out process for him and he's tired of waiting (as well as the rest of us).

Tax Season

2010-03-05T15:12:00.006-06:00

As you can tell I hadn't posted for a while but I have been thinking all the while about what to post. So I am doing them all right now.

Taxes!!! They make me super nervous and I don't know why. I haven't ever had to pay in or made any mistakes. My sister on the other hand had some problems last year and ended up paying in A LOT of money. Being my first year of paying off interest on my loans+all the taxes taken out of my paychecks, I had more forms sent to me than I knew what to do with (W-2? 1098? 1099R?). I went to H&R Block for my first time-great experience! When I found out how much money I'm getting back I seriously walked around with a pep in my step and pictured my life like the from 500 Days of Summer with music playing and people dancing. And cartoon birds. I'm not writing this to boast of my fortune (being that I payed in a lot throughout the year I'm kind of breaking even). I just think Tax Season is a very interesting time of year. I wonder if that's why more people are getting mental health these days.... no?