Seth Adores Jai

Slightly obsessed

2011-07-10T22:21:00.004-04:00

with this office and in particular that charcoal wallpaper. Feeding my love for black walls once again.

{Lonny mag July/Aug '11 issue}

I could not find a picture but I'm also obsessed with the photo walls in Kris Jenner's house. Yes I watch the Kardashians what? Reminds me of how my Aunt H and my Grandmother both have homes filled with images of our family. A tradition I want to introduce in our next place.

Getting ahead of myself

2011-05-23T00:01:00.000-04:00

{Image from Lonny mag issue #5}

I always take it one step too far. Or never a step far enough. Most times I feel out of sync but usually in the end I'm right on time. Does any of that makes sense? I hope so because it does to me. 'Memba way back when I mentioned that we were house hunting for a bigger space? And sadly we did not get said space? Well what I didn't mention or maybe I did - age and children does not make a good combination for my memory - is that in true to me fashion I had already designed and decorated every square inch of that house. Oh it was going to be a beauty! So I was shocked and dismayed when reality was not in sync with my plans. What the hell?? Fast forward almost a year and we are once again in the market for a new house. We've narrowed down potential neighborhoods and once again are stalking places of interest. I want to say there are 2 under serious consideration. One that would fit the bill of what we need next in a house perfectly. Time will tell.

But back to the point of this post. Since a new house is in our not-so-distant future I'm doing it again. Picking out furniture, paint colors and knick-knacks. That cart is before the horse again. Our current house if full of warm colors. Darker hued browns, reds, greens. Nice but my palate has changed and with the next place I want cooler colors mixed with some whites and creams. I definitely want to inject some pinks, purples, yellow (yes this is warm but so what), greys, and blues. Serena and Lily's newest catalog sums up exactly what I want in our space. I have a ton of inspiration pics filed away and when the time is right (as in ink dried on a contract). I'll share. Until then I'll keep fabric shopping in my dreams. Over and over again.

I've been meaning

2011-05-18T00:01:00.000-04:00

{necklace I want from 365heartbeats}

So much I've been putting off and one thing these last few months have taught me is that the time is now. Don't wait. No matter how small and insignificant the task, wish, desire may seem.

For instance. I've been meaning to. . .

. . . purchase a photo print from Mrs. Limestone and a print by Made By Girl. No justifying reason for the procrastination. I can't wait to add these to my decor!

. . . finally shake the last of this baby weight (from a 6 and 3 year old ugh!). I fell off the gym wagon but I'm back on for the ride. Right now I'm doing Jillian Michael's 30 day shred. Day 8 today and so far so good. Looking forward to the big reveal. . .

What have you been meaning to do?

A little feel good for your soul

2011-05-17T00:01:00.000-04:00

Now that I'm back here are some inspiring posts I read during my hiatus. I'm a firm believer in receiving the message right when you need it. And let me tell you I needed to read these posts at the times that I did.

{Image from ffffound.com}

Tam Styles interview with Ruthie Sommers. Ruthie's message of being true to you really resonated with me. And her inspiring: Think about what you could do if you knew you could not fail. I've heard it before but needed to hear it again.

Preston Bailey speaks on not believing you can do it. Most importantly he challenged his readers to use the weekend to start executing on that long deferred dream.

You're welcome!

Girl of the Month:Solange Knowles

2011-05-16T16:26:00.001-04:00

Girl of the Month:Solange Knowles

I'm a Solange girl. Loves me some Bey (her music anyway. Say what you want the girl can put out some dance tracks). But I've always been a fan of Solange and her style. She carves her own path. Takes chances and just goes for it. I love that Whowhatwear named her girl of the month!

{Image from The Kinky Chronicle}

Where have I been?

2011-05-16T15:39:00.000-04:00

Head down and pushing forward with life. We've had a lot of changes hit the SAJ household in the last few of months. Major life adjustments that will take a long time before it feels normal. . . well truth be told it will never be normal but I guess I should say a long time before emotions are not so raw. I've tried to post here and there but it's been hard. But my inspiration posts have motivated me to to keep going despite. So that's that!

As I reread this I realize IT sounds terribly awful and IT was awful. My little family is still in tact. Mr. Handsome, myself, Jai and Seth. I struggled with whether or not to share out of respect for Mr. Handsome. And I dared not ask him because well . . . he lost his dad back at the end of January. Sudden, devastating. Just doesn't make sense. Obviously that kind of pain has rippling effects hence the spotty post as I tried sticking to my vow to post more often. But life comes first. Not that the blog is not part of my life but you get my drift. Anyhoo normalcy is subjective and up to interpretation. What once was normal is now being redefined. My husband has amazed me with his strength. And how despite his pain and feelings and his cloudy head space he has NOT ONCE let it disrupt mine and the kids day-to-day. The exception being the weekends and weeks while he was in NY during his dads illness. He still smiles, laughs, entertains, disciplines (the kids, not me HA!), indulges, listens. . . continues to live. I can't say that I would not have been a blubbering shell of an individual for the last 4 months. Mr. Handsome has his moments and to be expected but I'm just surprised by how well he is handling the situation. Loves him more for it.

So there you have it. Now that I've gotten that out. Perhaps we get back to our regularly scheduled programming huh?

I'm an Ikat believer

2011-02-23T00:01:00.000-05:00

I took the kids to the mall on Saturday after spending the morning in the Museum of American History (currently my fav of the Smithsonian family). They both needed new shoes but first we needed to grab some lunch. Our go to spot of course had a 20 minute wait so I used the time to quickly browse thru West Elm which was right next door. I like Ikat prints but I would not call myself a huge fan to the point that I need it or want it on everything. However this little beauty stopped me in my tracks.
The Sutton Sofette in Ikat feather gray/flax. Stunning in person! If I had a special room all for myself this would have been ordered on the spot. It's small, only 56" across, and therefore perfect for a little nook. Much like the barn door I really, really, really need this.

Anthropologie push pins

2011-02-22T00:01:00.000-05:00

For all my inspiration/mood/message board lovers. How cute are these push pins from Anthro?

Me thinks. . .

2011-02-21T00:01:00.000-05:00

. . . I really need a custom made barn door in my house. As in I really, really, really need one.

First I fell in love with this yellow beauty that by now you've all seen here.

{image from House Tweaking}

Then Saturday night while watching Candace Tells All she installed one in a modern living room redo. I don't have an image but it was Beautiful!

So of course I then had to do a quick Google search on the topic for more eye candy and I found this:

{image from Southern Living by way of Knotting Hill Interiors}

and this:

{image from Pinterst}

And finally I saw a few glass options that has me wondering if it's the barn door I want or just a slider? Cause really glass doors would be major in the right creative space.

Seriously what have I done to myself???

Ok whine over. . . that's all. Thanks for listening!

Some feel good for your soul. . .

2011-01-26T08:40:00.000-05:00

There comes a time when you just have to claim a piece of the rock for yourself. No matter how small. My motto: Promote brand you cause no one else will do a better job.

{Image: We Heart It}

So there you have it. Some more feel good for your soul.

You're welcome!

Very superstitious . . .

2011-01-25T23:27:00.000-05:00

. . . writing on the wall (cue the music!!). Or in my case in my wallet. I rang in the new year with my parents, sisters and the kids. Before midnight my mom made us all put black eyed peas in our wallets as a sign of future prosperity. Now my mother is from the south. Born and reared in small town North Carolina though she has lived in NY for her entire adult life. So I'm familiar with some of the old wives tales from her upbringing. Including eating the peas as part of a new years day dinner for prosperity. So adding them to our wallet was a new one for me. Now I'm not overly superstitious but I also like to listen to my mama. So 3 weeks into the new year me and my peas are still hanging tough. . . . Just need prosperity to join us and we're all set :).

I shared this with one of my co-workers who hails from Columbia and he shared some of his families traditions of superstition with me. One of which included an uncle who insists on going up and down a flight of stairs 3 times with suitcase in hand at midnight to symbolize great travels through the year. Hilarious!!

What about you? Any such traditions you care to share?

Phoenix rising

2011-01-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

'memba her from when I professed my love for freckles? Well I stumbled across more images of her here. Her name is Nikia Phoenix and according to her blog she is a 30 year old model who is starting to get wide spread recognition. The girl is fierce ya'll!

{all images from Model Liberation}

Bananas!

2011-01-22T20:03:00.005-05:00

I'm a Rachel Zoe fan. Say what you want about her the woman can style. Or perhaps I feel that way because I relate to her style. I haven't meet a pair of wide-leg trousers I didn't like either.

Over the weekend I was reading about her new collection on StyledOn that will debut Fall 2011. I'm sad that I have to wait that long to get my hands on some of these yummies but that just means more time to save my pennies!

Ice storm

2011-01-18T17:49:00.003-05:00

Last night a wintry mix hit my area. Which meant this morning we awoke to school delays and icy street conditions. I'm a northerner which means I'm not afraid to go out in the snow but ice is something entirely different. SAJ does not do ice. So while Mr. Handsome ventured out to clean off our patch of sidewalk, the stairs and de-ice the cars, I hunkered down indoors and prepared to work from home today. Yay for flexibility! If only our ice storms were this pretty.

Tasty tunes Tuesday: Nina Simone

2011-01-18T00:01:00.000-05:00

Or this could be a throwback. But it’s really just damn good music. It all started with me hearing the song Four Women being sung by this amazing group of wait for it. . . . 4 women. Ironic? Not :)

Surprisingly I’ve never heard that song before. My lovely cousin schooled me on its origin. From the incomparable Nina Simone.

I think Nina would agree that those ladies did her proud. What do you think?

A little feel good for your soul

2011-01-12T20:50:00.005-05:00

I spent some time flipping thru the new and new-to-me site I want to be her. If you haven’t heard about it here’s a link to the back story.

That familiar pang of ever so slight envy started to creep up as I was smiling at some of the profiles, taking style notes and thinking about the premise of the site (wanting to be THAT girl. Duh!). And then it hit me: Aren’t we all THAT GIRL by someone’s definition?

That girl with the never-ending legs.
That girl with the naturally toned arms.
That girl that always knows just what to say.
That girl with the bright smile.
That girl with the killer shoes.
That girl that makes it look easy.
That girl who’s blog writing makes you feel like you’re her BFF and she’s having an intimate conversation with you.
That girl that/with/who________fill in the blank with the most common compliment you receive.

See? You’re instantly that girl! So instead of envy I turned those feelings into pride and a little bit of gloating as I think about how I am that girl. And I’m in darn good company too. So there. . . . A little feel good for your soul on hump day.

You’re welcome!

P.S. but I do want her outfit.

A fresh new year!

2011-01-05T23:14:00.003-05:00

It's day 6 of the new year. From my blog stroll it seems that the new year is treating everyone very well so far. YAY! Of course January means evaluating current circumstances, goal setting and a fresh start. This post is no different from many that I read this week. I'm not making resolutions either but rather I'm making declarations (more empowering I think).

1. Blogging more - self explanatory. And not because I need to in order to be "popular" or accepted or any of the other cliched reasons. But do it because I like it. When the feeling hits me go with the flow.
2. Release the fear - I over think every move and I over plan in my head. Which can be limiting and controlling and in my case paralyzing. There comes a time when you need to pull a Nike and just do it. For me that time is now.
3. Speak in my voice - I'm not a rock the boat person. Now don't get me wrong I'm not a pushover or a chump either. But rather I like to find common ground and not cause/contribute to confrontation if it's not necessary. However as I get older and have officially entered my late 30's (happy belated 36th birthday to me thank you very much) I realize how exhausting a personality trait that is to have. You can't please everyone all of the time and it's our differences that make the world go round so embrace it. Am I right?
4. Embrace my randomness - speaking of embracing traits I'm random. Have random interest and I like that fact. When I first started this blog I felt a way that I did not define myself as a mommy blog, or a design blog, or a lifestyle blog. Seth Adores Jai does not fit snugly into any specific category. To be honest not only does my lack of frequent blog posting hurt me (HA!) but so does my uncategorization (is that a word? If not it is today!). Folks don't know what to do with me. And that's ok. I may never have 100 9 followers. I may never get an invite to the cool kids parties or frequent commenters and that is ok too. I still like you guys despite it all. Smiles and heart emoticons!! Besides my Google analytics lets me know that I have secret visitors on the regular so thanks shadow people for the traffic and the love!
5. Live in the moment - part of releasing the fear I suppose but I don't play nearly as hard as I work. Not even close. But I don't have 6 weeks of vacation banked for nothing! Bring on the fun my friends.

How's that for a fresh start?

Sharing: Little brown pen gift cards

2010-12-16T17:53:00.006-05:00

I last left you with the bounty from my calendar swap. I'm looking forward to January 1 when I can set it up on my desk! In turn I'd like to offer you the chance to pick up your own cute 2011 calendar or print or whatever your heart desires. I received 3 "share with family and friends" gift cards in the mail from the Little Brown Pen. Each valued at $10. I will not call this a giveaway since I did not receive the cards for that purpose and I don't want to be misleading (as in LBP is sponsoring this when they are not) but rather this is a shareaway. Clever no? (yeah I know. . . NO!). The rules are simple. Be one of 3 folks to leave a comment asking for one and it's yours. Happy holidays!

Calendar Swap 2010

2010-11-23T16:26:00.000-05:00

I signed up for the annual calendar swap hosted by Caroline and Kelly. At first I was so excited then I was slightly freaked and a wee bit intimidated. My swap mate does not have a blog but she does have good taste. She sited Style Me Pretty and Design Crush as her current favs. See what I mean? Good taste. Blimey!

I finally narrowed my choices down to 3 and then took the plunge and ordered one. I personally like it and hopefully she will too. I would post my choices but Tiff may reading this and I want her to be surprised :).

Instead I will share with you the calendar Tiff choose for me. I was pleasantly surprised and delighted when I got this in the mail yesterday. A lovely photo calendar from Kitty Rogers Photography!!

Thanks for being my calendar mate Tiffany!!

When I grow up . . .

2010-11-10T00:01:00.000-05:00

. . . I want to have a smattering of freckles.

I’ve always wanted freckles. I know everyone that has them hates them or at least the folks I know do. Or rather they did when they were younger and at that age where one does not appreciate how our differences makes us special. But rather you want to fit in with the masses and not stand out for having a sprinkling of dark hued polka dots across your nose. But oh how smart are freckles. They can be bad ass, sweet, edgy, plain. And at my age I’m finally comfortable in my skin where I would rock out my freckles with pride. And if I had red hair to boot?!?! SHUT THE FRONT DOOR!

{images from: 1. here and 2. here}

Tasty tunes Tuesday: Buika

2010-11-09T00:01:00.002-05:00

I’m back and to kick things off I’m going to start with a confession . . . I’m a fan of NPR. There I said it. And not just a random oh I stumbled across the station because there was nothing else on the radio type of fan. Oh no I’m a “I have it as a pre-set station in my car. I know when shows are coming on. I have favorite personalities - Michele Norris as well as Peter Sagel from Wait, Wait don’t tell me” kind of fan. Yes I'm a geek. So during my drive time home last week I was introduced to a new-to-me artist named Buika courtesy of NPR.

African born and raised in a gypsy town in Spain. Her story is amazing and inspiring. She mainly sings in Spanish which means I can understand less that a ¼ of a ¼ of what she is saying but the soul behind her voice speaks to me. During the interview she does a quick little blues bit in English that blew my socks off. If you like to detour from mainstream music every now and then I say download some Buika and let her salsa, flamenco, jazz infused tunes take you there.

Check out the interview for yourself here with links to some of her performances.

The throwback: Cracker Jacks

2010-10-18T22:20:00.000-04:00

Last week we had a carnival themed shindig at the office. In addition to funnel cake, mini cheese-cakes on a stick and a soft pretzel (yes I’m still on track. Went to class that same night and worked off those calories), I also nabbed a bag of old school Cracker Jacks!

Complete with a prize. . .

It was a paper pencil topper! Ok a lame prize but still a fun throwback. I remember when these came in boxes instead of bags. . .

oops! did I just date myself?

What's your favorite throwback snack?

Blink - Back + Links

2010-10-15T00:01:00.005-04:00

{Image: We Heart It}

This week I've been . . .

Spending a ridiculous amount of time smiling at the videos of a Shark Pig.

Decoding secret messages.

Researching vintage rentals.

Spiting fear.

And looking forward to celebrating 30 years of Dance Place this weekend!

Vintage Posters

2010-10-12T13:34:00.005-04:00

One Kings Lane has a ton of vintage posters on sale today but these 3 in particular stood out for me. It appears they are all from the ‘70’s and were created for Air France and Kennedy airport. Tres chic! (yeah and that’s all the French I know).

Monday blues

2010-10-11T00:01:00.001-04:00

The scary looking storm clouds I had to contend with during rush hour last week. I figured this was a fitting pic to kick off the week since I'm heading into the office instead of enjoying the day off. Happy Monday!

Blink = Back + Links

2010-10-08T15:26:00.000-04:00

{Image: We Heart It}

This week I've been. . .

Still stuck in kimono heaven.
Working on Christmas books for the grand'rents.
Explaining why I need an over sized bag.
Shopping!
Rethinking string art.

And surprised by how quickly this week flew by.

Happy weekend!

Bagging it Friday

2010-10-08T10:21:00.003-04:00

I'm truly honored to be included in the "Are you bagging?" feature over at the fabulous Get it Girl Style blog. Check out what's in my bag.

Thanks again Tam!

Mondays are for shameless plugs. . .

2010-10-03T22:33:00.005-04:00

. . . SAJ is hosting our first giveaway! Thanks to the lovely Sally Shields, one lucky reader will win a copy of The Daughter-in-Law Rules: 101 Surefire Ways to Make Friends with Your Mother-In-Law!

It's a cute, funny how-to book full of helpful tips and tricks that will make you LOL. I've met Sally in person and the book is just as adorable as she is. To enter simply leave a comment below and the winner will be chosen at random on Friday. The contest ends on Thursday, October 7.

Good luck and spread the word!

Blink = back + links

2010-10-01T12:50:00.005-04:00

{Image: We heart it}

This week I've been . . .

On a trip to Vermont
Inspired by the brand identity of a cellar
Pulling inspiration images for my cousins vintage Hollywood garden party themed wedding

Hoping to win this cookbook
Dining under the golden gate bridge
Blissfully lost on ffffound
Purchasing tickets for this gala
Wondering if I can rock a kimono ala June Ambrose

Putting decorative bandages on my boo boos

And now I'm exhausted and ready for the weekend!

Masala Bhangra -

2010-09-28T00:01:00.000-04:00

I'm in love with a gym class if that is possible. Masala Bhangra is a bollywood inspired cardio workout that mixes mainstream hip hop beats with the beats from the traditional dhol drum found in Indian music. In a word the class is AMAZING. That is largely contributed to the instructor. E is beyond! (To use a Zoe-ism). She is high energy and entertaining and you hardly realize that the class is 50 minutes worth of butt kicking. If your local gym offers this class I highly recommend it. This is month 2 for me taking the class. My endurance is up and hope that combining 2 weekly sessions with 1 zumba class I'll meet my goal of losing 10 pounds by the end of October.

Nike pays tribute to NY

2010-09-27T00:01:00.000-04:00

Feeding my good design habit again. Love these shoeboxes designed by Hort for Nike.

Office chronicles Tuesday

2010-09-21T13:46:00.002-04:00

Reason # 320 why very, very, very few people at my job know my birth date and for those that do I always take that day off. I would hate to walk in to this scene.

Now I can appreciate a good prank and I laughed heartily while the guilty parties were decorating however I'm not quite sure I could fully appreciate the kind gesture if it were turned on me. The kicker was the birthday boys desk chair was also saran wrapped with his scissors on the seat! Happy 30th bday CC!

Are there any office traditions you love/loathe?

Happy monday!

2010-09-20T00:01:00.000-04:00

I had a great weekend. Saturday the kids, my sister and I went to a birthday party for Sockie Sue (not her real name of course) to help her celebrate turning 6. Her party was equipped with a princess castle moon bounce. Always a big hit with the under 10 crowd. That turned into a sleep over for a Jai. Sunday my sister and I attended a cupcake exchange party. There were maybe 10 of us and we were each assigned a bakery/cupcake store. Sooo many yummy choices. My fav was the red velvet from Red Velvet. Coming in a close second was a dark chocolate coconut concoction. Not sure where that one was from but it's probably best I didn't as it was not waistline friendly and I could easily become a repeat customer.

Time to kick off a new week! And to do so here are some words of advice. . .

{ffffound}

When I grow up: Sara Nicely

2010-09-14T22:21:00.010-04:00

When I grow up I want to be like Sara Nicely. I saw her Flour Pot bakery identity on ffffound and was drawn to the simplicity of her design and ingenuity. The full menu printed on the sandwich bag? LOVE! The Nathans (as in hot dog company) annual report? Are you freaking kidding me?!?! Sara Nicely if you are reading this I want to be like you when I grow up! Call me so I can pick your brain. :)

{All images from Sara Nicely and ffffound}

Celebrate!

2010-09-13T22:50:00.002-04:00

Small milestone for me. I've updated my blog header and layout after 2 years. Fresh start, new beginning. Time to get it right! Happy Monday!

Rue Magazine

2010-08-27T16:16:00.002-04:00

How did I miss this? Rue Magazine will be another addition to my online mag stalking (Lonny being the first of course).

Ingredients for the last days of summer

2010-08-18T15:36:00.007-04:00

Fun invites . . . or menu cards. {Ashley Meaders}

Bright pillows on the grass and a low table in lieu of your normal patio furniture.

And fruity cocktails.

Conversations with Jai

2010-08-17T17:05:00.003-04:00

{ffffound}

My babies are spending time in the big apple with their grandparents, aunts and uncle. A week of freedom for me and Mr. Handsome! Though I do miss the little rugrats. I get a call from my sister today and she tells me Jai has something to ask but to keep in mind that my sister did not come up with the idea. This should be a good one I think to myself.

Jai: Hi Mommy! How are you?

Me: I’m good. Are you having a good time?

Jai: Yes but first there is something I want to tell you.

Me: Ok, I’m listening.

Jai: Mommy. I want my ears pierced.

Me: Really?

Jai: Yes really. I want pierced ears.

Me: Ok baby when you get home we’ll go get your ears pierced.

Oh boy here we go! Even though I have pierced ears I said I would never do it to her unless she asked. I vaguely remember making a deal with myself to not do it until she was 6. Me and my freaking deals!

Random acts of kindness

2010-08-17T11:56:00.002-04:00

Driving thru the city on my way to work this morning I witnessed a good deed that made my heart smile. I was 4 cars back stopped at a red light. There is a construction zone to my right and to my left is a gas station that butts up to the end of the street. At that corner was a blind woman who was obviously becoming frustrated. She was using a cane and apparently she had lost her bearings. I’m assuming it was difficult for her to hear the sounds of traffic to determine when to stop and go thanks to the construction. So she was unsure of what to do next. Also she kept turning from right to left trying to figure it out. I see one on the construction workers walking in her direction. I hold my breath and he totally delivers. He says something to her, extends his arm and guides her in the direction she wanted to go. At this point the light changes and I have to move forward so I don’t get to see how far he accompanies her but that little act of kindness has set the tone for my day. Happy Tuesday!

6. . . .SIX . . She's 6 now!

2010-08-13T15:19:00.002-04:00

My sweet Jai turns the big S-I-X on Monday! Where did the time go? She was an itsy-bit of a thing just yesterday. Now she enters 1st grade in a few weeks. Did you hear me? FIRST GRADE!!!! I’m slightly freaked out by the whole situation. I mean first grade is real school. Not that kindergarten crapola. It’s time to add, subtract, read and reason on a whole 'nother level. Am I ready?

Anyhoo to celebrate the anniversary of the day she blessed us with her presence we are having a pool party for her on Saturday. Jai is a total water baby just like her daddy. The theme of the party is “rock star luau”. I’m finishing up the odds and ends of the details. And by that I mean the goodies for the goodie bags (Targets $1 score!), food prep, and last minute decorations. Keeping it simple since we only have 2 hours of party time at the pool but I still want it to feel like I made a little bit of an effort outside of reserving pool time and a place to cut the cake and collect presents. I’ve been doing some blog hopping and finding lots of cute party ideas. Enjoy!

Loving the yellow
Asian themed party for an 8 year old girl
Lego themed party for her brother

Another rock start pool party

Mommy and Me: J. Crew MacAlister

2010-08-11T15:55:00.004-04:00

A cheesy look or too adorable for words if I purchased J. Crew MacAlister's for Seth, Jai and myself? (Please say cute cause I really, really, really want them)

{Mommy}

{Mini}

How does your garden grow?

2010-08-11T15:02:00.004-04:00

By joining the Coach Poppy craze that's how. (#coachpoppy #kjaicreative). Yeah I've been MIA and my first day back I decide to sprout some poppy seeds. If you follow Lil Bee or Beautifully Invisible or any of the umpteen number of bloggers then you know what this project is all about. If you don't then check out the Coach site for details. If you're on Twitter tweet #coachpoppy with my hashtag #kjaicreative (or the hashtag of any participant you choose) to to make the poppy patterns bloom and grow and grow and grow. It will look like this #coachpoppy #kjaicreative. If you happen to see a Coach Bag sprout in the pattern that day click on it for a chance to win a special prize. I'm loving the Poppy Trail feature which links you to other sites. Check it out at the top of my page. Hey if you've landed here by way of the trail then drop me a comment and say hello. Or follow me on Twitter and shout me a tweet (KJaiCreative). I'll do the same.

By the by how genius is Coach? First the stylish blogger designed bags and now this. Loving them! Who is behind this marketing genius? You know I'm a geek about this stuff.

Lights Out

2010-07-07T22:48:00.006-04:00

Well not really but tonight we had a brown out.

Can't tell you if this is a real or made up by my husband term but lights went out in parts of the house. Since it was not a total lost of electricity Mr. Handsome dubbed it a brown out instead of a brown out. Lights are out in the living room, the power source for the fridge and the central air is pumping out lukewarm. Just what I need with record breaking temps of 100+ in the area. But it could be worse right? Blackout on the subway anyone?

{all images from Flickr}

2010-06-29T22:20:00.006-04:00

During my last trip to the bookstore I came across this book on decorating for kids. I wrote down the name of the book but can't find the scrap of paper anywhere. Anyhoo, with the possibilities of decorating a new space a la all the great decor advice I get block stalking I snapped some pics with my phone of my favorite rooms from the book.

All about that chair. Jai would love it.

This chair is great! I love that touch of pint sized masculine in such a girly space.

I just realized I'm drawn to both pictures because of the chair. Perhaps Jai's next room needs some fabulous seating?

Monday's are for shameless plugs: 16 | 28 Creative Consulting

2010-06-28T00:01:00.000-04:00

This time I'm plugging myself :). I'm stepping out on faith and starting a side business: 16 28 Creative Consulting is a boutique (code for small) firm designed to help businesses define and execute conventional and unconventional marketing/branding/promotional programs. Check me out here and here. I'm also here. Phew! That was hard. So much easier to sell someone else that to sell yourself. Well at least for me. But I must if I'm going to make it happen right? Happy Monday!

Finger lickin' good!

2010-06-11T00:01:00.000-04:00

I'm hitting NYC for some down home BBQ this weekend at the Big Apple BBQ Block Party. Somehow it doesn't seem right to head north for some southern cuisine but hey any excuse to expose the kids to my hometown and soak in the goodness of quality time with the family. And having two sets of grandparents on hand to baby-sit if needed doesn't hurt either! HA!

Have a fantastic weekend!

Conversations with Jai

2010-06-10T17:11:00.002-04:00

{Image: Flickr}

It's been a while since I've posted a good exchange with her. But here is a little goodie from today.

Scene: A book store doing some browsing.

Jai: I'm going to buy this book.

Me: Oh really? Do you have money?

Jai: No. When I say "I'm going to buy this book" I really mean "YOU are going to buy this book".

Me: HA!

We walk a few more steps. Jai picks up a book, hands it to me and says "I'm going to buy this book."

Me: You are NOT buying this book and when I say 'you' I really mean 'ME'.

Talking Babies = KACHING!

2010-06-09T00:01:00.000-04:00

I’m an ad and branding geek. I admit it without hesitation. Like so many I love the e-trade commercials. . . “milk-a-what?”. Seriously I crack up every time.

Whoever came up with the concept was genius! And here he is: Tor Myhren of Grey New York. Well deserved 40 Under 40 mention Tor! Well deserved.

House Hunters

2010-06-08T00:01:00.000-04:00

We've outgrown our little starter house of 8 years. The hopeful side of me was already planning to move to a bigger house as soon as possible but the realistic side of me figured that "asap" really meant 2 to 3 years down the road. However hopeful may win out in the end. Our realtor took us to a house on Saturday that is in horrible condition. As in half the roof is missing. No heating. No bathrooms. No kitchen. The back stairs are condemned. The basement is a scary pit of a black hole. We immediately fell in love. The asking price is ridiculous considering the condition. The house has been on the market for 200 days so fingers, toes and arms are crossed that this is a good sign for us. The best part? We'd have an unobstructed view of the Washington Monument.

Tease!

2010-06-07T00:01:00.000-04:00

The new edition of Lonny comes out on June 10th. I received the teaser email on Friday. I'd really, really love it if Lonny was a standard paper magazine. But then I would be worried it would fold so like everyone else across the land of blog I'll take it how I can get it.

BLINK: Backlog of goodies + Links

2010-06-03T21:52:00.003-04:00

Blowing dust off this puppy. It's been a while but I'm back, refreshed and ready to roll. Hopefully one of my followers is still with me. You loyal, sweet, bunch! Weird to pick up again on a Friday right? However, there is much I'm loving and wanted to share.

The launch of Ona Bags! Get 20% off now thru June 15. Any photogs out there with DSLRs? Then you want to check out the site.

HITCHED - a curated wedding event coming to LA in September. I'm all about pretty things, still obsessed with weddings, and nothing beats a well executed event. Check out the website and the associated blog for more details.

Speaking of weddings buy a copy of the Daughter-in-Law rules by Sally Shields. I met her recently at an event and she is just the sweetest. Gotta support great women like her.

Have a great weekend!

Black Interior Doors

2010-04-21T00:01:00.001-04:00

As mentioned yesterday I'm really into black interior doors. And I want them in my bedroom. So imagine my happiness when I stumbled across this image!

{image from Lavender and Lilies}

You know I already have the blue walls. You know I'm now lusting after adding yellow to the room and now combine that with black doors. . . I can't even stand it!

Fat Tuesday

2010-04-20T15:42:00.002-04:00

How fitting that this pops up as a word verification on a Tuesday! More on my comment later. ..

In my hood: Style Rules

2010-04-19T13:01:00.002-04:00

My friend A just told me about this great little video series on the WashingtonPost.com done by her friend A. So far it's 13 features in all profiling the fashion and style scene in DC. I think my favorite was the piece on the high school students at the local performing arts school. Very cool group of kids. Check it out!

SAJ Obsession: New issue of Lonny Mag

2010-04-16T00:01:00.000-04:00

Well ok I'm not obsessing over the entire 4th issue but these two images in particular.

1. These curtains.

{Lonny Mag Issue #4}

Adore them! They kind of have a 70's vibe going but with a fresh twist. Very me as I can be a bit retro in my style at times. I'm seriously jonesing for that fabric to make curtains to hang in my bedroom. I mean I really, really, really want them. Like now. The pull is so strong that I got to thinking why? I fall in love with so many pieces that I want and never get cause the moment passes but this time it's different. So why? And then it hit me. The photo I took of me in my yellow cords. I'm standing in my bedroom up against the wall and I love the way the yellow pops off the blue! Ding, ding, ding. Folks we have a winner. So now I need to incorporate that sunshiny yellow color into my room. That fabric up against the window would be perfection in my opinion. Now to try and find a knock off (or something closely related) or suck it up and pay the $90/yard??? I laugh just thinking about doing that.

2. This wardrobe.

{Lonny Mag Issue #4}

No logical reason for this. It's not even my style yet I can't take my eyes off of it. Is it the color, the shape, the mirrored door, the detailing, the little drawer at the bottom? Yes, yes, yes, yes and yes but again so far from my style.

And honorable mention goes to these mirrors. I think they speak for themselves. Swoon!

SAJ Obsession: Larabar

2010-04-15T00:01:00.002-04:00

My new found food love. I'm addicted, obsessed and completely adoring Larabars. I was on the hunt for a new snack bar to tide me over between lunch, the gym and home for dinner. I was tired of the Cliffbars (still love them but was ready for something new) and I remember having read about the Larabar so while I was in Whole Food this past weekend I spotted these and decided to give it a try. Loving the fact that they are truly a “whole” food. Case in point my Apple Pie contains: dates, almonds, unsweetened apples, walnuts, raisins and cinnamon. Umm hell yeah! I thankfully don’t have any known food allergies (with the exception of eel. Weird I know) but if I did since the bars are gluten free, dairy free, soy free, non-GMO, vegan and kosher that concern would have been out the door. As usual I’m probably the last person to discover these tasty treats but very happy I did. Now to introduce them to the kiddies. . .

Trio of pendants

2010-04-14T00:01:00.000-04:00

Please and thank you!

{ I can't remember the source of this image}

1st meal of the day

2010-04-13T00:01:00.001-04:00

I start my day (well once at work) with a "bowl" of fresh fruit and granola topped with a smidge of yogurt and one hard boiled egg. Quite tasty and I'm down 5 lbs in 3 weeks!

(and yes having just as sensible snacks, lunch, dinner and old-fashioned exercise all help but since breakfast is the most important meal of the day I'm giving it props :)

Monday's are for shameless plug - part deux!

2010-04-12T22:41:00.004-04:00

Scandalous! Double scandal in that I'm posting without a picture! Check out my friend Tracy's you tube video about her company ONA bags. She is trying to win a contest sponsored by the US Chamber of Commerce. The only is ask is for you to view the video so that she can make it to the top 25 of the most viewed contest entries.

Thanks!

Vintage Print Masking Tape

2010-04-12T00:01:00.001-04:00

Please and thank you.

{NothingElegant}

Good Friday it was!

2010-04-09T00:11:00.000-04:00

Last Friday I took the day off from work to spend it with my best girl aka Jai! I treated her to an afternoon at a kiddie spa where she got a new hair do for Easter followed by a hot pink & glitter mani-pedi! Good times indeed! But where-oh-where were these bits of fabulousness when I was five!

Happy Friday!

Taza Chocolate

2010-04-08T00:01:00.002-04:00

Organic, free trade, co-op, slightly grainy taste. DARK CHOCOLATE!! I'm sold. Lots more options on their website.

{Taza Chocolate}

Visions of possibilities dance in my head. . .

2010-04-07T00:01:00.001-04:00

{via we heart it}

. . . thinking, plotting, planning.

This is how. . .

2010-04-06T00:20:00.001-04:00

. . . I spent my Saturday morning. Listening to the kids read in my bed while Mr. Handsome some how slept through it all. Please note that this was before 8:30 AM. Will I ever sleep in again?

{yes my room was messy and is in desperate need of decoration. Future post on that to come.}

Monday's are for shameless plugs

2010-04-05T00:20:00.000-04:00

{Image via FFFFound}

I typically reserve the shameless plug posts for businesses or projects of my friends and friends of friends but today I want to shamelessly plug my new found friend "C". She and I met a couple of months back at a personal growth work shop. She is a pint sized bundle of personality and in her words WIGGLE!! You ever met someone who's spirit you just wanted to absorb? (ok that sounded scary but I mean that in a good way). Well "C" is one of those people. I'm so thankful to know her. She makes me want to elevate my game for real. I spoke to her on Friday and she said something that touched my core. I'm paraphrasing but she said something to the effect of "You exude a confidence that says you can do anything you want to do. So just do it! Other people see it and you need to see it too". Knock me over with a feather because I needed that confidence booster especially since I had just pulled a power move and stepped outside of my comfort zone 2 days before. C will be leaving in August to go teach English in another country (yeah she's fly like that) so I'm going to absorb as much of her as I can before she leaves! We're off to take Salsa lessons tonight! Yeah that's right I'm going to get some wiggle of my own going!

BTW I wanted to use this image to help describe C but I was afraid I'd offend someone :)

Monday's are for shameless plugs

2010-03-29T00:01:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since I've shamelessly plugged a great business. This one is a must follow. My friend Tracy is launching her line of handcrafted camera bags: Ona Bags. That's right that stylish bag in the photo above is really outfitted to hold camera equipment. Chic huh? I've seen the product in person and let me tell you I was blown away. I can't wait for the official launch party as I will be placing an order for one of my own. As an added bonus you can remove the interior fittings and convert it into a regular handbag. Genius! That's what I love about Tracy.

You can sign-up for updates and launch details on her website. You can also become a fan of her FB page where you can see some behind the scenes pics of her product photo shoot and be the first to hear about a give-away she is doing soon.

Happy Monday!

Scrapbooking girls gone wild!

2010-03-23T16:58:00.005-04:00

I have a t-shirt that says that and this picture pretty much confirms the saying as true. This past weekend I spent some quality time in the country with 9 good friends, food, drinks and of course lots of scrapbooking. You can read a bit more about it here.

Do you remember sleepovers as a pre-teen where the first one to fall asleep got her bra frozen? Well fast forward a few years and the last one to fall asleep apparently just leaves her bra anywhere for those of us who get up early to find it. Ah good times!

Note: Identifying features have been removed to protect the not so innocent!

The September Issue

2010-03-21T22:22:00.003-04:00

I just watched "The September Issue" and I must admit that I liked it. I like fashion as much as the next girl but I'm definitely not a crazed fashion addict. However I do find Anna Wintour an interesting character so I rented the DVD from RedBox. Aside from the fabulous clothes I found the tension between Grace Coddington and Anna fascinating. Apparently no one has told Grace that you don't challenge Ms. Wintour! Grace was funny as heck and held her ground more than once. Of course she has 20 years of a working relationship to build on but still if the "Devil Wears Prada" rumors are true I kept hoping that Grace was not fired after the film (note to self Google Grace to see). And speaking of DWP having read the book and watched the movie I could not help but compare them to this documentary. The daily editing of the book, the stare, the dismissals. . . loved it all. It's amazing how this one woman really does sign off on every single component of that magazine. I guess when you are good at what you do and your name is basically synonymous with the brand you represent you have to be. All in all a good girly pick.

I give up. . .

2010-03-04T16:21:00.004-05:00

I walked into Target for dish washing liquid and lotion (random yes) and somehow managed to leave with this cutie. Isn't she pretty? Come on spring. Come on.

Brownstone Buddies

2010-02-22T14:09:00.004-05:00

I first saw these dolls during the holiday when I received the annual FAO Schwarz catalog. I love the premise of exposing children to diversity while encouraging creative play. Created by two moms - one a SAHM, the other a lawyer - who were finalist in the stores toy competition a few years ago. My Jai is already older than their target demo of 5 and under but I think I'll add this to my gift list for a future purchase.

Simply Adoring

2010-02-21T12:51:00.005-05:00

That wall color:

{Domino}

{Lonny Magazine - Issue 3}

I have the page with this bedroom dog-eared in Domino mag and I'm able to quickly flip to the page of it in the Domino: Book of Decorating. Needless to say I love that color. So when I came across it in the newest issue of Lonny I sighed. My bedroom is already painted blue and I'd like to take it this shade darker but Mr. Handsome would probably veto that idea. If only I had a house big enough with a room just for me this color would be all over it.

Cabin Fever

2010-02-10T11:52:00.007-05:00

When we last left I was sharing my snowy commute with you. Well the real snow swooped in on Friday afternoon and smacked us around. Between 24" and 30" of snow fell over 2 days! Jai enjoyed every minute of it. Seth who normally hates snow even allowed himself to enjoy a few minutes before changing his mind. Just when I could start to see the pavement again and my car was snow free (stuck in it's spot as I have not seen a snow plow yet but we cleared the snow off) storm #2 barreled in last night. This is now day #6 of Snotorious BIG, Snowmaggedon, Snopacolypse. No school, working from home. It's been great but a small part of me is ready to leave my house, my block, my neighborhood. Please send sunshine our way as we have more than our fair share of snow that needs to melt away.

My entry way has become the dumping ground for all things snowy and wet.

Dude! Where's my car?

The front porch now with at least 3" of snow.

Morning Commute

2010-02-03T12:03:00.005-05:00

It snowed again yesterday and thru the night. But it was that beautiful, powdery snow (wish I was going skiing. Or was a skier for that matter.) so I didn't mind. I snapped a few shots on my drive in this morning. Happy hump day!

Bedroom Inspiration

2010-01-28T22:39:00.005-05:00

Art for the walls

{Design is Mine}

{The Diversion Project}

Yellow Cords

2010-01-28T16:40:00.006-05:00

Memba this purchase that I was hoping to style like this?

{J Crew}

Well I came across this picture last night . . .

{Garance Dore}

and decided they needed to make an appearance so they did today!

With a simple grey wrap sweater.

Wish I could show you a pic of the entire outfit as one but memba this? Yeah my precious camera is broken. UGH! It suddenly will not read a memory card which means a trip to the camera store to get it fixed this weekend.

Lace Skirt

2010-01-27T12:43:00.005-05:00

That's me in my lace skirt from H&M that I love. I was inspired by this post from Cupcakes and Cashmere. Picture quality is what it is when you are using a camera phone right?

Funny how the same phone can take a good picture (above) and also make my boots look dusty and old in the next (below - and they are so not dusty nor old. The skirt is old however.)

Fashion for Haiti

2010-01-25T16:18:00.004-05:00

(Image via Simple Song)

Whether your poison is couture or more mainstream both are affordable options to help support the rebuilding of Haiti.

(image via CFDA)

I haven't seen the finish CFDA product but I'm already planning to buy it in addition to placing my pre-order for the Partners in Health version.

One year ago today

2010-01-20T10:47:00.002-05:00

a dream was fulfilled.

Image via: Glimpse of Happy

All About [enter loved ones name here]

2010-01-20T00:01:00.000-05:00

I recently watched All About Steve over the New Years break. It was funnier than I thought it was going to be which was a nice surprise. Flipping thru the February issue of Real Simple I discovered that you can create your own puzzles at Discovery Education. In case you want to channel your inner crazy - stalker Sandra Bullock. Cute Valentine's day idea for the puzzle lover in your life. Also a great idea for those too rainy, snowy, cold to go out days when you need to entertain the kids indoors. Imagine the smiles as they work thru a puzzle all about them - favorite foods, favorite color, first words, birth date, names of his/her BFF(s), names of pets, cousins, aunts, etc. So many great possibilities. When Jai was first learning her letters Mr. Handsome would often use word search puzzles to get her to find and circle specific letters. She loved it.

Just for kicks I created a word search puzzle for my blog.

Seth Adores Jai

T H S B I S P D R R U Z S M D
Z L A O E I E E E F U N T O E
S B A L N C T G L C O A S T S
Y B O U E H G T M I A Y O H I
B L O M G O G S T E W M P E G
T H B U L A D A O R E I E R N
S E A B J J S H A I U V F R S
R D R S C R A B M C P Q P E A
K D Y G E N C I G C M M H V U
H V J V D B F D R H V Y Z C S
B X N S B A S H B X T Y E W J
A O O W V Z G P T R X E V S T
C M T Y N G Z H O A A L S U T
E V D K C R Q F Y Q G Z G C Y
F W Q N B O X W Q N L I F Y P

BABY
BLOGGER
CAMERA
CONVERSATIONS
DAUGHTER
DECEMBER
DESIGN
FUN
HANDSOME
JAI
MOTHER
POST
SETH
SON
WIFE

(Hidden in that puzzle is the phras "This is all about my blog Seth Adores Jai")

I spy. . . something affordable

2010-01-19T00:01:00.000-05:00

J Crew Cuts ballet flats. Priced right now from $34.50 to $110. Clearly not the affordable option. Not spending that kind of a money for a pair of skimmers that Jai will surely destroy in the blink of eye. And not with her feet growing every 6 months. Soooo Target to the rescue. I purchased these Natausha Ballet Flats in black for $9.99. Perfect for casual dresses and rolled up jeans. Looking forward to the weather changing already!

MLK Day

2010-01-18T13:13:00.004-05:00

"An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all of humanity."

Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. today.

Bedroom Inspiration

2010-01-14T14:26:00.004-05:00

For my closet. I want that hand holding all those rings. Where to buy?

(Image from Lonny Magazine Issue 2 Winter 2009)

Helping

2010-01-13T14:45:00.004-05:00

Inspired by Lil Bee's post today I'm following suit. Especially because a good friend of mine has family in Haiti that she can't contact right now as phones are down. Another friends father lives in the Dominican Republic (they share an island with Haiti) and given the tsunami watch everyone is on edge. The devastation is unimaginable. I'm contributing to the disaster relief fund and urge my readers and fellow bloggers to do the same.

Red Cross

Yele Haiti Earthquake Fund

*Of course research the organization of your choice. Make sure they are legit. These are just suggestions.

Cupcake Games

2010-01-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

The back story here is impressive. In honor of the creators house 100th anniversary they baked 100 cupcakes and decorated them in the theme of childhood games. I took the challenge and only scored a 26 but it was fun. Easy ones like Othello and Twister I somehow missed. My favs were Sorry, Charades, Life, Rock - Paper - Scissors. Hard but I somehow guessed "Chutes & Ladders". And then some more easy misses were Mine Sweeper, Q-Bert and Simon (I'm really mad about missing that one). How did you score?

Guitar Hero 5. . .

2010-01-12T00:01:00.000-05:00

. . . sucks. But I rock at it. That is all!

(Discovered this during game night on Saturday at my friends house. The song list is not that great.)

Family Funny

2010-01-11T00:01:00.001-05:00

Makes me laugh each time I watch this clip. . . . And sadly I've lived thru a few mommy, mommy, mommy, mommy moments.

We can all use a little funny on this back to work Monday.

Friday Flashback

2010-01-08T14:56:00.004-05:00

Don't ask me why but yesterday Sweet Valley High popped into my head. Did anyone else grow up reading that series? Remember when they tried to make it into a TV show. That didn't last very long. Or when Jessica painted her room brown and they called it the chocolate bar? Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield. Such dramatic lives those girls lived. LOL! My other favorite series was “The Babysitters Club”. I’m dating myself I know. Such the scandal when the girls found out Stacey was diabetic. Those 4 girls made me want to babysit. Glad I never did however. There is a book shelf in my parents house filled with every single book in the series that we purchased. Those were the good old days. Notice that when that series started leggings were in fashion and here they are once again. I did wear leggings today perhaps that sparked the nostalgia?

I still have a love for books and I’m happy that my Jai does too. A gift we inherited from my maternal grandmother. She’s in her 80’s and still can be found with her nose buried deep in a Harlequin Romance Novel. Perhaps a trip to the bookstore or library is in order this weekend?

Vintage Fashion

2010-01-06T22:09:00.004-05:00

So my sister sent me a link to this blog - My Mom, The Style Icon and suggested we submit a pic of our mommy. There is this ridiculously hot photo of my mom in a white bikini top, cut offs and an afro puff pony tail. She has this sweet smile on her face and looks every bit like the 18 year old she was. I would kill to have her body now. Actually there are several pictures of Mommy and her sisters that would be great candidates. Any long forgotten pics of your mother showcasing her fashionista side?

Image from MMTSI

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T10:25:00.003-05:00

The last three years my cousin and I have shared motto's with each other to set the tone for the new year and motivate us to move forward.

2008 = Out the gate in '08

This was all about making career moves

2009 = About time in '09

This was all about entrepreneurial endeavors and claiming a piece of the dream for ourselves

2010 = Time to win in 2010

This represents so much. But basically it's time to take advantage of the ground work from the last 2 years and blast off. I think this new directions image sums that up nicely. Sometimes you have to step out of your comfort zone, push yourself and change directions in order to win.

Get 'er done blog fam! Get 'er done!

TIME TO WIN IN! 2010!!!

Image via Graphichug.com by way of ffffound

Blog-Stalking

2009-12-29T16:24:00.010-05:00

It's been a slow two days at work. Which was expected. And I'm not complaining :) This gives me more time to surf during the day and check out new to me blogs. The last two days I've been stalking:

Giveaway time!

2009-12-29T11:26:00.005-05:00

No not here (though one day I shall have one) but over at one of the blogs I adore: Brooklyn Limestone. Enter to win either 3 of her photographs (any size up to 11x14) or one large poster print (up to 20x30). She has amazing photog skillz so this is a definitely a treat. Winner to be announced in January! Good luck.

QVC Strkes Again

2009-12-28T14:12:00.004-05:00

And really I'm on post-holiday burn out so I should not have been tempted to buy . . . But I was. . . And I did. I've been curious about this product for a while but the price was always a turn off. Plus I didn't know of anyone who had actually used it and could give me the real scoop. However Ojon receives lots of good reviews on beauty blogs and in magazines. The only real complaint I've seen has been the smell. Flipping through channels Sunday morning I saw that QVC had a two hour Ojon marathon running. I admit I like to tune into QVC every now and then. (Scored my camera that way.) The mention of flex pay got to me and before I knew it I was sitting Seth down to play with his cars and I was reaching for the phone and my credit card. On or around January 5th I'll be able to write a product review of my own. Fingers crossed that I like it.

Word of the year: UNFRIEND

2009-11-17T14:49:00.003-05:00

Totally random topic I know but fitting for this social media world we live in. Full article here. I thought this image was fitting A. because it's gorg! And B. because it's all words. (clever yes?)

Image from Elle Decor by way of Beautiful Living

2009-11-16T22:09:00.002-05:00

Yeah I'm there. At the intersection of grrr and aaargggh! But this too shall pass. Having a small moment before I chin up again.

image from ffffound

Inspiration | My Bedroom

2009-11-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

I like this concept of turning a corner of your bedroom into a dressing area of sorts. Filing this for safe keeping as my to do list once again includes finishing off the rooms in our house.

Image and list of what you need from Real Simple.

Making a list

2009-11-12T00:01:00.001-05:00

it's that time of year. Especially because I plan on having my holiday shopping complete by the first week in December. Really I am. No seriously this is the year. I need to follow my Aunt Ann's lead and start shopping in like June. But this year I'm keeping the lists to a minimum and simple (well at least in my mind I am) so I can knock it out. Right now I'm working on the kids list. Seth for some reason is a bit difficult because he shows interest in whatever his sister does plus cars and balls. So I'm not sure what to else to buy him.

Jai

A duffel or tote bag for ballet class
A digital camera for kids
Jewelry box
Rain boots - I really want a pair of Hunter Wellies for her. I just need to swallow the price and order them.
Puzzles
More art supplies - she's always asking for my scrapbook materials
New bedding
A sweat suit

Seth

That musical crayola set - the one where the kid creates music as they color. Yeah, I'm typically against noise makers but he likes music and is beginning to show an interest in paper and crayons. Two birds. . .
Kiddie "computer" - so his sister will stop screaming whenever he hijacks hers
New bedding

See? Seth looks like I'm short changing him.

image from ffffound

I Spy: Just what I wanted. . .

2009-11-11T00:01:00.000-05:00

. . . sparkly in black! In a few weeks I'm heading to to sin city to help my friend Chris ring in her 40th birthday. It will be 6 of us in all and I can't wait! Of course while in Vegas to ring in such a milestone birthday one must party which brings me to my attire issue. Because I'm 5 years and some change away from being 40 (hehehe! I love being younger than the crew) I want something short, cute and sparkly to party in. This will bode well with my reinvention of fabulous me.

Inspiration #1: Zoe Saldana in this cute sequin mini.

I spy: a cute affordable option at Forever 21. I'm thinking of adding either a jacket on top or a long sleeve black rayon T underneath. Pairing it with booties or my Jessica Simpson black heels and black tights.

Inspiration #2: One of the Olsen twins. I think she may have on shorts.

I spy: this cute mini also from Forever 21 and also at just the right price for such a trendy item. Decisions, decisions.

Celebrity Pics: here and here

Love these

2009-11-10T00:01:00.000-05:00

ffffound

Mother/Daughter

2009-11-09T00:01:00.000-05:00

Me and Jai in the future . Styling and profiling . . if only she looked like me and not Mr. Handsome. . . but either way I hope we are still just as cute and photo worthy!

The Sartorialist

For those who love fonts

2009-10-26T00:01:00.000-04:00

rying out some new fonts. Like it?

Daily Drop Cap by Jessica Hische via the Scoop.