oh, eliza!

Lazing on a Sunday Afternoon

2012-01-29T12:18:00.002-05:00

Sometimes the best weekends are the ones with the most white space in your planner. Mine has consisted of peppermint lattes, smores, a fun fourth date with a new beau, doing chores around the apartment, journaling, and lots of Mad Men. Hope yours has been equally relaxing!

Friday Link Love

2011-12-16T14:43:00.002-05:00

Kind Over Matter shared some rockin' inspirational free iPhone wallpapers / Some classic black-and-white eye candy / The Girls with Glasses teach us the art of red lipstick and serenade us with holiday spirit / this red lace dress has me longing to fast forward my sewing skills.

Saul Bass [Covet]

2011-12-15T14:23:00.001-05:00

This behemoth of a coffee table book is currently top spot on my wish list. It celebrates the work of celebrated designer Saul Bass, who is famous for his film and corporate design.

The book itself was beautifully designed by his own daughter, Jennifer, and contains more than a thousand illustrations of Bass's iconic work. Are you listening, Santa? ;)

Help Me Choose New (Warby Parker) Glasses!

2011-12-13T14:24:00.004-05:00

I was beyond excited yesterday to get my home try-on kit from Warby Parker. I've been coveting their classic, retro frames since I stumbled upon them last year, but feared I wouldn't be able to pull off such bold styles. Well, I do still kind of fear that. But, self-doubt aside, I'm posting pictures of my top three to hopefully get some help in making a choice. Please be honest (and please ignore how cross-eyed I look!). Here we go:

Colton

Webb

Preston

Comment with your preferences. Please respond soon- I have to return these on Friday! Thanks in advance for all your help! xoxo

Snow [Musical Mondays]

2011-12-12T00:00:00.000-05:00

Friday Link Love

2011-12-09T14:34:00.001-05:00

Design Darling's gift guides have me adding to my own wish list / Alec Baldwin as Tracy Morgan is too fabulous not to love / I'm so making these clementine macarons for a cookie exchange this weekend / here's some gratuitous Ryan Gosling...you're welcome / and last, but certainly not least, Matchbook Mag's December issue, featuring the fabulous Janie Bryant. <3

Life in Instagram

2011-12-07T14:09:00.001-05:00

The Dating Game

2011-12-06T14:53:00.001-05:00

Since my breakup over two months ago, I've been slowly testing the waters of the dating-verse. I have never really "dated", and have certainly not had a lot of flirty interactions in the past 3+ years I was in a relationship. I ended up joining a couple of online dating sites, not really to meet anyone, just to get an idea of what was out there. My workplace is generally older, and I don't have a ton of single friends, so online is really the only way I feel that I will meet people. I haven't struck gold yet. Far from it, actually. I've chatted with a few guys and been on a couple dates, but with each disappointment I feel more and more discouraged that I'm destined to be a crazy cat lady. I don't even like cats, but who else is going to keep me company in my old age?!

In all seriousness, for someone who is awkward as all get-out around members of the opposite sex, and has spent most of her life feeling like Josie Grossie (if you don't get that reference, we can't be friends anymore), wading the online dating pool has taught me a few things I didn't know about myself. But I'm still learning, and still dating. One of these days I might cancel my memberships, but right now I'm loving the self-growth. (Not really loving the awkward encounters, though. Not so much.)

Take Me Home Tonight

2011-11-27T22:24:00.001-05:00

This weekend I watched Take Me Home Tonight on Netflix Instant Viewing. And despite the low rating on Rotten Tomatoes, I loved it. Part of it was the gnarly '80s soundtrack, and the blazers with skinny ties. But mostly it was the portrayal of everything I've felt in the past couple years regarding a complete lack of direction in my job and my life.

Dad: Promise me you’ll take a shot, Matt.
Matt: I don’t even know where to aim.
Dad: Anywhere. Everywhere. Just take a shot.

And They Called It Muppet Love

2011-11-22T22:51:00.001-05:00

Did y'all catch Jason Segel hosting SNL this past weekend? My favorite part, by far, was the monologue that featured the Muppets. I can't wait to see the movie!

Friday Link Love

2011-11-18T18:14:00.001-05:00

The Girls with Glasses teach us how to thrift with style / I have a creepy obsession with the Brangelina brood and their impeccable style / Ryan Gosling and one of the cutest (fictional) relationships / Some of the coolest cats of the '60s, including my favorite, Paul Newman / J. Crew's gift guide includes picks from Martha Stewart, Lauren Hutton and more.

Barney + Robin = OTP

2011-11-17T21:10:00.001-05:00

This one's for all you How I Met Your Mother fans. Oh, and, spoiler alert ;)

I have a secret. It's a little embarrassing. And totally uncool. I am a huge...fangirl. Always have been, from the days of reading the Little House series and crushing hard on Almanzo Wilder, to classic WB and shipping Spuffy (or, Buffy and Spike, for the non-nerds). And at the moment, the ship that most makes my heart go pitter-patter is HIMYM's Barney and Robin. Two amazingly screwed-up people that end up being perfect for each other.

Who else jumped up and down at the end of last week's episode, Disaster Averted? I thought my dreams had come true and we would finally be certain of the identity of Barney's mystery bride in the oft-glimpsed future wedding. I was even more thrilled by the progression of this Monday's ep, Tick, Tick, Tick. But I should have known that it was too good to be true! Seconds after seeing Barney break up with Nora, we discovered that Robin chickened out and stayed with Kevin, her therapist-turned-boyfriend. Talk about a letdown.

Still, I haven't given up hope that Barney's bride turns out to be Robin. I think it would be too cruel of the writers to lead us along like this. (Fingers crossed!)

Who are some of your OTPs (One True Pairs)?

Sick Day

2011-11-15T13:10:00.001-05:00

I'm home sick today with a sore throat and the sniffles. And while I had to spend the morning doing work (blech), I still have time to indulge in some of my favorite remedies. Pride and Prejudice (with Colin Firth, of course!), lots of tea with honey, and snuggly pajamas. Try these the next time you're quarantined at home; they may not cure you, but they'll definitely make you feel better! :)

Birthday Present to Myself

2011-11-07T16:20:00.001-05:00

Here's something you might not know about me: I'm picky. About everything. (Okay, not food, really.) But when it comes to buying things for myself, from shoes to iPhone cases to clothes, I know what I want and I won't stop until I find it, even if that means sifting through hundreds of pages of search results. That's why I've spent the past >2 years searching for the perfect watch. I already have a gorgeous Baume & Mercier Hampton that I received as a college graduation present. But I wanted to have options, and I was stuck on having something with a leather strap that looked a little more menswear.

Years, and many hours of eBay hunting, later, I have a beautiful, perfect Hamilton Wilshire. I snapped the picture above with my new iPhone 4S! I love everything about this watch- the buttery leather strap, the reproduction vintage design of the dial, the slim gold case. I know it's part of my watch collection that I will love and enjoy for years and decades to come.

Kissing My 'Early Twenties' Goodbye

2011-11-04T23:27:00.002-04:00

In about an hour, the clock will strike November 5th, and I will be 24 years old, and firmly in my 'mid-twenties'. Which sounds so crazy grown-up and sophisticated, but when I look in the mirror, I still see the same old me. The me that wishes I was cooler, hotter, taller, less awkward, more fun, and that I didn't feel like a total dork every time I stepped out the door. (Sidenote: I'm currently crushing on 30 Rock, and while I find all the self-deprecating humor regarding Liz Lemon's lame-ness hilarious, it also makes me secretly afraid that a decade will go by, and I'll still be crippled by my lack of confidence and the feeling that I'm always going to be, just, not cool.)

I know what you're thinking...I'm thinking it, too. Boo hoo. Life is too short for excuses. I'm turning 24 tomorrow, and still preaching the same woes I had back in high school. Is that going to be my life? Well, sure, maybe I will be socially awkward forever. But there are certain things I can control. I wanna be hotter? Well, I should go to the gym more. And eat less cake. More fun? Well, for starters, don't spend every night in front of the TV. On a sidenote, writing an online dating profile (and browsing others') is very enlightening. I wouldn't want to date me. So why am I okay living life like this, day after day, thinking it's the only way to live?

So, here are my Resolutions for 24. My rules to live by for the next year, to ensure it's better than the last.

& Be committed to my fitness. Go to the gym at least three times a week. Watch what I eat.
& Go out more. Organize events with friends, or go to a meetup. Also, be less afraid to do things by myself.
& Get back into the dating scene. Not because I'm really out to snag a boyfriend, but because I need to learn how.

There's the short list for now. Not rocket science, but things that I had not been fully committed to until now. Here's to making 24 the best year yet!

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T16:34:00.001-04:00

Here's a photo that will make you happy you weren't me in fifth grade :)

Have a good night...don't eat too much candy!

XOXO

Still Waiting for the Upswing

2011-10-21T13:53:00.002-04:00

You know that Steve Miller Band lyric, 'Time keeps on slippin', slippin', slippin' into the future'? Ain't that the truth!

Time keeps on slippin', whether you're up, down, waiting, barreling ahead...time keeps moving on, and sometimes time takes you where it wants to. Sometimes things take longer than you'd like.

Remember me saying that life is a sine curve? Well, I'm still waiting for the upswing. On top of all the yucky stuff I mentioned before, I've also seen several people on my team lose their jobs with no explanations, watched a close family member make some very bad decisions, and stumbled back into the dating scene with less than exciting results.

Sometimes life takes its sweet time.

In the meantime, I'm not just waiting for things to come my way. I'm taking action and moving forward as much as I can. By the way, anyone have suggestions on how to meet people outside of work? I'm all ears!

{Photo credit: here}

Life is a Sine Curve

2011-10-03T23:12:00.003-04:00

Somebody close to me always says, "Life is a sine curve." Or in other words, it has its ups and its downs, but it always sums to zero. I have troubles with the zero sum part of it, but I occasionally (and sometimes often) get hit in the face with the downs (or troughs, to be technical). The past few weeks have been an endless barrage of them. I found out my beloved boss is being replaced, went through a very sad breakup, and was shocked by the sudden death of a colleague at work. I feel like I'm finally seeing some light at the end of the tunnel, and I'm truly excited about what lies ahead, because I know things can only go up from here.

PS. Sometime soon I may post about online dating. Maybe.

Animal Instinct

2011-09-15T15:16:00.001-04:00

These are my new leopard flats. Aren't they divine? I had been looking for a pair of leopard flats for a while, more along the ballet flat line, but I was inspired by The College Prepster's recent post about leopard-print loafers. Menswear meets animal print meets preppy? I was in love. I found this pair from Nordstrom; the price was right, and I couldn't be more happy with them. I have to control myself not to wear them every other day :)

What are your new favorites for fall?

Positive Attitude

2011-09-14T13:02:00.000-04:00

I don't know about you guys, but one of my biggest limitations is my attitude. I focus on the "can't", the "why not", anticipating all of the possibilities in which something could go wrong.

I think it's my perfectionism, my fear of rejection and of letting myself down.

I want to make a major life change, specifically, find a way to move to Europe, but I am constantly reminded that there are obstacles in my way.

I keep having to tell myself, "Where there's a will, there is a way, you just have to find it."

Making an Escape

2011-09-12T20:53:00.000-04:00

Do you ever feel like just checking out?

Sometimes (most of the time) my brain feels so full, there's no time for things like paying attention at work/
doing laundry/blogging/exercise, and the other multitude of to-dos that fill my planner every week.

But somehow I always find time for eating/drawing/writing/catching up on Parks & Recreation.

Sometimes it's nice to not care for a while.

Musical Mondays

2011-09-05T11:39:00.001-04:00

My favorite Astaire + Rogers clip of all time, from Swing Time.

Happy Labor Day!

Lazing on a Saturday Afternoon

2011-09-03T19:13:00.001-04:00

What are all of you up to this weekend? This morning I had plans with friends to hit the Scottish Games in Virginia, but I was halfway there when a horrendous thunderstorm cropped up. We ended up watching the new Jane Eyre instead, and even though they took some liberties with the book, I love love loved it. The cinematography and the scenes between Jane and Mr. Rochester were just pure perfection.

Now I'm at home scraping the last bits of Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate brownie mix out of the bowl, and indulging in a Hugh Grant movie marathon. I just finished Four Weddings and a Funeral, and now I'm on Notting Hill, which I have already seen about two bazillion times.

Are you (unlike me) out and about, enoying the hurricane-free weekend?

Friday Link Love

2011-09-02T11:55:00.001-04:00

One of my favorite food blogs, The Bitten Word, share six dishes to make before the end of summer. I am especially excited about the pan-roasted corn and okra...yum!

Katie Armour, a.k.a The Neo-Traditionalist and co-founder of Matchbook Magazine, shares one of her Etsy finds: these oh-so-adorable upcycled Madeline envelopes.

Awesome People Hanging Out Together, one of my favorite Tumblrs, has this gem with Marlon Brando and Marilyn Monroe. Doesn't it look so candid and casual?

Lastly, a free poster from Goddess Leonie on how to be joyful. Who doesn't need this in their life?

Happy Friday!

Life Moves Pretty Fast

2011-08-30T11:33:00.003-04:00

This blog is fast becoming "Oh hai, want to heer about mai life confoozion?" Minus the cat talk. Although...never mind. But seriously, if it seems like all I do is whine about how I have no idea what I'm doing with my life, it's because that is the topic consuming every waking moment for me. In two months I'll officially be in my (dun dun dun) mid-twenties, and while you are all going "Aw, that's adorable!", I'm freaking out because I can't believe almost three years have gone by since I graduated college. (Again, this whole thing smells suspiciously like a Quarter Life Crisis.)

This morning I heard some chatter about someone I used to work with. She's about my age, and she was very well loved in the office. She had a seemingly perfect boyfriend (who is now her fiance), and she just found out she got accepted for her dream job, which she had been waiting on for two years. And as immature as it is, my first reaction was Why not me? Why do some people get all the good stuff? Which is actually very selfish of me. I'm a lot luckier than most, I know. I have a college degree and a very well-paying job that allows me to live in a nice area and buy the things I want (for the most part). But when someone said, regarding aforementioned coworker, "It's so exciting to see someone's dreams coming true!", the pouty side of me felt a pang of What about my freakin' dreams!?

The logical, mature part of my brain knows that, probably, that girl didn't have all of that handed to her on a silver platter. I'm sure she worked very hard for it, and put out a lot of positive energy that the universe returned to her. And I should take all of my jealousy and pouts and turn them into motivation to get my ass in gear and pursue my own dreams (once I figure out what they are). And I'll get on that. Once I'm done pouting.

Do you ever envy others' happiness? How do you deal with it?

Musical Mondays

2011-08-29T09:40:00.002-04:00

How can your Monday be gloomy when watching Bert and Mary frolic through cartoon land in Mary Poppins?

Answer: It can't!

What Do I Care How Much it May Storm?

2011-08-27T11:54:00.002-04:00

I'm sitting in my living room watching the raindrops fall down the glass of the windows. Everybody here has been in a frenzy over Hurricane Irene, but it looks like it will be nothing much to worry about. Nevertheless, I've brought my furniture and plants in from the patio, and I'm planning to stay in the apartment today.

It's going to be a lazy, staying in sort of weekend, but this time I'm determined to actually get things accomplished (as opposed to those other weekends, where I say I'll get stuff done, but end up watching TV and reading the whole time). I have piles of laundry to do and my apartment is a mess. I also want to concentrate on my "what am I going to do with my life?" research, and maybe do some fiction writing.

I hate how the weekends go by so quickly. It's only Saturday morning, but I know it's like the blink of an eye before Monday morning rolls around, and it's back to my cubicle prison. It seems like the rat race never ends.

Anyone figured out the secret to loving life all seven days of the week?

Friday Link Love

2011-08-26T16:12:00.004-04:00

This week's links are a little late, and a little hastily typed, but I hope you will enjoy nonetheless!

I've already posted about it, but seriously, if you haven't checked it out? Sign up for Goddess Leonie's World's Biggest Summit. You'll be glad you did!

The Glee kids cover David Bowie in this video for Fashion's Night Out. Enough said, right?

Super excited to try Lifestyle Maven's recipe for blueberry & lemon tart. It has fruit in it, and everyone knows that means it's healthy!

What items around the web are striking your fancy?

The Search for Clarity

2011-08-23T15:44:00.002-04:00

For at least a year now, but especially since I returned from my European excursion in July, I've been feeling...muddled. My mind is full of ideas and thoughts, happy and unhappy, I've felt in general unrest, and it's all a total mess. The only thing I know for certain is that I don't want to keep doing what I'm doing...but then what? Quarter Life Crisis, though cliche, is probably most appropriate.

Last night I ran across the website of Marie Forleo, a "best-selling author, speaker, online-entrepreneur, Nike Athlete and Master Trainer, fitness personality, and dancer/choreographer". And in a Q&A video on her site, in which she responded to question about indecision, something really resounded with me:

"Clarity comes from ENGAGEMENT, not THOUGHT."

That is, for people like me, who overthink every decision in deathly fear of making a misstep? Wrong strategy! You won't know how you feel about something, whether or not it's right, until you actually engage in the activity. Me, I usually end up not doing anything at all, waiting for my mind to come to a decision. Thinking the clarity will come soon, and growing more and more anxious and frustrated as the months and years pass by and I'm still in the same situation. I need to learn to look past the fear and discomfort and just dive into something, come what may. In other words...

Just do it.

Musical Mondays

2011-08-22T13:41:00.002-04:00

Happy Monday! Here's a classic clip from one of my all-time favorites, Singin' in the Rain. I know every word by heart and I wish I had a dress just like Debbie Reynolds'.

Grab Your Ticket: The World's Biggest Summit!

2011-08-19T16:13:00.003-04:00

I was so delighted to check my email this morning and find an invitation to the World's Biggest Summit! Scheduled for October, it's a an opportunity to learn from some amazing bloggers, teachers, life coaches, luminaries, thought leaders, and geniuses.

It's been organized by Goddess Leonie, and if you don't follow her blog or get her emails, you really should! She's very inspiring, and her artwork and inspiration litter my cubicle walls at work. To participate in the summit, all you have to do is visit the website and sign up for a free invitation! Then just sit back and wait for October, when you will be able attend online, whenever is convenient for you.

Don't miss out on this opportunity; as Goddess Leonie puts it: 100+ teachers. Thousands of lightbulb moments. It only takes one, to change your life…

Friday Link Love

2011-08-19T08:00:00.003-04:00

This Friday is a little bit exciting because my group at work is moving to a new area with brand new cubicles :) It's the little things, folks. Let me have my (sad and pathetic) moment! If you're spending this Friday chained to a desk like I am, here are some snippets of the Interwebz that I hope you will find delightful.

The new Positive Printables over at Kind Over Matter are perfect for brightening up your office or cubicle, hanging on the fridge, slipping in a note to a friend, or taping to your bathroom mirror.

I've recently gotten in the habit of following certain Tumblrs just to discover new animated GIFs. I know, I couldn't be dorkier. But who could resist when they're as funny/nostalgic/insightful as this, and this?

One of my favorite things ever: artists I love covering songs I love. And now there's a whole album of it: Muppets: The Green Album. Artists like OK Go, The Fray, Sondre Lerche and others performing Muppets classics like "Rainbow Connection"...you can listen to the whole album here. You're welcome.

Lastly, the old-ish but new-to-me sewing blog, Male Pattern Boldness. A coworker turned me onto this last week, and I can't get enough of Peter's daring projects, commentary on then and now fashion, and warm, genuine, funny writing voice. Just another inspiration for me to continue to improve my sewing skills!

Happy Friday, loves.

{Photo credit}

My Guilty Pleasures (On TV): Melissa & Joey

2011-08-16T12:38:00.005-04:00

I wish I could say I've been doing productive things with my life, but the past week has been one big escape from reality. And you know the best way to escape from reality? Uh-huh, that's right.

Bad sitcoms. The so-bad-they're-good kind. The ones with the predictable lines, overdone stories, okay acting, and that mid-90's-TGIF-era feel about them.

This past week my drug of choice was the ABC Family series Melissa & Joey. I'm not ashamed. You would watch it, too, if you appreciated how smokin' hot Joey Lawrence is nowadays. And so adorable in his Who's the Boss-type role on the show. A guy with muscle, great with kids, and cooks? Yes, please.

Now I've decided to re-enter reality for a bit. (Okay, I ran out of episodes on Hulu. And I had to come to work.) But I'm looking forward to later in the week, when the next episode gets loaded to Hulu. I am not ashamed. Hello, my name is Courtney Elizabeth, and I'm a bad sitcom addict.

What are your guilty TV pleasures?

Lonely Days

2011-08-09T14:32:00.011-04:00

Just another day at the office. I haven't been assigned to new project since my last one ended a few weeks ago, so lately that means coming in, sitting here for eight or so hours, and going home. It gives me lots of time for things like arranging my desk (see above).

The novelty of the quiet time wears off rather quickly, and sometimes there are days when I don't say a word to anybody (nobody at all). It makes it more than a little difficult to find the motivation to come in to the office every day.

Just sort of a lonely Tuesday.

Putting It Out There

2011-08-08T13:39:00.009-04:00

If you've followed my blog for a while, you may have noticed that it's a lot of things. It's a little bit country, a little bit rock and roll. Some pretty pictures sprinkled with the here-and-there glimpse of me trying to figure out life.

If my blog has struggled with its identity over the past few years, it's because I'm scared to death of putting the real me out there, whoever that is.

For years I have struggled to keep parts of my life separate, the "cool" one (the stylish professional, who sews and blogs and cooks and brunches in the city and flips through Anthropologie catalogs) and the the "nerd" (who binges on Doctor Who fanfiction, ships Spuffy for life, and spends hours watching old clips of The Donny & Marie Show on YouTube). And despite the front I've tried to portray on this blog, "nerd" is a big huge part of who I am. It's me. And until I'm real about me, I'm never going to be able to be fully genuine with myself or with you, my blog readers.

There's another side of me too, and I don't know what to call it. It's the part of me that still feels like that 12-year-old in gym class, awkward haircut and braces, hoping nobody will notice that my mom hasn't let me shave my legs yet, worrying they already have and are just pretending not to. Even on the brink of my mid-twenties (especially now), I'm in a constant state of confusion, uncertainty, unhappiness, and frustration that I haven't figured my sh stuff out yet. Nothing feels quite right, and I can't figure out whether it's me, the rest of the world, or a combination of the two. I've written blog posts about it here and there, but in general I've kept my happycheery front on, because I figured, "Everybody has their own stuff, who wants to read about mine?"

Well, whether you do or not, get ready for more of it. I am resolved to be more real with myself and real with you guys. And I look forward to meeting and learning more about the real you, too.

Thanks for reading :)

{Photo credit: Kind Over Matter}

Summer Reading: My New NOOK Color

2011-08-01T11:40:00.001-04:00

If I have been remiss in updating my blog...or cleaning...or paying attention at my job...or seeing friends...it's because I've been catching up on lots of summer reading, courtesy of my new NOOK Color! I indulged in this now-beloved gadget before I left for Europe in June, and I have been addicted ever since. Since the dawn of e-readers, I have been a staunch book purist. I needed to feel the pages, smell the must, dog-ear the corners, and basically everything else that's said in the new Kindle commercials. But there came a point when an eight-hour flight and only one checked bag won me over, and I'm glad they did. Here are some of my favorite things about my new purchase:

Quantity, quantity, quantity. I can load a gazillions books onto it and it barely takes up the space of one hardcover.
The full color screen. I've already subscribed to two magazines, and when they get delivered every month, I can view them in all their glossy pictorial glory.
The Android OS and app store. It's basically a tablet with an emphasis on reading. And if you nerd it out like I did, you can have the option of using the full Android OS with the full market of apps like Netflix and Cut the Rope.
Videos. Another advantage of the tablet thing, you can load and view video files. This is a big plus on my long international flights, and the interface is quite simple and easy to use.
Anonymity. I can buy all the trashy romance novels I want (and I want a lot), without ever revealing my guilty pleasure to a discerning bookstore employee or, even worse, my fellow Metro passengers.

Right now I'm trying to read Girl with a Dragon Tattoo, but I'm finding it really hard to get into. Others have told me it takes awhile before the book really takes off, so I'm keeping at it!

Do you own a NOOK or another e-reader? What do you think?

Ms. Andrews on a Monday

2011-07-25T15:14:00.005-04:00

The lovely lady above is one of my favorites, and these photographs are adding a dose of sunshine to my otherwise gloomy Monday. I hope they do the same for you!

{via beckawall}

Happy Weekend! [Video]

2011-07-22T20:11:00.003-04:00

The Warmth of the Sun [Music]

2011-07-22T12:26:00.003-04:00

I am finally on Spotify! I got my invite last night and immediately jumped in to find out what all the hype is about. I admittedly have not delved too deeply into it, partly because right off the bat, I discovered this amazing Beach Boys compilation and played it on repeat the rest of the evening. Even if you are not oldies-obsessed like I am, this album is the perfect mix of peppy and mellow for a summer night. I was reminded of lesser-known Beach Boys songs I hadn't heard in years, and also got to hear them do covers of songs I already love. If you're on Spotify, check it out and let me know what you think!

P.S. I must also add that it includes one of my favorites, 'Forever', which will forever (no pun intended) to me be Uncle Jesse's song (from Full House). But the Beach Boys original is nice too :P

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?

2011-07-20T11:52:00.001-04:00

who wants a fancy foreign car? (i don't.)
who wants to tire of caviar? (i don't.)
who wants a marble swimming pool too? (i don't.)
and i don't 'cause all i want is you.

~who wants to be a millionaire? (cole porter)

Meet Me at Shutters

2011-07-14T11:29:00.001-04:00

I have not ridden a bicycle since I was around twelve. I wasn't even good at it back then. But lately I have had a yen to buy a bike with a wicker basket in which to haul around fresh flowers and farmers market buys. This darling video from Shutters Santa Monica, with its custom Kate Spade bicycles, does nothing to quell my bike desire! In fact, I would buy a bicycle this instant if I didn't think I would cause serious injury to myself trying to navigate DC on one :)

Happy Bastille Day!

2011-07-14T11:22:00.000-04:00

Put on a Happy Face

2011-07-13T13:58:00.009-04:00

and if you're feeling cross and bickerish,

don't sit and whine

think of banana splits and licorice

and you'll feel fine.

~put on a happy face (adams & strouse)

Sneak Peek: Prêt-à-(re)porter

2011-07-12T23:28:00.009-04:00

I returned from vacation in horror of all the money I had just spent. Which turned into horror of any money I have spent ever. Which somehow came down to my clothes. Lamenting the excessive size of my wardrobe to a friend over lunch one day, I claimed I could wear a different outfit to work every day for two weeks. No, three. No, I could wear a different outfit to work every day for a month. Without even trying very hard. And so Prêt-à-(re)porter was born, a project to document four weeks of work outfits, partly just to show that I can, but also to give me an idea of what pieces I actually go to in my (overflowing) closet. And I chose to document them in watercolors because painting is just plain fun (and I don't photograph well). Stay tuned for a recap of Week One later in the week; the above is a sneak peek of what's in store.

Do you feel like you have too many clothes, too little, or just right?

{Photo credit: Me and RetroCamera}

Haiku for Tuesday

2011-07-12T11:21:00.003-04:00

what if every day

was filled with things that bring joy,

not those that zap it?

{photo credit: decor8/holly becker}

A Few Glimpses of Il Mio Viaggio

2011-07-09T22:32:00.010-04:00

Here are just a few glimpses into my recent excursion to Europe. I spent a little over two weeks traipsing through Paris, Heidelberg, and Milan and its nearby lakes. As you can see from my pictures, I really like food (and peonies). Every day brought another delicious indulgence, like macarons, burrata and mozzarella di bufala, and the Italian "iced coffee", caffe shakerato. My time there wasn't nearly long enough, and I've been yearning to go back ever since I left.

What are the vacations you are still dreaming about?

{All photos by moi!}

Back to Reality

2011-07-06T13:54:00.000-04:00

Friends,

I am back in the states after more than two weeks enjoying Paris, Germany and Italy! Stories and pictures to come; for now I am busy catching up on work email, trying to make a dent in my blog reading, and restocking my refrigerator :)

Au Revoir, Mes Amies!

2011-06-15T21:15:00.002-04:00

Mes cheries,

In less than 48 hours I will be on my way to the City of Lights, just the first stop in a two-week European getaway. I have never been to Paris and I am beside myself with excitement. And while the reality may end up being more like National Lampoon's European Vacation, in my head it is exactly like a Miss Dior Cherie commercial.

Have any of you been? Throw last-minute suggestions my way!

Fake It 'Til You Make It

2011-06-06T22:50:00.001-04:00

I have one colossal enemy. More like an archnemesis, really. A plague that follows me from one day to the next. It's called negative thinking.

It's something all of us deal with. That nagging feeling of "not good enough", "can't be happy", "nobody likes me", "I'm too tired", "nobody understands"...it comes in many forms, and it's a sneaky bugger, creeping up on us, slowly but surely, until we're not really sure how we got there and not sure how to get out of it.

It's something I think about a lot, this tendency to slide into the negative. I've always really felt like an outsider; there's me, and then there are the happy shiny people. The happy shiny people are always smiling, have loving and selfless parents, have lots of friends, and love their lives. At least that's what it seems like. Whether or not happy shiny people are really as happy as they seem, the illusion is one that has always made me feel...less. Not as good. Like a lame, lame loser. Silly, right?

But here's my new motto. Fake it 'til you make it. That is, act shiny and happy. Act like I have tons of friends. Act like I love my life. And before you know it, I will be a happy shiny person. That is the theory, at least. It's been rolling around in my head for a while now, but I must admit it has not been in practice for very long. I'll keep you posted :)

What's your secret for being happy and shiny?

What Do You Do?

2011-06-03T22:07:00.000-04:00

What do you do when...

you have spent the last two days worked to the bone?

people couldn't be any more aggravating?

you are running desperately low on sleep?

you're going to be working through the weekend?

you've been overindulging in snacks and haven't exercised all week?

Well, if you're me, you spend the evening with a home-cooked dinner, a glass of Trader Joe's Prosecco (a personal favorite) and a few episodes of The X-Files.

But I'm open to suggestions :)

Remembering on Memorial Day

2011-05-30T13:29:00.001-04:00

Hope everyone in the US is enjoying the holiday today. Whether you are with friends, family, barbecuing, curling up with a good book, catching up on The Office, or working from home (like I am), remember to take a moment to think of those who gave their lives to defend freedom for us and for everyone around the world.

A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.

-Joseph Campbell

Time, See What's Become of Me

2011-05-26T23:16:00.003-04:00

There are the things I have to do (go to work, attend meetings, write papers)...

and the things I want to do but don't really enjoy doing (clean the kitchen, clean the bathroom, clean the floors, dust, vacuum)...

and the things I really want to do (blog, write fiction, play the violin, craft, sew, design, shop)...

but there is never enough time to do it all. And in the end, I feel paralyzed by it, and end up vegging on the couch in front of How I Met Your Mother. Writing it all down in my trusty Filofax simply doesn't get it done.

Do any of you have a time management solution you would recommend?

The Obamas with the Duke & Duchess

2011-05-24T15:11:00.004-04:00

Isn't this just perfection? I love the way Michelle's ensemble coordinates with the decor of Buckingham Palace...so chic!

And by the way, as much as I love the picture-perfect propriety, I love Jezebel's interpretation of the conversation that took place :)

Sweetest Thing [Video]

2011-05-23T19:45:00.006-04:00

LUCK - NYC Wedding Proposal from Aria Melody DJ on Vimeo.

This video is the sweetest thing I have seen in a long time. Had me in tears at the end!

Sometimes You Have to Red Velvet Cake

2011-05-23T14:57:00.005-04:00

The past week or so I have been really trying to put the kibosh on my unrestrained eating. I have been trying for years to lose those few pounds that have been lingering since high school and college, but never really gotten anywhere. So recently I have been super diligent about tracking my calories (via myfitnesspal) and resisting those snacks that I previously would have jumped on. The boy and I have even started a little "friendly" fitness competition (I'll share more about this later).

But let me ask you this...

It's 2:00 in the afternoon. I am about to make a cup of Hazelnut coffee in the trusty Keurig. And I stumble upon the remains of a cake in the fridge at work. Not just any cake, but a sumptuous red velvet cake with with fat layers of cream cheese icing.

Is it really so wrong to have just. one. tiny. slice?

I hope not, because I just had one, and it was delicious :)

P.S. If you plan on indulging like I did, look up the calorie count after you enjoy the cake!

The Change in the Game [Bones]

2011-05-20T10:38:00.017-04:00

I woke up at the crack of dawn this morning to watch the Bones season 6 finale "The Change in the Game" the instant it was posted on Hulu. After last week's whopper of a cliffhanger, I was desperate for answers of a BoothBones kind, and while I did get some answers, they definitely were nothing like I expected. If you've seen the episode, read on. If you haven't, beware, because beyond here there be spoilers.

Like most, I have been in a perpetual state of "wha-?" since last week's episode left us excited, outraged, and scouring fanfiction in search of answers to what exactly happened in Booth's bedroom. While some were clearly in the "They totally did it!" camp, I clung to the hope that nothing happened beyond chaste comfort and maybe a little snuggling, because even Booth and Bones are my ultimate OTP, I couldn't stand the thought of something finally happening, and not being able to see it. This week we finally found out what happened (sort of). But let's start at the beginning.

First off, this had some of my favorite elements of a Bones episode. Ryan O'Neal was back as Max Keenan, Bones and Booth went undercover (by the way, haven't Bones's acting skills improved?), and we saw the cast come together for a truly momentous and emotional event, the birth of baby Hodgela. The murder storyline itself was pretty vanilla, but made up for it by having Booth and Bones as redneck bowler Buck and his lady friend Wanda, surrounded by a zany cast of characters. The episode was interspersed with little moments between Booth and Bones that kept viewers (and Max) guessing. My favorite was the big smooch "Buck" planted on "Wanda's" cheek after Max suggested they be more affectionate with each other. The look they shared afterwards had me itching to know. Did they? Are they?

While Booth was scoring points and doing adorable victory dances, Angela was pushing out their new baby boy. The exchange between Angela and Hodgins right before the final push didn't just border on cheesy, it was the capital of Cheesedom, but that is why we love Bones. And Hodgela. I loved the shoutout to our recently departed Mr. Nigel-Murray in the baby's name, and that the whole gang was there to welcome the new addition. I would have liked to see (and was actually expecting) a moment with Bones holding the baby, she looks up, her eyes lock with Booth's...actually, they may be saving that gem for next season ;)

And we come to the end. At this point in the episode I was thinking 'There are only two minutes left?! There's no way they are wrapping all of this up,' and I was right. In true Bones season finale form, they dropped a big old grenade our laps and then ran the other direction. Even though I had not picked up on any of the (in hindsight, obvious) hints throughout the episode, when Bones looked at Booth and opened her mouth to talk, I completely foresaw the, "I'm pregnant." Any outrage I felt at missing all of those moments was (temporarily) delayed the moment Booth's face lit up with that sappy grin, reminiscent of a similar moment in the season 4 finale, a moment I have admittedly watched on repeat.

The moment was over as soon as it began, and we are now left to live in wonder and fanfic speculation until the next season premiere. I am still dying to know how this new dynamic of Booth and Bones's relationship came about, something that I am hoping they show us through some sort of flashback scenario next season (although this interview makes it sound unlikely). Don't get me wrong, I am beyond thrilled at the development, but I feel a bit cheated that we couldn't see it happen. It is like X-Files all over again (don't even get me started!). Still, I can't wait for pregnant Bones, overprotective-cooing-over-onesies Booth, and their new relationship as parents-to-be (somehow I feel that they're not going to jump into a full-blown relationship quite yet).

What's your take on this game-changing season finale?

Be My Baby

2011-05-19T00:24:00.004-04:00

This past week I had the privilege of attending two baby showers (as a guest, and then as one of the hosts) for a very close work colleague. It was such a gift to be able to share in the celebration of an event that is so meaningful in someone else's life. Being in my early twenties, I am nowhere near a place where I am thinking about babies of my own, but I am a self-proclaimed baby junkie. I stop in shopping malls to gaze at Baby Gap window displays, I coo at footie onesies in Target, and the Jolie-Pitt progeny are pretty much my kryptonite. There are also the instances when I see babies in the wild (restaurants, elevators, the Metro) that may border on creepy staring. A little. I know there are people out there who don't like babies, but I just don't get it. They are so round, and soft, and sweet...what's not to love?

{Photo credit}

i've got the joy, joy, joy juice

2011-05-06T18:03:00.007-04:00

In the past month I've gotten a 1) new job and a 2) new apartment. I'm doing something I don't hate, closer to the city life and the people I care about. But I still don't feel...joyful. I feel like I'm walking aimlessly from one day to the next, just watching the hours pass by. The phrase that's stuck with me the past couple weeks has been "negative thinking". I'm coming face to face with the fact that I am generally a negative person, and that negative thinking is a choice, not an unchangeable attribute. Take what you will from the news about the recently discovered happiness gene; I know that most of my sub-positive emotion could be turned around with a little more effort from yours truly.

So when I checked my Inbox yesterday morning and was greeted by an email from Stratejoy's Molly announcing their new product, Joy Juice, I was more than ready for the challenge. Joy Juice is described as "120 prompts for positive growth," and for $38 you get an email every three days (for a year) with a prompt for you to get your joy juices flowing. I got my first one this afternoon, prompting me to think about how I spend my time, and those few sentences in my Inbox led to two pages of journaling, bringing back long-dormant but still acute feelings about how little of my time is spent doing what I actually want to do (and how much is spent thinking about it). I can't wait for my next prompt, and I'll be sure to post here from time to time on how my Joy Juice journey is going.

What have you done lately to get your positive think on?

Longing for London

2011-03-04T10:08:00.008-05:00

This morning The Darkness' I Believe in a Thing Called Love popped up during my morning commute...

which immediately made me think of Hugh Grant and Colin Firth's fountain romp in the second Bridget Jones movie...

which made me think of the wet shirt scene in BBC P&P.

Then I came into work and sat on a conference call for a proposal I'm working, which happens to be based in the U.K...

and didn't hear a word that was said, I was too busy drooling over the way they said "conference" and "process".

Add that all on top of the fact that I've been rewatching Series 2 of the new Doctor Who (helloooo David Tennant in glasses)...

and

when can I jump across the pond again?

{Photo credit}

Jane Eyre...Can't Wait!

2011-02-15T23:53:00.003-05:00

Have you seen the trailer for the new adaptation of Jane Eyre coming out this year? The first time I saw it, I wanted to jump up and down with some audible squee!-age...until I realized that the other patrons of the movie theater might look oddly upon it.

However, I have a hard time believing anything can top the 2006 BBC adaptation, in which Toby Stephens plays the most smolderingly hot Mr. Rochester.

Don't you agree? ;)

Here's the Deal with Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T11:03:00.012-05:00

So here's the deal with Valentine's Day.

Warning: If you live for heart-shaped cookies, bouquets of red roses and teddy bears that read "I love you beary much", stop reading now.

It's not that I'm cynical. I've just come to terms with the fact that Valentine's Day is not the end-all be-all of romance. I've been with my honey for almost three years. We have never had a successful Valentine's Day. Each one (including this year) has been full of tears, frustrations, and disappointments. Sounds horrible, right? See, I had this notion in my head that L-O-V-E meant flowers and fancy dinners and endless words of devotion.

Inevitably, reality fell short of my expectations.

I built V-Day up to a colossal representation of how much my man "cared". And my man, looking at the historical evidence of Valentines past, dreaded this day with stress, frustrations and, let's face it, a little bit of resentment.

I'm not saying it doesn't matter.

But this particular year, the man has been overwhelmed by a deluge of professional and personal stresses and commitments. He was feeling extreme pressure in all aspects of his life, and on top of it, the expectations of Valentine's Day. So when he asked me if we could maybe play it by ear, or postpone our plans, what did I do?

I threw a fit. I may as well have stomped my feet. I cried. I whined. I told him that if he cared, he would have made plans. He would have done something special for me. He wouldn't have made me sit around wondering what we were going to do. He would have surprised me with something.

But does love really mean candy hearts and teddy bears?

No. Love means being there when someone needs your support. Love means putting your own needs aside to be someone's anchor. Love does mean saying you're sorry. And love means helping each other through life's struggles every day of the year. Even if that day happens to be February 14th.

Today I am going to live my life. I am going to eat the heart-shaped goodies going around the office. Yes, I am going to feel a twinge of disappointment when I hear a coworker talk about the flowers she got (I am human, after all). And I am still going to send my man an NPR e-card (cause they're just so darned cute). But at the end of the day, and the next day, and the next, I will know that I am with someone who will be there for me when it matters.

And that's the deal with Valentine's Day. Just keepin' it real.

Smell Like a Monster

2011-02-08T17:13:00.004-05:00

I know it's, like, so three months ago, but I can't stop cracking up at this Sesame Street parody of the famous Old Spice commercial. Grover is one of my favorites (way cooler than Elmo!) and in case I didn't know the meaning of the word "on" before, I certainly do now.

holy guacamole

2011-02-07T12:04:00.010-05:00

Last night I attended a friend's Super Bowl party, and wanted to bring something a little healthy (at least healthier than the pizza and cookies I knew would be a staple). I decided to make fresh guacamole, which turned out to be a big hit (I used this recipe from Mom Cooks Gluten Free, a great site that has delicious recipes for gluten-free and gluten-eaters alike). It was my first time making guacamole from scratch, but it was super easy. However, as is the risk with any party dish, I overestimated and ended up making way too much. As I write this, I'm sitting at my desk munching on crackers with leftover guacamole. I still have about two cups sitting in my fridge at home. I know it has a very limited shelf life, but I don't want it to go to waste...avocados aren't cheap, after all! Which brings me to my query:

What do you do with guacamole?

I want to eat it, but I don't want to do the crackers/chips routine twice in one day. And I probably only have a day or two (if that) left to eat it. Any brilliant suggestions?

Keeping Recipes and Memories

2011-02-06T14:29:00.004-05:00

After my grandmother passed away four years ago, her recipes ended up with a family member with the plan that we would all eventually get photocopies of them- that way, we would all be able to have her handwriting and the notes she scribbled in the margins. Life got in the way, and four years later, the bags of recipes ended up in my dad's house, where this past Christmas I spent hours and hours scanning recipe after recipe. But all of the work was worth it.

I ended up with a beautiful binder stuffed full of my Grandma's signature recipes. Who knew she had so many? I had so much fun reading the names on her recipe cards, finding old favorites, and even discovering ones I had never seen before. I can't wait to try them all out. And on my wish list? Vintage recipe cards so I can make my own memories.

Oh So Pinterest-ing

2011-02-06T13:39:00.005-05:00

Have you discovered pinterest.com yet? This little site is my newest time-waster, a place to "pin" images, products, and anything else on the web that interests me. You can also follow other people's pins and indulge in the visual goodness.

Happy New Year

2011-01-07T21:17:00.003-05:00

I can't believe we're a week into 2011 already! The past couple of months have been a whirlwind of personal changes, work dramas, travel adventures, new friends, sadness, happiness, and lots and lots and lots of personal growth. My trips were amazing (I took went on a Western Caribbean cruise and spent a week in the U.K.) I did things I never thought I could or would, like snorkeling and navigating a big city on my own. I moved into my first real apartment. I made wonderful new friends and also learned how to enjoy being alone.

As adventurous, educating, and fulfilling as 2010 has been, I know 2011 will be even better! I'm ready to take charge of my future, instead of just letting it happen to me. I want to get in better shape, I want to eat better, I want to become a better writer, I want to be better at making friends, I want to be even more adventurous. I'm facing these challenges head on, and although I may not conquer all of them in 2011, it won't be for lack of trying. Happy New Year!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T08:57:00.004-04:00

Groovy Saturday Morning

2010-10-30T09:36:00.005-04:00

I had an urge to listen to Melanie's 70s classic 'Brand New Key' since it's been revived on a recent TV commercial. Then I ran across this darling animated video for a cover Cher did. The beats, the retro School House Rock-style animations, and Cher's mod dress make this the perfect background for a groovy Saturday morning.

"Freezer Food Prep Day" with Friends

2010-10-25T18:25:00.010-04:00

With cooler weather upon us, I find myself with a yen for soups, stews, and hearty fare. However, as a singleton who lives alone, I simply don't have the time (or energy) to prepare dishes like that just for one night. Thankfully, a friend of mine suggested getting together for a "Freezer Food Prep Day" to prepare larger batches of a few dishes to freeze for quick and easy weeknight meals. We had our prep day yesterday, and it was a success! We're already planning to do it again in a few months. I wanted to share some of our tips and lessons learned with you so you all can have your own Freezer Food Prep Days.

Don't invite the whole neighborhood. While it may seem like "the more the merrier", the reality is that the more people you have, the more complicated things become. You must accommodate several tastes and dislikes, and it's hard to keep track of things. We did ours with three people, and I think we could have easily had one more, but any more than that and there start to be too many cooks in the kitchen.

Plan ahead. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it's crucial to start planning early. Mainly this entails searching for recipes that everyone likes, figuring out an ingredients list, and checking to see whether you already have any of them in your pantry (this is usually true for spices).

Keep it simple. Don't choose recipes with 3230417 ingredients, and don't choose too many recipes. Some of the best choices are simple Crock-Pot recipes (we made chili and salsa chicken) and recipes that don't require cooking at the time (like quesadillas or crab meltaways). Keep the recipes to a minimum, trying to consider the amount of hands you will have. The three of us managed to prepare five recipes in only a couple of hours by efficiently managing our resources (namely, us).

Choose the friend with the biggest kitchen. This may seem like another "duh", but really, don't do this in an apartment kitchen. This would have never worked in my one-bedroom. The ideal venue will preferably have an island and lots of counter space, lots of room to move around one another, and a large sink for dirty dishes to pile up in. I'm also thankful that my friend's kitchen was well-stocked with all of the necessary gadgets (grater, food chopper, garlic peeler, etc.) and a lot of dishware to prepare things in.

Have you ever done anything like this? What was your experience?

If you do decide to try it, I hope you'll share your thoughts with me. I'm looking forward to hearing how it turns out.

{Photo credit}

Lazy Saturday

2010-10-23T12:50:00.005-04:00

My dear readers,

I am spending this lazy Saturday in my pajamas getting things done around the apartment, like watching old episodes of Ugly Betty, clearing out some of the clutter (really, I still have nine of my college textbooks?!), and trying to finish my Halloween costume (it's a surprise!). I feel a bit guilty for not taking advantage of the sunshiny weather outside, but I have lady business going on and do not really feel up to it (TMI?).

How are you spending your weekend?

{Photo credit}

Destination Revealed!

2010-10-22T20:43:00.004-04:00

If you guessed the United Kingdom...

... you were right! This time next month, I will be in the land of Princess Di, the Beatles, and my new (un-affordable) obsession Aspinal of London. My friend Jen and I will be in the UK for business, but will spend plenty of free time in London and Liverpool. I will also spend a few days in Heidelberg, Germany, where I have family.

What should I do? Where should I go? We have an itinerary started, but please throw any and all suggestions my way; I am always eager for all of your expert advice!

By the way, isn't the above vintage poster for the London Underground absolutely gorgeous? I have the perfect spot for it in my apartment...

Guess Where I'm Going!

2010-10-21T20:32:00.006-04:00

No really, guess! I got very exciting news that my job will be sending me somewhere I've always wanted to go. Can you guess where I'm going from the following three clues?

You're all so bright that I'm sure you can figure it out :) I will announce the answer tomorrow.

Nina Simone in Claymation

2010-10-20T23:17:00.004-04:00

I was scouring YouTube for a video of jazz legend Nina Simone performing My Baby Just Cares for Me and stumbled upon this quirky Claymation gem. Enjoy the audio provided by the late, great Ms. Simone and delight in the video of a charming tale of feline infatuation :)

Regaining Control

2010-10-20T19:45:00.005-04:00

Lately I've felt like I'm beginning to regain control over parts of my life that have been slowly unraveling out of my grasp.

Case 1: My finances. My friend and I took Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University course several months ago, and in the beginning I was motivated and raring to go. My determination and discipline slipped, however, and I haven't even tracked my spending for the last few months. The result is constant anxiety over whether there's enough money in my account, and this past week I even missed a credit card payment for the first time ever. I've resolved to get back on track, and I've started tracking my budget again with the help of Excel and mint.com. I've also registered on Credit Karma, a pretty sweet site that offers free credit score tracking and suggestions for improving your credit. An added plus is its sleek, pretty interface, which this tech nerd is a total sucker for.

Case 2: My health. I've never had a good track record with my eating and exercise habits. Well, I'm actually good with eating habits, which is the problem. And while I'm still not 100% on the exercise train, I've been using My Fitness Pal to track my calories. I've even logged in for ten days in a row, which is a record for me!

There are still several other areas of my life I'd like to get some control over, like cooking and time management. I'm taking it one step at a time!

What do you feel like you've gotten a handle on lately?

{Photo credit}

You Again

2010-10-19T19:58:00.007-04:00

Friends,

I don't know about you, but I love enjoying a chick flick with a good friend, some buttered popcorn, and a semi-empty theater that allows me to put my feet up and laugh out loud. Last night my friend Jen and I went to see You Again, a movie that I've wanted to see ever since I first saw the preview. I wasn't disappointed, and I was pleasantly surprised by a few appearances (Kristen Chenoweth and Hall & Oates!). Side-splitting comedy and cinematic cheese are, in my opinion, a great way to spend a Monday night.

Have you seen any good flicks lately?

It's the Simple Pleasures

2010-10-17T22:37:00.004-04:00

This weekend I finally got my act together and did laundry.

Is there anything better than the feeling of going to bed and sliding your freshly showered self between clean sheets?

I may be going through a host of personal and professional dramas, but right now I am content. *sigh*

{Photo credit}

Making My Own Way

2010-09-20T16:40:00.003-04:00

Friends,

This week marks a month that I have been traversing the single life. While I can't say that I have become particularly enlightened, I can say that I already feel stronger than I could ever imagine.

I have come to appreciate my friends so much more.

I have come to appreciate being alone (at least sometimes).

I went on a week-long cruise that tested the limits of what I thought I was capable of, both emotionally and physically.

I have watched a lot of TV :P

I have been incredibly lonely at times.

But I am still here, living and thriving.

Celebrating Myself

2010-08-27T15:40:00.003-04:00

Mes amies,

This weekend, my plan is to celebrate myself. That includes meeting new people, trying new things, and enjoying being alone (or at least trying to).

What do you have planned?

{Photo credit}

Screwed-Uppedness...Is That a Word?

2010-08-25T14:12:00.003-04:00

I'm in the thick of Week One of "The Break-Up", and it absolutely sucks. The worst part is sitting through eight hours at the office, trying not to stare at my Gmail inbox, plagued with incessant sad thoughts, but not motivated enough to do actual work that might distract me. Occasionally, though, those incessant thoughts have meandered their way through my brain and blossomed into actual conclusions...answers...that lead to more questions.

I always knew that my family wasn't perfect, and that I'm a little screwed up as a result (but really, who isn't?). In the past few days, however, I've been realizing the full extent of my screwed-uppedness...is that a word? I know it sounds crazy, but just two or three days away from my relationship have given me a little perspective, and I can now see that my family (and the lack of constant support and normalcy throughout my formative years) has made it very difficult for me to trust that people will like me for me, no questions asked. I don't know how to be myself. I'm not sure who myself is. And I'm sure as hell not able to be comfortable in a relationship, because I constantly feel on guard, and I my anxiety/nerves/inability to trust consistently backfire. Huh...

Now the question is less, "What's the problem?" and more, "How do I fix it?" I have an appointment with my therapist this afternoon, but I'm ~~a little~~ afraid that this is going to be a long, long road (and at the moment, I don't have my best friend to help me through it).

Thoughts? Advice?

Being Alone

2010-08-23T10:24:00.006-04:00

Friends,

Yesterday I made the very difficult decision to step away from the most important person in my life and get some perspective. Although we both love each other very much and have been in each other's lives for a number of years, we're not positive that we are "it" for each other, and we both need time to clear our heads. I'm left wondering, what do I do without the person that I spent weekends with, discussed my day with, talked through life's dilemmas with? Now is the time to determine whether I can stand on my own two feet without my support ~~system~~ person. In the grand scheme of things, six months is a short time, but right now it feels like I'm looking at an eternity. I suppose the key is to take things day by day, week by week, knowing that things will work out the way they're supposed to, even if I can't imagine it right now.

Any insight/advice/perspective is much appreciated.

{Photo credit}

See Girl Read: I Want Your Thoughts!

2010-07-16T14:14:00.005-04:00

Friends,

I want to introduce you to my newest project, See Girl Read. It's an idea that's been living in the back of my head for a while now, a site where young and older girls can connect through books. I can't count how many friends I've had that loved Anne of Green Gables, or how many I introduced to Betsy-Tacy. Now that I have younger girls in my life, I love to introduce them to my old favorites like Baby-Sitters Club and A Wrinkle in Time. See Girl Read is still in the making, and I would love to have your thoughts, opinions, and constructive feedback to make the site a success. Also, I would love to be able to post guest reviews where you reminisce on or recommend your favorite children's or young adult book.

Please leave a comment or drop me an email at seegirlread [at] gmail.com, with thoughts on the website and ideas for guest reviews.

Thank you!

This is Why I Hate People

2010-07-13T10:00:00.005-04:00

Last night on my way home, some dude decided to not pay attention to the lane next to him, and merge in at his own leisure. Because I can't read minds, I kept going at my own pace, not knowing that instead of slowing down and waiting for me to pass him, said dude was going to speed up, forcing me to go into the other side of the road and speed up to go around him.

I'm admittedly not the best driver in the world. I wasn't going to sweat the dude being an idiot; maybe he was just having an off day. His bad driving is not why I hate people. No, I hate people because at the next stoplight, dude pulled up next to me, rolled down his window, and honked at me to roll mine down too. I mean, seriously? I had heard that people do that, but never experienced the phenomenon myself. I weighed my options. I could roll my window down and make a futile attempt to get my point across in the three seconds before the light turned green, or I could go ahead my make my right turn. I turned.

But even though the guy was a jerk, and I knew I didn't do anything wrong, I burst into tears and sobbed the rest of the way home. Something about the confrontation, the feeling of shame that someone was mad at me, really hit home. Today I'm feeling a little more angry than sad. But it didn't stop me from having anxiety the entire drive to work, feeling that another confrontation was right around the corner.

And that is why I hate people.

Those Dreaded Customer Service Calls

2010-07-06T14:43:00.006-04:00

I would like to think that most people, like me, hate calling customer service. However, I have a friend who loves it. He looks forward to the thrill of arguing with the representative, the rush of victory when he gets his way. I, on the other hand, dread those calls like the plague. I put it off for days, then gather up my courage as I pick up the phone, and hope that the person on the other end doesn't make me cry.

To my extreme frustration, the new mattress I received a month ago has already developed a 1" indentation where I sleep. The mattress I spent months picking out. The mattress that, when delivered, brought a huge sigh of relief, as I thought the whole ordeal was over. After a while, I thought I could feel the mattress sagging, but wrote it off as my imagination. However, in the past couple of weeks the indentation got too deep to ignore. I am now waking up every morning with terrible back pain.

I finally sucked it up this morning and called Sears, prepared to argue my case to the death (or until they made me cry). And while I don't think customer service calls are ever pleasant (the long waits on hold, the transfers from person to person), it was not as bad as I expected. This could be in part due to the fact that I had spent the last few days psyching myself out by reading others' customer service horror stories online. In the end, they offered me a store exchange for a mattress of my choosing, which was more than I expected, but less than what I feel I deserve. Part of me feels like I should have argued longer and harder to make my point, but would it have been worth it? In the end, I'm accepting that I'm not an "arguer", and unless I want to become an arguer, I have to be willing to accept a little less. Really, it doesn't feel as pathetic as it sounds.

What are your experiences making customer service calls? Any tips?

{Photo credit}

Filling Your Own Cup

2010-07-02T20:09:00.006-04:00

Mes amies,

Lately I have been exploring the idea of filling my own cup, or in other words, doing things that increase my confidence and self-fulfillment. I think of it as filling out my self, my actual being and who I am as a person (whoever that is). If you've read The Mastery of Love, it's like filling up my magical kitchen.

When my cup is full, I feel worthy and I respect myself. I love myself. I don't need love from others, although it is always welcome. I have plenty of love to give to others as well. I'm so full of love and self-respect that I couldn't care less what the person down the street thinks of me, or that I haven't been invited out on Friday night, or (ahem) that a special someone didn't call when he said he would. Gone are the assuming and the obsessing. I am content in the love that is coming from within me.

I fill my cup by doing things that bring accomplishment, knowledge, happiness. I practice the violin, I browse bookstores, I exercise. I join groups, book clubs, meetups, and make new friends. I confront my fears and overcome them. I learn new skills. I improve old skills. I create art. I write. I do.

Theoretically speaking, that is. Because right now I don't do most of those things, and I am nowhere near a full cup. Right now my cup is very, very empty. Terribly empty. So empty that I know the road ahead is long, and daunting. But a wise friend told me that the only way to conquer fear is to walk right towards it, so that is what I am going to do. I'm already afraid of failing, but I have to give it a try. I don't want fear to hold me back from living a full life.

Is your cup full? How do you fill it?

Ugly Day

2010-06-29T09:34:00.002-04:00

Why is it that

two ginormous pimples

that no amount of concealer can hide

make me want to hide

with a bag over my head?

And no matter how cute the outfit

or okay the hair,

I still feel like it's

Ugly Day.

Just

saying.

{Photo credit}

The Rom-Com Conundrum

2010-06-28T10:45:00.004-04:00

Or, why romantic comedies make me sigh. and cry. at the same time.

I will start by unabashedly admitting that I am a die-hard romantic, and a sucker for romantic movies. I was raised on sugar-sweet oldies but goodies with Doris Day and Jane Powell, and I thought that everyone broke into song and a tap dance routine to express their feelings. As I grew older, my tastes expanded into the PG-13 realm, but my craving for happy endings did not dwindle. No love story was too fluffy, too cheesy, too unrealistic. As I believe was the case for most girls my age, my junior high years were spent wearing out my VHS tapes of She's All That and Clueless, wanting to watch Cher and Josh's stairway kiss just one more time.

Now, more than a decade later, not much has changed. Last night, flipping through the rentals on my TV, I decided to watch When in Rome, a rom-com that I hadn't had the chance to see when it came out. And yes, it was absolutely terrible. Terribly cheesy. But it was exactly what I needed. Because no matter how formulaic the plot, or cheesy the lines, or unrealistic the ending (and beginning and middle), there's something about watching two people fall in love that never fails to tug at my heartstrings and make me sigh.

Their happiness feels contagious. At least for a time.

And here, my friends, enters the conundrum. Because as much as I love the fairy tale, the fairy tale is not real life. Not to say that relationships like that can't happen in real life, because I believe they can and do, but that sigh, that feeling of dancing on a cloud, doesn't happen to everyone, and it doesn't last forever. And to believe it does, and constantly search for it, can turn out to be a major disappointment. I do relate the feeling I get when I watch a movie like that to be a kind of high, because it's great while it lasts, but I eventually come back down, with reality staring me in the face. And that's a hard blow to take for a romantic like me. Am I being cynical?

How do you feel about the rom-com condundrum?

2010-06-25T13:09:00.003-04:00

Friends,

This entire week, I've felt like I haven't been able to catch up on sleep. Eight hours a night isn't enough. When I get home from work, I have no energy to do anything other than lay in bed. The gym is a thing of the past. Even today, I'm hoping I have enough time to hit the grocery store after work before I'm completely worn out. I glance at the dishes in the sink every day, but don't even have the energy to care.

Maybe I'm not getting enough Vitamin D? The sun is beaming down outside, but I've been holed up in my covers most of the time that I'm home. Perhaps I should force myself to sit outside and read a book (provided I'm able to keep my eyes open).

How do you deal with that no-energy feeling?

{Photo credit}

On (Un)Happiness

2010-06-23T11:06:00.008-04:00

What is the secret to happiness?

Emotions are fleeting, confusing, fickle things. A cup of coffee can make me happy. Watching Bones and Booth flirt can make me happy. Chocolate can make me happy. Not getting enough sleep can make me unhappy. A grumpy coworker can make me unhappy. PMS can make me unhappy.

Dr. Wayne Dyer advocates that we can control our feelings. If that's true, I don't know if I'll ever get there. Yes, to some degree a positive state of mind can help diminish the "woe is me" moments. But what about those really low, yucky, lonely, dark moments? The ones where it seems like there's no end in sight?

No answer, really. Just throwing it out there.

Have you discovered the secret to happiness?

{Photo credit}

Take a Break for Prettiness with Staley-Wise

2010-06-16T12:05:00.011-04:00

Any time I need to infuse a little pretty into my day, I take a break and head over to the website of the Staley-Wise art gallery. Although I've never visited the NYC-located gallery in person, I've been visiting their site for years to take in the gorgeous fashion photography.

Isn't it time you took a break for prettiness?

When Family is Not Like the Brady Bunch

2010-06-14T11:03:00.007-04:00

Or, in other words, how to reconcile expectations that were inspired by television, movies, and the family down the street with the reality that not all families (and certainly not mine) are like the Brady Bunch. And, no, I don't literally mean a blended family with six children in polyester jumpsuits with a song and dance act. I mean, what to do when your expectations of family fall short, and you're left feeling like you got the short end of the stick.

I am luckier than most, I know. I grew up in a middle-class planned development, where the houses all looked the same and neighbors competed for the greenest lawn. But I never felt like I fit in with my classmates, who had moms who baked cookies and planned parties and were always smiling. I knew my parents weren't always happy. And I would never be that blonde-haired, blue-eyed smiling girl without a care in the world.

My escape was television and movies. On Eight is Enough, no matter what hardships the Bradford kids endured, they could always go to their dad for his sage advice. And on Little House on the Prairie, Pa and Ma Ingalls were pillars of strength and unconditional love for their family. I always knew my family wasn't like that. My parents were flawed and human. They had weaknesses and shortfalls, which often made my brother and I feel hurt, sad, mad, and disappointed. I dreamed of one day having a family full of love and closeness and happiness. I love the scene in 13 Going on 30 where Jennifer Garner's character goes home to visit her parents, and spends the night snuggled in bed with her mom. That, to me, seems like security. A safe place without judgment or expectations. Something I've never experienced.

Oprah recently said in O Magazine:

"I'm in awe of people who felt their parents' love every day of their lives. They start out in the world with a full cup. The rest of us go through life trying to fill ours."

What a perfectly apt quote for what I've felt my entire life. I'm trying to fill my cup. And I think most others are trying to fill theirs as well. What I'm realizing as I get older is that most everyone has room in their cup to fill, in their own way. I'm not a special case. And there shouldn't be any shame in the fact that my family is in no way perfect. Things are what they are. My family will always love me and be there for me, and even if they don't always behave the way I would like them to, that is more than a lot of people can say. I'm crossing the threshold into adulthood and realizing that I am defined by more than my family. I am defined by my self, and my interests, and my friends, and all of the wonderful things I choose to fill my life with. And although my family will always be a part of my life, I need to stop allowing the past to define my happiness, or unhappiness.

What is your experience with your family?

Saturdays are for...

2010-06-12T21:41:00.004-04:00

Sipping coffee. Doing the crossword. Munching on a Luna Bar. Driving through Georgetown. Organizing bills. Cleaning the apartment. Unleashing my inner fangirl. Talking to friends. Journaling. Getting new shoes. Enjoying a glass of wine. Breaking down boxes. Eating ice cream bars.

{Photo credit}

Why My New Mattress is 3423489 Times Better than an Aero Bed

2010-06-08T22:14:00.003-04:00

This past weekend I accepted the delivery of my very own first real grown-up mattress. And box spring and bed frame. It's queen-sized and cushion firm and oh so wonderful. I've been living in the new apartment (also first, real, and grown-up) for two months now, but had been putting off the mattress shopping for one reason or another: but I'm busy! but I'm waiting for a sale! More like: but I'm convinced the minute I walk into the store they'll know I'm not a real grown-up and either a) take me for all I'm worth or b) laugh me out of the store. Hehe. Not pathetic at all.

But I finally sucked it up, went shopping, and ordered the mattress. And it came. And it was (is) glorious. I believe the gloriosity of the mattress is even more pronounced by the fact that for the last two months I had been sleeping on an Aero Bed (albeit a raised queen Aero Bed). The fact that I slept on said Aero Bed for an entire summer in college led me to believe that I would have no problem for a couple of months. Well, I'm getting old. My back was aching. Then it was hurting. I blamed it on exhaustion, then sitting all day at work, and when friends suggested it might be the air mattress, "No, it can't be!" I was proved wrong. After one night on the real mattress, my back felt so much better. 3423489 times better, to be precise.

The immediate moral of the story is that real mattresses are, like, way better than air mattresses. But the real lesson here is that mattress salespeople are not that scary, and the outcome is so worth it :)

{Photo credit}

Happy Friday!

2010-06-04T14:49:00.004-04:00

Friends,

I'm getting ready to leave work and get an early start on my weekend! First order of business is heading outside with my latest chick-lit find to soak up some sunshine and watch kids splash around in the fountain.

What are your weekend plans?

Literary Favorites: The Betsy-Tacy Series

2010-06-03T10:10:00.006-04:00

Like many of you, I was an avid reader as a child. I read everything from Little Women to the Sweet Valley High series. Some (like SVH) were one-time reads that passed the time. Others became all-time favorites that I would turn to again and again. Some all-time favorites are the books in the Betsy-Tacy series, by Maud Hart Lovelace.

The Betsy-Tacy series tells the story of Betsy Ray (based on Lovelace), her friends Tacy and Tib (based on Lovelace's real-life friends), and Betsy's family and life in Deep Valley, Minnesota. The series follows Betsy from childhood through marriage, and her experiences and adventures are both commonplace and fantastical. For me, Betsy's trials in high school and in love conjured images of beautiful girls in corsets and curls, with ruffled dresses and gentle voices, who glided through life, not without problems, but with grace and humor and chutzpah.

'Do you girls have hope chests?' Lloyd asked.
'We certainly do.'
'I don't,' said Betsy. 'My husband and I are going to use paper plates and napkins.'

Judy Blume has said of the books. “Some characters become your friends for life. That’s how it was for me with Betsy-Tacy.” I must say that it is the same for me. Every time I open the pages of one of the books, I feel like I am saying "Hello" again to an old friend, and no matter how long the absence has been, it feels as if we saw each other just yesterday. I feel of the books how Betsy feels of Tacy in the first book of the series:

But the nicest present she received was not the usual kind of present. It was the present of a friend. It was Tacy.

Other fans of the books may be interested to know about the Betsy-Tacy Society, which celebrates the spirit of the books and of Maud Hart Lovelace.

Are you a Betsy-Tacy fan, too?

What are some of your all-time favorites?

In the Wise Words of Dorothy Parker

2010-06-02T13:48:00.006-04:00

All I need is room enough to lay a hat and a few friends.
~
Dorothy Parker

Mondo Beyondo: Letting My Intuition Lead the Way

2010-06-01T20:44:00.005-04:00

I'm ashamed to say that I fell behind on Mondo Beyondo. I wish I could say that I had a good excuse, but I believe what was holding me back was fear. I was afraid that I wasn't a big enough dreamer, that I would give the wrong answer, that I would discover something about myself that disappointed me. I'm working my way through the last couple weeks' lessons now, and I'm realizing that there is no wrong answer. And although I may not be the big dreamer I want to be, I should never be disappointed in myself.

One of the lessons I'm catching up on has to do with intuition. Thinking of times I followed an impulse and it paid off. Well, here's one of those cases where I don't feel like I have the right answer.

I don't think I've ever followed an impulse.

I am an overthinker. I overthink everything. Every action is preceded by careful deliberation. (Except for the times that I get overemotional and stomp and cry). I had a tough time with my Mondo Beyondo list because I just don't think outside of the box. While I'm a very intelligent person, and I consider myself creative, I'm not very imaginative, and that bothers me.

My lack of impulse-following could be attributed to my young age (I'm 22). But I have a feeling that if I'm going to start being impulsive and listening to my gut, it's going to have to be a conscious effort (as ironic as that seems). The problem is, how do I learn how to listen to my intuition? I don't know that my intuition's ever said anything. I don't even know where to start. But I do want to start. I don't want to spend the rest of my life just thinking inside the box.

What are your experiences?

Are you tuned in to your intuition?

{Photo credit}

The Definition of Crazy

2010-05-24T11:53:00.004-04:00

cra·zy adj. cra·zi·er, cra·zi·est

Definition: Trying to avoid LOST spoilers until tonight.

See also: impossible adj.

SATC2...LOLCat Style

2010-05-19T17:14:00.005-04:00

Have you seen Dodai's genius LOL-ization of SATC2 over at Jezebel yet? No?

Go. You won't regret it.

A Few of My Favorite Things

2010-05-18T21:59:00.010-04:00

Ciao belle,

Even though sometimes I feel like I'm living the same drudgerous life day after day (depressing, huh?), my Mondo Beyondo "energizer" list reminded me that there are so many little things to notice and appreciate in life. I know of a few right off the bat. Here are a few of my favorite things.

& Bones is my fandom obsession of the moment. I'm almost caught up to the current episodes. It took me awhile to come around to Booth, but Booth/Bones is quickly becoming one of my favorite OTPs.

& I scored some amazing finds at NY & Co. recently, particularly a rosette cardigan that I got in three different colors. I got a compliment on one today!

& I read my first Danielle Steele novel the other day (after years of watching the movies on Lifetime). While I wouldn't say it was the most challenging, it was truly an fun diversion.

& I've been taking a short game class on Saturday mornings to improve my golf skills. It's a great way to get myself up and outside.

& I love Margaret Elizabeth's beautiful necklaces, especially the "Sparkle and Silk". While it's completely out of my price range, I am hoping my new beading skills will allow me to achieve the effect myself.

& Did you know Lemon Zest Luna bars taste just like the lemon pound cake from Starbucks? No really. Try it.

& My new Staedtler Fineliner pens are just perfect for making my Filofax bright and cheery!

& I'm on Day 2 of Mondo Beyondo and loving it already.

& British humor isn't for everyone, but I personally love it, and Catherine Tate reigns supreme. In addition to being one of The Doctor's most brilliant companions, she has her own sketch comedy series on the BBC that has me ROFL.

What are your favorite things right now?

oh, eliza!

Lazing on a Sunday Afternoon

Friday Link Love

Saul Bass [Covet]

Help Me Choose New (Warby Parker) Glasses!

Snow [Musical Mondays]

Friday Link Love

Life in Instagram

The Dating Game

Take Me Home Tonight

And They Called It Muppet Love

Friday Link Love

Barney + Robin = OTP

Sick Day

Birthday Present to Myself

Kissing My 'Early Twenties' Goodbye

Happy Halloween

Still Waiting for the Upswing

Life is a Sine Curve

Animal Instinct

Positive Attitude

Making an Escape

Musical Mondays

Lazing on a Saturday Afternoon

Friday Link Love

Life Moves Pretty Fast

Musical Mondays

What Do I Care How Much it May Storm?

Friday Link Love

The Search for Clarity

Musical Mondays

Grab Your Ticket: The World's Biggest Summit!

Friday Link Love

My Guilty Pleasures (On TV): Melissa & Joey

Lonely Days

Putting It Out There

Summer Reading: My New NOOK Color

Ms. Andrews on a Monday

Happy Weekend! [Video]

The Warmth of the Sun [Music]

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?

Meet Me at Shutters

Happy Bastille Day!

Put on a Happy Face

Sneak Peek: Prêt-à-(re)porter

Haiku for Tuesday

A Few Glimpses of Il Mio Viaggio

Back to Reality

Au Revoir, Mes Amies!

Fake It 'Til You Make It

What Do You Do?

Remembering on Memorial Day

Time, See What's Become of Me

The Obamas with the Duke & Duchess

Sweetest Thing [Video]

Sometimes You Have to Red Velvet Cake

The Change in the Game [Bones]

Be My Baby

i've got the joy, joy, joy juice

Longing for London

Jane Eyre...Can't Wait!

Here's the Deal with Valentine's Day

Smell Like a Monster

holy guacamole

Keeping Recipes and Memories

Oh So Pinterest-ing

Happy New Year

Happy Halloween!

Groovy Saturday Morning

"Freezer Food Prep Day" with Friends

Lazy Saturday

Destination Revealed!

Guess Where I'm Going!

Nina Simone in Claymation

Regaining Control

You Again

It's the Simple Pleasures

More Questions than Answers

Making My Own Way

Celebrating Myself