Simple Silly Life

What I Wore Wednesday 2/15/12

2012-02-15T07:30:00.000-05:00

Linking up with fashionistas over at the Pleated Poppy's blog.

This week was filled with mustard yellow and lots of ruffles.

Wednesday, 2/8

One of my favorite color combos - mustard and sapphire.

Sweater: Ann Taylor

Jacket: Jcrew

Pants: Style and Co, Macy's

Shoes: Easy Spirit

Earrings: Francesca's

Necklace: Allora Handmade

Pin: Vintage

Thursday, 2/9

Got the hair a bit darker. And this time the color stayed dark and I am loving it. Usually it fades significantly after I get it colored, but this time it's not leavin'. Well, at least until the roots grow in.

Top: Loft, thrifted

Jacket: INC, Macy's

Pants: Dockers

Shoes: Kenneth Cole

Earrings: Ike and Co

Scarf: Banana Republic, thrifted

Friday, 2/10

The weather has been so unseasonably warm, so I'm getting some use out of skirts without freezing.

Sweater: Old Navy

Skirt: Banana Republic

Boots: Clarks

Earrings: Surf and Sand

Posy pins and ruffled scarf: The Pleated Poppy

Saturday, 2/11

A little snow, just enough to wear wellies.

Sweater: Jcrew, thrifted

Jeans: Marshalls

Wellies: Liberty of London for Target

Belt: Bass

Earrings: Candies64

Scarf: me

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

Sunday, 2/12

Pinspired by this:

Source: kemeehan.polyvore.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

to wear this:

Sweater: Ann Taylor, thrifted
Khakis: Loft, thrifted
Jacket: Talbots
Shoes: Naturalizer

Earrings: Rhonda Jewelry

Ruffled Scarf: The Pleated Poppy

Monday, 2/13

Top: Jcrew Factory, thrifted
Sweater: Jcrew, thrifted
Jacket: Jcrew
Pants: The Limited, thrifted
Boots: Clarks

Earrings: Local shop

Tuesday, 2/14
Ready for Valentine's Day

Dress: Thrifted

Jacket: Local Shop

Boots: Clarks

Tights: Kohls

My "Princess Kate" earrings: gift from the hubs for Valentine's Day

Necklace: Judith Ripka for QVC

What I Wore Wednesday 2/8/12

2012-02-08T07:24:00.000-05:00

Today I'm linking up with the Pleated Poppy for What I Wore Wednesday.

Wednesday, 2/1/12

I found this sweater in Goodwill this week. I'm 90% sure I once owned it in blue. My mom said she's pretty sure I owned this exact one. I don't remember, so it's new to me.

Cardigan: Banana Republic, thrifted

Tank: Alfani, Macy's

Pants: Calvin Klein

Flats: Talbots

Belt: Jcrew

Necklace: Jess LC

Earrings: Surf and Sand

Thursday, 2/2

Decided to prep it up today. Why have I only just started to wear my button downs with crew necks?

Top: Brooks Brothers

Sweater: Banana Republic, thrifted

Skirt: Club Monaco, thrifted

Boots: Easy Spirit

Earrings: Ike and Co

Necklace: Judith Ripka for QVC

Friday, 2/3

Added a jacket to this after the photo, but you wouldn't really get to appreciate the cute ruffles on the top.

silk top: thrifted, no tag

Tank: Forever 21

Pants: Talbots

Shoes: Nine West

Earrings: Jewelscapes

Saturday, 2/4

I saw this top at the thrift store and still have no clue who makes it, but it's a neat one piece that looks layered. I added a thin sweater under it for warmth.

Top: thrifted

Jeans: Banana Republic, thrifted

Shoes:Naturalizer

Earrings: Water Waif

Necklace: Allora Handmade

Sunday, 2/5

Church and lunch with my hubby's family.

Anthropologie sweater: thrifted

Top: Forever21

Jeans: Banana Republic, thrifted

Shoes: Naturalizer

Necklace: Allora Handmade

Earrings: Francescas

Monday, 2/6

Top: Banana Republic

Jacket: Jcrew, thrifted

Skirt: Ann Taylor, thrifted

Tights: Kohls

Shoes: Aerosoles

Belt: Jcrew

Earrings: Francescas

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

Tuesday, 2/7

Dentist visit (with a nearly in the clear report) and late night at work.

Jacket: Gap, thrifted

Shirt: Ann Taylor, thrifted

Pants: Gap, thrifted

Shoes: Naturalizer

Necklace and earrings: Twysted Creations

Hope you are all enjoying your week.

Thanks for stopping by.

What I Made Monday 2/6/12

2012-02-06T08:07:00.000-05:00

For the past several years I've wanted to make this punch collage by Ali Edwards.

Source: aliedwards.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

Years. Five years of wanting to make this.

After the de-decorating from Christmas I lost a piece of wall art. For most of January I wandered around the apartment wistfully saying "where's my wall art??"

Finally I caved and decided to make the heart punch collage. Just in time for Valentine's Day.

I purged a ton of my scrapbook papers and found some of my favorite Chatterbox sheets, so started punching away. Punch is the Martha Stewart heart punch.

Originally I thought I would mount the punched hearts on red cardstock, but we really don't have much red in our kitchen, so decided to go with white textured cardstock instead.

The sheet was 8x8 and I added pop dot adhesive for each heart. All the years I've used these foam dots I threw away the extra leftover adhesive scraps. I finally realized I just had to rip it apart and use the background that is still sticky and just as good as the circles.

I bought an inexpensive matted 12x12 frame from Michael's and now the wall art is in its place.

Of course, now that it's hanging, we found the wall art.

Behind the bookshelf.

Linking up with Conni.

What I Wore Wednesday 2/1/12

2012-02-01T07:20:00.000-05:00

Hello my fellow blog friends!

It's What I Wore Wednesday time.

Wednesday, 1/25

I like this outfit, but it really could have benefitted from grey boots. And I found them the next day at the store. Can't wait to wear 'em more often.

Blouse: Brooks Brothers

Cardigan: Jcrew

Skirt: Banana Republic

Tights: Kohl's

Shoes: Easy Spirit

Belt: Jcrew

Earrings: from my mom

Necklace: Judith Ripka for QVC

Thursday, 1/26

Jury duty...NOOOOOOO!

The benefits? I only had to go one day and the outlets are nearby.

Top: Banana Republic, thrifted

Pants: Loft, thrifted

Sweater: Anthropologie

Shoes: Reaction Kenneth Cole

Belt: Jones NY

Scarf: by me

Earrings: Francescas

Friday, 1/27

I tried re-creating another attempt at the aqua and grey pinspiration:

Source: polyvore.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

Pants: Style and Co, Macy's

Shell: Jcrew (so so so old. One of the first Jcrew pieces I've ever owned)

Boleroish jacket: INC, thrifted

Boots (yup, the grey ones): Easy Spirit

Earrings: Lisa Leonard

Petal Pusher: The Pleated Poppy

Scarf: Jcrew Outlet

Saturday, 1/28

Amazing dinner with dear friends.

And this was taken after we got home, hence why I look wind-blown.

Top: Target

Sweater: Victoria's Secret, thrifted

Jeans: Banana Republic, thrifted

Shoes: Naturalizer

Belt: Jcrew Factory

Earrings: Brighton

Sunday, 1/29

Church and a family birthday dinner.

Oh, and a flat tire on the side of the highway. But since the hubs was there, all was fine.

I'm totally ok never experiencing that again though.

Top: Loft

Jeans: Ann Taylor, thrifted

Jacket: Free People, thrifted

Shoes: Clarks

Earrings: Pandora

Scarf: by me

Monday, 1/30

Doctor's appointment in the morning and work in the afternoon.

Top: Express

Cardigan: Garnet Hill

Pants: Express, thrifted

Shoes: Easy Spirit

Belt: Jcrew

Earrings: Local shop

Necklace: Allora Handmade

Tuesday, 1/31

This was my favorite outfit of the week. Wish I knew this upcoming Friday was National Wear Red Day for heart disease awareness. Would've saved it.

Sweater: White House Black Market, thrifted

Skirt: Ann Taylor, thrifted

Jacket: Ann Tayler

Shoes: Nine West

Belt: Jcrew

Necklace: Local shop

Earrings: TJ Maxx

Pin: Vintage

Scarves seem to be my most favorite accessory at the moment.

What are you rockin' right now?

Annnnd the winner is....

2012-01-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

The 11th commenter (thank you, Random Integer)-
Mandy from This Girl's Life!!!!

Mandy is a super sweet blogger and I am always impressed by her style on What I Wore Wednesdays. Plus she wears a lot of scarves and flower pins, so she can now add to her collection.

Send me an email, Mandy (kath323 at aol dot com) with your address and I will ship your goodies to you by the end of the week.

Thanks to all of you who commented. I hope to have a couple of more scarf giveaways over the next few months, so stay tuned.

Pique Your Interest Week 22

2012-01-26T00:00:00.000-05:00

This week I loved on Pinterest:

This rainbow craft idea. I'm thinking they would be great for decorations at my friend's bridal shower. I have about a year to think about this, but the more ideas, the better.

Source: jeanettelynton.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

I wish the link listed all the colors, but these polishes are gonna be the top ones for spring.

Source: thedoctorscloset.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

I don't usually pin those items that are uploaded by other users, but I may want to do something like this with scrapbook paper and I like the colors used in this canvas.

Source: Uploaded by user via Kathleen on Pinterest

Yes, still a blue, but this room is so calming and gorgeous.

Source: bhg.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

Feel free to link up!

What I Wore Wednesday 1/25/12

2012-01-25T07:30:00.000-05:00

Hi, everyone!

I'm linking up here with lots of other stylish bloggers:

Wednesday, 1/18

A simple outfit (I ended up layering it with a jacket) and I liked that it was professional but a little laid back from my norm.

Top: Talbots Outlet

Cardigan: Thrifted, no tag

Pants: Victoria's Secret, thrifted

Shoes: Naturalizer

Belt: Jcrew

Earrings: Honora, QVC

Necklace: Local Shop

Thursday, 1/19

Professional argyle. My favorite type of argyle.

Top: Jcrew

Cardigan: Jcrew, thrifted

Pants: Express

Belt: Jcrew

Shoes: Easy Spirit

Earrings: Surf and Sand

Friday, 1/20

I guess this day I wanted to look more professional.

Turtleneck (I know, I'm probably not supposed to wear these, but they layer well for me): Old Navy

Jacket: Ann Taylor

Pants: The Limited, thrifted

Boots: Clarks

Earrings: Macy's

Scarf: Target

Friday night was dinner with friends. Our first night enjoying Indian food. It's a new fave.

Same turtleneck

Jeans: Marshalls

Belt: Eddie Bauer

Wellies: Liberty of London for Target

Earrings: Ike and Co

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

Scarf: by me (want one? there's a giveaway goin' on!)

Saturday I was in sweats. I usually would have taken a pic of this, but not sure why I didn't...

Sunday, 1/22

Such a fabulous luncheon with an awesome group of ladies.

Sweater: Old Navy, thrifted

Jeans: Marshall's

Boots: Clarks

Earrings: Nordstrom Rack

Scarf: Hermes

Monday, 1/23

Workin.

Top: Jcrew, thrifted

Jacket: Banana Republic, thrifted

Pants: Banana Republic, thrifted

Shoes: Clarks

Belt: Jones NY

Earrings: Jcrew Factory

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

Monday, 1/24

A day of meetings

Dress: Target

Jacket: Jones NY

Tights: Kohls

Shoes: Kenneth Cole Reaction

Earrings: Honora, QVC

Necklace: by me

Thanks for stopping by!

What I Made Monday 1/23/12 and THE Giveaway!

2012-01-23T07:15:00.000-05:00

This week I finally finished knitting the infinity scarf I want to give away to one of my blog readers.

I knit it in a lightweight wool/acrylic blend so that it will keep you toasty but also won't be too heavy if you live some place that is enjoying warmer temps. And it can be hand washed (which isn't always easy, but it's cheaper than dry cleaning I guess).

It's a lovely cream yarn in an elegant moss stitch.

Plus I like that it has a little texture and drapes nicely.

You can wear it long

or short and with a Pleated Poppy Posy Pin (which is of course, my favorite way to embellish a scarf.

So one lucky winner will receive not just the scarf, but the Posy Pin too (disclaimer: I love the Pleated Poppy and bought this pin for the giveaway. I love everything I've ever bought from Lindsay and am sharing the awesome handmade goodness she creates. In other words, it's my gift to you to enjoy).

So, leave a comment (if your email isn't linked to your blogger please leave that too) and next Monday, January 30th I will announce the winner and send this off.

Linking up with Conni!

Pique Your Interest Week 21

2012-01-19T00:00:00.001-05:00

What did you like on Pinterest this week?

I really want a new dish drain, but it is a want, not a need. This one looks perfectly functional.

Source: containerstore.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

Yes, I just bought a new phone case, so I totally couldn't justify this adorable Katie Daisy one. But how cute would it look?

Source: getuncommon.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

It helps that this craft was in my first initial because it totally caught my eye. Such a cute idea.

Source: blog.catchmyparty.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

I'm digging this color palate lately (which I'm calling the Martha Stewart colors) as our entire apartment is painted yellow but needs some new accents besides French blue. You see, I love French blue. It's in our comforter, it's our bathroom linens, it's in our pillows on our couch. Obviously I need to change it up just a little. I like the green and red accents in this photo. Maybe it will be inspiration for little flashes of new colors.

Source: photocardboutique.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

Feel free to share what inspired you!

What I Wore Wednesday 1/18/12

2012-01-18T07:06:00.010-05:00

Happy What I Wore Wednesday!

This week I had fun wearing some new-to-me thrifted pieces.

Wednesday, 1/11

I really wasn't certain how I would layer this sweater. Until I saw a moment of Glee where Rachel had a button down under a cardigan. Done.

Cardigan: Old Navy, thrifted

Blouse: Brooks Brothers

Pants: Gap, thrifted

Belt: Jcrew

Super comfy, yet a little chic loafers: Talbots

Earrings: local shop

here you can see some of the beading on the cardigan.

Thursday, 1/12

Sweater (in that citron classically Jcrew color): Jcrew warehouse, thrifted with tags

Pants: Dockers

Jacket: Loft

Belt: Jones NY

Shoes: Reaction Kenneth Cole

Necklace: Jcrew

Earrings: Ike and Co

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

Friday, 1/13

Jacket (did the happy dance): Free People, thrifted

Top: Banana Republic

Pants:Express, thrifted

Shoes: Easy Spirit

Earrings: Local shop

Saturday, 1/14

For the first time in my life I went bridesmaid shopping as a bridesmaid.

Top: Kohls, thrifted

Cardigan: Target

Jeans: Banana Republic, thrifted

Shoes: Naturalizer

Belt: Jcrew

Earrings: Lord and Taylor

Necklace: QVC

Sunday, 1/15

We went to church at night...I had a significant food allergy that complicated the morning. Not totally sure what it was, but I think avocados are the culprit. Which is a huge disappointment because I adore avocados.

Tissue turtleneck: Old Navy

Sweater: Anthropologie

Jeans: Style and Co, Macy's

Shoes: Born

Earrings: Nordstrom Rack

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

Scarf: by me

Monday, 1/15

Spent the day watching PBS (I am a geek) and clearing out my large scrapbook paper supply.

Sweater: Jcrew, thrifted

Cardigan: Nordstrom

Jeans: Banana Republic, thrifted

Shoes: Dr. Scholl's

Earrings: Glitz Glitter

Necklace: Gypsy Affairs

Tuesday, 1/16

Work and our community group.

Top: Ann Taylor

Pants: the Limited, thrifted

Jacket: Loft

Earrings: TJ Maxx

Necklace: Lia Sophia

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

I haven't forgotten that I promised a scarf giveaway, but it is taking longer to knit than I hoped.

But I will be throwing in an extra goodie as a reward for patience!

I reaaaalllly hope that by next week there's a finished scarf for someone to win!

Pique Your Interest Week 20

2012-01-12T00:00:00.000-05:00

Here's what I loved on Pinterest this week:

I love the dot art.

Source: amberinteriordesign.blogspot.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

Next year I will be a matron of honor in my friend's wedding. She adores anything colorful and loves rainbows. I've been collecting some neat pins that might be cute (but not tacky, promise) for the shower. Even though this was pinned for St. Patrick's Day I feel like it would still work, minus the pot of gold.

Source: Uploaded by user via Kathleen on Pinterest

I've been pinning a lot of simple, structured outfits lately. Like this navy one.

Source: polyvore.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

It's not too late to make 2012 full of promise!

Source: creatingclever.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

What did you pin this week?

What I Wore Wednesday 1/11/12

2012-01-11T07:23:00.000-05:00

It's What I Wore Wednesday time!!!

Head on over to the Pleated Poppy's blog to see what it's all about.

Wednesday, 1/4

I love me some yellow. As many of you know, it was a color I once never wore. Now it's a staple in my closet.

Sweater: Ann Taylor

Jacket: INC, Macy's

Pants:Victoria's Secret, thrifted

Shoes: Easy Spirit

Scarf (one of two great finds this week: Banana Republic, thrifted

Earrings: GlitzGlitter

Thursday, 1/5

Top: Victoria's Secret, thrifted

Jacket: Petite Sophisticate

Pants: Ann Taylor

Shoes: Bare Trap

Earrings: TJ Maxx

Scarf: thrifted, no brand

Friday, 1/6

Top: INC, thrifted

Pants: Worthington, thrifted

Jacket: Jcrew Factory

Shoes: Dr. Scholls

Earrings: local shop

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

Scarf (the other wonderful find): PUCCI!!! I KNOW!!!!

Sunday, 1/8

I love argyle and was so thrilled to find this one. Great colors, warm wool blend and Jcrew.

Sweater: Jcrew, thrifted

Jeans: Loft, thrifted

Shoes: Clarks

Belt: Jcrew

Scarf: gift

Earrings: Rhonda Jewelry

Monday, 1/9

decided to try this aqua/gray pin.

Source: polyvore.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

Top: Eddie Bauer

Sweater: Jcrew Factory

Pants: Jones NY, thrifted

Shoes: Easy Spirit

Belt: Jcrew

Earrings: Twysted Creations

Posy pin and petal pusher pin: The Pleated Poppy

Scarf: Nordstrom

Tuesday, 1/10

Top: Ann Taylor

Jacket: Gap, thrifted

Pants: Gap, thrifted

Shoes: Nine West

Belt: Jcrew

Pin: Vintage

Earrings: Honora, QVC

Looking forward to seeing what looks you sported this week!

Pique Your Interest Week 19

2012-01-05T00:00:00.011-05:00

Here's what I loved on Pinterest this week:

I just have to get myself to a store to buy the cereal container, but I am putting this in my car this year and that's a promise!

Source: bhg.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

I like to decorate for an entire season, so my winter decor tends to stay through Valentine's Day without many hearts. This would be a nice addition someplace though.

Source: thegirlcreative.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

My engagement ring is a sapphire with diamonds. I dream of beautiful earrings like these to join the set.

Source: georgianjewelry.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

In 2011 I forgot a few birthdays...that's not gonna happen this year and maybe this would help that!

Source: kayladanelle.blogspot.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

Link up if ya want!

What I Wore Wednesday 1/4/12

2012-01-04T07:02:00.021-05:00

Happy What I Wore Wednesday!

I'm linking up here

This week is one of my favorite weeks of the year - Christmas break.

Most of the outfits are pretty casual which was a nice change from the norm.

Wednesday, 12/28

Morning outfit for a quick trip to the outlets.

Sweater and Tee: Jcrew

Jeans: Lands End

Shoes: Naturalizer

Earrings: Lord and Taylor

Scarf: Made by Conni

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

Wednesday night was our annual prayer dinner.
It's so great to get together to celebrate.

I wish I remembered that I owned this dress before Christmas so I could have worn it more.

Dress: thrifted, not sure of the brand

Cami: Old Navy

Tights: Kohls

Boots: Clarks

Chain: Judith Ripka, QVC

Pendant: Barbara Bixby, QVC

Earrings: Gift from Etsy

Thursday, 12/29

Visit with an out of town friend.

Sweater: INC, Macy's

Belt: Jones: NY

Boots: Clarks

Jeans: Marshalls

Pile of dirty clothes: my husband's, ready to get washed

Earrings: local shop

Friday, 12/30

Simple, low key day. Spontaneous dinner with friends.

Sweater: Jcrew

New favorite bag: Dooney and Bourke

Jeans: Levis

Shoes: Naturalizer

Scarf: Nordstrom

Earrings: Judith Jack

Saturday, 12/31

We spend New Year's Eve with good friends just enjoying being together. Nothing too crazy, totally lovely.

Top: Gap, Christmas gift from my mother in law

Jeans: Ann Taylor, thrifted

Sweater: Express, thrifted

Shoes: Easy Spirit

Belt: Jcrew

Earrings: Surf and Sand

Necklace: Jess LC

Sunday, 1/1/12

Church and relaxing

Top: Banana Republic, thrifted

Sweater: Anthropologie

Jeans: Banana Republic, thrifted

Shoes: Easy Spirit

Earrings: Local shop

Monday, 1/2/12

Loved being off for an extra day.

We enjoyed a faux-family get-together with comfort food and great conversation.

Tee: Target

Cardigan: J Jill, thrifted

Jeans: Ann Taylor, thrifted

Shoes: Easy Spirit

Belt: Jcrew

Earrings: Francesca's

Necklace: Lisa Leonard

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

And for Tuesday, 1/3 it was back to work and professional.

Dress: Target

Jacket: Loft

Tights: Kohls

Shoes: Clarks

Necklace and earrings: Etsy

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

I'm knitting a cream scarf for a future giveaway.

As soon as it's ready, you'll be the first to know!

One Little Word 2012 - Embrace

2012-01-03T08:48:00.003-05:00

It took me longer than usual to select my one little word for 2012. The end of the year was filled with celebrations and tragedies and I couldn't decide what word should be my driving force for the year.

Finally yesterday it came to me - EMBRACE.

Embrace faith and growth in community.

Embrace my husband - hug him daily, grow together.

Embrace changes at work.

Embrace where I am in life.

Embrace relationships - grow in friendships and be with family more often.

Embrace who I am and maybe even discover who that truly is.

Embrace what life brings and stop resisting changes and new paths.

I have grown so accustomed to being anxious and dreading the worst instead of hoping for the best. My desire for 2012 is to leave some of that worry behind and dwell on the moment, embracing whatever comes my way.

What's your word this year?

2011 - A Look Back

2011-12-31T12:27:00.000-05:00

This is now the third year that I have answered these questions about the past 12 months. I don't really edit these or try to be cool about the answers. The responses are totally honest and I try not to over think them.

1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year?
I stopped recklessly spending our money. Sure this sounds naive and silly, but what an incredible change. Giving to our church as soon as we get paid each week and honoring God with our finances has changed the way we spend our money.

2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened?
Once again, as in 2010, I have been challenged at my job. I am in a management position now and supervise people with whom I was once a peer. We also work in separate buildings, so trying to balance time with staff and my own job can get stressful. I would like to really develop my management skills over the next year and help to develop the staff too.

3. What was an unexpected joy this past year?
Creating lots of wonderful crafts, especially knitting.

I painted this:

made rosette necklaces:

and knit like a crazy chick.

It's been so relaxing, so comforting. It ties into the spending thing, as I am not going overboard (as I did with scrapbooking) buying supplies (yet) and it has been so rewarding.

Thrifting has been life-changing for me. It fits in the spending wisely goal, gives me the chance to own things I never could have owned before, and teaches me to be grateful. Yes, I get cooler clothes now, but I also have a neat milk glass collection and a budding Pyrex collection that I can afford to enjoy.

4. What was an unexpected obstacle?
Hmmmm...I struggled with reading the Word this year. I only participated in one study and I disliked it severely (that's better than hate right?) so I think I became frustrated and disappointed. Just didn't motivate me. I know the remedy is to read and pray and reflect no matter what. My brain just isn't connecting there right now.

5. Pick three words to describe 2011.
hopeful, simple, creative

6. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe your 2011 (don’t ask them; guess based on how you think your spouse sees you).
Happy, silly, overwhelmed.

7. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe their 2011 (again, without asking).
Spontaneous, stressful, exciting

8. What were the best books you read this year?
I started legitimately using my Goodreads account to track the books I read this year. I set a goal of 30 books, but I am two books shy of reaching that. Oh well, I enjoyed a ton of great books this year, many of them audio books that I purchased through Audible.

The book with the most impact was One Thousand Gifts.

Best Fiction that I listened to was The Night Circus. I doubt I would have enjoyed reading it, but I loved Jim Dale's narration.

Favorite non-fiction book was Tudors: The Complete Story of England's Most Notorious Dynasty. I am a geek and have been on a Tudor history kick for a few years now.

Best fiction that I read was the Paris Wife.

9. With whom were your most valuable relationships?
My husband who keeps me sane and grounded. He's a supportive guy and I need that.

We grew incredibly close with our friends Katie and Dan. We had fun adventures together, we understand where we are in life, we call each other for advice.

We also joined a community group of young married couples. Even though we have only met three times, I adore these people who are rooted in faith and cheering each other on to endure through things.

10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year?
Definitely focusing less on what others have and being content with and grateful for what we have. In 2010 I was stuck in the trap of jealousy and this year I was determined to love where we live, work, and what we do for fun.

11. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally?
I say what I feel more often now instead of hiding it.

12. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually?
We've become part of community, which is so necessary for me to grow.

13. In what way(s) did you grow physically?
I gained 2 pounds again!! I neeeed to cave and join the free gym at work. I have never done this. I don't know how to do this. Now I am growing and expanding and the thighs? They need new pants to live in monthly. I don't want to say that I will go to the gym daily because I know I won't, but I would like to be healthier overall. I had that little fainting spell in July and it scared the heck out of us. I think I need to start some working out, even if it's just to prevent problems in the future.

14. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others?
We have friends who are parents now - and it's amazing to watch them with their children. I'm thinking of Paige and Michael with Molly. I've seen their family grow and they've allowed us to be part of their little family. It's been so lovely seeing my friend become a mom and watch her be the best mom possible.

She's an inspiration. And I stole the photo from her blog...

Our friends Debbie and Bobby invited us to their home upstate. We cherish their friendship - they never judge and they encourage us so much. That weekend reminded us of what is important - and allowed us to connect with one another.

15. What was the most enjoyable part of your work (both professionally and at home)?
In addition to my 9-5 I became a 'virtual assistant' for Rarebits. This has been awesome!! And was unexpected. I love Patty, she's been in my life forever. She's one of my other moms, sharing memories, magazines and her favorite things with me. Being a part of the Rarebits journey is a blast and I love it.

In my admissions job, I am proud of my accomplishments and value my director immensely. She has trusted me to do my job well and I strive each day to do my best. I was fortunate to get my own office this year and am proud of the new relationships I've fostered in other departments on campus.

16. What was the most challenging part of your work (both professionally and at home)?
Understanding and being ok with the fact that not everyone will like me.

17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?
Worrying. About nothing.

18. What was the best way you used your time this past year?
Connecting with people rather than sitting at home doing nothing. Much less wasted TV watching.

19. What was biggest thing you learned this past year?
Love the life I have, not the one I dream of having.

20. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2011 for you.
Enjoying the simple things in life, cherishing the ones we love.

Merry and Bright 2011

2011-12-30T11:34:00.000-05:00

I'm a little late in sharing my Christmas photos. In the past I would snap 200 photos per holiday shoving people in tons of poses. I've since learned no one likes that and there are few photos that even look great. So, now we take less.

We visited Santa (first time in my life that I ever went to the mall and actually did this) and had this picture taken as a gift for my mother in law.

Christmas Eve is hosted by my husband's parents. We enjoy a meal of seven fish dishes, each one better than the next. We headed to church together and ended the night with dessert and presents.

The funniest moment was when my sister in law gave us each ugly sweaters.

I have to admit, my father in law is rocking his!

Christmas day was spent with my clan of about 25 people.

The boys no longer cooperate for group shots but the girls sure do!

Apparently our division really likes plaid...

And this is all of us.

This year wasn't about the gifts at all - it was about being together.

And it was wonderful.

I am going to blog my annual year end reflection hopefully this weekend.

It's been a fun year that ended beautifully.

Pique Your Interest Week 18

2011-12-29T00:48:00.000-05:00

This week I'm sharing pins of what I hope to use/make in the new year.

I know, we just finished with Christmas (and trust me, I love the Christmas stuff. It stays up through the first couple of weeks of January), but if I don't start thinking of springy crafts now, they will never be made. I would love this wreath above our couch.

Source: craftgawker.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

I am so excited to start sewing this year!!! My inlaws gave me a sewing machine for Christmas, which was a complete surprise. I've always wanted to sew, even if it is just to hem my pants without paying someone else, but never expected to have that opportunity now. I will have to pick this book up for some help...I haven't even thought about taking it out of the box I am so intimidated by it!

Source: shop.marthastewart.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

I love Altoids. Eat them all the time. I used to save the tins to use as gift boxes for gift cards, but I like this organizing idea better.

Source: flickr.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

In the spirit of increased organization, I would like to make this to corral all those charging gizmos.

Source: makeit-loveit.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

What did you love this week?

What I Wore Wednesday 12/28/11

2011-12-28T07:41:00.000-05:00

Hi, everyone!

Here's a peek at my looks from last week.

Wednesday, 12/21

Loved this outfit.

Turtleneck: Banana Republic

Skirt: Jcrew

Belt: Jcrew

Scarf: Old Navy

Boots: Clarks

Earrings: Francesca's

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

Thursday, 12/22

a little Christmas gathering at work.

Top: Banana Republic, thrifted

Sweater: Ann Taylor, thrifted

Pants: Banana Republic, thrifted

Shoes: Easy Spirit

Belt: Jcrew

Earrings: Anthropologie

Word of the Year Necklace: Lisa Leonard

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

Friday, 12/23

After work we headed to an incredibly amazing wedding.

Dress: Kay Unger (same brand as the lace green skirt I adored and scored on), thrifted

Belt: White House Black Market, borrowed from a friend

Shoes: Nine West

Earrings: Judith Ripka, QVC

I wore a vintage pin on a wrap to the church.

Christmas eve spent with my husband's family.

Top: White House Black Market

Jeans: Style and Co, Macy's

Shoes: Born

Earrings: Pandora

Pearls: from my inlaws last year

Christmas day spent with my clan.

Top: Talbots outltet

Jacket: Talbots, thrifted

Jeans: Gap, thrifted

Boots: Clarks

Belt: Jcrew

Sapphire studs

Rosette necklace by me

Petal Pusher: The Pleated Poppy

Monday, 12/26

Spontaneous dinner with friends.

Tee and tunic: Jcrew

Jeans: Marshalls

Shoes: Born

Earrings: Liz Palacios

December 27

Simple laid back day.

Top: NY and Co, thrifted

Cardigan: Guinevere, thrifted (but I think it came from Anthro)

Jeans: Levis

Shoes: Naturalizer

Earrings: Surf and Sand

Necklace: Jess LC

Can't wait to see what you wore for Christmas!

A Hopeful 2011

2011-12-27T07:43:00.000-05:00

For the past few years I have selected one little word to be the focus/motivator/inspiration for the year. Past words for me have been joy, peace, change, simplify, and for 2011, hope.

When I selected this word in late December 2010, I was a sad little lady. Not to say that there weren't many happy moments spent with wonderful people - there were - but I was not joyful. I probably was a bit depressed but didn't want to admit that. And I didn't want 2011 to be the same way.

This is the first year that my word was focused on for the entire year in my heart. I've always chosen these catchy words that look great on a coffee mug or necklace and I just liked the word. I'm not so sure I was ever a peaceful person who accepted change gracefully while simplifying my life. But hope was big for me. And I kept it in the front of my mind all year long.

The results?

1. Meaningful friendships. This will sound harsh and I am ok saying that I am very much against fluffy, small-talk friendships. I want to know people deeply (without it being weird of course!) and have friends who I treasure our time spent together. And in 2011 I enjoyed being with our closest friends and loving getting closer with them. And blogging friends SO count here! I have been blessed with new friendships I could never have with such inspirational women. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and lives with me. I look forward to reading your posts, comments and emails daily.

2. An enriched faith and building community within our church. Freddy and I joined a community group of five other young married couples and it has been incredible. We are growing in faith and being more involved in our church overall. Probably a 'duh' but when I'm closer to the Lord, hope and joy naturally seem to follow.

3. Contentment. This is something I thought would have flowed from simplify, but it didn't. Once I became hopeful about our present life and future, I began caring less about what we lack and became grateful for what we have. I'm ok with where we live, my car, my job. That's so huge for me.

4. Learning new things. Love that I am knitting now and look forward to learning to sew next year. My inlaws gave me a sewing machine for Christmas and needless to say, I am really excited to be able to hem my own jeans.

5. Buying less, appreciating more. We spent less this year on needless stuff. Thrifting has helped me not overspend on clothes like I did in the past. In fact, it caused me to be nearly unable to buy retail and pay high prices.

Hope has been my favorite word from any other I've selected. I've liked it so much that I don't even have a clue what I would like to select for my 2012 word. Hopefully on January 1st I will share a word to enjoy and embrace in the year to come.

Be Merry

2011-12-24T11:41:00.001-05:00

Wishing you all things bright and beautiful

as you celebrate Christmas!

"I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year."

-Charles Dickens

Pique Your Interest Week 17

2011-12-22T00:00:00.000-05:00

This week I'm sharing some Christmasy pins. Most of them could even be admired/created/used/emjoyed in time for the weekend.

I would soooo wear this Christmas day.

If only overnight shipping wasn't so pricey.

Source: modcloth.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

If my nails were longer I would paint them this great red:

Source: shortnchic.blogspot.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

One of these years I will make a December Daily album. Maybe you are right now and you'd like some free printables.

Source: creativityprompt.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

These could brighten up any space for Christmas and last through the winter. I'm really into non limiting seasonal decor.

Source: blogntell.blogspot.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

I think I'll be stocking up on ornaments on December 26th to make this swag next year. I have no idea where I would hang it, but it's so lovely.

Source: pretty-quirky.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

Hope you all have a merry and bright Christmas!

Feel free to link up any Pinterest related post you wrote this week.

What I Wore Wednesday 12/21/11

2011-12-20T07:40:00.000-05:00

Happy What I Wore Wednesday !

It's the "I look like a Christmas Elf" edition!

Warning - I realize I look "Santa-esque" in the first photo. I do. A student at work actually informed me that I don't look like Santa totally, just a little. I thought it was way better in real life. I'm hoping it was.

You have permission to giggle. I look like I belong in the North Pole.

My mother should be proud. She would rock this look.

Top: Jcrew, thrifted

Sweater: Express, thrifted

Skirt: Club Monaco, thrifted

Tights: Kohls

Shoes: Nine West

Belt: Jcrew

I switched to the gray belt...originally I was wearing a black one with a huge buckle. What the flip was I thinking that day???

Earrings: purchased in London

Thursday, 12/15

This is better. More sophisticated Christmas. Less elfish.

Top: Jones NY

Jacket: Local shop

Skirt: Chaps, Kohl's

Boots: Clarks

Belt: Banana Republic

Earrings: Brighton

Christmas Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

Friday, 12/16

Shopping with my mother-in-law.

Tee: Jcrew

horrible looking with these shoes jeans: Levis

Shoes: Clarks, they're comfy, I was walking the outlets, I wore 'em. But I definitely could have looked better now that I see this photo.

Necklace: Lisa Leonard

Earrings: Jewelscapes

Saturday, 12/17

I have no clue what we did Saturday. I think we ran lots of errands and cleaned.

Tee: Loft

Scarf: Jcrew Outlet

Jeans: Style and Co, Macy's

Shoes: Naturalizer

Cardigan: Nordstrom

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

Earrings: Judith Jack

Sunday, 12/18

aka - do everything Christmasy all in one day:

Church with a pageant, lunch with my inlaws, visit with friends, dinner with my family. Insane. But a truly wonderful day.

Top, Cardigan, Skirt, Belt: Jcrew

The skirt is from 2004...I have loved this baby for years and I get, oh, 1 month to properly wear it.

Boots: Clarks

Earrings: Anthropologie

Monday, 12/19

Spent the day at a wake. One of our prayer sisters, Helen, passed. But we know she's dancin' with Jesus.

Top: Target

Cardigan: Target

Pants: Jones NY, thrifted

Shoes: Clarks

Earrings that you can't see: Lord and Taylor

Scarf: Jcrew

Tuesday, 12/20

Good day back to work. And a fun shopping adventure with my hubby and sister in law.

Top and Jacket: Ann Taylor

Cami: Jockey

Pants: Gap, thrifted

Shoes: Clarks

Necklace: Lisa Leonard

Earrings: Macy's

Have a merry week! I'm sure I will still be over-doing the Christmas thing for the next couple of WIWW editions, so I'll try to remember I shouldn't look like I moved here from Who-ville :)

Our Ornaments 2011

2011-12-19T11:25:00.001-05:00

Every year of my little life, my mom purchased an ornament for me to signify something important that happened during the year. Some of my treasured ornaments are a crystal angel from tea at the Plaza Hotel, a Jim Shore caroling singer (music was a huge part of my life, so we have lots of singing angels), and Lenox ballet slippers from a few years ago during my stint as an adult ballet student.

I've carried over the tradition for Freddy and I.

Here's our tiny tree with 1/5 of our ornaments. We just don't have the room for a large tree to accommodate them all, so I tend to rotate them every couple of years. So yes, this does look like a tree with ornaments thrown all over the place. But every.single.one means something or came from someone special.

My ornament is a Fiesta 75th anniversary plate - a nod to my inherited dishes. (The large initial ornaments are Restoration Hardware a few years ago. We hang the new ornament next to our initial).

And I am seriously in love with Freddy's ornament.

In honor of his 30th birthday bucket list fulfilled wish to go skydiving, he now has a vintage 1930s little parachutist.

Isn't it the cutest??? We found him on Etsy.

Have fun decking your halls these last few days before Christmas!

Pique Your Interest Week 16

2011-12-15T00:01:00.000-05:00

This week I'm loving on Pinterest:

This shade of blue (but I kind of love this shade everywhere and anywhere)...Benjamin Moore Wythe Blue:

Source: houseofturquoise.com via Julie on Pinterest

I want to use more natural cleaners. Thinking that vinegar is the way to start.

Source: chicagonow.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

Sure, it's still winter, but it's always good to know what colors will be hot for spring. Ya just never know what might show up in a thrift shop now that's perfect for later.

Source: theperfectpalette.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

And a couple for Christmas:

Great printables:

Source: tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

A gorgeous wreath:

Source: thediyshowoff.blogspot.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

Link up what you loved this week.

What I Wore Wednesday 12/14/11

2011-12-14T07:01:00.003-05:00

Thanks for stopping by!

I'm linking here with lots of other fashionistas to play What I Wore Wednesday.

Wednesday, 12/7

Christmas work party.

This skirt has a fantastic story.

Those who are thrifters start to know the store brands and know if they're getting a bargain or a crazy great buy. About 2 months ago I picked up this skirt for 3 bucks thinking "I have no idea who Kay Unger is, so this is a gamble." Either I was getting something sold at a discount chain or a gem, but it was too pretty to pass up. I learn last week (while finding a to-die-for dress that you'll see in a couple of weeks) that this line is sold in Saks and Nordstrom. Basically it was probably at least $150 new. Sometimes that gamble is worth it!

This was the first day I could get my hair in a pony tail in 4 years.

Then I went and got it trimmed and colored that day...oh well.

Top: Ann Taylor, thrifted

Skirt: Kay Unger, thrifted

Tights: Kohls

Shoes: Aerosoles

Earrings: Rhonda Jewelry

Vintage Pin

Scarf: Somewhere in NYC, I think a street vendor for 10 bucks

Thursday, 12/8

Saw Godspell on Broadway with my parents and some of my colleagues.

Now, I've seen many a local production of Godspell. Love the music. This time I was incredibly moved (like shed tears moved). Beautifully powerful.

Top: Talbots

Shrug: Express, thrifted

Pants: Express, thrifted

Shoes: Born

Scarf: Rarebits

Earrings: Ike and Co

Friday, 12/9

Worked at a local high school

Top: Ann Taylor

Jacket: Loft

Pants: Gap Outlet

Shoes: Nine West

Pearl Studs: Honora, QVC

Word of the Year Necklace: Lisa Leonard

Petal Pusher: The Pleated Poppy

Saturday, 12/10

Date day with my husband=dinner out and relaxed Christmas shopping.

Top and tank: Jcrew

Jeans: Gap, thrifted

Shoes: DSW

Earrings: TJ Maxx

Necklace: local shop

Ring: Tiffany's

Scarf: Target

Sunday, 12/11

Church and soup/chili cook off at church. Such a yummy fun day.

Tee: Jcrew

Sweater: Anthropologie

Jeans: Marshalls

Boots: Clarks

Earrings: Local shop

Scarf: me

Monday, 12/12

Another work Christmas party

Dress: Target (last year)

Cardigan: Ann Taylor

Tights: Kohls

Shoes: Clarks

Belt: Jones NY

Sometimes you just need simple sparklers!

Earrings: Lord and Taylor

Necklace: QVC

Tuesday, 12/13

Last day of fall recruiting!!

And a great night with our young married group.

Top: Liz Claiborne

Jacket: Old Navy (thank you, Paige!)

Pants:Van Heusen

Shoes: Clarks

Necklace: local shop

Earrings: Jcrew

See you next week with more Christmasy stuff!

Harlequin Dreams

2011-12-12T07:48:00.003-05:00

I posted last week that I have 'inherited' my mother's mother's Harlequin dishes.

Every Saturday my family heads to a local diner for breakfast. For years I joined them, but when I got married it was kind of a long drive, so Freddy and I make quarterly appearances. Topics of conversation include anything from politics to Jesus to medications to things that hang out in the basement.

Hence when the dishes were casually mentioned by my mother. "We have those fake Fiesta dishes from my mother downstairs. I never liked them." Whhhaaaaa??? We have faux-Fiesta? Like for realsies? Oh and they are turquoise and rose? And they've been in a box in the home I grew up in for oh, 26 years?? You have to be kidding me, Mom.

And when we went home there they were, wrapped in newspaper from 1985.

I've had a little Fiesta obsession for a few months now. I'd go on Kohls.com and check out how much it would cost to get a turquoise collection of dishes.

The answer was too much. Especially since I have three sets of nearly new Corelle. I just couldn't justify buying more dishes even if I loved them.

I had stopped dreaming of stocking my cabinets with multicolored goodness. And that's when these beatus entered my life.

They were scrubbed and rescrubbed.

We thought they were worthless, but learned they actually are collectable (The yellow dish is authentic Fiesta).

They were made by the same designer as Fiesta Pottery and were likely made in the 40s or 50s. You can learn more about Harlequin Pottery here.

My mother was hysterical laughing as I read the values of some of the items to her. She promptly called her sister who actually bought them and neither could believe they were worth something or that I would even want them.

And that the teapot is legit valuable because it's in mint condition. And thus it will live among the collection of special treasures above the cabinets.

And so, something unexpectedly wonderful from my grandmother is enjoying a new home, being used and loved the way they should be.

Pique Your Interest Week 15

2011-12-08T00:00:00.000-05:00

Here's what I loved on Pinterest this week.

This photo of Rachel Bilson wearing a very similar Hermes scarf to mine. It must be from the same collection. I always felt stuck with that scarf because I feel it's seasonally limited...apparently not!

Source: google.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

It looks like Orla Kiely, but doesn't have the price tag tote:

Source: blueq.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

Gorgeous Fiestaware collection - I am SO replacing my Corelle one day.

Source: flickr.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

This is a great tutorial for snapping that glowing Christmas tree shot:

Source: unskinnyboppy.blogspot.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

So, what piqued your interest this week?

What I Wore Wednesday 12/7/11

2011-12-07T07:45:00.001-05:00

Ittt's What I Wore Wednesday Time!!

Wednesday, 11/30

Very early morning event. When I left the apartment it was cold and pitch black.

I warned you that I love this outfit.

Top: Ann Taylor

Pants and Jacket: Gap, thrifted

Shoes: Nine West

Earrings: Lord and Taylor

Bought these four years ago and get lots of use out of them. In the words of my very professional boss, pearls are a must to look your very best.

Thursday, 12/1

Now that it's officially Christmas time, I'm wearing lots of green and red. I realize I forgot to do that last year.

Sweater (love me some argyle): Banana Republic, thrifted

Jacket: Tahari

Skirt: Club Monaco, thrifted

Shoes: Aerosoles

Tights: Kohl's

Earrings: Ike and Co.

Scarf: The Pleated Poppy

Friday, 12/2

I had an onsite at my old high school.

Sweater: Banana Republic

Jacket: Banana Republic, thrifted

Pants: Banana Republic, thrifted

Shoes: Nine West

Necklace: Judith Ripka for QVC

Earrings: Ike and Co.

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

Saturday, 12/3

Breakfast with my family, Christmas shopping and the discovery of my grandmother's long forgotten faux-fiestaware (more to come on that, it's awesome).

Sweater: Target

Top: Jcrew

Jeans: Marshall's

Boots: Target

Belt: Bass

Earrings: Jcrew

Necklace: Local shop

Sunday,12/4

Morning outfit:

Sweater: Jcrew, thrifted

Jeans: Gap, thrifted

Boots: Clarks

Earrings: Honora, QVC

Necklace: Gypsy Affairs

Afternoon outfit:

Top: NY and Co, thrifted

Skirt: Banana Republic, thrifted

Boots: Clarks

Belt: Jcrew

Earrings: Glitz Glitter

Monday, 12/5

No idea why my hair is in my face.

Top: Jcrew

Jacket: Ann Taylor

Skirt: Talbots Outlet

Shoes: Clarks

Belt: Jones NY

Earrings: We Wear It, local artisan

Pin: vintage, from my mom

Tuesday, 12/6

I had a counselor event at work. Basically I have prepared for this since August (book the speaker, invites, arrangements, it's crazy prep) and I looked really cute. I really did. But I forgot to take a photo. You've seen it before, so not anything you missed out on.

But I am sorry you get to see my in my "I'm exhausted and put on my pjs as soon as I got home" look.

In case you're wondering...

tee (likely with bleach stains somewhere): Eddie Bauer

Pants: Gillian O'Malley for Target-side note, these are so comfy and were on sale at my local store, so go get 'em.

Made it in Monday 12/5/11

2011-12-05T07:51:00.001-05:00

This week I finally decided to sit down and use my milk glass planters.

I sought them out week after week at the thrift store and was able to collect three of them in the past few months, which was perfect (I have one on my coffee table all year with different flower arrangements).

Originally I wanted to make these:

Source: bhg.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

I love the idea of little sparkly topiaries. But once I actually sit down to read the instructions and remembered the incredible difficulty of making my Starbucks wreath years ago (the hot glue burns are seared in my memory), I passed and made something I was more comfortable with.

Cute paper trees.

Here's the how-to.

I used the largest cone I could find, about 12 inches high and bought it in my local craft store.

I went through my scrapbook paper and pulled out 10 sheets of Christmasy-colored paper.

I used pieces of My Minds Eye from their Christmas collection a few years ago, Basic Grey Fruitcake and Blitzen, another sheet of Basic Grey (the blue, but not sure what collection), very old 7Gypsies and Die Cuts with a View (the sheets with text) and a random scrap that I don't have a clue who made it (the dark green paisley). In the past I've done these in papers that have nothing to do with Christmas, so you can really use whatever. I think some of the KI Memories with pink and teal would be amazing.

A box of pins was enough for both trees, but I bought two just in case. In the past I used the ones with metal heads, but the pain of pushing them through the paper and cones was pretty intense, so this time I went with the pricier pearl heads.

A thimble helps avoid that push-the-pin pain.

My cutter is alcohol ink stained...one of these days I'll get around to de-colorizing it.

For each tree I cut 1''x4'' strips of paper from every sheet. At the end I ended up with a pile of extras. I meant to count, but not really sure how many strips you'd definitely need.

Then you curve the stips in half, but don't fold them.

Pin them in the top corner at the bottom and overlap the new ones on the earlier added sheets.

The next layer should cover the pins of the row below it.

You have to think intentionally random placement so it doesn't look perfect, but everything flows at the same time.

For the top you're left with a blank spot.

In the past I've put buttons on top, and admittedly, that looked sloppy.

I used American Crafts plastic flowers from years ago, brads from Making Memories and a popsicle stick.

I colored the stick with fast-drying ink. You could paint it, stickle it up with glitter. Anything really.

I put brads on each of the two flowers that would be sandwiched around the stick.

Hot glue on high heat (cool won't work for plastic I learned) and press em together.

Press the stick into the styrofoam ( you can add some hot glue to the bottom so it's more permanent when added). Then cut one of the medium sized flowers in half and hot glue around the top.

I thought it looked much neater than my older ones.

Place them on the milk glass planters and voila!

You have some simple paper trees to sprinkle Christmas in your home.

Linking here:

Did Ya Ever Need a Morning Pick-Me-Up?

2011-12-01T11:50:00.000-05:00

Six years ago Paige and I met at work.

We kinda looked like sisters.

A lot.

Some people thought we were sisters.

She has a great sister, though and I don't have one at all...

But I've always wanted one.

Ya know what sisters do?

They exchange clothes

(among many other things like being caring and all that).

And today, at the start of a day when

I had a raging headache and an event at work,

after running a little bit late and

walking into a pile of stuff to attack,

I got such a great phone call.

Paige had some jackets she was going

to donate to Big Brothers Big Sisters.

She realized she could do that and they would wind up in the local thrift store across the street from my job.

I would go there and find them and do the "Paige had something just like this!!!" freak out excited dance.

I would buy each and every one of them.

Instead she is going to give them to me!!!

Yay for an awesome friend who knows just the way to make a morning wonderful!

What I Wore Wednesday 11/30/11

2011-11-30T05:20:00.000-05:00

Hi all!

It's What I Wore Wednesday time!

Wednesday, 11/23

Work and decorating the church for Christmas.

Top: INC, Macy's

Cardigan: Target

Pants: Macy's

Shoes: Nine West

Belt: Jones NY

Earrings: Ike and Co

Thursday, 11/24

Thanksgiving

This was actually the shirt I thought I would wear last year but skipped over for something else.

Top: Jcrew factory

Cardigan: Target

Jeans: Gap, thrifted

Shoes: Naturalizer

Belt: Jcrew

Earrings: Glitz Glitter

Necklace: Allora Handmade

Friday, 11/25

Had to go to a wake, so stayed simple today.

Sweater: Lands End Canvas

Pants: The Limited, thrifted

Shoes: Aerosoles

Earrings: We Wear It

Scarf and Petal Pusher: The Pleated Poppy

Saturday, 11/26

Freddy and I did a little bit of Christmas shopping at local shops and enjoyed a yummy lunch at a tea house.

Sweater: Ann Taylor

Jeans: Loft, thrifted

Shoes: Clarks

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy
Earrings: gift

Scarf: me

Sunday, 11/27

Church, volunteered at the bookstore, a tiny bit of shopping.

Top: Jcrew

Sweater: Jcrew factory

Jeans: Macy's

Shoes: Naturalizer

Posy Pin: The Pleated Poppy

Earrings: We Wear It

Cowl (with the yummiest wool I've ever knitted with): by me

Monday, 11/28

A day off.

Wrote out my Christmas cards and watched Vietnam in HD. I know, it's an odd combination.

Tee: Jcrew

Cardigan: Target

Jeans: Gap

Shoes: Naturalizer

Earrings: Local Shop

Necklace: We Wear It

Tuesday, 11/29

Work.

Top: Macy's

Jacket: Theory

Skirt: Ann Taylor, thrifted

Shoes: Aerosoles

Tights: Jcrew

Vintage pin

diamond studs

Necklace: We Wear It

Miscellany Monday 11/28/11

2011-11-28T13:33:00.001-05:00

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

I'm linking up here to share some randomness about the week.

Our Thanksgiving was...boring.

No cooking, no hosting, just relaxing.

And I was totally ok with that.

We started the day with a tradition we've loved for the past 20 years...Thanksgiving breakfast with faux-family. It's been a highlight of my life. My parents and their friends go to mass in the morning and then enjoy a meal together, parting ways in the afternoon to head to family gatherings. We always take a group photo and this may be one of the best we've ever captured.

Dinner was with my husband's family and was quiet and lovely.

I'm not a big fan of Thanksgiving food (gasp, I didn't have more than a mouthful of turkey, no potatoes and no dessert), but I enjoyed being with family. After years of forcing my husband to take tons of photos on holidays, I've been putting the camera away and letting others take shots, so I'll have them once they get shared on the Facebook.

Our highlight of the week was decorating our church for Christmas.

Since we rent, we don't decorate big time or outside.

I've gotten very sad about this in the past.

This little decorating adventure lifted my spirits and filled that need to decorate a big space.

Somehow I got roped into decorating the

'it belongs in a department store' tree.

Seriously.

I've always wondered how those trees get so beautiful.

By shoving tons of glittering stuff into it.

Now you know too.

My job was handing the decorations to someone, so I had little to do with this gorgeous tree.

But it was totally awesome to be with new friends the night before Thanksgiving.

I hope we do this every year.

I've already said that I'm not looking forward to being part of the de-decorating committee!

This week I'll be writing out my Christmas cards and doing some shopping. We've decided to really downsize this year - one decent gift for each person. It's not so much a money thing (welp, it kinda is, but that wasn't the motivating factor) but a desire to appreciate time spent with others. We pretty much had a calm Christmas last year, so we'd like to keep that simplicity going.

Oh, and I may finally get to make these this week.

Source: bhg.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

What I Wore Wednesday 11/23/11

2011-11-23T07:20:00.000-05:00

Hi, all!

I won't lie, I'm not too thrilled with my outfits this week, but I'm sharing them anyway. I vow to be a better dresser next week.

Wednesday, 11/16

Worked at a local community college and attended my prayer meeting.

Top: Victoria Secret, thrifted

Pants: Dockers

Jacket: Marshall's (although it was lovingly referred to as a Vera jacket this week)

Shoes: Bare Traps

Scarf: Nordstrom

Earrings: Candies64

Thursday, 11/17

Top: Target

Pants: Dockers

Jacket: Talbots

Shoes: DSW

Diamond studs

Necklace: Francesca's

Friday, 11/18

Meeting of local colleges.

Top: Liberty of London, Target

Jacket: Talbots

Pants: The Limited, thrifted

Shoes: Aerosoles

Earrings: Tracis Trinkets

Scarf: The Pleated Poppy

Monday, 11/21

I really want to like this top. It's just not for me though.

It will be donated at our swap this spring.

Top: Sigrid Olsen, thrifted

Pants: Ann Taylor, thrifted

Jacket: Gap, thrifted

Shoes: Bare Traps

Earrings: Kohl's

Tuesday, 11/22

Crazy day at work. But good crazy.

Top: Ann Taylor

Jacket: Talbots

Belt: Jcrew Factory

Pants: Worthington, thrifted

Shoes: Bare Traps

Earrings: Local shop

Vintage pin: from my mama

Next week I might just start pulling out the Christmasy plaid skirts...we'll see!