My Lucky day...in the midst of some rough ones

Wow, it's been a rough few days. I get sick once, maybe twice a year, but rarely has it knocked me out like this go around has! I can't ever remember getting such a terrible cold/allergies and let me tell you, I hope I don't ever get it like this again! Needless to say my to-do list has been pushed to the side for days so now as I'm trying to talk myself into feeling better I'm tackling that list one by one.

I was looking through the Anthro website the other day (since all I was doing was laying around trying to feel better) to see all the pretty new arrivals and started adding things to my wish list. I took a look at my very long list when I was done and at the bottom remained the elusive Rise and Fall cardigan. Remember this little gem?



I was still kinda bummed that I missed out on getting this cute sweater as I thought it would be a great fall piece. I seriously stalked this item for months and was sad when my size sold out before I could grab one up the day it went on sale. I decided to call customer service just one more time to see if maybe they had come upon any that someone had returned, or wasn't logged into the system last time I called about it a few weeks ago. I wasn't expecting anything really, but was hoping maybe to get lucky. Customer Service told me that 5 of them were showing up in their system, but that each store that had one was only listing 1 available which as we all know, often times means they don't really have one. I reluctantly took down the numbers of the stores and decided to give it a go anyways. I mean, come on...I was doing nothing else! The first store was a no...they had already sold it. The next store...in Boulder, CO...well they made my day! The sales assistant put me on hold and came back after searching the racks and told me she had found it...a Small in the Brown motif. I couldn't believe it! SOLD! So now I am awaiting it's arrival...I cannot wait! I absolutely love the service that Anthro gives to it's customers when trying to track an item down...I've have nothing but great experiences. Now, because of them, I have my Rise and Fall cardigan after all!

I didn't put an ounce of make-up on yesterday and threw my hair into a messy ponytail/bun concoction so no OOTD from that....I'll spare you. I did make it to part of church on Sunday so here's my outfit from then:



Details:

-Petal Vine shell (Orchid Shadow)-J Crew
-V-Neck Cardigan (Vintage Yellow)-LOFT
-Skirt-Banana Republic Outlet (2008)
-Seychelles "Password Pumps"-Nordstrom (got these during the Anniversary sale)
-Necklace-Banana Republic Outlet
-Earrings-Anthropologie (no longer online0check stores)
-Ring-Forever 21

I have never worn this color combination before--the purple and yellow...I stepped outside my box a little. It also never even occurred to me before that these shoes were such a similar color to the cardigan...funny. Overall I liked the outcome...something new.

Today is gonna be a whirlwind of getting things done. I am in charge of the annual craft night at my church for the women so I'm trying to get all my samples ready to set out this coming Sunday. I was up till 2am this morning working on it, and have a few places to go today to pick up some supplies I missed. Then, I have Back to School Night tonight for my 6 year old...always fun. We also have company coming tomorrow night...my husband's brother, his wife and their 2 kids are coming to see us for the weekend before they take off to England for three years(they're in the military also). I'm excited to see them, but I've gotta get this house picked up and laundry done ASAP. The boys' laundry was literally climbing up the side of their bunk bed this morning before I hauled it out. My 4 year old asked me if I had forgotten to do it yesterday. Try a few days. =) That's what happens when mommy's sick dude!

I managed to get myself up, showered and dressed this morning...here's what I'm wearing...

With cardigan:



Without (for when it's 90 degrees out this afternoon):



Details:
-Curated Tee-Anthropologie ($29.95--only red left online)
-3/4 Sleeve Tipped Bow Cardigan-LOFT (new arrival)
-Tiered Skirt-Target ($19.99)
-Wedge Sandals-Nordstrom (Summer 2010)
-Ring-gifted from my husband from a Boutique
-Necklace-OLD
-Earrings-Old Navy

I'm loving this cardigan...the color is so pretty...a really soft lavender almost. I won't wear it all day as it'll get HOT later, but for the morning chill it works. As for the second picture without the cardigan...it needs something. Some color somewhere....like a yellow necklace or something. Hmm....gotta think on that. What would you do to spice it up??

Well I'm off to get things done...hoping the Sudafed kicks into high gear and I make it through the day!! Crossing my fingers!!

My Saturday...

Today was suppose to be a productive day...I planned on running, doing lots of laundry, organizing some, etc...and I woke up sick. BLAH! Making my morning even more exciting was the fact that my kids were all up by 6:30am...first one arose at 6:05am. Heaven help me! To top it off my husband had already left to go fishing so it was all me. I've spent all day trying to get over this darn cough/wheezing/headache/shortness of breath...I'm feeling a little better but I really could go crawl into bed for the rest of the day. However, I can't do that because we have plans tonight...the kind of plans that involve a babysitter for the kids while Josh and I go out with some friends to dinner at PF Changs. I just don't miss out on plans like that...ever! So away we will go...I want my honey crispy chicken over brown rice!

I broke out the new shoes for tonight...these are the kind of shoes you wear out on date night...not to Target on a regular basis. They definitely scream "night time". I can't say I'll never wear them during the day but it's highly doubtful. I pulled out a few new things I've purchased over the past few months in anticipation of fall...and without even realizing it once again I'm continuing on with the purple and green...I'm a one trick pony this week on the color wheel...geez!



Details:
-Tiered Tank-Old Navy (highly recommend this tank...love it!)
-Olive green Forever Cardigan-J Crew Outlet
-Ultimate Skinny Jeans-Banana Republic
-Flower Belt-J Crew Outlet
-Vince Camuto "Miki Pumps"-Nordstrom
-Necklace-Old Navy
-Ring-Forever 21
-Earrings-Nordstrom

I stalked that flower belt for months...I've seen so many models on many websites wearing one like it and always thought it was so cute but just didn't know if I could pull it off. They were on a great sale one time when I was at the outlets and I finally decided to take the plunge. I figured there must be something I could do with it! When I took my shoes out of my closet today I immediately noticed they were a similar color to the color of my belt...good start! Not sure I tied it right, but I'm running with it. This olive green color is another step outside my box...I never wear olive green so when I bought the cardigan I was risking it. I think as long as you pair it with the right color, it can be flattering on most skin tones, honestly. I loved it with the bright royal purple and it just looks like fall to me. It's only about 74 degrees here today so I'm feeling like fall. =)

I'm off to run a few errands (my kids don't care that I'm sick...they still need to be fed so I need to get some groceries). No worries...I changed my shoes...flats for now until we go out tonight.

Enjoy your day!

Casual Friday

TGIF...for reals folks. I'm so happy to see Friday. It's like my new best friend. Today was a good day...my mom and I hung out and had a good time. Last night I told her about the shoes I was in love with (the ones I found on my girl's weekend...the Vince Camuto "Miki" Pumps) while I was telling her all about the fun my girlfriends and I had in San Francisco and then this morning she turned to me and said "I want to give you your birthday present early" (my birthday is in a few weeks). I said, why not!?! I'll admit, I'm a girl that likes presents! I was expecting her to pull something out of her bag but instead she told me she wanted to take me to the mall and buy me the shoes I've been coveting...my beloved Miki pumps!!



What?? Seriously? I tried to tell her she didn't have to, but she insisted she wanted to so who am I to argue with my mom? =)

So off we went to the mall. I am in love all over again...love! I tried on the 8 1/2 because they told me they typically run large, but could barely squeeze into them. I tried on the 9 and they were a much better fit. They were the perfect length but had a little extra room in the rise (I have super flat, narrow feet so this left extra room). The SA threw some insoles in the shoes and away we went...much better fit. So happy birthday to me....13 days early. As we were waiting in line at Nordstrom to check out my mom reminded me that today was actually suppose to be my birthday...apparently I was a little too comfortable and wouldn't come out. Maybe that explains my problem with being late to things...hmmm... Funny to think I was suppose to be an August baby...weird. So thank you thank you thank you to my mom (and dad) for my fun birthday present...30 is starting to look good! =)

So even though I brought home some super hot shoes, I decided to go casual today...super comfy. I guess the wedge sandals dress it up a bit, but overall I'm feeling casual.



Details:
-Top-Down East Basics (from 2008 or 2009...can't remember)
-Wonder Tee-Down East Basics
-Short Sleeve Sweater-LOFT (Spring 2010)
-Cropped Skinny Jeans-GAP ($24.99!!)
-Gold Wedge Sandals-Banana Republic Outlet (Spring 2010)
-Necklace and Bracelet-Banana Republic Outlet (Spring 2010)
-Ring-Forever 21
-Earrings-Old Navy

This shirt is SUPER blousey and can only be worn with a cardigan. I've almost given it away twice now because of the fit, but I love the color and just haven't been able to part with it.

I stopped by LOFT this week to return a few things I had been going back and forth about keeping...I guess if you keep thinking you might want to return something you should just do it right? So I did. They had some of their new roll out there and I'm liking what I see! I picked up a few things with my store credit and enjoyed the Buy 1, Get 1 one 50% off tops and sweaters deal...here's what I got:



Ever since I saw actress Kristen Bell wearing this tank in a picture from the LOFT preview party back in the summer I've loved it and knew I wanted to get it. It was the first thing I looked for when I was at LOFT!



I saw this cardigan and thought it was cute but didn't really think I'd love it on me. Well, I was wrong. I love it! It's just so cute and girly...and I really like the black stitching trim on the bow...adds a little something extra. Super cute!



I swore I was done with t-shirts since fall is upon us but I really liked this one and figured it could easily be layered in the colder months.



That last sweater is a step outside the box for me, for sure, because of the color. I LOVE the fall-inspired color of the sweater but am not sure it's for me...hoping that with the right tank/shirt, accessories, etc I can make it work. We'll see. I'd love to expand my cardigan color horizons! =)

I also grabbed a few things from Banana this week with the Give and Get discount...but passed on Old Navy and GAP. That was me being "good". =) I'll share what I got when they come...I stuck to a cardigan, a top and a pair of jeans. Banana jeans are quickly becoming my favorite I think!

Have a great weekend...we have fun plans to go to PF Changs for dinner with friends tomorrow night...can't wait!!

HOT HOT HOT!!!

There has been a heatwave around the bay area this week and I honestly feel like I'm back in San Antonio in August again! Thankfully it looks like by the weekend we'll be cooling down a bit...hot weather in the dead of summer is one thing, but when it's 110 degrees at after school pick-up, it's another. I'm so over it! On top of the really fun weather I've somehow caught something and have been sick this week. I'm slowly getting over this awful cold...I hear my kids starting to cough like me so I'm hoping the weekend isn't full of a bunch of sickies around here! We have guests coming to visit next week so we need to get everyone well again!
So let's get right to it...here's what I've been pulling out of my closet this week:

Tuesday:



Details:
-Curated Tee-Anthropologie (got this on sale for $29.95)
-Denim-OLD-Summer 2007
-Madden Girl Sandals-DSW Shoes (Summer 2010)--got these for $29.95
-Cocktail Ring and Earrings-American Eagle
-Necklace-Fossil
-Bracelet watch-gifted from my in-laws

Wednesday:



Details:
-Dress-Layers Clothing (I got this on super sale for $10 Spring 2009)
-Cardigan-LOFT (Spring 2010)
-Looping Lanes Belt-Anthropolgie
-Presta Wedge Sandals-Target (Summer 2010) for $17 on sale
-Necklace-Tiffany(gifted from my husband)
-Earrings-Nordstrom ($6)
-Bangles-gifted from my sis-in-law for my birthday--thanks Kristen!!
-Ring-Forever 21

Sorry my shoes kinda got cut off on this one...it happens. So after I was uploading these pictures I looked at them and realized I wore purple and black twice within three days...obsessed much? The sad thing is that I didn't even realize I had done it! I looked in my closet to see how else I could style this dress...I found my open ruffle cardigan from J Crew Outlet I picked up in the springtime and thought it would also be a good option:



I may like this combo better...what do you think??

I bought this dress for $10 during an online sale...I had no idea what I was going to do with it but just couldn't pass it up for the price. This is actually the first time I've worn it...it just sat for over a year in my closet. Sad. I'm thinking it could be cute with some riding boots in the fall...if I could pull that off.

Lastly, here is a picture of the cute H&M jacket I picked up last weekend in the city:



I loved the details on it and the little poof at the shoulders...hoping I can find lots of ways to wear it (once it's finally out of the 100's!)

Today my mom is suppose to be coming for a visit so I'm excited to hang out with her...it's been forever! I also need to give my oldest a haircut...picture day is tomorrow!!

Oh, and just a little tid bit of info...check out Jessica's awesome giveaway over at Breakfast at Gigi's!!! Hoping I win! =)

Hope everyone has a great day!

Girl's Weekend Fun!!!

This weekend was "Girl's weekend"...well, for about 24 hours anyways. Four of my girlfriends and I went into the city and shopped till we dropped, and of course, ate some really yummy food! We started out in Union Square in the shoe section at Nordstrom, and then hit Gap, Anthropologie, took Muni down to the Embarcadero area and had lunch at Palominos (if you ever get to go there, order the Gorgonzola cheese fries...OH MY GOSH...HEAVEN!!!), went to another Gap, William Sonoma, See's Candy (tradition!!!) and Old Navy. At that point two of my friends had to head home but the rest of us stopped back into the mall to check out J Crew. After that we headed up to the hotel to check-in and take a quick break. We headed back out around 7pm to DSW Shoes, H&M, and then ended up at Macy's. It was the one-day sale at Macy's so they were open until 11pm...thank goodness because we couldn't get a table at Cheesecake Factory until 10:30pm so that gave us somewhere to go until then! We looked around a bit, but ended up taking residence on one of the couches in the completely disheveled shoe section while we chatted, people watched and ALMOST fell asleep. At 10:30pm we made our way to dinner where we decided to order a few appetizers and dessert instead of a big meal. We got back to the hotel just after midnight and we were EXHAUSTED! What a day...so much fun! We got up the next morning around 9am, showered and went to breakfast, and then headed for home. We had to be at church by 1pm so we were on a schedule. So that was our whirlwind trip to the city...can't wait to do it again!
As for what I got....just a few things, really. I ended up with another Curated Tee (navy blue with polka-dots) from Anthro as well as a cute pair of earrings that were on sale, and a shorter-fit military inspired jacket from H&M (picture of this in the next post maybe). That's it! Weak, I know. I actually did purchase a pair of shoes from Nordstrom but immediately after buying them I got buyers remorse so I returned them like 3 minutes later. Weird, I know. I just started thinking I could maybe find them on sale somewhere else. I actually bought more for my boys than I did for me! I got my oldest some dress pants for church that he was in desperate need of (he's starting to get high waterish in his old ones)and a plaid button-up collared shirt all from Old Navy along with a jacket from H&M, and I got my second little guy a hoodie that was on sale for $8 at Old Navy. My poor little Coby...he didn't get anything this go-around. He has so many hand-me-downs it's ridiculous! Maybe next time. I did find several things that are now on my wish list at several places...at the top of the list are these:

Vince Camuto "Miki" Pumps



When I first saw them I actually think I called them a little "crazy looking"...with the snake skin and all. I decided to try the sample on just for fun and LOVED it! Now I'm obsessed with them and can't wait to get these at some point. They'll look so cute with skinny jeans I think.

At Gap I found a few things I liked:

Double-breasted Funnel Cardigan



I really liked the way this sweater fit...it was super cozy and would easily go with jeans and several colors on top. I passed on it because my friends and I thought it looked like other things I already owned, but after looking in my closet, I don't think I really have anything identical so I may be picking this up with my Groupon next weekend--the Give and Get 30% starts Aug 26th so between the sale and the Groupon I could pick this up for a great price!

Legging Jeans



I really liked these--especially the length, which I was surprised by. I ALMOST bought these, but passed because to get a really good deal on them you had to buy two pairs of jeans (in-store special)...I only wanted one. I may end up getting these at some point. I would get these in one size up from my normal GAP size because they are leggings...just tighter all around, however because I have such chicken legs, they certainly didn't look like leggings on me on the bottom...more like skinny or straight jeans. They were still very flattering though so I think they'd be great to have on hand.

I was hoping to try on the Bianka Blouse at Anthropologie to see if I really liked it in person as much as I did online, but the store was sold out...the SA told me they were scheduled to get another shipment at some point though so hopefully I'll get to try it on one of these days! I noticed they are all on back order online too.

The only place we didn't make it to that I was hoping to go to was Banana Republic...we just simply ran out of time. There's just so many places to go and so little time! =)

I'll end with a few OOTD shots...here's what I wore Saturday (standing in the shoe section in Macy's):



Details:
-White Tee-Ann Taylor Outlet
-Striped cardigan-Love 21 (Summer 2010)-Always Skinny Jeans-GAP (I got these in the Petite length and they're perfect!)
-Snakebite Belt-Anthropologie (got this on sale for $19! Sold out online but check stores)
-Zebra Flats-Target (Winter 2010)
-Earrings-Forever 21
-Necklace-Lisa Leonard Designs
-Cocktail Ring-American Eagle

Here's what I wore to church yesterday:



Details:
-Dress-Down East Basics (Winter 2010))
-Sandals-Jessica Simpson (2008)
-Earrings-Forever 21
-Bracelet Watch-gifted from my in laws
-Necklace-Lisa Leonard Designs
-Cocktail Ring-American Eagle

I pretty much wore the exact same accessories as I had the day before because when I got home from San Francisco I literally changed in 5 minutes and headed to church...didn't think to change up my jewelry much!

And here's what I'm wearing today...it's Monday again already!!!



Details:
-Dress-Down East Basics (Summer 2009)
-Leggings-Target (I got these for $6 last year and noticed they have them again this year for the same price...they feel thin so I don't get that hot wearing them but they're not really see-through which is a good thing!)
-BP Stella Sandals-Nordstrom (Summer 2010)--these have been one of the best purchases!!
-Pessinus Garden Necklace-Anthropologie (sold out online--check stores)
-Cuff-Fossil--gifted from my sis-in-law Hailey for Christmas one year
-Earrings-Forever 21

I haven't worn this all summer so I thought I'd pull it out again...I bought this online thinking it would be longer but when I tried it on and saw the length I just decided to always wear it with leggings...so far so good! It's super comfy and I really love the color.

That's about it for now...hope you have a great day! I'm excited to see what goes on sale at Anthro tonight...I'm on the lookout for the Whirl & Wind Cardigan for a friend....as for me, I'm trying to be good. =)

Week of the Cardigan

Happy Friday!!!

I am SOOO excited for the weekend! Gotta get through one more day still...so close! I've decided once again that I need to back off on the shopping (after this weekend of course)...after my "ban" in July--for all of those three weeks I actually stuck to it--I kinda let loose in August and now feel the need to take a step back and relax. I do have quite a few rewards cards to spend at LOFT in September so I do plan on using those still, but besides those, and perhaps a new pair of boots, I am gonna try hard to sit out for a while. Anthro's free shipping ends after Labor day so that will make it easier for me to avoid there at least! I did cave and ended up calling around and finding the Looping Lanes belt from Anthro...I have seen it on so many people and just think it is the cutest, and a very versatile belt. I can see it being very handy in the coming months with tunics (I picked this one up and think it'll be so cute with the belt, some skinny jeans and riding boots--it looks cute on...not too campy like it may look in the stock picture), cardigans, etc. Anyhow, here's to hoping my LOFT rewards cards can get me through (most of) September!

So onto a few OOTD pictures...as I look at the outfits I've worn this week, I realize I truly have had cardigans on the brain! I only wear them for about an hour though because after the morning drop off at school the temps spike way up high and it's time for shorts once again. Here's what I've worn...

Wednesday (ran errands)

Morning Drop-off:


During the day:


Details:
-Top-Gap Outlet
-Skinny Jeans-American Eagle
-Cardigan-Target ($14.99--Mossimo brand--seriously feels equal to the J Crew Forever cardigan--in stores now)
-Zebra Flats-Target (Winter 2010)
-Bracelet-Down East Basics
-Ring-Forever 21
-Earrings-Nordstrom

Thursday (went to breakfast with some girlfriends, ran a few errands and attended the PTO ice cream social after school)

Morning Drop-off:


During the day:


Details:
-Wonder Tee-Down East Basics
-Tiered Skirt-Target (Summer 2010)
-Cardigan-J Crew (Spring 2010)--no longer online
-BP Stella Sandals-Nordstrom (Summer 2010)
-Earrings-Forever 21
-Necklace-Double Torsade Necklace-Anthropologie (scored for $14.99!)
-Ring-Target
-Bangles-can't remember!!

Not a whole lot going on today---school as usual, and then I'm headed to the airport in the evening to pick up my parents who are returning from their 3 week-long vacation in England...I'm excited to see them! On Saturday I am outta here for a little getaway with my girls...can't wait!

Hope your Friday is Fabulous!!

Hot and Cold

We've hit that time of year here in the bay area when the mornings are pretty chilly outside, yet the afternoons are sizzling! With school starting at 8am, we are up and out the door quite early and literally freezing on our walk from the car to the school. Trying to come up with an outfit that will go from morning to afternoon without having to do a complete overhaul has proven to be a little tedious, I must say! My six year old wears shorts, short sleeves and a jacket each morning, but he's six and claimed he was hot this morning (when it was 57 degrees out) after playing on the playground for only like three minutes before the bell rang to line up to go to his classroom...crazy boy. Anyhow, for today my answer was to wear capris, a short sleeve shirt and a cardigan. That way all I had to do was remove the cardigan when it was time to pick my little guy up from school in the afternoon when it was much warmer out. So here's what today's outfit consisted of:



Details:
-Sunburst Sequin Tee-J Crew (Spring 2010)
-Cardigan-J Crew (LOVE LOVE LOVE this one!!!--Spring 2010)
-Mossimo Jean Capris-Target
-BC Flats-DSW Shoes (Spring 2010)
-Necklace/ Watch-Fossil
-Bracelet-Gap Outlet
-Earrings-Nordstrom
-Ring-Forever 21

These capris look super baggy in my right thigh in this picture for some reason...they do tend to stretch out a bit. They're from Target...enough said I suppose. It was a second-day hair day today so I thought I'd curl it...I think hair curls/styles much better with dirty hair don't you?? I happened to purchase this cardigan just to make it to the amount I needed to get free shipping on a J Crew order one time thinking I'd just try it on and then return it...after I tried it I fell in love and it found a new home in my closet. It is so comfy and I really like the color...I just couldn't part with it.

So did you get anything fun this morning from Anthro's big sale?? There were two items on my wish list that hit the sale but I only grabbed one...the Curated Tee in red:



I tried tracking down the Rise and Fall cardigan in the brown motif with no success...there is not a single one left in the entire country in a small. I found an XL in a store in Massachusetts if that helps anyone! =) Guess it wasn't meant to be. All well. I'll survive.

I'm exhausted so I'm off to bed...another early morning for me tomorrow! Hope everyone has a great Wednesday!!!

OOTD Catch up

Last week was just crazy busy and my blog took a back seat to everything I had going on. Back at it today...I was up bright and early to get my run in before getting my big 1st grader ready for his first day of school! It's just me and my my two little ones today...my 4 year old is sitting next to me practicing writing his name and his numbers while my 1 year old is screaming in his bed...ahh, he just stopped...nap time! =)

So even though I haven't been posting, I've still been taking pictures of some of my outfits over the past few days. I had a church activity on Thursday night, we went out to dinner with friends on Saturday night, went to church on Sunday and then today like I said, was the first day of school. Lots of good reasons to get dressed! =) I also have received my Gap skinny jeans...more on those in a bit.

So here goes the parade of outfits:

Thursday:



Details:
-Perfect-Fit Stripe Boatneck Tee-J Crew (Summer 2010)-sold out online
-Matchstick Jeans-J Crew Outlet (Spring 2010)
-Wedge Sandals-Old Navy (Summer 2010)
-Candy Bowl Ring-Banana Republic ("Green Gem")-ON SALE NOW!
-Silver Necklace-Banana Republic Outlet-Summer 2010

Friday I wore super comfy clothes--nothing cute--so I passed on getting a picture. That brings us to Saturday--one outfit during the day and one for going out:

Daytime:



Details:
-Top-Gap Outlet (OLD-circa 2007)
-Shorts-Old Navy (OLD-circa 2007)
-Flip Flops-Gap Outlet (OLD)
-Watch-Fossil
-Necklace-Lisa Leonard Designs

We went to The Melting Pot for dinner with some friends so I decided to get a little more dressy:





Details:
-Skinny Jeans-American Eagle (ON SALE NOW)
-Twist Neck Shell-LOFT
-Chunky Weave Short Sleeve Sweater-Banana Republic Outlet (Summer 2010)
-Style and Co. Heels-Macy's (Fall 2009)
-Necklace and Bracelet-LOFT (Spring 2010)--neither online any longer--check stores!

So I found another great pair of skinny jeans...from American Eagle (I got the Worn Midnight Color shown here)!



I found them online on sale so I thought I'd stop by the store while I had a few minutes to myself and try them on to see how they fit. I was very surprised at how much I liked them! I have another pair of AE jeans I wore last winter that I love, but throughout the day they tend to stretch out quite a bit so I was a little hesitant about getting the skinny jeans in fear that this would be a problem. After trying them on and liking the way they looked and fit, I thought I'd give them a try. Just an FYI--they run true to size...I got them in short length and they were still plenty long. In the store the jeans were NOT on sale so I asked the manager if he'd be willing to honor the online price and he said yes...perfect! They were also running a buy a pair of jeans, get a shirt half-off deal, so I also picked this up for just $12:

AE Striped Scoopneck Tee



After our night out, which I quite enjoyed (good food and good friends is always a great combination!) the jeans were still shaped the exact same way in which I left the house--no stretching out at all which was awesome. I am very happy with them.

SIDENOTE: So I received my Gap Skinny jeans in the mail...the ones I had tried on IN the store but opted to purchase online so I could get a better deal...and they were too big. Like really big. Not sure what's going on with the sizing but I called to size down and they don't carry the size I need in an ankle length, so I opted to order it in a petite size. Apparently the petite length is the same length as a regular ankle length. We'll see how this works out...I'm thinking they might be too tight of a fit in the hips since they're petite, but I guess you never know till you try them on. I'm anxiously awaiting their arrival this week! I also ordered the Perfect Bootcut fit and had to return those as well to size down. Hoping these all work out!!

Onto Sunday:





Details:
-Ruffle Tank-LOFT (Spring 2010)
-Sequin Cardigan-LOFT (Spring 2010)
-Pencil Skirt-J Crew Outlet (Spring 2010)
-Gray Heels-Kohls
-Necklace-Lisa Leonard Designs
-Cocktail Ring-American Eagle
-Bracelet-J Crew Outlet

Sorry, I don't have the cutest feet...not my greatest asset. Just look at the shoes and not my feet. I had to speak in church yesterday so why not pull out some sequins to sparkle in? =) I love this sweater with this skirt...one of my favorite combos...yellow and gray yet again! I'm telling ya, it's a summer 2010 favorite!

And finally, today:



Details:
-Cardigan-Old Navy
-Tank-J Crew (Fall 2009)
-Cropped Skinny Jeans-Gap (got on sale for $24.99)
-BP Stella Sandals-Nordstrom
-Earrings and Ring-Forever 21
-Bracelet-Express

So there ya go...my parade of outfits. Hopefully I'll be able to keep up a little better this week! I'm excited for this upcoming weekend...I'm headed into San Francisco for a little shopping trip with four of my close girlfriends for the day/night. 24 hours (plus a few) of just girl time...I'm so excited! I can't wait to hit up some of my favorite stores and just browse, try-on and most likely purchase a few fun things. Knowing I get to take off and have some fun this weekend is gonna get me through the week! =)

Hope everyone has a great day!

I Swear, it's still Summer!!! But I'm crushing on winter attire!

I woke up this morning to my alarm clock playing music at 5:44am. I was sure I must have set the alarm wrong as it was pretty much pitch black in my room still.. surely this is a joke! I looked over and indeed it was 5:44am. Time to get up and on the treadmill before the troops arise. After my run daylight had finally come but boy, was it overcast and chilly. It honestly felt and looked like October! I refuse to believe my precious summer is over so I pulled out the brightest shirt I could find in my closet:



Details:
-Shirt-American Eagle (OLD--over three years old--SHOPPING MY CLOSET!!)
-Matchstick Jeans-J Crew Outlet (Spring 2010)
-Wonder Tee-Down East Basics
-Sandals-LOFT
-Bangles-Gap Outlet
-Necklace-Lisa Leonard Designs
-Earrings-American Eagle
-Ring-Forever 21

I originally had shorts on but after stepping outside I came back in and promptly changed...I'm a wuss when it comes to cold weather. I blame it on living in Texas for four years....the coldest it ever got there was like 55 degrees in December. I lived in Utah before that...now THAT was cold. I visited Alaska in December one time...that takes the cake.

So even though I'm still all about summer weather, I can't help but be so excited for fall to roll around...I just love fall clothes! Sweaters, boots, jackets...YUM!! My wishlist is seriously out of control and I'm lusting after several cute things...

Bianka Blouse-Anthropologie



This would be so cute with skinny jeans, a chunky weave sweater and over the knee boots! Speaking of boots...



Shiri Suede Over-the-knee Boot-LOFT

I love the dark chocolate brown color of these over-the-knee boots and the fact that they're so versatile...you can fold them down or pull them up. Gorgeous!

Next up are these pretties...Anticipation Heels-Anthropologie



These are seriously so cute...I'm dying to try them on! The gray color would go with a ton and they'd be so cute with jeans!

Ok, that's it for now. I'm off to bed...my husband came home tonight after hiking Mt Whitney with his brothers and dad this week so it's ncie to have some company again after the kids go to bed.

Good night!

A few OOTD's...

The past weekend flew by and here we are right back to Tuesday already! This is officially our last week of summer vacation as my son starts school next Monday...my 4 year old won't start preschool until after Labor day however. So this past weekend I got the chance to go shopping with a friend of mine without most of the kids...my littlest guy tagged along and let me tell you, he was a handful. Poor kid...he'd getting a bunch of teeth and was just not in the mood to shop. We still had a good time. I found a few things...I grabbed a long-sleeve boyfriend fit cardigan in a dark teal from Gap Outlet (on sale for $22) and a really cute short sleeved-chunky weave cardigan from the Banana Republic outlet that could easily transition to fall layered over a long sleeve tee. I also got a cute necklace at Banana for $11.99. All in all there weren't a ton of things I was in love with which was a good thing--less temptation.

Here's what I wore on our little outing:



Details:
-Winding Road Tank-Anthropologie
-Cardigan-Old Navy (Winter 2010)
-Matchstick Jeans-J Crew Outlet (Spring 2010)
-Presta Wedge Sandals-Target (Spring 2010)
-Earrings-Forever 21 (OLD)
-Necklace and Watch-Fossil
-Bangles-Gap Outlet

On Sunday we went to church as usual and I felt like digging into my closet and seeing what I could find that hadn't seen the light of day for a while (shopping my closet--holla!!). I came up with this:



Details:
-White ruffle-front shirt-Gap Outlet (at least 2 years old)
-Tan pencil skirt-Banana Republic Outlet (circa Spring 2008)
-Gold wedge sandals-Banana Republic Outlet (Spring 2010)
-Small circle necklace-Shabby Apple
-Kenneth Cole Earrings-Macy's
-Gold belt-J Crew Outlet (Summer 2010)

Yesterday was business as usual...I was up early to run and spent the morning hanging around the house. In the afternoon I needed to run to Target and then we met up with some friends for dinner at...wait for it....IHOP! My oldest has been dying to go to IHOP recently for some reason so I told him we'd go sometime before school started. Well, school starts next week so I figured I'd better squeeze that one in! Breakfast for dinner it was for us! YUM! I felt like wearing a skirt yesterday so here's what I wore:



Details:
-Skirt-Gap (got this for $14.99 on sale when I was pregnant with #3 intending to wear it after he was born...this is the first time I've ever worn it--whoops!)
-Short sleeve top-LOFT (Spring 2010)
-Wonder Tee-Down East Basics
-Madden girl Sandals-DSW Shoes
-Cocktail Ring-Banana Republic
-Bangles-Gap Outlet (2009)
-Necklace-Tiffany (gift from my hubby)
-Earrings-Nordstrom (from my trip last month)

I never got around to taking a picture of today's outfit so those three will have to do. Tomorrow I have a trip to the grocery store planned in the morning (with three kids it's even more fun) and then a park date and dinner with friends in the evening...I'll be sporting something comfortable for sure. I'm off to get the kiddos ready for bed...gotta catch up on my DVR...Bachelor Pad from last night, The Rachel Zoe Project from tonight...can't wait!

Have a good one!

Skinny Jean update, an OOTD and a few Tags

Happy Saturday everyone! I'm meeting up with a friend today to go check out some stores at the outlets with only one kid in tow...the other two are going to a little parents day out type thing the base was offering. They can't wait! My kids are pretty outgoing and love to meet and play with other kids so they'll have a good time I'm sure. My little guy will be tagging along with me...he's gotten three molars in the past few days so he's been a little grumpy..hoping he feels like shopping today! I need absolutely nothing on this little shopping trip but when a shopping trip is offered up who am I to pass up the chance? =)

My Banana Republic order arrived yesterday with the Skinny dark wash jeans...they are FABULOUS!!! The fit is pretty good and the length is perfection. I like the length of these better than I did the GAP skinny jeans actually--maybe. It seemed like every GAP pair I tried on was just a little bit different in the length so I'm hoping the ones I end up getting from online aren't too short. You just never know what you're gonna get! I would still like to try on the Ultimate Skinny dark wash jeans from Banana...they look almost identical to the ones I just got but I'm thinking they may fit just a bit tighter throughout a few key areas...the next time there's a good sale or I'm by one of the stores with some time I might peek in a try these on before I take the tags off the ones I just got. I would be perfectly happy with the ones that arrived yesterday but just out of curiosity I want to see what the difference in fit is with the Ultimate skinnies.

Here's my outfit from yesterday...I couldn't wait to pull out these new purchases and try them out so it was a mix of what I picked up at LOFT this week and a sale purchase from Anthro a few weeks ago:



Details:
-Torsade Tee-Anthropologie
-Marisa Slim Cargo pants-LOFT
-Andre Knotted Sandals-LOFT
-Bracelet-Banana Republic Outlet (Spring 2010)
-Necklace-Macy's-gifted from my friend Elise a few Christmas's ago
-Diamond stud earrings--passed down to me from my grandma...sentimental =)

I wore these shoes most of the day yesterday and was very impressed at how comfortable they are...the material used is so smooth which means no blisters...yay! I'm a fan. At first I put this cardigan from LOFT on with my outfit...



What do you think...cardigan or no? I ended up taking it off because I couldn't decide.

In the past few days I was tagged a couple times so I thought I'd finally get around to answering all the questions...thanks for the tags M from "Shopping with M" and Tricia from "Tricia's Take"!!

First up--the questions from M:

1) What is at the top of your Realistic (style) Wishlist for the fall/winter? What is at the top of your All-Time Pie-in-the-sky Wishlist?
I have a few things that I'd love to get his fall...first up I love the Bianka Blouse from Anthropologie. I love the gorgeous floral print and think it would be so cute paired with dark denim skinnies and dark brown boots. That leads me to my next want---some dark brown suede-type boots. The last thing I can think of off the top of my head is a pair of Original tall Hunter Rain boots in metallic silver. I never bought any rain boots last year and promised myself I'd get some this year. At the top of my All-time pie-in-the-sky wish list would be a really nice bag...something super posh. I have to wait for that till my kids are a little older and I don't have to carry sippy cups and diapers around with me though. One day!

2) What celebrity is the person you think of when you want to look amazing? Hm, does that make sense? Like, if I feel like I am pulling off a Reese Witherspoon, that's my ultimate.

I always think of Jennifer Aniston...I think she is beautiful and always looks so put together. I also think Kelly Ripa has amazing style...and she has such a fun personality which I think comes through in her clothes.

3) What is the best thing you've ever purchased from eBay? If you have never used eBay (what??!), how about a yard sale or thrift shop?

I am not a yard sale or thrift store type person...I have a weird thing about wearing clothes that someone else has worn...it kind of weirds me out. I guess I'm a little snobby that way. I do use eBay from time to time to purchase new items...just a few weeks ago I got a J Crew Grand Ruffle shell for $16! Those were like $40 brand new in the store...pretty good deal I thought!

4) What is the last book you read?
wow, it's been a while. Having three little ones doesn't leave me a lot of free reading time. I read "Dear John" a few years ago when I took a vacation without my kids or husband to visit my sis-in-laws...it was so good. I've never read a book in a weekend...but I just couldn't put it down! When the movie came out I was so excited to see it but have to say, it definitely didn't live up to the book. Too bad. I'm a fan of Nicholas Sparks books...I like easy, light reads. If it's too in-depth I fall asleep.

5) What would you rather win: a) cleaning service for a year, or 2) a $1000 gift card to your favorite clothing store?
Oh boy...that's a hard one. Because my husband is gone so much for work I finally gave in and hired a cleaning lady to come clean twice a month and I wouldn't trade that for anything honestly! It makes me life so much less stressful...BUT, $1000 to shop with? Hmmm..tempting. =)

If you would like to participate in this tag consider yourself tagged by me and answer the same questions!

And now the questions from Tricia (she tagged me TWICE):

First, I won this blogging award from her (thanks!!):



What I'm supposed to do is reveal seven facts about myself and then pass the award along to seven other bloggers...so here we go:

1. I am the oldest of four kids in my family and I have all brothers. I now have three boys of my own. I'm apparently wired to deal with all boys! =)

2. I have a Bachelors degree from Brigham Young University (BYU) in Health Sciences--Community Health Education...but am a stay at home mom. I wouldn't have it any other way. I never really liked working much.

3. I have lived in 4 states in my life...CA, Utah, Alaska and Texas. In a few years there will probably be a new state to add to the list.

4. I am a city girl...country life is not for me. I love the hustle and bustle of being around people...I have no desire to live on acreage someday...no thanks. If I'm not within a 10 minute proximity to Target we're gonna have a problem.

5. I had very bad acne as a teenager...like not just a little..A LOT! I took Acutane twice. It was so awful and I hated the way I looked. It left scars on my skin in some areas of my cheeks. I used to be super self-conscious of it but over time have learned that it's just part of me. I don't notice it as much anymore...when I do I don't love it, but I accept it and move on.

6. I love to travel...I think my husband and I are going to go back to New York City the summer he graduates as a "Congrats we made it through residency" present to ourselves (sans kids). We went back in February 2001 before 9-11 but haven't been back since. I want to do it all...go to The Today show and stand in the crowd, try to go to Letterman, go get a frozen hot chocolate at Serendipity, SHOP!!!, see a Broadway show...everything! I can't wait! Other places I'd love to go to are Italy, Tahiti, Paris and London. San Francisco will always be a place I love to go to also....living so close to the city has been a treat these past few years.

7. I love running. I have been a runner since college. I have run two 10K races in the past year and really enjoy the feeling of accomplishment after you've finished a race. I do it to offset all the junk food I like to eat, to de-stress and to keep healthy. I have no interest in ever running a marathon...it sounds miserable. I get bored too easy to keep running that long!

And here are my answers to the second tag from Tricia:

1. Which celebrity style do you admire the most?

Like I mentioned before, Jennifer Aniston and Kelly Ripa are favorites.

2. What was the first job you ever held?

My first job was a food-court worker at the outlet mall when I was 14. My neighbors owned the little restaurant and I was only allowed to work for a 4 hour shift on Saturdays because of my age. I was a master corn dog maker! =)

3. If you were on a deserted island what 3 items would you take?
Hmmm...I would take good books, good food and my husband. =)

4. What's one habit of yours you wish you could break?
Being 5 minutes late for everything...I need to be better about this!!! I'm trying.

5. Where is one place you have never been, but would love to visit?
I'd love to go to Italy...like mentioned above. I hear it's amazing...and the food alone, hello!!

6. Do you have any "stupid human tricks" or "hidden talents"?
I took Polynesian dancing lessons from the time i was 3 years old till I was 11....I still remember some of it. I do still have some seriously wicked skills with the poi balls.

7. What is your favorite TV show?
How can I choose just one? I'm a DVR junkie! I love Glee...that may be my favorite at the moment.

8. What inspires you more: the beach, or the mountains?

I LOVE the beach and am much more a beach person, but there's something about the mountains that inspire me more. Maybe it's because I went to college in Utah and was surrounded by amazing mountains and really grew up and found who I was during those years that leads me to say that..I don't know. I'm not a hiker or camper so much, but just being surrounded by mountains makes me relive those years of growth.

I'm not going to tag anyone...I think these have made the rounds. I've had fun reading everyone's answers!! =)

Hope you all have a great weekend and enjoy some downtime! We just have one more weekend after this until school starts...this week ahead is our last full week of summer vacation. Gotta make it count!

A little shopping trip...and I'm the master of Copying

Today was a good day...the boys and I went for a little shopping trip today and everyone was really good. Hallelujah! That's a rare occasion. I can't tell you how many looks and comments I get when I shop with my crew....things like "wow, you've got your hands full" or "you must be busy!" and even the occasional "are you gonna go for a girl?" come out of random people's mouths when I'm out and about with the three of them. One of the sales associates at GAP today looked at me and said "They're so well behaved!" I could have kissed him. Better not though...I'm married. Seriously though, a nice comment like that is much appreciated sometimes!

Anyhow, we went to lots of fun places...LOFT, GAP, GAP kids, Banana Republic (just a quick walk-through...nothing appealed to me today), H&M, Macy's (just the Clinique counter), the pretzel place for lunch and then the frozen yogurt shop for a treat afterwards. At LOFT I tried on a ton of things just out of curiosity and ended up taking a few things home. I have seen these sandals all over their website and really fell in love with them in person.



They are totally sold out online so I was excited they had my size left in the store. They're pretty versatile and really comfortable.

The next thing that came home with me was these cute Marisa Slim Cargo pants in the Sage color:



The sizing on these is a disaster all around...I ended up going down a size and then go to a petite size on top of that...they ran really big. I love this fresh take on a cargo...much slimmer and more fitted.

The last thing I brought home is the Flint Wash Modern Skinny zip jeans.



I went back and forth about these as they look a little 80's-ish but I really liked the way they fit so I went for it. I may only ever wear them with knee-high boots so the zippers wouldn't even show. I just liked the color of the jean...something different. And for 30% off...everything was! Gotta love that! I did end up trying on LOFT's version of the skinny jean (dark denim color) and they are WAY too long on me. The petite sizing was a little too short. All well.

Next we moved onto Gap where I was looking for shoes for my son (we found them!!) and then I wanted to try on the Always Skinny jeans to see if they were a good fit for me. I ended up liking them but waited until we got home to buy them, along with my son's shoes, online to get a better deal.



So I liked them! They fit well and I liked the dark wash of the denim a lot. I decided to get the ankle length on these as the regular length was way too long. I could never wear flats with them that long. The best part? I'm getting these for free! They're regularly $69.50 but online they're on sale for $49.50. Then, I had a coupon for 25% off my purchase...bringing these to around $38. I whipped out my $40 rewards card and BAM! Free jeans! Nice. This may be the best deal I've ever gotten!

I also found the cutest tote bag on sale that is originally $39.50 (still this price online)--but on sale in-store for $20...and then I had that coupon for 25% off...so it came to $15! The dark purple color will be great for fall.



About 20 minutes after we left Gap the strap on my diaper bag all of a sudden totally snapped and broke...how ironic that I had just bought this tote! Guess this is my new day-to day! =)

So my OOTD today is a total copycat of one of Jessica's recent outfits...I totally went out and got this cardigan as soon as I saw it on her. LOVE! I never would have thought to pair it with the gray Grand Ruffle tank but I thought it looked so cute on her so I went for it.



Details:
-Cardigan-Ann Taylor Outlet
-Grand Ruffle shell-J Crew
-Matchstick Jeans-J Crew Outlet
-Wedge Heels-Old Navy

Not much going on tomorrow...maybe it'll be a kick-back day. We may go to the pool...we'll see. Have a great day!