Bon Chic Bon Gastronomique

Pink, Red, Love

2012-02-14T08:00:00.000-06:00

Thanksto all of your snow-day wishes yesterday—I did end up miraculously having one.Aaron, however, wasn’t as lucky; his school did not close. I felt a little badgoing back to bed after he left for work, but not bad enough to stay up.

Sweater: Gap; button-up: J. Crew Outlet; cords: Gap; earrings: Kohl's; boots: Sorel Tivoli, gift

Ispent the day reading and relaxing, and finally getting some use out of one of my favoriteChristmas presents, a pair of snow boots. (Well, I wore them every day inQuebec, but I figured they’d get much more wear than that!) While I’m sure acute pair of flats would have been more stylish, I couldn’t help but takeadvantage of the weather and show off my boots.

TodayI’m wearing pink and red for Every Body Every Wear’s pink and red Valentine’s Day challenge.Since Pretty Shiny Sparkly’s Blogger’s Do It Better challenge this time aroundis red, I’m going to join in with that as well. Be sure to head to both sitesto check out lots of Valentine’s Day inspiration.

Speaking of Valentine's Day, Aaron and I are keeping it fairly simple tonight. We're staying in, and he's cooking me a steak dinner, yum! I'm really looking forward to a nice cozy evening. I hope you enjoy your day and have a chance to spend some time with people you love.

Button Front Tops at Kohl's
Boots by Sorel

Snow Day Dance Diva

2012-02-13T08:00:00.000-06:00

AsI write this post, it’s Sunday night, and the Kansas City area is anticipatingits first snowstorm of the year. As a teacher, naturally I’m hopingfor a snow day tomorrow. The chances of that happening are very slim, but thatdoesn’t mean I’m not hopeful.

Coat: Loft; sweater: Target; jeans: Gap; scarf: Old Navy; shoes: Sam Edelmen, Hemline Boutique

Ithought about doing a “snow day dance”, but I realized I don’t really rememberwhat all that entails. I’m pretty certain it involved turning my pajamas insideout and spinning around in a few circles, but beyond that the details arefuzzy, at best. I have no doubt that all the snow-crazed students in the areawill pick up my slack. Here’s hoping it works!

Today’sInspiration Monday from the Two Birds blog is the photo above of Beyonce. I don’town any red outerwear, so I mixed up the color scheme a little. I also swappedthe leopard spots for polka dots. I wore this out to dinner with family, and myonly regret was that my pants weren’t stretchier. I ate way too much!

Skinny Denim by Gap
Wedges by Steve Madden

Wishing for Wu

2012-02-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

SoI’m a day late for Wishlist Wednesday, but better late than never, right? Thisbusy week has been the start to an even busier month, so here's hoping I make it. Is it May yet? Ha ha.

Cardigan: thrifted Ann Taylor; jeans: Gap; scarf: Loft; earrings: Bauble Bar; shoes: Bandolino via Marshall's

Thisweek, I’ve been thinking about the Jason Wu for Target collection. I wasn’tobsessed enough to show up at my Target on Sunday morning, but I do plan tomake a trip to see if there’s anything left in my size. I realize that the longerI wait, the less luck I’ll have, but like I said, it’s been busy around here.

Therewere several pieces in this collection I liked, and I’m very curious to seethem in person. I’m allowing myself to get one piece (if I can!) and I’m tryingto narrow it down from these three choices. All three are classic, wearable piecesthat I’d get a lot of use from. Which would you pick, if given the choice? Didyou score anything from this collection?

Dinner Tonight: Spicy Szechuan Noodles

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

Imake some sort of Asian stir-fry dish at least a couple times a month. I lovehow quick and easy they are to prepare, and it’s always fun experimenting withunique new ingredients. Plus, as long as I don’t get too crazy with thevegetables, I haven’t found one yet that Aaron doesn’t love.

Thistime, I tried some Spicy Szechuan Noodles with Pork from my Joy of Cooking calendar. It has manystir-fry all-star ingredients, like soy sauce, ginger, and chile pepper. Theadditions of a new-to-me ingredient, Chinese black bean sauce, and ground porkas opposed to my usual sliced chicken made this dish taste fresh and new.

Onceagain this stir-fry was a hit! For a printable recipe just go here.

Bounty Hunter Inspiration

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

Imissed Two Birds’ Inspiration Monday last week, but this week I got it togetherand joined in. Their challenge was a faceoff between two celebs wearing thesame vest. I based my look off of Michelle Trachtenberg’s denim and graysweater outfit.

Sweater: Loft; vest: Old Navy; jeans: Gap; boots: Mia via DSW

Sincemy winter weekend uniform consists of jeans, a sweater, and boots anyway, itwas a no-brainer. I just threw on my favorite vest (and I apologize if you’resick of it) and I was ready to go. This was what I wore to go see One for the Money with my best friend.

Ireally enjoyed the movie, and was surprised with how much I liked KatherineHeigl as Stephanie Plum. I just got into the series this year; I listen to thebooks in my car during my commute. Thank you Janet Evanovich for making mythirty minute drive fly by!

Double Double

2012-02-03T08:00:00.000-06:00

So,my husband is a huge sports nut. Most of the time I’m sitting at the computerwhile he’s watching a game, but from time to time I’ll join him. Unless it’s myalma mater K-State playing, I’m generally uninterested in the game, andtherefore need to find ways to entertain myself.

Chambray shirt: Old Navy; floral-print shirt: Old Navy; skirt: Target; earrings: Kohl's; boots: Mia via DSW

Oftenall it takes to amuse me are players’ names or all the sexual innuendos the announcersmake. (Yes I’m immature. I teach eighth and ninth graders all day, what do youwant from me? But penetrating the end zone, come on!) Anyway, sometimes it’sthe sports terminology itself that makes me chuckle.

For some reason, the basketball terms “double double” and “pick and roll” have always made me laugh. I have no idea why. At one point in my life, I knew what these terms meant too, but they seem to have left my brain, much like important dates in world history and how many teaspoons make a tablespoon.

Thismay be a bizarre tangent, but I was stuck on the word “double” because of thelayered button ups. Then it all went downhill from there. Since I’m wearing twobutton-up shirts, do you think this counts as a fashion “double double”? I surehope so. Just wait until you see my “pick and roll” outfit.

Mid-length Skirts by Ann Taylor
Boots by Mia

Shoes, Magic Shoes

2012-02-01T08:00:00.000-06:00

Ilove shoes. They have magical powers, I swear. Bold shoes are my favorite wayto add color to an otherwise neutral outfit. Without these shoes, for example,I liked this outfit, but I felt it was missing something. When I slipped intomy red wedges, (poof!) my problem was solved.

Cardigan: Loft; blouse: Loft; jeans: thrifted Gap; earrings: Bauble Bar; belt: Loft; (magical) shoes: Target, gift

That’swhy this week, I’m wishing hard for some bright pumps. I’ve got flats inmultiple hues, which serve me well for the work week. However, there areoutfits that call for a heel, and besides these wedges, my heel selection islacking some serious color.

Itmay be early to start making a wishlist for spring, but this is one that I knowwill be on mine. The only problem I anticipate is trying to decide which colorto get. Which one would you go with?

Pumps by GUESS
Platforms by Michael Antonio

Dinner Tonight: Chicken and Bacon Mac and Cheese

2012-01-31T08:00:00.000-06:00

Nothingsays comfort like a big bowl of macaroni and cheese, especially when there’sbacon involved. And just to make you feel better about eating carbs and bacongrease, add some chicken into the mix to balance things out. There you have it;dinner is served.

Igot this chicken and bacon mac and cheese recipe from Rachael Ray, and Imodified it very slightly. I swapped out the whole wheat pasta for the regularstuff (only because I had a ton hanging out in my pantry), and used yellowcheddar and swiss for the white cheddar and gruyère. I love me some gruyère,but the price tag isn’t quite as loveable.

Howdo you take your mac and cheese? Are you a homemade only, blue box, or creamyshells and cheese lover?

Letters and Clothes

2012-01-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

Dear weekend,

Why are you so short?

Jacket: Gap; sweater: Target; skirt: Forever 21; tights: Merona, Target; oxfords: Target

Dear Monday,

Why are you here?

Casual Jackets by Mango
Flats by Very Volatile

Sincerely,

A Short Drive to Crazy

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

I’mspent. Working five days this week has really taken it out of me. Where are allthe snow days this year? Not that I’m complaining about this mild winter we’vebeen having. I suppose if I’m not going to get snow days it may aswell be fifty degrees outside. I’m just saying a surprise day off would benice, that’s all.

Cardigan: Old Navy; shirt: Gap; cords: Loft; flower: so old I don't remember; shoes: Target

Thiswas one of my ridiculously cheap sweater scores at Old Navy: $4.50 for this baby, canyou believe that? These shoes were another fun find. I was grocery shopping atTarget when they just jumped into my shopping cart. Has that ever happened toyou? Well, after that I had to buy them of course.

Uhoh, I’m starting to personify my shoes. I’d better walk away from the computerbefore my sweaters start talking to me. It may be too late.

Cardigans by Old Navy
Flats by Chinese Laundry

My sweaters, these shoes, and I all wish you a happy (and slightly crazy) weekend!

Wishlist Wednesday: Button Down, Stock Up

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-06:00

Rightafter Christmas, I discovered that Kansas City has a J.Crew outlet. It must berelatively new, because it definitely wasn’t there the last time I visited theoutlets. Although there were many things I liked there, the only thing I walkedaway with was this button-up shirt. I knew it was something that would get alot of wear, and (despite the lack of blog photos) it has.

Blouse: J. Crew Outlet; dress: Target; necklace: Loft Outlet; tights: Merona, Target; flats: Se Boutique via DSW

Ilove how versatile a plaid or checked button-up shirt can be—it looks good withsolids and prints, jeans and dresses, nearly anything! That’s why on this week’swishlist I have yet another button up.

Ifigure I’m covered in the plaid department, but my closet definitely lacks aleopard print button up. I used to think that my leopard shoes were enough, butwith all the wear I’ve gotten out of them, I’m convinced that a leopard blousewould be a great investment. This Equipment blouse from Shopbop is a little beyond my budget, but that’swhy this is a wish list, not an “I’m going to buy this right now” list.

Here’sone way I would style it up (tied over the dress):

Longsleeve Tops by Equipment
Pumps by Sam Edelman

Dinner Tonight Tuesday: Waffle Time

2012-01-24T08:00:00.000-06:00

WhileI was in Quebec, one of the places we visited was a “sugar shack”, where they madetheir own maple syrup. I’m glad I planned to check my luggage, because therewas no way I was leaving without a jug of that sweet, maple goodness. Naturally,I wanted to have breakfast for dinner as soon as possible.

Idecided to make my mom’s waffle recipe and fry up some bacon. These waffles maytake a bit longer to make than the frozen variety, but boy are they good. They’relight and fluffy, perfect for soaking up that maple syrup. For a printablerecipe go here.

[Funnystory: So, when we crossed the border, a customs officer asked if I purchasedanything while in Quebec. I listed off a few items, one of them being a shotglass. He asked if I bought anything to put in it. My reply: “Maple syrup?” Igot a chuckle out of that. Syrup shots, anyone?]

Inspiration Monday: From Work to Weekend and Back

2012-01-23T08:00:00.000-06:00

Thisweekend was just what the proverbial doctor ordered. Rest, relaxation, shopping…you can’t really beat that combination. Friday night Aaron and I went out for Mexicanfood and then came home and watched Waterfor Elephants. Of course I liked the book better, but I was pretty pleasedwith how the movie turned out.

Blazer: Loft; top: Forever 21; jeans: Gap; earrings: Charlotte Russe; socks: Target; boots: Franco Sarto via Macy's

OnSaturday, I went shopping with my best friend Abby. I told myself I was onlythere to help her shop, but of course I ended up going home with a few things.I snagged two sweaters at Old Navy for $10. That’s $10 total! (No, I haven’t kickedthe sweater habit yet.)

Thisoutfit was inspired by the gorgeous Eva Longoria, for Inspiration Monday. Likethe Two Birds gals, I was really smitten with her socks, so that was the partof the outfit I definitely wanted to keep. However, I changed up the solidblack on top for a printed blouse. The structured blazer paired with jeans was theperfect outfit to transition me from work to weekend. If only it were that easyto transition back…

Tees by Forever 21
Boots by Adrienne Vittadini

Turquoise Skirts and Other Good Things

2012-01-20T08:00:00.000-06:00

Thenice thing about coming home from Quebec on Tuesday night is the fact that Ionly had to go to school for three days. Those days flew by, and now,miraculously, it’s the weekend again. I cannot wait to linger in bed a fewextra hours; nothing beats the luxury of a good night’s sleep.

Cardigan: American Eagle; blouse: Loft; skirt: The Limited; earrings: H&M; brooch: no idea; belt: Loft; tights: Gap; boots: Mia via DSW

We’vebeen watching the movie Les Choristes(The Chorus) in my French classesthis week. (Yes, I needed an easy day to recover from Quebec!) I’d forgottenjust how much I love that movie and its beautiful music. If you have never seenit, it’s definitely worth checking out.

Idon’t have much to say about this outfit, other than how happy I am I boughtthis skirt. After much hunting for a brightly colored pencil skirt, I foundthis one at The Limited over winter break. I’m trying to be more patient, andbuy the things that I need (or really want) rather than just buying thingsbecause they’re on sale.

Cardigans by Halogen
Boots by Mia

Thispost was completely random. I swear, my head will be clearer next week. Happyweekend!

Good Times, Cold Weather

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

I'm back! Quebec was wonderful. I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to go there. I'm already thinking of a return trip with Aaron (when it's a bit warmer there of course).

We were too early for the Winter Carnaval, but Bonhomme Carnaval still made his presence known all around Quebec.

I'm still trying to get caught up on school work, house work, and blog reading, so forgive me if it takes me a few days to get back into commenting regularly. I don't have an outfit to post either, but I thought I'd share a couple of pictures from my trip. My cold, shaking hands did not take the best pictures, but I was able to get a few decent ones.

This was the view right across from our (amazing) hotel, the Chateau Frontenac. Unfortunately, my pictures of the hotel did not do it justice. I'll spare you.

It will be back to regularly scheduled programming tomorrow, but I couldn't help myself from sharing a few Quebec memories with you all.

Yes that's me bundled up in front of this beautiful mural we saw on the walking tour.

Another highlight: Montmorency Falls. It was hard to tell, but the water was still flowing, but it was partially frozen.

Where was the most memorable place you traveled to recently?

Quebec Bound

2012-01-13T08:00:00.000-06:00

Friday,finally! This week felt about three weeks long. It was the start of a newsemester, I got a new class added to my schedule, a few new students added to myexisting classes, and on top of that I’m taking students to Quebec tomorrow.

Blouse: Old Navy; cardigan: Gap Outlet; jeans: Gap; belt: Old Navy; boots: Mia via DSW

Youheard me (read me?) right. Two other French teachers and I are taking a groupof 30 teenagers to Quebec. Tomorrow. In cold, cold January. We have been preparing for this trip allyear, and now it’s finally here. Call me crazy, but I'm pretty excited. I hope to be able to get some good photos toshare with you all.

Skinny Denim by Gap
Boots by Mia

Inaddition to this outfit, I have a treat to share with you all today. I madethese S’mores Bars when we had friends over last weekend, and they were a bighit. They’re ooey, gooey (technical terms) and bursting with chocolate and marshmallow.There’s even a graham cracker crust layer for true s’more flavor.

As long as I don't lose my toes and fingers or my sanity in Quebec, I'll be back to the blog sometime next week. I hope you have a great weekend!

Wishlist Wednesday: Colorful Collars and Cuffs

2012-01-11T13:44:00.000-06:00

Onestriped sweater clearly wasn’t enough for me this week. I decided to add alittle color to this one though, with these new eggplant purple cords I got atLoft. They’re the exact same style as this navy pair, which I loved so much Ihad to go back for a second color.

Sweater: Loft, gift; shirt: Old Navy; cords: Loft; shoes: Isaac Mizrahi for Target

LatelyI seem to be drawn to looks with button up shirts in different colors andpatterns layered under sweaters. It’s comfortable and warm, yet it always looksput-together. Plus, there are so many fun combinations that can be made withthis easy formula.

That’swhy the item on my wishlist this week is a bright button up blouse. I’d love toadd a punch of color to an outfit with a colorful collar and cuffspeeking out from a neutral-hued sweater like the one I'm wearing today. In addition, a silkversion like this one from J. Crew would look great alone with a pair ofskinnies and heels for a night on the town.

Howare you adding color to your winter wardrobe?

Flare Denim by Gap
Platforms by Jessica Simpson

Black, White, No Dinner Tonight

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

Todayis Black and White Day from Everybody Everywear. Having lots of black and whitein my closet, I knew I couldn’t go wrong with this one. In fact, I have so muchblack and white that I could probably do black and white week if I really wanted to.

Sweater: Target; jeans: Loft; glitter belt: Loft; shoes: Merona, Target

Ithought about doing a purely black and white look, but after playing around withdifferent looks involving this sweater, this is the one I liked best. It’smostly black and white, with a side of leopard, denim, and sparkle.

Be sure to check out other black and white inspirations at Everybody, Everywear.

More CitySlips...

Lastweek I promised to bring you dinner (not literally, despite some strangecatering order emails I’ve received recently) on Tuesdays, but due to a severecase of the Mondays yesterday, dinner last night was courtesy of KFC.

However,although I know it won’t take the place of a new recipe, I’ll share theoldie-but-goodie that we ate for dinner on Sunday. Despite the strangely warmweather, I was in the mood for soup, so I made this Baked Potato Soup that Ifirst shared with you all in January of last year. It tasted just as deliciousthis time around!

Inspiration Monday: Spotted

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

Imissed out on last week’s Inspiration Monday at Two Birds. (Mostly because Itook one look at the pictures and decided there was no way the whole worldneeded to see them. Not cute.) This week went a little better, and theinspiration outfit on Emily Blunt (yes! a celebrity I know!) was perfect for aweekend day.

T-shirt: Gap; cords: Loft; earrings: The Limited; scarf: Old Navy; flats: Issac Mizrahi for Target

Ichanged it up a little so that I could wear this new spotted scarf I got on mega-saleat Old Navy after Christmas. I’ve wanted to add some more polka dots to mycloset, and this scarf is the perfect addition. One could argue that I have toomany scarves, but one would not be very smart to do that, would one?

Longsleeve Tops by J.Crew
Flats by Report

Everything's Better with Sequins

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

Thisweek I’ve been trying out a blogging schedule, with different themes for everyday. (I’ve done Dinner Tonight Tuesday and Wishlist Wednesday so far.) But I’mat a loss for what to do on Fridays. Sometimes I participate in Friend Friday,other days I join in with something else (today for example is Bloggers Do ItBetter), but most of the time I just do my own thing.

Blazer: Old Navy; sequin top: J. Crew; jeans: Loft; belt: Old Navy; shoes: Merona, Target

Fridayseems like a free for all. Although “Free for All Friday” is a catchy name, itdoesn’t really say much. Do you have any suggestions for a Friday theme?

LikeI mentioned before, today I’m linking up to Bloggers Do Sequins Better atPretty Shiny Sparkly. This is what I wore to lunch with family on New Year’sEve day. For my evening look I dressed up the sequins a bit (and forgot to takephotos, sorry), but I think I prefer sparkly pieces like this one paired withcasual pieces. Who says holidays should have all the fun?

Tanks by Forever 21
Flats by Coconuts by Matisse

Checkout how other bloggers are getting their sparkle on at Pretty Shiny Sparkly.

Wishlist Wednesday: The Missing Piece

2012-01-04T08:00:00.000-06:00

Yesterdaywas my first day back to work after the break, and boy did it drag on. I was uphalf the night trying to force myself to sleep, and by the time I did it seemedlike it was only to have my alarm go off a couple hours later.

That’s enough whining for now. In keeping with the idea of having a schedule, I’m starting a new feature on Wednesdays: Wishlist Wednesday. I’ll still have an outfit post, but I’ll also include something I’ve been daydreaming about recently.

Shirt: Old Navy; sweater: Isaac Mizrahi for Target (old); jeans: Express; earrings: Kohl's; flats: Old Navy

Currentlyat the top of my wishlist is this necklace from Bauble Bar. I planned to buy itfor myself with some Christmas money, but alas, it’s sold out. I added myselfto the waitlist and I’m crossing my fingers that I don’t go spend all my moneybefore they get more in.

IfI did have this stunner of a necklace, I think it would look quite fabulouswith this outfit. I love the look of a necklace peeking out of the collar of abutton up shirt, like this. (Look familiar? Yes, I definitely stole her outfittoday.)

Bootcut Denim by Levi's
Flats by New York & Co.

What’s on your wishlist?

Dinner Tonight: Garlic Lime Pork Tenderloin with Spicy Creamed Corn

2012-01-03T08:00:00.000-06:00

Blog note: I’ve decided to go backto posting food and outfits separately—I think I’ll get more food posts in thisway, and I think combining the two was a good idea in theory but not inpractice.

TheType A planner in me loves a schedule, so I’m going to play around with someweekly blog schedules. I hope that this will help me not only to stayorganized, but also help me focus on the content that is important to me (andyou!).

So, to kick off this newfound scheduling, I bring you “Dinner Tonight Tuesdays”. (Yes, the name could use some work…) For dinner on Sunday, I made this cumin and lime roasted pork tenderloin with spicy creamed corn. The recipe was from one of my favorite cookbooks: Rachael Ray’s 365: No Repeats.

Thepork tenderloin is rubbed with cumin, coriander and lime juice, studded withgarlic cloves, and then roasted in a 500 degree oven. The corn is cooked withgarlic (yes, more garlic), diced jalapeno or Serrano pepper, and a mixture ofheavy cream and chicken stock. My husband, a professed creamed corn hater, evencleaned his plate!

Fora printable recipe, go here.

Two Years

2012-01-01T19:58:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year! It's hard to believe it's already 2012 and that this blog is turning two! It's been quite a year--I started a new teaching job, we went to Hawaii, and I got my first iPhone. (Yes, some of these were more important than others.)

Here are some of my favorite outfit and food posts from 2011:

JANUARY:

1, 2

FEBRUARY

3, 4

MARCH

5, 6

APRIL

7, 8

MAY

9, 10

JUNE

11, 12

JULY

13, 14

AUGUST

15, 16

SEPTEMBER

17, 18

OCTOBER

19, 20

NOVEMBER

21, 22

DECEMBER

Thanks for sharing this roller coaster of a year with me! I hope you'll stick around for another one!

Resolutions

2011-12-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

Pourle nouvel an [For the new year]: Thetheme for this week’s Friend Friday is New Year’s Resolutions. Like the rest ofthe world I’m sure, I always start out the year with the best of intentions.Then somewhere along the line I just sort of give up. Yet I continue to make newresolutions year after year. Hmm, isn’t that the definition of insanity?

Sweater: Talbot's; shirt: Gap; cords: Gap; earrings: Kohl's; oxfords: Target

Inhopes that I’ll actually stick to them this year, I’m going to keep my list ofresolutions short and manageable.

1.No more pinning and forgetting! In2012 I will actually make the DIY ideas I pin on Pinterest, at least one everymonth.

2.Get in shape! In 2012 I will getback into the habit of working out regularly. I waste money every month I don’tgo to the Jazzercise classes that I’m already paying for.

3.Learn. Blog. Grow. In 2012 I will workto improve my blog and increase its readership. There are so many excellent bloggingresources out there—I just need to take a little time each week to utilize them.Also, my goal is to increase the average number of posts I write per week, fromthree to four, with at least one of those posts being a food post. Lately I’veslacked off quite a bit in the food blogging department—that needs to change.

What are your New Year's Resolutions?

Casual Pants at yoox.com
Flats by Very Volatile

Be sure to head to Modly Chic to hear what others are resolving to do in 2012!

Black, White and Rested

2011-12-28T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: Eventhough I truly enjoy writing this blog and reading other blogs, it’s been niceto take a little break from the blogosphere. I’ve spent these past few days hanging out with family,reading, doing a little shopping, and exploring on my new iPhone. Not to mention, I’verelished sleeping in past 5 am.

Sweater: Loft, gift; jeans: thrifted Gap; shoes: Merona, Target, gift

Iknow I’m a few days late on this, but since I missed out last week, I wanted tobe sure to join the Two Birds girls for Inspiration Monday this week. Black,white and red is such a classic combination. While I love Ashley Tisdale’stake, I wanted to make it much more casual for a day of shopping and hangingout. (Basically, I wanted to wear jeans.)

Igot this sweater for Christmas, and I absolutely love it. You know me andstripes—I can’t get enough of them! It was one of those presents I couldn’twait to wear. Did you get any gifts youhad to show off right away?

More Cezanne...

Guest Post at Sandy a la Mode

2011-12-27T16:07:00.000-06:00

I'm just popping in to say that I'm guest posting over at Sandy a la Mode today. I'm sharing some favorite outfit and recipe combinations that help me get through the (sometimes depressing) winter.

Sandy's anxiously awaiting the birth of Baby a la Mode, so be sure to head over there to see my post and send Sandy some good baby vibes!

A Christmas Break

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

Àbientôt [See you soon]: Themuch-anticipated Winter Break has arrived, and to say I’m grateful would be theunderstatement of the year. I’m going to be spending Christmas with family, andwhile I do that I’m taking a few days off from blogging as well.

Sweater: Loft; camisole: Old Navy; jeans: Gap; earrings: Kohl's; scarf: gift; boots: Mia via DSW

BeforeI go, I’m sharing what I wore yesterday as I was getting some last minuteholiday preparations done. I loved the gorgeous combination of plum and mustardyellow I saw on Kimberly’s Inspiration Calendar, so I paired a purple scarfwith my favorite new sweater. I love rich, bold color combinations like thisone!

Well,I hope you all enjoy the holidays, whatever holiday you celebrate. Thank youall for being such wonderful friends and readers! I will see you all againright after Christmas.

Dreaming of a Red Christmas

2011-12-20T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: Today I’mjoining Collette of Statements in Fashion for her Bloggers Rock the Colors ofChristmas challenge. I say challenge, but this wasn’t difficult at all. I justhad to incorporate some festive colors into an outfit. Fun, right?

Sweater: thrifted Gap; cords: Loft; earrings: Kohl's; necklace C. C. Creations via City of Dionne giveaway; belt: Loft; shoes: Merona, Target

Istarted with a red sweater, because to me red is the most “Christmas-y” color.To add even more of a holiday feel, I accented with a gold necklace and belt. Redand gold isn’t a color combination I wear often, but I really love how warm andcheerful it is!

Tojoin in the festivities, and to see more colorful inspirations, make sure tovisit Statements in Fashion!

Wide Leg Pants by LOFT
Belts by J.Crew

Confessions of an Outfit Klepto

2011-12-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: Yes, thisis yet another look I thieved from Pinterest. Lately I’ve lacked both sleep andcreative resources. (Is it possible that the latter is due to the former? Hmm.)Anyway, I’m not sorry about the theft, as I love how this outfit turned out.

Blazer: thrifted Express; blouse: Banana Republic Factory; jeans: Gap; cowl scarf: Loft; pumps: Naturalizer (By the way, these are hands down the most comfortable pumps I own. Naturalizer for the win!)

I’vehad both this blazer and the blouse in my closet for over a year now, and Ihadn’t before thought to pair them together. Adding the cowl scarf ensured thatI stayed warm all day. I added another one of these cowls to my Christmas listthis year; I really hope I get it!

Ijust have to make it through two days of work this week, and judging from howcrazy the kids were last week, twodays will be plenty!

Camisoles by Old Navy
Pumps by Naturalizer

Making a List and Checking it Twice

2011-12-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

HappyFriday! Today I’m linking up to Friend Friday for a holiday-themed bloggersurvey. But first, I have to thank Kimberly of Fab Finds Under $50 forproviding my outfit inspiration today. Recently she posted some work looks involving a turtleneck and a pencil skirt, and I really loved her ideas and colorpalette.

Turtleneck: Gap; cardigan: Marshall's; skirt: Gap Outlet; necklace: Forever 21; tights: Gap; boots: Franco Sarto via Macy's

Now, onto the survey. To join the fun, just head to Modly Chic and sign up!

No holiday party iscomplete without: Christmasmusic

My favorite Christmas song/album: Holly& Ivy (album) by Natalie Cole

My favorite seasonalrecipe: Yeahright, like I could just pick one. Growing up, we always made Mexican WeddingCakes and Sugar Cookies for Christmas, so those certainly top my list!

The perfect New Year's Eve outfitincludes: a bit of sparkle and bold color

At the parties, I'll be drinking: redwine

Eggnog, good or bad? It’s notfor me.

Did you ever takepictures on Santa's lap at the mall? I’msure when I was little, I did.

Gingerbread Latte or Peppermint Mocha: Neither.I loved the Toffee Mocha, but I’m not sure what happened to that one!

Worst gift I ever got: Isn’t itthe thought that counts? My lips are sealed.

Best gift I ever received: Oh,goodness, this is a hard one. One year Aaron surprised me with tickets to aMichael Bublé concert, which was amazing. I love "experience" gifts.

My family has thisweird tradition: Isit weird that we don’t really have any traditions? Or is it just sad?Seriously, I can’t think of anything!

My best bargain find for a gift thisyear: Ummm, free shipping? I seem to be more bargain-conscious whenshopping for myself. Now it’s just about getting it all DONE.

If I could only buy all my gifts fromone place, I'd shop at: Target. ‘Nuff said.

Rudolph the Red-nose Reindeer or Frostythe Snowman: How about The California Raisins singing Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer? From Claymation Christmas--anyoneremember that one?

My favorite holidaymemory: makingcookies with my mom! (which is actually lots of memories)

My favorite Christmas movie: It’sa tie between Claymation Christmas(technically a tv special), Love Actually,and Prancer (Yep, the dorky one withthe reindeer. It gets me every time.)

The best part about holiday decorationsis: all the memories they evoke.

Rip off the wrapping paper or neatlypull off the tape: I start out with good intentions, neatlyunwrapping, but I quickly grow impatient and start ripping.

Miracle on 34th Street or It's aWonderful Life: Meh. I’m telling you, it’s Prancer, baby!

It doesn't feel like the holiday seasonuntil: The first Christmas song gets played on the radio. Or until Icheat and start playing my Christmas Pandora.

All I want for Christmas is: Time. Ifeel like I’ve been so busy lately, but I hope to have some time over theholidays to spend with friends I haven’t seen in a while.

Here, There, and Everywhere

2011-12-15T08:00:00.000-06:00

Salut,mes amis! Just popping in to say that I’m guest posting for the adorable Emilyat Tinfoil Tiaras today. I’m showing off my look for a recent winter wedding,as well as talking about why I love the holiday season. Comeon over and have a visit!

Song: Here, There, and Everywhere by the Beatles

Oh Oh It's Magic

2011-12-14T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: I know I’mpreaching to the choir here, but how freaking fantastic is Pinterest? I used totry to bookmark individual sites or actually write down (shocking, I know!!)ideas for outfits, and then when I needed an outfit fast I could never findwhat I was looking for. Now, I can just open up one of my style inspirationboards, and I’ve got ideas by the dozen at my fingertips.

Sweater: Target (my reward sweater); jeans: Gap; cowl scarf: Loft; boots: Franco Sarto via Macy's

Notsurprisingly, Pinterest helped me with today’s look. I was looking forsomething casual but cozy, and I came upon this look from Little Tin Soldierthat I pinned last week. And…done!

Now,the only problem is too much inspiration. Maybe I ought to act like an awardsshow host and change halfway through my day. On second thought, since laundryisn’t at the top of my “fun things to do” list, maybe I won’t.

More C Label...

So, hasPinterest changed your life lately?

Song: Oh Oh It's Magic by E.L.O.

Let it Rain, Let it Pour

2011-12-12T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: What awhirlwind of a weekend! Friday night Aaron and I saw the Nutcracker, which was amazing. Saturday we spent the day Christmasshopping, which was exhausting. Sunday I did laundry and school work, which wasdepressing. It wasn’t the most relaxing weekend, but it was still a good one.

Sweater: Loft; jeans: Gap; shoes: Naturalizer

Today’sInspiration Monday outfit is kind of a stretch, since it doesn’t really lookmuch like what Leven Rambin is wearing. (Who the heck is Leven Rambin anyway? Ihaven’t had a chance to Google her yet.) So I tried to go for the same colorscheme and silhouette, and although it’s not the most exciting outfit ever, Ilike how it turned out. It was perfect for Saturday’s busy day of shopping. For more information on Inspiration Monday, check out the Two Birds blog.

Thisweek is my last full week of school before winter break (we have a two-day weeknext week) and it’s going to be a crazy one! This year I’m finding a lot oftruth to “when it rains, it pours”. But there will be sunshine next Wednesday,so I just have to make it until then!

More Volcom...

Have a great week!

Song: Let it Rain by David Nail

Daydreaming of a Nice Warm Bed

2011-12-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: It’scold. It’s dark out at five in the evening. These two things make me want to goto bed at about eight o’clock, and they make me want to get up about never. Ipretty much want to spend as much time as possible cuddled up under sheets and blankets.

Jacket: Converse One Star for Target; dress: Target; earrings: Charlotte Russe; scarf: Merona, Target; tights: Merona, Target; boots: Franco Sarto, Macy's

Unfortunately,I can’t do that all day. So to stay cozy at work, I wrapped up in a scarf andone of my favorite jackets, made of soft knit. It may not have been ascomfortable as PJs, but I stayed nice and toasty.

Well, now that it's finally Friday, I can look forward to lingering a bit longer under the covers tomorrow morning. I can't wait!

Day Dresses by Roxy
Boots by C Label

Sweater Collector

2011-12-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: SinceChristmas is right around the corner, I’ve been trying not to shop for myself lately.However, I couldn’t resist this sweater; the color is so fun and warm, and Ilove the buttons on the back. So when Loft had one of their many awesome sales,I just had to scoop it up.

Sweater: Loft; blouse: Gap; jeans: Loft; necklace: Fenno Fashion; earrings: Kohl's; oxfords: Target

Iwas tempted to buy even more sweaters at the Loft sale, but I managed to limitmyself to just one. So to reward myself for being so good, I bought two (also onsale) at Target the next day. I have problems.

So,what I’ve learned: I’m a sucker for a good sale and a cute sweater. I’m goingto try to behave myself at least until after Christmas. Are all the salestempting you right now too?

Skinny Denim by New York & Co.
Flats by Not Rated

Cozy Weekend

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: I can’tbelieve Christmas is just twenty days away…time is flying by this year! Thisweekend was spent carol singing, movie watching, cocoa sipping, treedecorating, and (reluctantly) paper grading. And as usual, it went by far tooquickly.

Cardigan: I Heart Ronson for JCPenney; blouse: Loft; jeans: Loft; necklace: Fenno Fashion via Lizzypunch giveaway; flats: Gap

It’stime for Inspiration Monday once again, and today the inspiration photo is ofthe Duff sisters. I chose Haley’s cozy outfit to recreate, simply so I couldwear this sweater. It’s one of my favorites, and in fact I wore it twice thisweekend! Be sure to check out the Two Birds blog to see how Megan and Norarecreated these looks.

How did you spend the weekend?

Cardigans by Charlotte Russe
Flats by Matisse

A Steal and Some Wishes

2011-12-02T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: I don’thave much to say about this outfit, other than that I straight-up stole it fromTania from What Would a Nerd Wear. As I was reading her post, scheming abouthow I was going to steal her look, I found out she stole the look too. So Iguess I have two people to thank for getting me dressed yesterday.

Shirt: Old Navy; cords: Gap, gift; boots: Mia via DSW

Skinny Pants by Forever 21
Boots by Mia

Jesouhaite… [I wish…]: Today’sFriend Friday is all about the Christmas wishlist. (What’s Friend Friday? Checkit out at Modly Chic!) Thanks to the wonderful world of blogging (not tomention Pinterest), my wish list seems never-ending all year long. But here arejust a few things I’ve been wishing for lately.

Some cozy, cute slippers from J.Crew.

These beautiful earrings from The Vault by Gaby Burger.

Yes! I want this ring from Lala Design Studio.

And, since this doesn't have to be a low-budget wish list, I'd love this skirt from J. Crew.

I could go on for miles, but I'll stop here. Besides, I need to start thinking about what to buy other people!

Balancing Colors and Flavors

2011-11-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: Lately I’veseen some bold looks combining the primary colors: red, yellow, and blue. Ilove how bright and cheerful it looks, but for some reason, I haven’t been ableto get it to work for me. However, I did like what I got when I modified thecolors a bit and combined wine, mustard, and navy.

Sweater: Gap; skirt: Gap; tights; Merona, Target; shoes: Merona, Target, gift

WhenI was experimenting with color combinations, I discovered a lack of cold weather-appropriatecolored skirts in my closet. I’ve got sweaters in nearly all colors of therainbow, but when it comes to skirts, this mustard one is feeling prettylonely. I think I know what I’ll be spending my Christmas money on. (Is it tooearly to think about that?)

Whatcolor combinations are you crushing on right now?

Crewnecks & Scoopnecks by Gap
Wedges by Jessica Simpson

Ledîner [dinner]: It’spretty rare that a week goes by at my house without a pasta dinner. Aaron and Iboth love pasta, especially since it’s one of those meals that keeps on giving(read: leftovers). So I’m always on the lookout for easy, delicious pastasuppers.

Sometime ago, I pinned this Shrimp Enchilada Pasta from Kitchen Belleicious, knowingthat it was one I had to try. Well, I got tired of waiting for shrimp to go onsale, so I decided to make it using chicken instead. What a great decision—this wasamazing!

Althoughthe sauce, with enchilada sauce, cream and cheese, sounds heavy and rich, it’s surprisingly light and the flavors areperfectly balanced. I can tell that this one is going to become a householdfavorite.

Great Frames

2011-11-29T08:00:00.000-06:00

How are youdoing on your holiday shopping? If you’re like me, you have a long ways to go!Although you may not have considered it, this time of year is a great time tobuy eyeglasses for you and your family.

I’ve alwaysbeen under the (wrong) impression that I had to buy my glasses from my eyedoctor, but I’m starting to learn that there are better, more inexpensive waysto go. There are many online retailers, but GlassesUSA really stands out amongits competitors.

If you’relooking for some cheap glasses, you should definitely check out GlassesUSA’sselection. They offer a 110% lowest price guarantee, as well as a 100%satisfaction guarantee. Basically, you have nothing to lose!

I wasbrowsing through their amazing selection of eyeglasses frames, and I was soimpressed by their selection. I’m actually in the market for a pair myself(though you never see them, I wear reading glasses), and I found a great pairof Calvin Klein frames for a great bargain.

If you’realso in need of some specs, GlassesUSA.com is offering some great deals rightnow! For their “THANKS”giving Sale, you can take 20% off any frame in our iSeeEyewear collection and get free shipping within the US. I found a great pair in this collection--check it out below.

Code:iSee20FS (you can find the collection here:

http://www.glassesusa.com/isee-eyewear)

Also, take10% off any order of prescription glasses. Code: Blog10

For moreinformation, be sure to check out their Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/glassesusa)and their Twitter feed (@GlassesUSA).

This post was sponsored byGlassesUSA.com.

Refreshed?

2011-11-28T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: Mondaysafter a break are the worst, am I right? I know it will take me a few days toget my sleeping schedule back to normal, and I’ll surely be mourning the lossof all that down time. Yet I know that this break was just what I needed to goback to work refreshed. At least that’s what I keep telling myself.

Shirt: Old Navy; vest: Old Navy; jeans: Gap; scarf: Target; flats: Gap

Iwore this on Friday, when we celebrated Thanksgiving with my dad, stepmom andlittle sis. Since I forgot to take pictures before we left, all I’ve got is anindoor, post-Thanksgiving-eating-fest look. It’s not my favorite photo, but Ido like the outfit.

Itwas inspired by the picture above of the adorable Jessica Alba, for InspirationMonday at Two Birds. I was comfy and cozy, and ready to power through somelasagna! (We decided to go the non-traditional route for Thanksgiving thisyear.) What did you eat for Thanksgiving?

Bootcut Denim by Gap
Flats by Gap

Thank You Note

2011-11-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

Merci[Thank you]: Imay be a little late; I know that Thanksgiving was two days ago. However, Ijust wanted to thank all of you who take the time to read this blog. Lately I’vebeen so stressed out at my new teaching job, and I haven’t had as much time toput towards blogging and reading blogs as I would like.

Cardigan: thrifted Ann Taylor; blouse: Old Navy; jeans: Gap; belt: Loft; shoes: Blowfish via Much Love Illy giveaway

Insteadof not reading or telling me to quit whining, you all are incrediblysupportive. I love reading your sweet, encouraging comments—they never cease tomake me smile. Thank you, I’m so lucky to have such amazing readers andfriends.

Ihope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Cardigans by LOFT
Flats by Blowfish

Love and Diamonds

2011-11-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lesbijoux [Jewels]: Theonline diamond retailer Anjolee recently contacted me about doing a jewelryreview. Getting free jewelry sounded like quite the deal to me, so I agreed toreview one of their beautiful diamond necklaces.

Ireceived this Solid Curve Diamond Journey Necklace in the mail a few weeks ago,and I know that it’s going to get a lot of wear. While every once in a while it’sfun to rock a statement piece, a timeless diamond necklace adds somethingspecial to any outfit. This one in particular is the perfect mix of modern andclassic—I’m sure this won’t be the last you’ll see of it!

Dress: Loft; scarf/wrap: Target, gift; tights: Merona, Target; shoes: Jessica Simpson via DSW

Andwhat better occasion for diamond jewelry than a wedding? My best friend Abbygot married over the weekend, which was the perfect opportunity for my necklaceto make its debut. She had a small ceremony on the Plaza in Kansas City, and thenwe all ate dinner at Brio, an Italian restaurant. It was the perfect night;Abby was a beautiful bride, and I couldn’t be happier for my newly married bestfriend! Hooray for love!

On Abby: all pieces from White House Black Market (my favorite: those awesome gold pumps!)

A Short Week. Orange you glad?

2011-11-21T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: So, it’sMonday again. It’s not as upsetting as usual, since this is a short week thanksto Thanksgiving. Nothing puts me in a thankful mood like getting a few days offwork!

T-shirt: Anthropologie; jeans: Gap; belt: Old Navy; flats: Isaac Mizrahi for Target (old)

Today’sInspiration Monday from Two Birds is the photo below of Olivia Munn. To behonest, I don’t know who Olivia Munn is. But I like her laid back outfit with apop of orange. My orange accent was in the form of my much-loved dark coralbelt, and I’m happy with how it turned out. Perfect for a causal weekend day.

However, I admit that this outfit didn’t lastall day when I wore it Saturday. One, it got really cold by late afternoon, soI had to add a jacket and a scarf. Two, K-State (my alma mater) played Texas infootball, and they wear orange. The orange belt was swapped for a K-Statepurple scarf. It must have been good luck, because we accomplished win number 9that night.

More Kimchi & Blue...

Interview with Jess of StyleSays

2011-11-17T08:00:00.000-06:00

Irecently heard about an online shopping community called StyleSays, a websitethat to me seems like Facebook, Pinterest, and ShopStyle all rolled into one. It’sa fun way to window shop several different stores, alone or with friends, andthen bookmark items you want to think about or purchase later. My favorite partis that you can bookmark an item and it will let you know when it goes on sale!How awesome is that? To see what items I’m loving right now, just visit myStyleSays profile.

I“met” the creator of StyleSays, Jess Lam, over email, and I asked her a few questionsabout this great site. I hope you take a minute to go check it out!

Shea: So Jess, tell me a little about yourself.

Jess: Myname is Jess and I run a fashion site called StyleSays with a couple friends.I'm originally from Oklahoma where I grew up on a farm. I moved to Californiafor school about 5 years ago and decided I couldn't leave. Right now I'm livingin San Francisco near the famous Haight Ashbury area with the other StyleSaysfounders. If you want to see what I'm shopping for check out my StyleSaysprofile (http://say.tc/QN).

S: Why did you create Style Says?

J: We'veall been really interested in making online shopping much easier and social.After observing the way our friends shared clothing and outfits with each otherthrough email and Facebook we knew that we could come up with a better solutionfor shopping online with your friends.

S: What is the purpose of StyleSays, and how do I get started?

J: Wewant people to feel confident about the things they buy but it's hard to knowyou'll love something when shopping online. We make it easy to compare lots ofitems from all of your favorite stores and ask the friends you trust for styleadvice. It's super easy to get started. 1) Visit http://stylesays.com andconnect to Facebook 2) invite a few friends you like to shop with and 3) startadding clothes to your personal collections. Then you can share all of yourfavorite finds with your friends and view their collections too.

S: What makes StyleSays stand out among other similar online communities (Go Chicor Go Home, for example)?

J: Manyother shopping networks start by building a shopping site and then throw onsome social features (twitter, facebook, etc.). We did the opposite. We startedby building a site specifically for real-life friends to shop together. Thismeans we want you to have a much more intimate shopping experience with one ortwo friends that will help you pick out items you will really like. Other siteswill have you broadcast your favorite items to large anonymous audiences. Irarely see anyone walk out of a dressing room with a dress on and ask everyonein the store what they think. Same goes for online, we don't send a coupledifferent pairs of shoes to a hundred people. We send them to a couple closefriends, because we trust and value their opinions. After all our friends mighteven know our style better than we do.

A gorgeous necklace I bookmarked.

S: What are the perks of joining StyleSays?

J: Thetwo biggest benefits of joining StyleSays are sales updates and shopping inreal-time with friends. We check major shopping sites daily to update ourpricing information so you will know if any of the items in your collection goon sale. So if you are waiting for that perfect winter jacket to go on salejust add it to your profile and we'll let you know when the price drops. Youcan shop all of the stores and clothing in real-time with your friends. We havea chatting feature similar to Facebook except it's really easy to see what theother person is viewing and add clothing to the conversation. This is great forplanning outfits for events and trips with your friends. You can also sendmessages to your friends that are offline so no need to wait for them to be onat the same time. If you want any more info just check out this short video about StyleSays.

S: Just out of curiosity, what is your favorite fall trend?

J: Thisis a tough one. It's a toss up between Mustard colors (specifically blazers)and bright colored pants. Since I don't own a mustard blazer yet I'll go withbright colored pants.

BonusUgg Giveaway!

StyleSaysis doing a major giveaway with Ugg just in time to protect your feet from thecold weather. Both you and a friend could win! It’s really easy to enter. Just1) visit our our giveaway page and 2)choose the friend you want to win with.

Playing Catch Up

2011-11-14T08:00:00.000-06:00

Every once in a while, it's nice to have a weekend free of checking email, twitter, and Google reader. However, that sure backfires on Sunday night when I'm trying to get caught up on everything I missed. I've resigned to the fact that I might just not get caught up on everything.

Blazer: Loft; blouse: Bellatrix, thrifted; jeans: Loft; scarf: Marshall's; pumps: Naturalizer

This week is going to be a doozy too, so that "playing catch up" feeling is going to follow me everywhere I fear. But, as I keep telling myself, there are only seven school days left until Thanksgiving Break. I can do seven more days.

I'm sure you already guessed that this is an Inspiration Monday post (from the Two Birds gals), due to the fact that, well, it's Monday. And you're right (on both accounts), it is. I loved this photo of Kelly Ripa, and although I loved my inspiration outfit in person, for some reason I don't care for it as much in the photos. Oh well, that happens sometimes.

I hope to make it to catch up on your blogs very soon, but please forgive me if it takes a little bit. I hope you have a great week!

Leave Your Worries on the Doorstep

2011-11-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: My firstinclination when writing this post was to whine and complain about how tiredand stressed I am, but I feel like I’ve already met my whining quota for themonth (heck, probably for the year). So instead, I’m going to turn my thoughtstoward the positive.

Blazer: Loft; blouse: Tucker for Target, gift; jeans: Gap; boots: Mia via DSW

Morespecifically, I’m going to focus on what I’m looking forward to this weekend. Atthe top of the list is seeing family, including my adorable baby niece I can’twait to hold. Here’s another big one: sleeping in. Any day I don’t have to wakeup at 5:00 is a good day to me.

Finally,while this isn’t weekend-specific, I’m looking forward to the fact that there’sonly one more full week of school until Thanksgiving. And after Thanksgiving,the countdown to Christmas break can begin in earnest!

More Gap...

Whatare you looking forward to this weekend?

Song: On the Sunny Side of the Street by Louis Armstrong

Blue Leg Special

2011-11-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: I’mpretty sure my legs matched my tights when Aaron was taking my picture today. Icouldn’t stop moving around, which is why I only have one picture today. Andeven that one isn’t my favorite, but I couldn’t skip out on Everybody,Everywear’s colored tights day.

Blouse: Gap; skirt: Loft; necklace: Target; belt: Loft; tights: Gap; shoes: Blowfish via Much Love, Illy giveaway

Inreality, I didn’t get the “colored tights” memo until Monday night, after I’dalready planned this outfit. It originally included black tights, but I swappedthem out for this turquoise pair in honor of EBEW. They seemed a little random,so I threw on the turquoise necklace to tie everything together.

Button Front Tops at Kohl's
Flats by Blowfish

Besure to check out more colorful legs at Everybody, Everywear!

Ledîner [dinner]: Roastchicken is such a comforting meal, and I love finding recipes for it that don’trequire hours of preparation and waiting. This Skillet Rosemary Chicken fromPass the Sushi had all the flavor of a meal that took hours to prepare, but wassurprisingly quick and easy to make.

What's on your menu tonight?

So Sweet

2011-11-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

Lamode: What abeautiful fall weekend we just had. The only less-than-beautiful aspect was myallergies, but as far as the weather went, it was perfect. I want to savor asmany of these days as I can, because I know that the yucky winter weather will arrivetoo soon.

Cardigan: American Eagle; dress: Target; earrings: Target; necklace: Poppy Madison; belt: Target; tights: Merona, Target; boots: Mia via DSW

Thisweek’s Inspiration Monday photo of Pippa Middleton was fitting for the weekend’slovely weather. Any warmer and I would have ditched the tights; any colder andthe cardigan wouldn’t have been enough. But I was perfectly comfortable andrather-well styled too, thanks to the Two Birds gals and Pippa.

Howwas your weekend? Were you able to enjoy some nice weather?

Cardigans by Old Navy
Boots by Mia

Sucré[sweet]: Haveany extra Halloween candy lying around? (Are you laughing at me right now? Typicallythat’s laughable in our house too, but we overstocked a little this year.) Anyway,I saw this great idea on Brown Eyed Baker for Leftover Halloween Candy Bark.

It’sa fun way to use up any leftovers you have, plus it’s ridiculously easy tomake. All you do is melt chocolate, chop up some candy of your choosing andsprinkle it over the melted chocolate. Then you put it in the fridge to harden.

Inher recipe she melts white chocolate and drizzles it over the hardened bark,but since I’m not a white chocolate fan I skipped that step. Since you get amixture of different candies in each piece, it’s the ultimate candy cravingsatisfaction!

Turning Pages

2011-11-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

Levendredi des amis [Friend Friday]: It’s been a while since I’ve participated in one ofKaty of Modly Chic’s Friend Fridays. However, since this week’s topic is allabout books, I had to join the fun. Here are five recent reads (or listens—I’vebecome an audio book addict) I’ve enjoyed.

1.What I’m reading right now: Hunger Games,by Suzanne Collins. This is a book I finally decided to read after seeing somany of my students reading it. And so far, it’s hard to put down. It was hardto step away from it and begin teaching yesterday morning after SSR (sustainedsilent reading).

Cardigan: Target; t-shirt: Hanes; vest: Old Navy; cords: Loft; necklace: made by Aaron's aunt; boots: Franco Sarto via Macy's

2.What I’m listening to right now: Three toGet Deadly by Janet Evanovich, book number three in the Stephanie Plumseries. My best friend Abby first told me about this series, and I admit thatat first a series about the adventures of a bounty hunter didn’t interest me.But she was right—I’m thoroughly enjoying my drive while listening to Stephanie’swacky adventures.

3.Hande with Care by Jodi Picoult.Warning: read this if you want to cry your eyes out, yell like crazy, then crysome more. This is about a family who has a young daughter with brittle bone disease.The mother decides to sue her obstetrician, who happens to be her best friend,in a wrongful birth lawsuit. Yes, it’s sad and shocking, but it’s a fantasticread.

4.The School of Essential Ingredientsby Erica Bauermeister. This is about a cooking class, so naturally, I loved it.But it’s about so much more than cooking. Instead, the focus of the novel isthe lives of the students and what they bring to the class, and the friendshipsthey form. I can’t talk about this book in a way that doesn’t sound dorky, buthonestly, this was a beautiful novel.

5.The Help by Kathryn Stockett. I know.You’ve read this book, your mother read this book, and your dog is probablyreading this book. But it’s wonderful, is it not? (Haven’t read it? You should.Really.)

Okay, your turn. What are you reading these days?

B B Cute

2011-11-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

Pendantle week-end [During the weekend]: Formy step-mom Gail’s birthday over the weekend, my family went to a barbecuejoint in the small town of Williamsburg, Kansas. Although we’re surrounded bygood barbecue here in Kansas City, this restaurant, Guy and Mae’s Tavern,stands out. The ribs were falling-off-the-bone delicious. So good, I passed the point of fullness, and just kept right on going.

Sweater: Banana Republic (scored on a great end-of-season sale last year!); jeans: Gap; belt: Old Navy; pumps: Naturalizer

Iliked the outside of the restaurant too, with its simple sign and brick wall. I thought it would be a great outfit-photo location. My lipstick and belteven coordinate with the newspaper stand and neon sign. Was that great planning or what?

Goodthing we took these pictures before I devoured my half of a slab of ribs… I’mpretty sure the post-barbecue food coma pictures would not have been pretty!

More Merona...

Not Very Spooky

2011-10-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

Lamode: HappyHalloween! I hate to be a bore, but other than handing out candy totrick-or-treaters, I’m doing absolutely nothing for Halloween this year. I’vebeen too busy to even put together a costume, so I suppose it’s a good thingthat Halloween falls on a Monday.

Blouse: Old Navy; cords: Gap; necklace: Towne & Reese via Style Obsession giveaway; flats: Gap

Iguess I can’t say I did nothing for Halloween—I did work the concession standsat a junior high haunted house for a French Department fundraiser. But sincethe only people dressed up were the people working in the haunted house, I’mnot sure it counts. The spookiest part of the night for me was the overcooked,congealed nacho cheese.

Today’sInspiration Monday look is the one above of Jaime King. Since the only pair ofred pants I own is a much more casual pair, I did a dressed down version of herlook. To see more Inspiration Monday looks, be sure to check out the Two Birdsblog.

Any Halloween plans for you tonight?

Button Front Tops at Kohl's
Flats by Gap

Greatest Hits

2011-10-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

Lamode: If Icould gather up some of my favorite things right now, and put them all in onelook, this would be it. First of all there are stripes and leopard, which arefabulous on their own, but put them together and (in the words of What Not to Wear’s Stacey London) shut up!

Cardigan: Target (old); striped tee: Gap (also old); cords: Loft; shoes: Merona, Target; (inspired by this look of Meggy's from Chasing Davies)

Thosetwo things would be good enough, but for me it gets even better when you add acozy, thick cardigan and comfy yet polished corduroys. Add a funky but delicatenecklace (my score from last weekend’s shopping expedition) to really gild thelily.

Necklace: Poppy Madison (I can't find a website, or I'd link to it)

So what are you gravitating towards right now? Other than the weekend, of course, which has finally arrived. I hope you have a good one!

Cardigans by Old Navy
Flats at DSW

Nobody Told Me There'd Be Days Like These

2011-10-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

Queljour! [What a day!]: Iwore this on Friday, which is why I’m smiling so big in my photo. I was tootired to even take pictures today…it was one of those days, you know what Imean?

Sweater: Isaac Mizrahi for Target; tank top: Old navy; jeans: Loft; necklace: Anthropologie; boots: Mia via DSW

Sothis will be a short post, because the only prescription for a day like this isa bowl of ice cream and lots of sleep. I’ve taken care of the former, andhopefully the latter isn’t far away. By the time you’re reading this, I’ll berefreshed and ready for a new day.

Ilove the combination of orange and turquoise in the summer, so I figured Ineeded to find a way to make it work for fall too. With the addition of brownand gray, I think this color combination is ready for fall, and so am I!

Tanks by J.Crew
Boots by Mia

Lanourriture: Andthis, my friends, is the perfect recipe for one of those days. It’s quick, it’seasy, and it’s undeniably delicious. (Bow Tie "Lasagna": Get it here at Tasty Kitchen.) Enjoy!

Song: Nobody Told Me by John Lennon (Yep, I'm bringing back the songs! But maybe not every day.)

Shopping, Pumpkins and Squirrels

2011-10-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

Leweek-end: It’snever a good sign when I’m worn out before Monday even begins, but that seemsto be the case this week. What a busy weekend! Friday night Aaron and I enjoyedsome Thai food and then decorated some pumpkins. Unfortunately, my pumpkin is theonly one that survived the weekend. We came home Saturday evening to find a squirrelnibbling on Aaron’s pumpkin; he must have been pretty hungry, because he left a huge hole where the faceonce was!

T-shirt: Old Navy; sweater: Forever 21; jeans: Loft; flats: Gap

SaturdayI did some shopping with my best friend Abby and her mom. We went to HolidayMart, a shopping extravaganza (read: convention center filled with booth afterbooth of jewelry, home décor, food, etc.) put on by the Junior League of KansasCity. While I did splurge and buy myself one thing, the rest of my purchaseswere Christmas gifts. (I know, I'm so good.)

Iwore this comfortable, shopping-ready outfit on Saturday. It was inspired bythis week’s Inspiration Monday picture (above) of Sarah Jessica Parker. Be sure tocheck out more looks inspired by this one at Two Birds blog!

And here's Aaron's pumpkin, pre-squirrel. Scary right?

Here's mine. I give you: Miu Miu pumkin! If I had more time, I would have liked to add another one with an allover cat print, and maybe bats (which I realize isn't Miu Miu, but it is Halloween-y) too. But I was DONE after all those swallows.

I'm also linking up to the Monday Mingle at Bon Bon Rose Girls, where they're featuring a comfy, cozy look I want to wear right now!