Thursday, April 22, 2010

I Won Something, I Bought Something

I recently won a $250 gift card from Dillard's. Our neighbors' kids were selling raffle tickets for their school. So my hubby and I bought $10 worth. You know, we like to contribute positively to our community. I honestly never thought we'd win a thing. But we wanted to help the kids. Well, we won! And we got our gift card 2 days ago.

After my classes today, I decided to stop at Dillard's on the way home. Very convenient that the mall is between our house and school. But I stopped. And I didn't expect to find anything really. Our mall is small. And the Dillard's doesn't have a wide selection. Especially in formal wear. But I found this beauty!



It's the Gianni Bini "Selene" dress. And they had 2 of them there. Only 2! I think you have to order them online. Because I didn't see anything else from this line in the store. And they were in my size! It was like the heavens opened up, and the angels were singing to me. :)

I was actually drawn to the aqua color more (it's called blue lagoon online). We're going to a formal wedding in June. And the theme is Cinderella. So I really thought the aqua would go well.

But when I was in the dressing room, I got to thinking. For $158, I'll probably get more use out of the black one. You can wear it to many more events. If it's a conservative event, like a funeral or business dinner, you can always add a jacket or cardigan on top. And for more fun and flirty events like weddings, or date nights you can wear it as is.

The general shape is a lot like this dress. But this black dress is made out of a polyester blend. But a more dressy type of material. The top has a sweetheart neckline, and is fitted. But there's no boning. You do get some thin spaghetti strap style straps that you can add or remove. The ruffles are a lot smaller on the skirt. And the skirt fits more like a pencil skirt.

I feel like this dress was a complete success! My hubby and I had talked about how we would spend the money last night. And he wanted me to spend it all on me. But I couldn't do it. Especially since I can wear this dress with these shoes. So after I paid for my dress, I headed across the mall. To the Men's Dillard's. And I picked up some shirts and ties for my hubby! I've got to worry about what he's going to wear too! :)

Monday, April 12, 2010

Feminine Dress



Do you remember these shoes? I think I found a dress to go with them. What do you think? I don't think the shoes compete with the dress, nor does the dress doesn't compete with the shoes.

It was a little tough. Everything in stores right now is extremely short. Or makes me look like I'm going to prom or something. But Lola was telling me about this dress that she bought for a show. I quickly begged for pictures. And I fell in love. Over to Arden B I went and bought it! It comes in light pink or jade. The jade looks more like a minty color. And I like it, but I don't think it would look good on me.

The dress is beautiful! It has a hidden back zipper, with a hook and eye. The top is a satin, polyester, spandex blend. It's ruched and even has boning. With a slight sweetheart neckline. The skirt is tiered chiffon. And I just love the way it moves! It's so feminine! The best part, it was $78, but I got it for $39. And just $5 shipping! Now I don't feel so bad. One complete outfit down, I don't know how many to go...

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

My Surprise in the Mail

I was talking to my mom the other day. We were talking about all these weddings. And I'm feeling a little stressed about all the dresses I need to buy. And I can't find anything age appropriate at the stores. Hello, what happened to the nice selection at Dillard's, Forever 21, and Macy's? Not to mention the cost of standing in a wedding. Hello!

I don't know, but I can't find anything affordable and still dressy enough for these formal weddings. I know, if it were only 2 weddings, it wouldn't be so bad. But honestly, from the end of May until September, we are going to weddings. Almost every other weekend!

Today, my hubby comes home with a package. I didn't know what it was. Because I haven't done any online shopping lately. I wasn't sure what it could be. Inside where these precious gems. My mom bought them for me! Thanks mom!



They're the Two Lips Tiki Beaded Metallic Sandal in Pewter. They're absolutely gorgeous! And so comfy! I think my mom paid about $70 for them. But these are a nice shoe because you can wear them with a variety of outfits, dressed up or down. A really good shoe! Now, I'm on a hunt for a dress to go with them. Heck, I might just wear them to dinner with some jeans and a nice top. You know, me and my hubby still go on date nights!

Sunday, April 4, 2010

Happy Easter



Happy Easter!



I just love this time of year! I feel so "refreshed." Like I've been on this long journey. And I've just reached my "goal." It feels so special. And important. I'm so grateful for my religion. It's so important to me. And to my family.

I hope everyone has an amazing day! Happy Easter to you and all of your families. This has always been such a fun time of year. Everything is beginning to grow. And it feels so new and fresh. I hope you have a wonderful holiday!

Friday, March 26, 2010

Strappy Sandals



These are some shoes that I have! The Dune Bollywood Strappy Diamante Sandals, such a long name! I had to buy them for a wedding that I'm standing in. They look a little scary here. Spiky or something like that. But in reality, they're a pretty shoe. We bought them online, because the shop is the in the UK. And they cost £65, or $95. A little much if you ask me. But it's what I needed to buy for the wedding. So I forked over the $100 and prayed they fit. You just never know what you're going to get online.

Like any good bridesmaid, I tried them on immediately after Cam gave them to me. They fit well. But I've been wearing them at home. When I'm doing laundry, the dishes, or dusting. Because I'd rather have sore and blistered feet now, then on wedding day.

The shoes are actually very comfortable. I wasn't sure what to expect with the heel and the cage style front. But they really are comfortable. The spiky things you see on the front, those are diamantes. Or what us Americans call, rhinestones. :)

So I have the shoes. And I decided that I'm going to get my money's worth out of them. I decide to wear them to another wedding. About a month before. Because honestly, where else am I going to wear these sparkling gems? And we're invited to so many weddings this summer! It's relatively the same circle of friends. So I have to figure out different outfits, without breaking the bank!

We're actually invited to another formal wedding. For a young, hype, and fun couple. The color scheme is pink. And it's going to be a nice venue. So all I have to do now, is find a dress to go with these shoes. I've got about 2 months. Wish me luck!

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Coasters or Potholders...Either Way, A Ton of Fun!



I found this pattern, and just had to make these coasters. Do I have a real use for them? Not really. But they came out slightly larger. Because I used a size G hook. And after sitting in a drawer, for over 2 weeks, I finally used them. :) As potholders! Tonight we cooked outside, and I used these as potholders. They really worked well, on our outdoor table. And they are absolutely a ton of fun! And a great way to use up scraps of yarn.

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Egg Animals



These are just too cute! I really want to make a few of them. I could see them decorating our Easter table. Believe it or not, this is the free pattern of the day at Free Crochet. I just might have to take a study break to make a few. :)

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Bunny Baskets



Aren't these adorable? These Easter basket bunnies are the free pattern today at Free Crochet. I just love them! If only I had more time to crochet. I would make a few to put around the house. But I really have to get back to studying.

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Life Unexpected



I probably shouldn't be watching anymore TV. But Lola was telling me all about this new show, Life Unexpected. I started to watch it. I think I missed the first 2 or 3 episodes. But I caught up online. I had to get a little creative there. I watched 1 episode on their website. And the others on YouTube. But it's such a cute show! It reminds me a lot of Gilmore Girls. I have to admit it, I was a big fan of that show! I'm just hoping this one sticks around. I'm pretty sure, it would crush me if it got cancelled.

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Ash Wednesday



What an important day today is. A time to begin our reflection. To serve our Lord. And to make the world a better place. I look forward to Ash Wednesday, and Lent every year. It's a time of renewal. When I feel most alive. I'm happy to be serving my Lord!

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Mardi Gras



Today is Mardi Gras. Time to get our last minute sins out! That sounds really funny. Especially since my hubby and I don't really drink. Neither of us smoke. We don't really do too many "bad things." But we are giving up some thing for Lent. And today, is all about getting as much of those things as possible.

I've got the perfect stash of chocolate, sodas, and my favorite fried foods available. Let's hope that I don't make myself sick. My hubby and I are also planning a fun night out with friends. Nothing wild and crazy. More to just enjoy some good music!

Sunday, February 14, 2010

Happy Valentine's Day



I just wanted to wish everyone a very Happy Valentine's Day! I hope your day is filled with lots of love, happiness, and lots of time with your loved ones.

There was once a time when I hated Valentine's Day. I really hated it! But now, I understand that it's more about the people that you love. Not just the "romantic love." Take some time to just love the people in your life. Whether it's romantic love, or love for your family and friends.

And if you're anything like me, you'll enjoy lots of chocolate. Maybe some flowers. And lots of time trying to get smiles from your favorite people!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Saturday, February 13, 2010

Charleston Rose Blanket



I just adore this pattern. I really need to learn how to crochet quicker. And I need a break from studying. This would be the perfect blanket to cuddle up with tomorrow. Roses and your sweetheart. What more can you ask for? This is the free pattern of the day at Free Crochet.

Monday, January 18, 2010

Tulips



This time of year always has me dreaming of tulips. Lots of them! As in fields and fields of tulips. I planted some bulbs in from of our house. We have some flower boxes there. But they're barely cracking through the ground. I think they may be a little confused, with the odd weather that we've had around here.

Whenever I see lots of tulips, I dream about living somewhere in the country. Where I can plant hundreds and hundreds of them. Because, let's be honest, tulips just look better in HUGE fields!

Friday, January 1, 2010

Happy New Year!



I just want to wish everyone a very Happy New Year! I always look at the New Year as a time to "start over," and to grow. I like to set lots of goals for myself. Not short term, but the long term goals. The ones that will truly make a difference in my life.

Today my hubby and I are doing just that. Making goals for ourselves. Things that include finances, goals as a family, and things we'd like to accomplish. It's important to us. It helps us to grow not only as individuals, but as a couple.

For all of you, I hope that 2010 will bring lots of happiness. Lots of achievement. And lots of peace. All the things that are really important in life. It's all at our fingertips on this new day, and new year.

Happy New Year!

Friday, December 25, 2009

Merry Christmas



I wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas! We're spending ours with family and friends. Just the way it was meant to be. And it's been an amazing day! Filled with lots of love, laughter, prayer, food, and loved ones.

I'm truly blessed. Beyond all the gifts. We're so blessed to have the family and friends that we do. I hope you all had a great day too! Now I'm off to have some cookies and milk. And watch another fun Christmas movie with my loved ones!

Merry Christmas!!!

Monday, November 30, 2009

Ruffled Scarf Giveaway


Look at this gorgeous scarf. I seen it on YouTube for the first time. It was a while back. And I searched for it. But I never did find it in Charlotte Russe. And I was so disappointed. My hubby called up some friends that live in a bigger city. No luck! I kind of just felt like it wasn't meant to be. Until I was reading a friend's tweets. I noticed a giveaway for this scarf! The same scarf that I fell in love with when Trina showed us all, her scarf collection. If you would like the chance to win. Go to Trina's blog and enter the contest! Good luck!

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Happy Anniversary Hubby!!!

Today is our very first wedding Anniversary. We are so excited! This year just flew by. We bought our 1st home. Had some adventures in the move. My hubby dealt with my decorating issues. We had some bumps along the way. With the whole "City fiasco," the "mail issues," and trying our our DIY skills.

But I still look at our wedding pictures and smile. I am married to the man of my dreams. The man that makes me feel loved and safe. My hubby is the person I run to when my day is going bad. He just has a way of making my worries melt away. He is also the person I run to when my day is going well. He celebrates my accomplishments. And makes me feel like I am the most amazing woman.

I will never get used to falling asleep in his arms. Or waking up to his smile. Our favorite part of the day is just sitting down in the morning, having our coffee. We like to talk about what we have planned for the day. Talk about the news. And just spend a few quiet moments together before our days become chaotic.

Through this year, my hubby has been the person I have leaned on the most. I am so lucky to have him in my life! Not only did I find the love of my life in him, he is my best friend, my lover, and one day...he will be the father of my children. I am so lucky. I know that he is going to be an amazing dad. He is so kind hearted and loving.

My hubby told me this morning, "We have 1 amazing year under our belts. I'm ready for the next 1000!" So am I! This year has flown by. I feel like I just put on my white dress and walked down the aisle to him. I can't wait to see what our future holds.

I love you Fern!

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Happy Thanksgiving



I wanted to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving! What a fun, and family oriented holiday. Honestly, I look forward to Thanksgiving more than I do Christmas. I just seems so special. Without much to worry about. Other than all the yummy food.

I look forward to lots of turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. And of course, time with my loved ones. We always play board games, laugh, and spend the night eating lots of desserts! Such a magical day!

I hope everyone has a great day. One filled with loved ones, plenty of food, and good health. It's just the kind of day that we all need. A day to relax and enjoy our loved ones.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Happy Halloween!



Can I tell you something? Halloween is one of my favorite holidays ever! Honestly. Who doesn't like to dress up? And all the free candy!

I know, I'm many years past the "trick or treating" age. But I still really enjoy this holiday. More so now. When I get to handout candy. And celebrate in a different way. I still dress up. And I honestly look forward to it. Is that weird? I hope not. Because I really do enjoy it!

And you know what, it's another day for me to eat yummy food. I use Halloween as an excuse to indulge. Even right before my wedding. I still found the time to order some yummy pizza, and make some monster foods. Yum!

Happy Halloween!