tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80446201345686773182024-03-06T02:02:19.287-05:00Let Me Eat Cake!I'm Lauren, mama of 2 (soon to be 3) crazy kids, wife to a super-cool running maniac who's recently gone back to college, part-time Beautycounter consultant, full-time Wrangler merchandiser, and avid fan of everything fun, stylish, pretty, funny, sparkly, delicious, entertaining, impressive, and overall amazing. This blog is named for our dog Millie (who used to help write, but now has better things to do). She believes we should all be allowed to eat cake all the time. Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-2017742747472503542017-11-10T11:20:00.002-05:002017-11-10T11:20:24.585-05:00Friday FixThis week has been a fun little adventure! I actually started a new role at work this week. I've been wrapping up my sales planning responsibilities over the past month, and as of Monday, I officially moved into the role of Merchandiser for Men's Outdoor Apparel at Wrangler. I'm really excited about this new opportunity - I've been working my way into the Merchandising department here at VF (in very roundabout ways) since... oh about 2010 (I started applying to VF as I was finishing my MBA at Wake Forest). It's been a long time coming, and I'm thrilled to finally get started.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWzQPuhT2o9vr2Dix6kVElwnQSfxPG_o2NYiG5wqoOIFUh9KsyMm7DdJEUftFy8esDPQy6foeim7OXkadAOO0x9bthCCXbvM2ewzeqMpA5kJiyV-aS8OCicw5zsJ1XV5C3w8-ITB9DbxI/s1600/pov2-logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="157" data-original-width="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWzQPuhT2o9vr2Dix6kVElwnQSfxPG_o2NYiG5wqoOIFUh9KsyMm7DdJEUftFy8esDPQy6foeim7OXkadAOO0x9bthCCXbvM2ewzeqMpA5kJiyV-aS8OCicw5zsJ1XV5C3w8-ITB9DbxI/s1600/pov2-logo.png" /></a></div>
I also got to visit my midwife yesterday to check on our new little one, and everything looks great! 18 weeks tomorrow! Oh yeah, I'm pregnant with our third baby - have I mentioned that here yet? We are really excited and we are thinking the sex of this baby will remain a surprise until April... so far we have one of each, and more baby stuff than we can ever manage, so this will be a fun treat! Stay tuned... 😊<br />
<br />
It's Friday, and we have a busy one planned. We are hosting Michael's brother Chris and his girlfriend Ann this weekend for a visit. It should be a fun time!<br />
<br />
Outfit of the Day:<br />
Jeans: <a href="http://www.seraphine.com/us/light-under-bump-ripped-maternity-skinny-jeans.html" target="_blank">Seraphine</a><br />
Top: Jodifl (from Ivy & Leo)<br />
Boots: <a href="https://www.target.com/p/women-s-lucile-laser-cut-out-booties-merona-153/-/A-52332251" target="_blank">Merona</a> (Target)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPQepXWBrzNl1_eUJydOIjgWoxL9epF4OnJd3WejMzLBBalQNwJJk4DSic__8ha3TPb0UFvoG1iB89LX1Em7Gv09YywLZWh2Kb72kYgKVlqr4sRUkE3jeShw1EQWuptGY-YqN23tcnj64/s1600/IMG_0450.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1203" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPQepXWBrzNl1_eUJydOIjgWoxL9epF4OnJd3WejMzLBBalQNwJJk4DSic__8ha3TPb0UFvoG1iB89LX1Em7Gv09YywLZWh2Kb72kYgKVlqr4sRUkE3jeShw1EQWuptGY-YqN23tcnj64/s320/IMG_0450.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy Friday! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ8j-GbvUqHziTFPg-vcI_9TUFcelhDh6_qREbPvG0bzFaTsZvhDGPjVE4UE867dxRLVMvLNt4tQ34XZkooWa4mrB_M5ruEdmHbrmit6bgdOXsHe2pw0dBrH3zIjLy9psatDEv7tCSUms/s1600/Signature+Lauren.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="115" data-original-width="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ8j-GbvUqHziTFPg-vcI_9TUFcelhDh6_qREbPvG0bzFaTsZvhDGPjVE4UE867dxRLVMvLNt4tQ34XZkooWa4mrB_M5ruEdmHbrmit6bgdOXsHe2pw0dBrH3zIjLy9psatDEv7tCSUms/s1600/Signature+Lauren.PNG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04995780070051288982noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-19405868022662095302017-10-26T15:17:00.002-04:002017-10-26T15:17:15.759-04:00Life Updates Oh my... I just found this post in Draft status... enjoy this little blast from the past! I'll be posting a (current) life update soon!<br />
---------------------------------------<br />
<br />
Hello Lovelies!<br />
<br />
I know it's been awhile (again) but let's get down to the good stuff, shall we? Here is a little bit of what I've been up to since 2015...<br />
<br />
Baby James is no longer a baby... here he eating his first birthday cake!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimDb-4zh0nYa6b-TcAbl8F0ZS1Q4Pbp9Y_NgHan7cx5FK9vhPSlZQRGiJLIhglVBH2111Tu2uagjI8bq1D3TnzUgKf05ZxO3Np9UwUw47mKkkJK2eegNVhk1qn8E-JF8PfyTroSj5E6YI/s1600/11754241_10206138663176835_4270987440856068306_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimDb-4zh0nYa6b-TcAbl8F0ZS1Q4Pbp9Y_NgHan7cx5FK9vhPSlZQRGiJLIhglVBH2111Tu2uagjI8bq1D3TnzUgKf05ZxO3Np9UwUw47mKkkJK2eegNVhk1qn8E-JF8PfyTroSj5E6YI/s320/11754241_10206138663176835_4270987440856068306_n.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
In early 2016 we learned we would soon be a family of four!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXnEZwAJiu9v2NaSxBInkZwyuHxz9dRuZrWiq71oZs_aaVsGAChl78slBkwV1DVF-Fvdhd3GE8NCRwGOqKD0HFhau08rYBpSnWdo8geHkQIS81MbnmTQyb3z5zZBW_J-GtQ2Srtpqd1A/s1600/13119100_821219807208_4947044734215530617_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXnEZwAJiu9v2NaSxBInkZwyuHxz9dRuZrWiq71oZs_aaVsGAChl78slBkwV1DVF-Fvdhd3GE8NCRwGOqKD0HFhau08rYBpSnWdo8geHkQIS81MbnmTQyb3z5zZBW_J-GtQ2Srtpqd1A/s320/13119100_821219807208_4947044734215530617_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I made a career move, and left my previous position at Maidenform (Hanesbrands) to be a little closer to home, working for Wrangler Jeanswear (VF Corporation). I won't bore you with more details, but my new coworkers are fabulous, we get a killer discount on all our amazing brands, and I can wear jeans every day to work! Win-win-win!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNTbRPGY8P509w29c_cQvpXXsItDpkWRQ9XWuSG9cQk9__ILovYOOBFTKmRiZjVutDENs79mqAjXFgSFt1hwAdG5yfR6e_SimP64luqYFhm85Q420lKEbqH8MEeAUDypzOeKtOK4BqTaY/s1600/6e2fc820-04c8-4036-90c1-b3656d8b546b_1.540395f15ace4ea005cbdb667e10334d.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="450" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNTbRPGY8P509w29c_cQvpXXsItDpkWRQ9XWuSG9cQk9__ILovYOOBFTKmRiZjVutDENs79mqAjXFgSFt1hwAdG5yfR6e_SimP64luqYFhm85Q420lKEbqH8MEeAUDypzOeKtOK4BqTaY/s320/6e2fc820-04c8-4036-90c1-b3656d8b546b_1.540395f15ace4ea005cbdb667e10334d.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
Welcome to Charlotte Elizabeth!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ywalShsiX2vKvbC2h-fktWgnAcWNjioE_2tqHI9enoNLA2RaN87Jx5ecFhUMtAxhWCLgQL4chq8nat63KO0NPjLhBCG1v3kZz-8oQILFEWsja530_aSdCOGZ65Zcf21Jq500yCpoYVI/s1600/14265068_844707592498_1711749415347816412_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ywalShsiX2vKvbC2h-fktWgnAcWNjioE_2tqHI9enoNLA2RaN87Jx5ecFhUMtAxhWCLgQL4chq8nat63KO0NPjLhBCG1v3kZz-8oQILFEWsja530_aSdCOGZ65Zcf21Jq500yCpoYVI/s320/14265068_844707592498_1711749415347816412_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9rx_Rkes6gYDlObtbooJ5rRHuQlt8EMdsKg2WMxTVVCuL042yNi1juTvZ-TtTGKeLIXrmBn9NzcLh2xWb91bsNEZ2hayVbEZ391nra5GvvlBx0p4oXUpZY3gFIke-iVvmNTvvVhqUm3E/s1600/14322682_844973160298_6825240661692537976_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9rx_Rkes6gYDlObtbooJ5rRHuQlt8EMdsKg2WMxTVVCuL042yNi1juTvZ-TtTGKeLIXrmBn9NzcLh2xWb91bsNEZ2hayVbEZ391nra5GvvlBx0p4oXUpZY3gFIke-iVvmNTvvVhqUm3E/s320/14322682_844973160298_6825240661692537976_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn7sGDh_J_77y-_N-MSh3PYvdi7IkIEESwfIvdMK0bzX_j6BztUY3ick0qvUl4g6txPg2HxB5_WmfnT7mRRTHMt47xXxa5zha-KA41R9svb-moukHG9ZwLvh-58tFMIUdPP2w0AZMzL9g/s1600/14355057_10209152539441858_4366165919570850359_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn7sGDh_J_77y-_N-MSh3PYvdi7IkIEESwfIvdMK0bzX_j6BztUY3ick0qvUl4g6txPg2HxB5_WmfnT7mRRTHMt47xXxa5zha-KA41R9svb-moukHG9ZwLvh-58tFMIUdPP2w0AZMzL9g/s320/14355057_10209152539441858_4366165919570850359_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
We have had lots of family adventures since Charlotte joined us, and we can't wait to continue all the fun!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTzJNlOfVXkbigpwTsr1X4NfeQvO135LPLqC8td0BKJmAx6OspOutM-0O3Nk1Z_Wpk140ojADffsiR0LjL_5Evshftx3KH-Ma0MzwBZER9PMWaoKEQds3JwpUldHQo1o6GvzABQw6bfPg/s1600/14917251_854788714848_8902367279417064926_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="1275" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTzJNlOfVXkbigpwTsr1X4NfeQvO135LPLqC8td0BKJmAx6OspOutM-0O3Nk1Z_Wpk140ojADffsiR0LjL_5Evshftx3KH-Ma0MzwBZER9PMWaoKEQds3JwpUldHQo1o6GvzABQw6bfPg/s320/14917251_854788714848_8902367279417064926_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04995780070051288982noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-84043775593282866662015-03-16T15:37:00.002-04:002015-03-16T15:58:02.947-04:00Long hours<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qrdx7NwDVwig6IinqW0K-OTLrj7JEk1KR5viB5kBKtwH4XCyns5fnKRDbPHFzk0A5LkRPt9aEifBOP82L8nQ415DaajJ67fkLDeJth6DfXxWrzyMm0L3im1N8H6RabJXFCGTS_zxkfs/s1600/2013.3.20-women-work-life-balance-614xa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qrdx7NwDVwig6IinqW0K-OTLrj7JEk1KR5viB5kBKtwH4XCyns5fnKRDbPHFzk0A5LkRPt9aEifBOP82L8nQ415DaajJ67fkLDeJth6DfXxWrzyMm0L3im1N8H6RabJXFCGTS_zxkfs/s1600/2013.3.20-women-work-life-balance-614xa.jpg" height="178" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do you work long hours?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've been struggling with the work-life balance question recently. At my company, everyone always seems to be so caught up in work, and working late, coming in early, rushing around meeting-to-meeting all day every day... it's exhausting even to be around!<br />
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I usually make it a point to not work during off-hours. I have a mobile phone for work email, and though sometimes I check it, I rarely act on anything until business hours. As a new mom, I feel like there's scarcely enough time to spend with family as it is - without wasting any of it glued to the computer. </div>
<br />
This last week has been very trying. Work was extremely busy, more so than usual, and I was in meetings back-to-back for days in a row. One day I only saw my own desk for about 20 minutes total, and that was it. It was difficult to even find 15-20 minutes for pumping. By the end of the week I was almost in tears from exhaustion and felt defeated - I simply could not get everything done, and had to beg a coworker for an extension - which meant working over the weekend.<br />
<br />
I know this pace won't keep up forever, and I know that I'm quite lucky to have a wonderful (albeit stressful sometimes) job, and a fabulously supportive husband and family. One thing I've promised myself, however, is never to sacrifice happiness for work. So when I'm at home, I will continue to do my best to devote all my energy to the people I love. Life is too short to not spend every moment possible creating joy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-o_WyWsnCYURosaVq27WK__7XAZ7FTtcY02Ber3R-vFGn_OkyBFAFJePLl4zzS7A4dto1StKFSDFegIoLFT6F7VVusPW-BdDI3PTSnfxmm6WwDyGwiQ5Pv-5_cPxm925YDCu3LXZxHPg/s1600/Millie+small.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-o_WyWsnCYURosaVq27WK__7XAZ7FTtcY02Ber3R-vFGn_OkyBFAFJePLl4zzS7A4dto1StKFSDFegIoLFT6F7VVusPW-BdDI3PTSnfxmm6WwDyGwiQ5Pv-5_cPxm925YDCu3LXZxHPg/s1600/Millie+small.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzAT6CiwkB5BRc8kLtAWI0HvQucS3ix4-5dIsttgx2O5mWxmIZzdc6g6rfdrYA5Iqp8fnA0pO1bZMeCEsm80qTngeE9HsbHHqJ-8c_9FlU1XFWwfjzgm8E77KV4fLiWudMAJZFgkgYP0/s1600/Work-Life-Balance-Cartoon.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzAT6CiwkB5BRc8kLtAWI0HvQucS3ix4-5dIsttgx2O5mWxmIZzdc6g6rfdrYA5Iqp8fnA0pO1bZMeCEsm80qTngeE9HsbHHqJ-8c_9FlU1XFWwfjzgm8E77KV4fLiWudMAJZFgkgYP0/s1600/Work-Life-Balance-Cartoon.png" /></a></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIshLvRT4elYO_DK0OhDEGpnmhRPZzS2jao1gm_BvZ4wbeB3q-S34VPdCNZCQEwAEvgNPW9tDtvKE1JJrTbpKZa-ACT_twZ6z3FuJ5lX6lx-VwcmQf0i6b2TVLCryXD1RA4QUcVBI0lU/s1600/work-life-balance.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIshLvRT4elYO_DK0OhDEGpnmhRPZzS2jao1gm_BvZ4wbeB3q-S34VPdCNZCQEwAEvgNPW9tDtvKE1JJrTbpKZa-ACT_twZ6z3FuJ5lX6lx-VwcmQf0i6b2TVLCryXD1RA4QUcVBI0lU/s1600/work-life-balance.png" height="227" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04995780070051288982noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-73803568238503597262015-03-04T11:58:00.003-05:002015-03-04T13:18:19.559-05:00Pattern BehaviorI just ran across this Tumblr blog called <a href="http://mccallspatternbehavior.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">McCall's Pattern Behavior</a>, and wow, I just had to share! Some of these are truly hilarious. Captions are added to images of actual sewing patterns from decades ago. They cracked me up - enjoy!<br>
<br>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25.6000003814697px; margin-top: 1em;">
<a href="http://mccallspatternbehavior.tumblr.com/post/108267629742/nancy-are-you-done-packing-lunches-yet-tee-time" target="_blank"><img src="http://media.tumblr.com/39c99f86904bc3b565f308d118be780a/tumblr_inline_nimx5jKGSK1t4rfqr.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: auto; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: middle;"></a>Nancy are you done packing lunches yet<br>
Tee time for Pajama Golf is in like thirty minutes</blockquote>
<br>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25.6000003814697px; margin-top: 1em;">
<figure class="" style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25.6000003814697px; margin: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://mccallspatternbehavior.tumblr.com/post/110983986378/seriously-ruth-ann-do-you-have-a-blazer-for-every" target="_blank"><img src="http://media.tumblr.com/217bcc9b2ce990917b1d49131089be8a/tumblr_inline_njq3pyl9B61t4rfqr.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: auto; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: middle;"></a></figure>Seriously Ruth-Ann<br>Do you have a blazer for every holiday<br><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25.6000003814697px;">Jesus you’re annoying</span> </blockquote>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25.6000003814697px; margin-top: 1em;">
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04995780070051288982noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-70076949304062330322015-02-27T13:01:00.000-05:002015-03-16T15:59:14.263-04:00Rollin' Rollin' Rollin'<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Horray for a new milestone!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Baby James has learned to roll over, and boy, does he love his new trick! He has been on the verge of rolling for a couple weeks now, so we were super-excited when we went into the nursery early Wednesday morning and found this:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNZP2B-lR91trMxTlzP8EXQ4C22CicFIfaeOnRJGT1opUWTyCqMEQ46nwMfTUAR2yRk4TLsV2pwKSbDuKqBne18e5PHNknc4cm274xx9e4bdERuwbJNeaEJChsGjNJkRtpWMXLo2F93Rk/s640/blogger-image-621335431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNZP2B-lR91trMxTlzP8EXQ4C22CicFIfaeOnRJGT1opUWTyCqMEQ46nwMfTUAR2yRk4TLsV2pwKSbDuKqBne18e5PHNknc4cm274xx9e4bdERuwbJNeaEJChsGjNJkRtpWMXLo2F93Rk/s320/blogger-image-621335431.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tummy sleeper like his mama</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We didn't even hear him, so we know he wasn't especially fussy or stressed when he finally was able to make it all the way onto his belly. He has also been sleeping much more soundly since he's learned to roll - I know it's only been a few days, but Hubs and I are very hopeful this trend continues! Horray for learning new things!!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLyvWNrtMmxtT8Ctmzc3vhig8tBGJBKrqY9D9ZDTa24EJQzgSGKaXNJx-A66yYobnfaxQiQch11MCa24LFq-fc1d58FKUFsWfHShX2pQTgNLPwqYDc9BzEXvClRBqbSPT8tZ_n4vBSWo/s640/blogger-image-297981071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLyvWNrtMmxtT8Ctmzc3vhig8tBGJBKrqY9D9ZDTa24EJQzgSGKaXNJx-A66yYobnfaxQiQch11MCa24LFq-fc1d58FKUFsWfHShX2pQTgNLPwqYDc9BzEXvClRBqbSPT8tZ_n4vBSWo/s320/blogger-image-297981071.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In his snowsuit showing off his roll</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
XOXO & Sweet Dreams!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-o_WyWsnCYURosaVq27WK__7XAZ7FTtcY02Ber3R-vFGn_OkyBFAFJePLl4zzS7A4dto1StKFSDFegIoLFT6F7VVusPW-BdDI3PTSnfxmm6WwDyGwiQ5Pv-5_cPxm925YDCu3LXZxHPg/s1600/Millie+small.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-o_WyWsnCYURosaVq27WK__7XAZ7FTtcY02Ber3R-vFGn_OkyBFAFJePLl4zzS7A4dto1StKFSDFegIoLFT6F7VVusPW-BdDI3PTSnfxmm6WwDyGwiQ5Pv-5_cPxm925YDCu3LXZxHPg/s1600/Millie+small.png" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04995780070051288982noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-3823173831667343652015-02-27T12:44:00.001-05:002015-03-16T15:58:33.016-04:00Moscow MuleHas anyone else tried a Moscow Mule? I first discovered this cocktail when I was browsing around online for home accessories, and I fell in love with the look of these cups. They remind me of mint julep cups (but I'm not a fan of whiskey, so I never get to enjoy those).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.onekingslane.com/product/48623/1251510" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1iRhlcdwMBmJ56-RLZdX0-J0bxmgoMX9ONBSrtx0roqGJn-CB48GbLPyt09vRXHcDBbSznyZBDgSKyPR1ymcHP9boNTKmSqoMuRu3EOrGc3WXea5sTdiTSBvKubCnjNNkYNaDhOJtVRw/s1600/OKL_MoscowMugs.jpg" height="170" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.onekingslane.com/product/48623/1251510" target="_blank">Copper Moscow Mule Mugs</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'll be honest "Moscow Mule" - just the name - makes me think of a White Russian - which, eww, because liquor and milk should not mix. So I was super-surprised when I actually read the ingredients - vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer?! Some of my very favorite things! It sounds so light and refreshing - quite the opposite of anything with milk or cream. Plus you just can't go wrong with those gorgeous copper mugs!<br />
<br />
I've decided I want to try one - or two - of these very soon. Cheers!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-o_WyWsnCYURosaVq27WK__7XAZ7FTtcY02Ber3R-vFGn_OkyBFAFJePLl4zzS7A4dto1StKFSDFegIoLFT6F7VVusPW-BdDI3PTSnfxmm6WwDyGwiQ5Pv-5_cPxm925YDCu3LXZxHPg/s1600/Millie+small.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-o_WyWsnCYURosaVq27WK__7XAZ7FTtcY02Ber3R-vFGn_OkyBFAFJePLl4zzS7A4dto1StKFSDFegIoLFT6F7VVusPW-BdDI3PTSnfxmm6WwDyGwiQ5Pv-5_cPxm925YDCu3LXZxHPg/s1600/Millie+small.png" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04995780070051288982noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-67092525612134162652015-02-04T10:51:00.000-05:002015-03-16T15:58:53.204-04:00Today I Went For A Run<span style="font-family: inherit;">Today, I went for a run. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This should not be a big deal - nonetheless, I'm really proud of myself. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">A little backstory.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Last time I posted here, it was 2010, I was halfway through grad school, and life was quite a bit different from life today. Since my last post, I...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Graduated with my MBA, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Met the love of my life (hi Michael!), </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Started a new job, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Moved to Greensboro, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Bought my first house, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Trained for and </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ran a half marathon (PR!), </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Got engaged, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Started another new job, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Married the love of my life (best wedding ever), </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Honeymooned in St. Lucia, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Got pregnant, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Started a new position at work, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sold the old house, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Bought a new house (moved), </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And I had a baby (James). Or he had me. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">More to come on all these developments, but in the meantime, I'm going to continue to celebrate life and the little (and big) things that make it all worthwhile.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Today, I went for a run. :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">XOXO,</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9xnX9QZRrqA/VNI-p7ZwZWI/AAAAAAAAKR4/2nZOSHhtR-8/s1600/millie-name-design3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-o_WyWsnCYURosaVq27WK__7XAZ7FTtcY02Ber3R-vFGn_OkyBFAFJePLl4zzS7A4dto1StKFSDFegIoLFT6F7VVusPW-BdDI3PTSnfxmm6WwDyGwiQ5Pv-5_cPxm925YDCu3LXZxHPg/s1600/Millie+small.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-o_WyWsnCYURosaVq27WK__7XAZ7FTtcY02Ber3R-vFGn_OkyBFAFJePLl4zzS7A4dto1StKFSDFegIoLFT6F7VVusPW-BdDI3PTSnfxmm6WwDyGwiQ5Pv-5_cPxm925YDCu3LXZxHPg/s1600/Millie+small.png" /></a></div>
<br />Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-63214855150206606032010-07-27T17:23:00.006-04:002015-03-16T16:01:40.653-04:00ATL loves!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFnGCut1ImI/AAAAAAAAB5Q/IEBSQWzjo4Y/s1600/greetings_from_atlanta_georgia_postcard-p239120972084384795qibm_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFnGCut1ImI/AAAAAAAAB5Q/IEBSQWzjo4Y/s320/greetings_from_atlanta_georgia_postcard-p239120972084384795qibm_400.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Why hello again! I've been out exploring a new city, and let me tell you - Atlanta is far more fun than it might seem from the outside - what a pleasant surprise! My MBA summer internship has taken me to the largest city in the Southeast, and at first, I'll be honest, I was a little terrified. Not of big cities, mind you - just of the <a href="http://www.demographia.com/c-atl.jpg">overgrown urban sprawl</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQWc3MWQxtU">bad public transportation</a>, <a href="http://www.nationaltransportllc.com/userfiles/atlantatraf_1.jpg">daily panic-inducing traffic</a>, and an unreasonable expectation that "<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/chs/9/Atlanta.html">all-the-best-restaurants-and-pubs-are-owned-by-a-big-corporation-and-have-no-personality</a>."<br />
<br />
Well folks, I was wrong about that last item. (The rest is true, but I manage to avoid 'em by living in one of the most awesome close-to-everything neighborhoods around!) Atlanta is chock-full of some really cool, off-beat, and fun places that you just have to check out the next time "y'all" venture down south. Here are a few of my favorite unique places that I've already visited. I have a "must-see-before-leaving" list which is rapidly filling up, so send me your recommendations!<br />
<br />
1. <b>Cacao</b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFnGfvTLBRI/AAAAAAAAB5Y/PXXCZIU503w/s1600/kristen_bio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFnGfvTLBRI/AAAAAAAAB5Y/PXXCZIU503w/s320/kristen_bio.jpg" height="320" width="292" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kristen Hard, Founder & Chocolate Maker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This absolute <a href="http://www.cacaoatlanta.com/">gem of a chocolate shop</a> boasts not only some of the finest chocolates around, but they are all handmade in-house, and it is one of only a small handful (think around 10 or so) bean-to-bar artisan chocolate makers in the entire country. <br />
<br />
This is beyond mere infatuation or sugar-lust. I'm convinced that the chocolate from Cacao actually loves me back. It's a very decadent relationship. You may catch more bees with honey, but who wants to catch bees? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 13px;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 13px;">"Each piece of chocolate made in our laboratoire is hand crafted with you, the customer, in mind. Not only do we use the highest quality organic ingredients while employing time-honored chocolate making processes, but also, every bite of Cacao chocolate is made with personal care and attention, creating a conscious chocolate experience for all those who taste it. Cacao Laboratoire firmly espouses that chocolate does more than provide physical sustenance; it takes the extra step to provide the soul with spiritual nourishment as well.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 13px;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 13px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 13px;">In doing so, we hope our message of love is translated through our product; because at Cacao Laboratoire, it is our mission to compose a product inspiring you to give love, give chocolate."</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2. <b>Arden's Garden</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4lejUcDk-on8d4NTusPHyxhHwU3lB3ZtUsSTfpjDEywH05YRQXtVwHOufKaZB8aFzRJ2dTk4OFVoesb_9toPQa9DvI0IGW7XgKyL-uaYBrjVwvrOj2aMur3CTJyTVZd3TkIFXivBiWw/s1600/LiverCleanse_Web_LC_Page-600x300.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4lejUcDk-on8d4NTusPHyxhHwU3lB3ZtUsSTfpjDEywH05YRQXtVwHOufKaZB8aFzRJ2dTk4OFVoesb_9toPQa9DvI0IGW7XgKyL-uaYBrjVwvrOj2aMur3CTJyTVZd3TkIFXivBiWw/s1600/LiverCleanse_Web_LC_Page-600x300.png" height="160" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Who is <a href="http://www.ardensgarden.com/story.html">Arden</a>? She's the lady who owns this cool place - <a href="http://clatl.com/atlanta/on-the-fasting-track/Content?oid=1245077">some people</a> think she's crazy (they might be right) - but who cares! All I know is that she makes some darn good locally-produced, freshly-squeezed fruit & vegetable juices. She has some incredible combinations that look absolutely vile, but believe it or not, taste quite fabulous! In addition to her juice shops in town, the products are sold in my local Whole Foods (score!) Over-processed too-salty V8 juice can take a hike - I'll take an Arden's Garden, please.<br />
<br />
3. <b>Bark ATL</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFnIsr_QFNI/AAAAAAAAB5g/6wcpA1pzi9c/s1600/BARK-ATL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFnIsr_QFNI/AAAAAAAAB5g/6wcpA1pzi9c/s320/BARK-ATL.jpg" height="194" width="320" /></a></div>
I simply MUST give an awesome shout-out to the folks at the best doggy-day-care in the world, <a href="http://www.barkatl.com/">Bark ATL</a>. They have one of the cleanest, most fun, and pleasant pet facilities I've ever seen (that doesn't cost an arm, leg, and first-born child). It is also a 100% cage-free facility. Fo' real. There's none of this "I'm sorry we will have to conduct a month-long 'trial' to learn your pup's personality" nonsense before letting them romp with the rest of the pack.<br />
<br />
On her first day, my little munchkin (75 lbs is little, right?) was having a total blast with the other Big Dogs, which I secretly watched on the <a href="http://www.barkatl.com/index.shtml?cameras">webcam</a>, and she came home with an adorable first-day-of-school photo with a magnet for the fridge. In addition, the staff takes lots of fun pics to post on Facebook, so you can make your friends jealous too that the doggies have more pool-time in one workday than we get all summer. If only my cubicle were half as much fun...<br />
<br />
4. <b>Everybody's Pizza</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFnJAPabMRI/AAAAAAAAB5o/YhF9geg2BBk/s1600/Everybody_s-Pizza-virginia-highland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFnJAPabMRI/AAAAAAAAB5o/YhF9geg2BBk/s320/Everybody_s-Pizza-virginia-highland.jpg" /></a></div>
Everybody loves pizza, and in my opinion, everybody needs a local pizza place where you can get wonderful, unique, delicious REAL pizza that you know won't be a rubber disc stamped "Made in China." In Atlanta, this is the place. While they will deliver anything on the menu, if you swing by to eat-in, you'll be impressed by the well-chosen beer selection and outstanding people-watching (grab a seat by the window). Check out the <a href="http://www.everybodyspizza.com/everybodys-menu.pdf">menu</a> and take special note of something called a "pizza salad." Yep, really. It exists. Awesome.<br />
<br />
5. <b>Chastain Park Amphitheater</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TE9Hc-twNtI/AAAAAAAAB0o/0-N-wvr_5pA/s1600/concert.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TE9Hc-twNtI/AAAAAAAAB0o/0-N-wvr_5pA/s400/concert.png" height="220" width="400" /></a></div>
This is not really "under-the-radar" but it is one of the coolest things about Atlanta. Last weekend, on my birthday, I was surprised by my date with a picnic dinner and tickets to see a concert with Chris Isaak (the next Simon Cowell? please comment, I want to hear your thoughts!) <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.classicchastain.com/">The venue is awesome</a> - it's an outdoor amphitheater, but not a typical one. It was nice and shady in the evening, and there are wide comfortable seats so you aren't forced to sit on the grass. They allow you to bring in your own cooler of food and drinks (including beer or wine) which makes an ideal date spot, or simply a perfect way to catch some good music with great friends. I highly recommend getting to see to a show if you can!Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-11778591084517999742010-01-26T22:30:00.001-05:002010-08-04T15:48:33.192-04:00American Idol, and my other guilty pleasures... (okay, fine, I don't feel guilty)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFm38grTsWI/AAAAAAAAB4w/ZREMy_oei68/s1600/Crying_is_okay_here.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFm38grTsWI/AAAAAAAAB4w/ZREMy_oei68/s400/Crying_is_okay_here.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/31741176@N00/142562470/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Flickr</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>After tearing up at yet again another American Idol audition, I have decided I am no longer apologizing for such over-the-top displays of emotion (who cares if I'm the only person in my house, I still get embarrassed). But not anymore!<br />
<br />
I'm embracing all of the realized/crushed dreams on American Idol, the emotional trauma of Grey's Anatomy, and the relentlessly-inspirational Biggest Loser. I believe previews for Nicholas Sparks' "Dear John" should come with a warning: "Not Appropriate for All Audiences, a.k.a. Emotional Disaster Zones."<br />
<br />
The one thing that completely rips me apart? (As if there weren't enough already!) The National Anthem. The Star-Spangled Banner. I feel sorry for all the other fans near me at games, or anyone in the living room at the start of the Super Bowl. Please be forewarned-- I will cry. Hard. Just wait until the jets fly over. Oh man. 100% Guaranteed.<br />
<br />
So... I cry at stuff. Lots of stuff. I'm not sorry for it or sad about it; it's great. It is those things in particular that make me happy. I absolutely LIVE for something (anything) that makes me feel so much, so strongly, one way or another (see previous <a href="http://millieantoinette.blogspot.com/2009/11/filled-with-glee.html">Glee post</a>) that I laugh out loud, stand up and cheer, or completely melt down in tears for an hour. I love it all.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFnDqYYNovI/AAAAAAAAB5A/UK6KGtZTZ5w/s1600/olympics+coloring.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFnDqYYNovI/AAAAAAAAB5A/UK6KGtZTZ5w/s320/olympics+coloring.gif" width="320" /></a></div>PS: Warning: the Olympics is soon, and it's the worst offender-- produces all of the above symptoms. It starts with only the NBC theme song. I'm stocking up on tissues, red wine, and pretzels.Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-85923225578560847882010-01-13T01:20:00.004-05:002010-08-04T14:55:12.436-04:00Hello again my lovelies...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFm1CmEiOKI/AAAAAAAAB4I/hRc1eUckseM/s1600/polls_drama_2606_167365_answer_1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFm1CmEiOKI/AAAAAAAAB4I/hRc1eUckseM/s400/polls_drama_2606_167365_answer_1.jpeg" width="288" /></a></div>First of all... HUGE apologies for my serious lack of posts... Much drama happened during my over-stressed exam season, followed by weeks of perfectly stress-free holidays. Neither is conducive to the frivolous and fun blogging that I so enjoy. Bits and pieces of the drama (and all of the crazy-awesome Christmas goodies) will make appearances soon. For now, that's my story and I'm sticking to it. <br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Now that we are a full 13 days into January, it's officially time to begin planning my vacation wardrobe! I am somehow lucky enough to be traveling to the British Virgin Islands (BVI's) during the 2nd week of March with my tr<i style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">è</i><span style="color: black;">s</span><i style="color: black;"> </i>chic cousin, awesome aunt, and my mom (who is getting her own "moms can be cool, just watch" blog post... stay tuned).<br />
<br />
We are going to be sailing around on <a href="http://www.moorings.com/vacation-options/luxury-crewed-yacht-charter/destinations/caribbean/british-virgin-islands">a boat</a> for seven days, and I am searching for a couple unique pieces to add just the right Caribbean vibe to my current wardrobe. If there's anything I don't really need more of, it's basic summer/vacation attire. I have a few ideas, and hope to get a second opinion before buying... (PS: my shopping budget has shrunk big-time; after holiday returns I have a nice J. Crew store credit, so I'm sticking to one retailer). <br />
<br />
First off, a new swimsuit - I have some great suits, but haven't bought one in almost two years. This <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/browse/single_product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524441800532&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302039283&nav_type=PRMNAV&bmUID=1263360209233">Biarritz-stripe</a> is perfect for grabbing some rays on the bow of a sailboat, no?<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFm1TQv-kjI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/E39_eGxYrSI/s1600/biarritzsuit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFm1TQv-kjI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/E39_eGxYrSI/s320/biarritzsuit.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Biarritz-stripe v-wire bandeau top & hipster bottom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Next up, the <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Shop_By_Category/bags/strawbags/PRDOVR~24909/99101977575/ENE~1+2+3+22+4294967294+20~~~0~90~all~mode+matchallany~~~~~tote/24909.jsp">Straw seaside tote</a>... not only is it screaming at me "SUMMER! VACATION! BEACH! TROPICS! SUNTAN! OCEAN!!!" it also could replace my purse completely, meaning one less bag to fly with, one less item to pack. Not to mention its size... the perfect carry-on.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/S8NgkpvwC5I/AAAAAAAAB0E/NQKYN9JFoQk/s1600/seasidebeachtote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/S8NgkpvwC5I/AAAAAAAAB0E/NQKYN9JFoQk/s200/seasidebeachtote.jpg" width="168" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Straw Seaside Tote</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I am completely split on the decision between these two shirts. I love them both, but the ruffle one seems more practical (is that weird?) I think the <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Shop_By_Category/shirtstops/camisblouses/PRDOVR~22852/22852.jsp">Sweeping ruffles shirt</a> could be more versatile than the longer, straighter shape of the <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/browse/single_product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524441800481&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302039284&nav_type=PRMNAV&bmUID=1263360209240">Chambray tuxedo beach shirt</a>... but at almost twice the price, I may need to wait for this darling to pop into the sale section. Both looks are similar (and I love them both) - opinions?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFm2NeAwY2I/AAAAAAAAB4Y/Aowo_vAMaC0/s1600/rufflesshirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFm2NeAwY2I/AAAAAAAAB4Y/Aowo_vAMaC0/s320/rufflesshirt.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweeping ruffles shirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFm2WrhfaoI/AAAAAAAAB4g/aYd-2BCLr7s/s1600/tuxedoshirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFm2WrhfaoI/AAAAAAAAB4g/aYd-2BCLr7s/s320/tuxedoshirt.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chambray tuxedo beach shirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And to top things off (pun intended) I am totally enamored with the <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Shop_By_Category/accessories/scarvesgloveshats/PRDOVR~23793/23793.jsp">Panama hat</a>. It could really go anywhere... from with just a swimsuit (see above!) to a gauzy cover-up for <a href="http://www.soggydollar.com/soggydollarbar/">Painkillers at the Soggy Dollar</a>... to lobster dinner on <a href="http://cowwreckbeach.com/">Anegada</a> in a <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/browse/single_product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524441795600&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302023908&nav_type=SALESITE&bmUID=1263360209248">summery dress</a>. This hat could easily make OR break any look. Any advice on how to make this work?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFm3U33YFPI/AAAAAAAAB4o/WfAVitM0-bU/s1600/Jcrew-Panama-Hat-58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFm3U33YFPI/AAAAAAAAB4o/WfAVitM0-bU/s320/Jcrew-Panama-Hat-58.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panama hat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Thanks for being patient readers... I promise I'll be posting more soon! School starts back tomorrow so my need to escape will be much greater, especially with the upcoming vacation on my mind!</div>Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-23122007970415144322009-11-18T23:38:00.001-05:002010-08-04T14:43:56.116-04:00Filled with Glee<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFm0e9162EI/AAAAAAAAB4A/6Tey3_jd7eI/s1600/Artie-glee-7960939-1024-768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFm0e9162EI/AAAAAAAAB4A/6Tey3_jd7eI/s320/Artie-glee-7960939-1024-768.jpg" /></a></div><div>I cannot say enough how completely smitten I am with the show Glee! It has received great critical reviews, about the acting, music, writing, what not... but there's something else about it I just can't pinpoint...</div><div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Every episode leaves me sublimely happy... filled... no, inflated with happy-ness! It's like a crazy drug... laughing gas at the dentist office. The characters are fantastical, funny, and oh so entertaining. The storyline plays out in a way that makes you feel like re-living nostalgic memories of your own high school experience (both good and bad). </div><br />
Just at the point where you start thinking you're watching just another good show, the entire gorgeous and impeccably-dressed cast breaks out in song-- one of those songs you secretly know all the words to and turn up way too loud in your car, singing your heart out.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmzJy3CY4I/AAAAAAAAB3o/vSVe8VLg7cw/s1600/alg_glee_finale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmzJy3CY4I/AAAAAAAAB3o/vSVe8VLg7cw/s400/alg_glee_finale.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>If you haven't yet had your piece of yummy Glee deliciousness, I suggest you do it soon. Very soon.</div>Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-46292209865281562262009-11-18T21:24:00.006-05:002010-08-04T14:30:58.305-04:00P is for Party... A is for All Night Long!Wahoo! I just ordered my dress for the MBA school upcoming Holiday Party, and I couldn't be more excited about what I picked! I started out looking for something frilly and fun, trying to find anything similar to this piece of puffy perfection.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmwGe6_P2I/AAAAAAAAB2w/5_kmKD6xC70/s1600/organza+party+dress.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmwGe6_P2I/AAAAAAAAB2w/5_kmKD6xC70/s400/organza+party+dress.png" width="217" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">J. Crew Organza Party Dress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Everything about this dress screams fun, festive holiday party. The frills, the ruffles, the tiers, it's all simply amazing. The price? Not so much. But don't cry, black frilly dress, I still love you dearly. One day I hope we'll see each other again... Meet me on top of the Empire State Building on Valentine's Day?<br />
<br />
I began looking in all the usual places-- Nordstrom, Bluefly, Bloomingdale's, Forever 21, etc... There wasn't <strike>anything at all</strike> anything close to my price point that caught my eye. Major bummer. So back at J. Crew, I stumbled upon the silk taffeta bow monde dress (btw... what's a monde?) I've admired this dress in the catalog for a while, but never had an occasion to wear it. I think is just what I need...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmwgNzE8VI/AAAAAAAAB24/zsPIbJFBs38/s1600/bow+monde.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmwgNzE8VI/AAAAAAAAB24/zsPIbJFBs38/s320/bow+monde.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">J. Crew Bow Monde Dress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Instead of going for a bright color (my usual), or the traditional holiday party LBD, I opted for "barely peach", which seems like a metallic warm nude, not anything orange-related. I think it will work great for holiday, plus I can wear it to weddings or parties all year 'round.<br />
<br />
In the same order, I also picked up the Harper crackle metallic platform heels (on sale woohoo!) and the skinny shimmerveil belt. Am I on some sort of ridiculous glitter/metallic-obsessed bender? Probably. I don't care. If sparkly is wrong, I don't want to be right!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmwsQU4VDI/AAAAAAAAB3A/xB4szyzTklY/s1600/harper+crackle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmwsQU4VDI/AAAAAAAAB3A/xB4szyzTklY/s320/harper+crackle.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harper crackle metallic platform heels</td></tr>
</tbody></table>For the holiday party, I have a great pair of bright blue satin shoes that I absolutely adore. I've been just dying to wear them, and I think they would be gorgeous with the bow dress. However I'm also tempted to wear the new metallic heels. Help me readers! I'm completely torn! Which shoes should I pick?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmxJIFJNcI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/enf7AolzmwE/s1600/nina+blue+fleur+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmxJIFJNcI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/enf7AolzmwE/s320/nina+blue+fleur+2.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nina blue Fleur heels</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> PS: I apologize for the recent lack of posts... it's crazy-busy exam time here at b-school, so there hasn't been much time to think about anything else. Fear not! I'll be back to a regular schedule again verrrry soon. Believe me I would rather be here. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Much love --Millie.</div>Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-28960649139116530092009-11-11T12:38:00.001-05:002010-08-04T14:22:07.753-04:00How To Make My Day, Step One:<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Navigation/Sale.jsp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://images.jcrew.com/emails/HOL09/nov_111109/images/12_sale_ho_annc_m.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This happy surprise was in my Inbox this morning.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-55968054018003788902009-11-10T11:30:00.001-05:002010-08-04T14:20:43.575-04:00Pretty Please, Santa?Stumbling along through blog-world, and then...<br />
Oh my...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div id="product-details" style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmutDIgcOI/AAAAAAAAB2o/rNWfH2CWFzA/s1600/51022_fr_dl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmutDIgcOI/AAAAAAAAB2o/rNWfH2CWFzA/s400/51022_fr_dl.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Satin Bow-Front Clutch<br />
Valentino<br />
$895<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>There are hardly words sufficient for this bag... it simply speaks for itself. Amazing.<br />
<br />
</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Available at </span><a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/51022#"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Net-A-Porter</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">.</span>Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-11591349201110274362009-11-10T10:57:00.002-05:002010-08-04T14:14:14.521-04:00Kate Spade Sample Sale!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmtqKd4ofI/AAAAAAAAB2I/W1zijqRg8hU/s1600/sale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmtqKd4ofI/AAAAAAAAB2I/W1zijqRg8hU/s640/sale.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kate Spade Sample Sale</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I received the above email this morning, and can't wait to check it out!<br />
To shop the sample sale, you must login and join the <a href="http://www.katespade.com/samplesale/ended.jsp">Kate Spade mailing list</a>. <br />
<br />
Enjoy!Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-2894942938466957042009-11-06T19:22:00.001-05:002010-08-04T14:11:19.221-04:00Friday's FindMuch has been said about the awesomeness of Forever 21 jewelry, but I'm going to repeat it anyway. F21 jewelry is awesome. Even more so for poor grad students like me who can't afford anything that even resembles the real stuff. If you've ever wanted to try the big trendy statement jewelry, but don't want to make it an "investment," F21 is your kind of place.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/11.06.09/set?.mid=embed&id=13331455"><img alt="11.06.09" border="0" height="400" src="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/img-set/BQcDAAAAAwoDanBnAAAABC5vdXQKFmFJVmJWakxMM2hHRVQ1WWZsY3NyX2cAAAACaWQKAWUAAAAEc2l6ZQ.jpg" title="11.06.09" width="400" /></a><br />
<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/11.06.09/set?.mid=embed&id=13331455"><br />
</a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/j_crew/shop?brand=J+Crew"></a></small></div>Today I wore the <a href="http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog_name=FOREVER21&category_name=acc_necklace&product_id=1066390118&Page=all">beaded cluster necklace</a> above for the first time. Despite my initial skepticism, I loved it. It was larger than expected - true for a bunch of the things on F21's website (beware what you buy here). It looks bubbly and glitzy in person, and I think this it could really dress up a party dress. For today though, I like how it adds some funky flair to an otherwise casual outfit.<br />
<br />
Happy Friday!Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-38620402423532023312009-11-05T14:01:00.001-05:002010-08-04T14:10:24.453-04:00To Tuck, or Not to Tuck... That is the Question I recently bought the J. Crew navy check shirt - and I absolutely love it. My dilemma today is about how to wear this type of shirt - the casual, relaxed-fit, button-down shirt, with a shirt-tail hem. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>As you can see here, the model has the shirt untucked completely, which looks great on her, although can sometimes look sloppy, but is generally my "tuck" of choice. This outfit, along with a black Jackie cardigan, is how I wore the shirt last Friday.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmr84rI8EI/AAAAAAAAB1w/OfOChTCDicU/s1600/untuck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmr84rI8EI/AAAAAAAAB1w/OfOChTCDicU/s320/untuck.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overall look = B+</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Another option for the button-down shirt-tail is to tuck it completely in.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmsLOer9QI/AAAAAAAAB14/JEiiFrHfyrA/s1600/tuck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmsLOer9QI/AAAAAAAAB14/JEiiFrHfyrA/s320/tuck.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overall look = C+</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Tucked in, the overall effect is much less casual, and depending on the pattern, could tend to be a more formal look. The tucked-in shirt can work well for jeans or looser-fitting chinos or cords, but when I tried this with skinny jeans or Minnie pants, the bunched-up shirt was visible through the pants (a la VPL/visible panty lines). <i>Definitely</i> not the look I want!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Now check this out:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmsfneOLMI/AAAAAAAAB2A/S9e5gnW5RDg/s1600/halftuck.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmsfneOLMI/AAAAAAAAB2A/S9e5gnW5RDg/s320/halftuck.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overall look = A</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The model here has the shirt half-tucked in, half-out. I <i><u>love</u></i> this look. I saw this photo and have been able to re-create it nearly to perfection. However, whenever I try to pull it off, I feel like it is obvious that I did this on purpose. It looks staged, overly trendy, and like I'm "trying way too hard." Again, <i>not</i> the look I'm going for.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Has anyone been able to pull off the "half-tuck" and make it work? Any tips on making it look less planned and more like a happy accident? "Ooh, is that my shirt-tail coming out? Gee whiz, I didn't even notice."</div>Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-35860060262153732872009-11-04T19:43:00.002-05:002010-08-04T14:04:03.915-04:00Girl Crush Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Can I just gush for a bit about the unbelievably gorgeous, fabulous, and stylish host of So You Think You Can Dance, Cat Deeley? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmqtGK2WdI/AAAAAAAAB1g/0js2hpsfAWs/s1600/cat-deeley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmqtGK2WdI/AAAAAAAAB1g/0js2hpsfAWs/s320/cat-deeley.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Each and every show, Cat arrives onstage with a unique, fashion-forward (and STUNNING!) outfit. She looks different each week-- not just the clothes, but her entire look is new and fresh every show. In addition to her impeccable style and genetic gorgeous-ness, she appears to be a genuinely approachable and fun person! There are not very many TV people (real people, not characters) who I wish were my friends, but she's one of 'em. Funny, stylish, gorgeous, and laid-back relaxed attitude. If I were a guy, this would probably sound creepy (and it might sound creepy anyways) - but I don't care.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmq-o7G37I/AAAAAAAAB1o/BShLR-eyfLo/s1600/cat-deeley-sytycd.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmq-o7G37I/AAAAAAAAB1o/BShLR-eyfLo/s640/cat-deeley-sytycd.jpg" width="513" /></a></div>PS: Did anyone catch the shoes she had on last night!? I can't find them online, but when I do, I promise to post a picture - unbelievable. Go back and re-check the TiVo - they're so very worth checking out.Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-90532715643269962162009-11-04T16:44:00.002-05:002010-08-04T13:59:49.666-04:00Hey! Give It Back! I Wasn't Done Yet!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/carshamus/3097837869/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="244" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3250/3097837869_b38519f0e7.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by CarLee</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3250/3097837869_b38519f0e7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Today I hopped onto J. Crew's website to check out the new arrivals and Holiday Gift Guide, and was startled to find my shopping cart empty! What!?! Why, J. Crew? What did I do wrong?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span id="goog_1257368433440">J. Crew is one of those wonderful sites that allows you to save your cart between shopping sessions. </span><span id="goog_1257368433440">Therefore my shopping cart is rarely empty, unless I've <i>just</i> made a purchase. I use my cart to "bookmark" items that I love, and keep a running tally (should I decide to pull the trigger and make a purchase). The holidays are coming, and I have been adding lots more than usual to my cart, creating a J. Crew Christmas "wish list". As of last night, my shopping cart contained almost $2,000 worth of items (yikes!). Needless to say, I am very disappointed, and actually a bit sad to have lost them all. True, I wouldn't have ended up purchasing every single item, but is that really so bad? Is there some shopping cart code of conduct that I'm unaware of? I feel like a shopper at Target who wandered away from her buggy for a moment, only to find that a sales clerk has taken the cart and put everything back on the shelves. Not fair!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span id="goog_1257368433440">Has this happened to anyone else? Is your shopping cart empty this morning? </span><span id="goog_1257368433441"></span></div>Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-63727733932229265362009-11-03T20:04:00.001-05:002010-08-04T13:54:35.453-04:00Is it a Cheetah? Is it an Ocelot? No, it's a Snow Leopard!I recently read so many awesome reviews (thanks to <a href="http://gigisgoneshopping.blogspot.com/2009/10/forever-21-sweater-picks.html">Gigi</a> and <a href="http://abiggercloset.blogspot.com/2009/10/forever-21-leopard-34-sleeve-cardigan.html">A Bigger Closet</a>) of the Forever 21 Snow Leopard cardigan that I had to have one for myself. The cardigan is almost an exact lookalike to the <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Feature_Assortment/NewArrivals/sweaters/PRDOVR~19006/19006.jsp">sold-out</a> J. Crew Merino Ocelot cardigan-- but at $22.80, the F21 version was an easy decision! Here is my "out the door" look for classes today. I changed out of the tights/mini and into my ankle jeans to come back and study all afternoon (during which time one of my professors asks "what kind of animal is <i>that</i> supposed to be?").<br />
<div><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/11.02.09/set?.mid=embed&id=13264002"><img alt="11.02.09" border="0" height="400" src="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/img-set/BQcDAAAAAwoDanBnAAAABC5vdXQKFjdqWG9ROC1JM2hHeDJkd2hCNDA0QVEAAAACaWQKAWUAAAAEc2l6ZQ.jpg" title="11.02.09" width="400" /></a><br />
<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/11.02.09/set?.mid=embed&id=13264002"><br />
</a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/j_crew/shop?brand=J+Crew"></a></small></div><br />
This is my first <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/">Polyvore</a> experiment, and so far I like it, although it seems a little too time-consuming. I used a combination of the search feature and "clipper" to create the set above, and it took quite a bit of time. Am I missing something? Or is this just a skill that takes practice?Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-39340565936954123582009-11-03T12:16:00.002-05:002010-08-04T13:53:16.084-04:00A Suiting Dilemma<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I noticed yesterday that my very favorite J. Crew suit (black stretch wool, bought summer 2005) is getting a little threadbare. It has become a little "shiny-looking" in areas, and this seems to be more prominent after professional cleaning, rather than better. I've noticed this happening gradually over the past year or so, and I don't think it's a problem with my drycleaner, or a quality issue with the material. I bought this suit after college graduation in 2005, and I have truly worn the life out of it (it was my only suit for 2 years, and has remained my favorite even after I bought others). I think it's about time that I find a new black suit.</div><br />
Online I found two options, one of which is a perfect replacement for my old favorite - it's the same black <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Shop_By_Category/suiting/stretchwool.jsp">stretch wool</a> that I love, <i>and</i> it matches the black <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Shop_By_Category/dresses/suitingdresses/PRDOVR~18844/99101834483/ENE~1+2+3+22+4294967294+20~~~0~15~all~mode+matchallany~~~~~olivia%20dress/18844.jsp">Olive Dress</a> that awaits me under the Christmas tree this December. Theoretically I could put the blazer with the dress if I wanted, and it would match perfectly.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmjnkRHkFI/AAAAAAAAB1A/8oPSHNjaKgo/s1600/stretch+wool+olive+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmjnkRHkFI/AAAAAAAAB1A/8oPSHNjaKgo/s320/stretch+wool+olive+dress.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stretch Wool Olive Dress in Black</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Items in my "go-to" black suit:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmmKHluw0I/AAAAAAAAB1I/Hb1dctbIlOY/s1600/jcrew_wool_stretch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmmKHluw0I/AAAAAAAAB1I/Hb1dctbIlOY/s320/jcrew_wool_stretch.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stretch Wool Jacket & City-fit Bistro Pants</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmn28RtbqI/AAAAAAAAB1Q/FCHY53bIoso/s1600/30585_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmn28RtbqI/AAAAAAAAB1Q/FCHY53bIoso/s200/30585_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stretch Wool Pencil Skirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The other option, which is currently my top choice (for multiple reasons) is the <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Shop_By_Category/suiting/super120spinstripe.jsp">Super 120's pinstripe suiting in charcoal gray</a> (pictured below). This gorgeous material is one of my favorites, and feels amazing. I really like the color, love the stripe (I currently don't have any patterned suits), and AND-- it's on sale. That's the kicker. Not only is it sale-priced, it's not yet in the Final Sale stage so it can be exchanged, plus they have all 3 pieces- in stock- in my size. That by itself is usually enough to convince me. However, the pattern and color aren't quite as versatile, and it <i>was</i> the black suit I originally intended to replace... Interview season is coming up fast in the MBA world. I really wish I could have both, but suits are expensive, so I'll need to wait on one of these.<br />
<br />
Which would you choose? Should I go with the more versatile, black stretch wool favorite? Or the new, interesting, and <i>sale-priced</i> charcoal 120's?<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmiGhiChiI/AAAAAAAAB0w/bSNiXZ0Z24g/s1600/Super+120s+pinstripe+suiting+at+jcrewcom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmiGhiChiI/AAAAAAAAB0w/bSNiXZ0Z24g/s320/Super+120s+pinstripe+suiting+at+jcrewcom.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super 120's Pinstripe 2-Button Jacket & Pants</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmiReavmjI/AAAAAAAAB04/4iyGPxW_s2E/s1600/86013_BK0001_m_HOL07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NmTscWKxfRs/TFmiReavmjI/AAAAAAAAB04/4iyGPxW_s2E/s200/86013_BK0001_m_HOL07.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super 120's Pinstripe High Pencil Skirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8044620134568677318.post-62710766706709741712009-11-02T22:49:00.000-05:002009-11-02T22:49:02.904-05:00Blog BirthdayI have been inspired by some awesome fellow MBAs (and JCAs) to start my own blog. Because of the huge volume of MBA-related work required each day, I prefer to spend my down time enjoying anything and everything else, as long as it's fun, pretty, and/or enjoyable. Expect lots of opinions but not too much controversy. Life is short, so live happy. And in honor of today's blog birthday, let us eat cake!Milliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02554301888452436254noreply@blogger.com2