So Very Charmed

The Ultimate Convenience Food

2011-06-20T21:23:00.002-05:00

It’s fast. It’s free. It’s nutritionally superior. And it’s the best kept secret of motherhood.

Breastmilk. Yep, I said it. And here’s why: the last thing I need in my life right now is another bottle to fill and wash. In fact, I don’t want anything else to wash. (My dog can’t believe his luck because he’s escaped a bath for months. But alas, his day is coming.)

And here’s another reason: I need my sleep.

While some moms drag themselves out of bed at 2 a.m., head to the kitchen to fill a bottle, then attend to a baby who’s wide awake—and not to mention, thoroughly pissed—by the time she gets there, I whip it out, latch ‘er on, and go back to dreaming about … snakes … snakes everywhere! But I digress.

Need another reason? I thought you’d never ask.

It’s free. And I could stop there, but I won’t.

Going anywhere with a baby is a big production. And just when I start to feel like a roadie for Christina Aguilara, I thank my lucky stars for the convenience food that sits right on my chest.

Busy Girls Lasagna

2010-01-19T12:53:00.001-06:00

Why waste your time making lasagna from scratch, when it's so easy to assemble and serve semi-homemade style. Sandra Lee will be so proud of us!

1 package of oven-ready lasagna noodles
1 big jar or can of marinara (I use Prego Heart Smart because it’s AHA certified)
1 large container of ricotta
1 lb of grated mozzarella
1 package of grated parmesan
1 egg
1 lb ground beef, chicken, turkey or tofu
1 tbs of dried parsley

Brown the ground meat, sprinkle a little black pepper over it. Mix the meat with the marinara.

In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta ¾ of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, parsley and beated egg.

Start with the meat/marinara sauce mixture, then noodles (make sure the noodles are covered with sauce), ricotta cheese mixture, a light layer of mozzarella, etc.

Top with another light layer of mozzarella and parmesan. Bake covered at 350 for 50 min. Remove foil and back for another 10 minutes.

Travel Smart

2009-06-10T12:06:00.011-05:00

Early on my career I frequently traveled around the country with my boss who was a VP of Marketing at the time.

As a business travel veteran, she insisted that I follow her "School of Travel," and I must admit, it made things easier.

Here are some of her rules and my own tips.

Never bring more luggage than you can carry by yourself in one trip. A woman should be self sufficient. You won't want to rely on the kindness of strangers. leave your luggage unattended, or throw your back out.

If your carrying on all of your luggage, reserve a seat at the back of the plane. The overhead bins near the back are less crowded, and you'll have more chances to find a spot for your luggage.

On a flight home from Boston my seat was in the middle of the plane, but the only available overhead space was in the back. I had to wait for everyone to exit the plane before I could walk back to get my bag.

If you have a lock on your luggage, make sure that code is one that can be read upside down. For example, "6" will look like a "9" upside down.

Go to the bathroom, before the plane boards, and don't leave your friend stuck watching your luggage when the plane is boarding. She might be in a different group that boards sooner than you.

Have a back up for the hotel's wake up call. Whether it's pre-ordering breakfast to arrive or setting the alarm on your cell phone, always have a back up.

Pack your carry on bag as if you will never see your checked luggage again. Because, in fact, you may not. Your luggage could be lost or an unexpected delay may have you sitting in the airport for hours.

For me, this includes, a pashmina wrap, contact solution & case, my glasses, something to read, a snack, a pair of undies, medicine, my iPhone/iPod, phone charger, and toothbrush/paste.

Never put anything in a checked bag, that you think someone might steal. Jewelry, laptop, camera, and other valuables should all go in your carry on.

Carry your passport, even if your flying domestically. Pulling your drivers license out of your wallet at every security checkpoint is a pain. With your passport, you can leave your DL safely in your wallet and keep your passport with your boarding pass.

Plus, it's a back up in case your wallet is stolen or you lose your DL.

Never get on a plane hungry. I made this mistake on the way to Miami one time. My colleague and I were ready for lunch, but thought we'd just eat when we arrived. We didn't expect our plane would be sitting on the runway for hours. We almost died.

Always carry a snack and bottle of water. This will save your life if your stuck on the runway somewhere. According to today's rules, you can't bring your own liquid through security, but just remember to buy one at the airport for your bag.

Stash some cash. Everyone who knows me knows that I NEVER carry cash--except when I travel. If your bank freezes your accounts due to suspected fraud while you're away, you'll be SOL if all you have is plastic. Also, you'll need to tip anyone who carries your luggage for you.

Spread out your cash. If you're carrying a lot of cash, never put it all in your wallet. Spread it out between the pockets in different bags. That way, if one bag is stolen, you will still have some cash stashed in other places.

Let you bank know you'll be traveling. Before the Happy Husband (HH) and I went to Belize, I made sure to call my credit cards to let them know that there would be some unusual activity in a foreign country, so they wouldn't freeze the accounts.

Be a "Pin Up Girl" at the Beach

2009-06-07T18:42:00.005-05:00

Sometimes the best fashion inspriation doesn't come from Vogue--it comes from real people.

Over the weekend, Pirate Girl and I ran across another stylish way to jazz up a swimsuit; simply pin on a broach.

Broaches are a smart way to give a regular swimsuit several unique looks simply by changing the pin.

Forget practicality, you can just take the pin off before you get in the water. Or better yet, find a swimsuit that already has a bauble attached like the one in this picture.

Obviously, you'd want to find a broach that's inexpensive and costumey. Any shop that sales vintage jewelry should have tons of broaches, giving you lots of great options for spicing up your swimwear.

DIY Bookmarks

2009-06-02T12:28:00.007-05:00

Genius!

Recycle your old paint chips to make a super cute bookmark!

I found this idea on Care2.com.

I'll be doing this with all of the paint chips I've collected over the years for colors that the HH vetoed, like purple for the living room and lime green for the bedroom.

Maybe he was right about that, but now I can enjoy the colors on a much smaller scale.

Best Dressed: Swimsuits & Accessories

2009-05-27T12:22:00.011-05:00

I can always count on Pirate Girl to make a fashion statement at the lake (or the Texas Hamptons, as I like to imagine it).

And this last Memorial Day weekend was no exception.

Arriving at the dock rockin' big, dangly, gold earrings and a couple of bangle bracelets, she immediately reminded me of how great accessories look with swimsuit.

(It didn't hurt that she was also carrying a bottle of champagne.)

Adding some costume jewelry to your swimwear ensemble is such an easy way to look chic when you're sweaty.

Practical? Well, maybe not always, but it looks so great.

I proudly proclaim Pirate Girl Best Dressed Lake Texoma!

Style Icon: Audrey Hepburn

2009-05-19T12:44:00.017-05:00

In my world, there is no bigger style icon than Audrey Hepburn. Here are some her looks that I love. Any one of them would still look great today.

- Black dress
- Orange coat
- All black
- Black skinny pants
- Ballet flats
- Big sunglasses

The good news is that all of these looks can easily be replicated on a budget!

Farmer-tastic

2009-05-18T18:31:00.010-05:00

Testing out our skills as hip "locavoirs," my mom and I made a trip to the local Farmer's Market on Sunday.

Thankfully, she resisted the urge to dress in theme.

There's always such a nice selection of produce and meat, as well as plants. Although we didn't see anything in the dairy section, much to my cheese-loving dismay.

There was an entire shed dedicated solely to the sale of local produce. And that was our primary destination.

Booth after booth was manned by gregarious, young farm hands with thick East Texas accents.

As I strolled by, one took a glance at me, then hollared to his buddy, "biiiiiiiiiiig lemons,"--which, I suppose, is more subtle than "biiiiiiiiiiig melons."

(In the land of big Texas hair and big, fake boobs, no one has ever called my "lemons" big. I guess that just proves that they're not from 'round here.)

Anyway, I made it home with a nice, little bounty of fresh, local goodies, with the best of intentions of not letting them rot in my cabinet (like last time.)

Biggest Waste of Paper--EVER

2009-05-15T17:37:00.004-05:00

In this day 'n' age is there a bigger waste of paper (and trees for that matter) than phone books? I argue "no."

These big, heavy books exemplify the waste of days gone by. And I don't like being reminded.

Every time I get a yellow-paged, cluttertastic waste-of-space dropped at my door, I shake my head as I drop it into the recycling bin.

Except for today.

Today, I decided that I wanted my address this piece of junk head on, and tell AT&T that I want my address off their list.

And that's where my adventure began.

AT&T has created the perfect system for avoiding these calls. It's the cul de sac of corporate avoidance. They are well practiced in this area.

(To be fair, their profits depend on the wide reach of their distribution. But it's only ethical to allow people to easily remove their names from the list.)

First, I went online, and sent a message--which I'm sure will go directly into the "trash folder" of some inbox that no one checks.

After calls to at least four different numbers and enough runaround that would make AT&T proud, I finally reached their distributor, DBA, who took my information to remove me from the list.

To stop receiving AT&T Yellow Pages, call (800) 792-2665.

I'm not completely confident that I won't trip over a phone book at my door in another six months, but it's worth a try.

Swirl, Tap & Buff for Less

2009-05-14T18:04:00.007-05:00

A girl can't live without make up.

So when, I ran out of concealer, foundation, bronzer and mineral veil all at the same time, I knew I needed to act fast.

Only I wore Bare Escentuals, and buying what I needed was going to cost more than $100. And I was out of fun money for the month.

So, I decided to try the next best thing, which was the drug-store version of mineral make up: L'Oreal Bare Naturale.

It took me two trips to Ulta to get the right shade. (Fortunately, Ulta takes returns.) But once I did, I was pleasantly surprised! It worked just a well, and was half the price.

The only drawback is that the brush is built in to the lid, so when you dip the brush directly into the jar, too much powder gets on your brush.

To solve this problem, I used an old lid from one of my Bare Escentual jars, to tap the powder out, then I used my original brushes to buff it on to my face.

It was well worth it to me, because I love saving money in places where no one can tell!

Classic Summer Cool

2009-05-13T12:52:00.009-05:00

Sunglasses or "sunnies," as Rachel Zoe calls, them are a summer must-have accessory. And while trends with sunglasses come and go, aviator shades remain classic summer cool.

Brad, Angelina, Jessica Simpson, Posh, Jessica Biel, Paris Hilton and countless other celebs have been photographed sporting these shades.

And you can, too. They look great on everyone, guys and girls. They're trendy, but never go out of style. How many accessories can do that!

Rachel Zoe also says that sunnies are the universal "do not disturb sign," so unless you're on a plane and would rather sleep than chat with the stranger sitting next to you, remove your sunglasses when you're not outside.

To that point, unless you're outdoors, I think it's impolite to have a conversation when wearing sunglasses. You should be making eye contact.

The Bikini Alternative

2009-05-11T12:51:00.011-05:00

The monokini is my perfect swimsuit.

It's everything you want in a bikini and more because it covers up a less-than-flat tummy.

That's why I bought two this season.

While I'm on the topic, may I just add that Target has the best swimsuits? Oh, well, I think I just did.

Inexpensive and stylish; what more could a girl ask for.

Meat Eaters Delight

2009-05-06T21:21:00.006-05:00

Where does an aspiring vegetarian take her meat-loving husband to dinner for his birthday?

Three words: Fogo de Chao. (pronounced “shawn” not “chow.”)

A few weeks ago, the Happy Husband (HH) said, “I just wanna not eat for like four days, then gorge myself at Fogo de Chao.”

Of course, I offered take him there for his birthday.

He loves all-you-can-eat restaurants. I often joke that he doesn’t want to eat anywhere that doesn’t have a sneeze guard.

But if you like meat, there’s no greater carnivorous treat than Fogo de Chao.

The HH was in heaven. The service is excellent, and each time the waiters came by with a different cut of meat, his eyes sparkled with blood-thirsty desire.

And a marathon of feasting it was.

We ordered Caipirinhas (a traditional Brazilian cocktail) to sip before heading over to fill our plates at the salad bar. We ate about a dozen of the tiny rolls that are like eating bits of a buttery cloud, then on to the meat. Lots o’ meat.

The nice waitress even surprised the HH with a piece of cake.

So, did he have a happy birthday?

Let’s just say this, when we got in the car to go home, he leaned the passenger’s seat chair back saying, “Ugh. Make room for the meat.”

He then groaned, “Now I know how a python feels after eating a giraffe.”

I believe he was a happy customer. And thought it was a nice dining experience as well.

Guys are Literally Literal

2009-05-05T11:24:00.003-05:00

As the HH and I near our fourth anniversary, I’m reminded of how earnestly literal guys can be.

One year as Valentine’s Day approached, the HH asked me what I wanted as my gift.

I was glad he asked because I had something very specific in mind.

So I answered his question, telling him that I wanted a silver charm bracelet, so that I could collect charms representing our life together.

Weeks later, as we prepared to exchange gifts on Valentine’s Day, I saw the recognizable gift wrap, and knew that my charm bracelet had arrived!

But when I opened my gift, I was surprised to see that he had bought my charm bracelet--without any charms.

Of course, the whole point of a charm bracelet is to add charms as you go, but I thought he’d at least buy one to get me started--maybe a heart for Valentine’s Day.

But then I realized that I never said a charm bracelet AND a charm. I just asked for a charm bracelet, and that’s exactly what he got.

He had taken my gift request so adorably literal, that I never let on that I was little surprised there was no charm on the bracelet, and I proudly wore it the next day.

Since then, he’s added a wedding charm to mark our third anniversary, a dog charm for our fur baby, Skipper, and a sewing machine charm for my completion of the Project Make sewing class. I added a dolphin to represent the dolphins we saw while sailing in Belize.

I can’t wait to fill up my charm bracelet with lots of memories.

Muffin Top No More

2009-05-04T12:45:00.003-05:00

Even the skinniest of girls can fall victim to the "muffin-top" effect when wearing a too-tight clothing. (As you can see with Ms. Spears in the picture.)

But as my friend, the PolkaDot chick, showed me, there is an easy way to
smooth your tummy with something you probably already have in your closet.

Simply slip on a tank top or cami under your top to smooth out your stomach and hide the crease from your belly button.

You can even tuck the cami into your pants, so that it doesn't show.

It's important to buy clothes that fit properly, but this is a great trick if you're carrying a couple of extra pounds or are bloated. Cheap and easy.

Puh-lease Say "Please"

2009-05-02T12:30:00.007-05:00

There are two words you can say with ease; one is "thank you." The other is "please."

This must have been one of my mom's lessons for her kindergartners. But it wasn't until I entered the working world as an lowly PR intern that I truly appreciated the simplest of courtesies.

The manners we learned as children, still apply today.

It helps to be remind myself sometimes.

Compliment Him

2009-04-30T12:42:00.005-05:00

A plain, grey tee taught me an important lesson when it comes to living with a man.

One day, I happen to mention to the HH that I thought he looked really nice in the grey t-shirt he was wearing.

The shirt wasn't anything expensive. Just a grey Fruit of the Loom shirt that he probably bought in a pack of multiples, but he still looked handsome to me.

I didn't think much about it, until a few weeks later he came home from one of the big-box stores with at least a half dozen grey t-shirts.

My compliment had resonated with him, and it occurred to me that all the old, married ladies who said that the best way to get a man to do what you want is to compliment him when he does something right, rather than nagging him when he does something wrong.

It was true for me that day.

2009-04-28T18:58:00.005-05:00

As I explained in yesterday's blog, the HH loves saving money.

One of his slickest tricks is comparing offers for electric companies and switching our providers to get the best deal.

Thepowertochoose.org, is an excellent Web site to help Texans review and compare energy plans.
Here are some of the HH's suggestions on how to be a savvy switcher:

1. If you're currently on a month-to-month plan, check the site every three months to check for new offers. If you don't know what your plan is, then this is likely what you have.

2. If you're currently locked in to a six or 12-month contract, beware of penalties for switching too soon.

3. Allow 30 days to switch from one provider to the next. This gives plenty of notice to your old and new providers, and can help you avoid a household black out.

4. Watch out for metering fees; some have them, some don't.

5. Right now, $.09/kilowatt hour is inexpensive. If you find a good deal, signing a six or 12-month contract locks in the rate can, and can protect you from rate hikes.

The best way to save on electricity is to go green, limit your use, and make your home energy efficient.

The Happy Husband's Guide to Saving Money

2009-04-27T19:02:00.005-05:00

As a financial advisor, it's the HH's job to think about money all day long. That's a good thing because I don't ever want to think about money--unless its saving money.

Fortunately, he's taught me a lot.

I heard someone say that if you always spend less than you make, you'll always be rich. I like that idea.

Priority #1 - Know what you're spending.
Believe me, you would be surprised. I keep an excel grid to balance my checking account. I update it with the items listed on my online checking account.

Priority #2 - Pay off your credit cards.
You can prioritize them by paying off the ones with the highest interest rate first, while paying the minimum balance on the rest. Once you pay off one, choose the next one with the highest interest rate. Consolidate to one card with a low interest rate, if possible.

Priority #3 - Set aside money for emergencies.

Ideally, you should have 3-6 months worth, but until your credit cards are paid off, any amount will help in case you get sick or your car breaks down.

Priority #4 - Cut back.
Before we got married, and I lived alone, he looked at my bills to see where I could scale back, and discovered that I was paying for home phone services that I didn't even know I had, like three-way calling. Eventually, I got rid of the home phone altogether.

Priority # 5 - Save energy.
It's a happy accident that changes that protect the environment can also save you money, such as changing your lightbulbs to flourescents, installing a programmable thermostat, and making your own household cleaners with vinegar, baking soda and Borax. (You can find recipes for this online.) Also, bundle your errands in one trip to save gas.

Check back tomorrow to learn how the HH saves us money by staying on top of the electrical rates.

Celebritweets

2009-04-26T19:06:00.015-05:00

No matter how conscientious I may feel or my concern about the crises in the world, I still must admit that I loooove celebrities.

I've been on Twitter for a while, but haven't been that interested in it--until now.

Did you know that you can follow celebrities' tweets--or as I like to call them, celebritweets?

It's not some lame publicist pushing out promotions for the celeb's latest project--although there is some of that--it's the real thing; the actual celebrities tweeting about random things.

Beware of impostors, of course, because there are plenty, but to find the real deal start by looking at CelebrityTweet.com. This site even has an iPhone app, which you know I immediately downloaded.

Here are some of my favorites celebritweeters:

Tina Fey: "It's so nice out. It almost makes me want to go for a walk. Almost."

Kathy Griffin: "Yes, I took my hot bikini body to the no on prop 8 rally. And yes, I do say to the anti gay marraige folks, 'What the f* is it to you?'"

John Mayer: "I want a pair of Crocs made from the same material as UGGs. They would be the most comfortable and offensive shoe ever."

Perez Hilton: "P.S. Yes, I'm kidding. Thanks for your concern. I'm just a swine without the flu. Can I get the swine flu from having too much bacon?"

Oprah: "No, I'm not wearing a weave." (Who dared to ask? LOL!")

Happy tweeting! And don't forget to follow me.

Sea of Debris

2009-04-23T13:08:00.008-05:00

Imagine my horror when I learned that there is a collection of trash the size of Texas in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. In some areas, the trash is 90 feet deep. I had no idea.

It was on Oprah’s Earth Day special yesterday.

The birds, turtles, fish and other creatures are dying because they mistake the garbage for food or they get tangled in the mess of human waste, mostly plastic.

This is not just a problem for the animals. Humans are affected, too.

Many have heard of mercury contaminantion in fish. It's the reason pregnant women are advised to limit fish consumption.

Did you ever wonder how that happened?

Here’s one cause; when I throw away an electronic device, like a battery, cell phone, or computer, it goes to a landfill.

When it reaches to the landfill, it’s buried. After a short while, the mercury and other toxic waste from the trash seep in to the soil.

From the soil, it reaches the water, where it meanders its way to a lake or ocean. The fish live in the water. People eat the fish and drink the water.

Humans are a part of the ecosystem, too. The lives of our children and grandchildren depend on it.

No one can be eco-friendly all the time, but if we all make small changes some of the time, we can make a big difference together.

And if you won’t listen to me, listen to Oprah she'll tell you what the good people at Greenpeace have been preaching this for years.

Happy Earth Day

2009-04-22T18:32:00.008-05:00

Here's a bright idea.

Switch out your regular lightbulbs for energy efficient compact flourescents.

You don't have to install solar panels or wear hemp to be green. If everyone does a little something, the impact can be tremendous.

Here are ten more tips from Good Housekeeping:

1.Save money in the bathroomBuy water-efficient showerheads. With low-flow models, a family of four can cut water usage by as much as 280 gallons a month — and yet not feel much difference in water pressure. Two we like: Kohler's Master Shower Eco (kohler.com) and Niagara Conservation's Earth Massage (niagaraconservation.com).

2.Bring home superhero plants. Certain greens can help remove indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene.

Don't have the gardening gene? Golden pothos, English ivy, and peace lilies are all easy-to-grow toxin fighters.

3.Recycle rechargeables Cell phones, digital cameras, and camcorders have made these batteries more popular than ever, but in certain states — Florida, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, and Vermont — it's illegal to throw them away.

Wherever you live, you can find a nearby store that will recycle them for you; just go to rbrc.org.

4.Adjust fridge and freezer tempsRefrigerators eat up the most electricity in the household. Maximize efficiency by keeping the fridge at 37° F. and the freezer at 0° F.

5.Lighten up with energy savings Consider using compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs). They cost a bit more than regular bulbs, but you'll lower your electric bill and pay less in the long run — CFLs last up to 10 times longer than traditional ones.

Worried that fluorescents will fill your house with a greenish glow? That's no longer a problem. When we compared a regular bulb with a GE Energy Star Qualified CFL, testers couldn't tell the difference. You can buy CFLs at most hardware and home stores. To save more on lighting, install dimmer switches and use timers, indoors and out.

6.Recycle smart From furniture to electronics, one person's trash is another's treasure — so when you want to dispose of an old item, don't make the dump your first stop. Two sites with alternatives: freecycle.org and earth911.org.

7.Mow-ercise!Today's non-gasoline-powered reel lawn mowers are easier to push than the old models. Their eco-benefit: zero emissions (plus, you're getting great exercise). If you prefer a power mower, consider a quiet, battery-operated model from Black & Decker.

8.Warm up to solar energyYou may not be ready for a totally sun-powered home, but you can get a taste of the technology by using solar-powered lighting in your yard or on your patio. We like Malibu's Solar Floodlight (intermatic.com)

9.Go native Plant flowers and shrubs that are well suited to your climate (the staff at your local nursery can help). The benefit: You'll use less fertilizer and pesticides.

10.Get off junk mail listsRegister with the Direct Marketing Association's Mail Preference Service (dmaconsumers.org) and you'll see a significant reduction in mail after three months.

Is it okay to wear white to a wedding?

2009-04-22T12:34:00.011-05:00

Here’s what’s up. I’ve got two weddings coming up, and I wanted to buy something special to wear.

Being a recessionista, I thought it would be best to buy one dress that I could wear to both. (The crowds of friends are different, so no one will know the difference.)
After watching an episode of the Real Housewives of NYC, I loved Jill’s white dress with chunky turquoise jewelry. I thought I could recreate the look on a recessionista’s budget.

My mom has amassed an admirable collection of vintage turquoise, so I knew I had the accessories covered.

Then, I found this classic white dress at Banana Republic (although the length was longer on me since I lack supermodel height), and I loved it --especially the pleating around the neckline.

But doubts started creeping up in the back of my mind; what if people think I’m trying to upstage the bride? Eeeeek! I imagined catty people whispering snidely about my wedding faux pas.

Despite one of the brides’ insistence that she did not mind me wearing white on her day, I decided to go with my gut, and return the dress.

Instead I got this silk, navy blue dress which will look just as nice with the turquoise baubles.

What do you think? Is it okay to wear white to a wedding?

Visualize It to Realize It

2009-04-21T11:50:00.011-05:00

The most powerful way to think positively is to visualize what you want.

Using your imagination, you can create a crystal-clear image of your ideal situation. The more detail the better. Be free and have fun with it. Don't hold back. It's okay to feel excited about the possibilities.

Some people (like the HH) think that if you allow yourself dream too much that you'll somehow be jinxed.

That's not the case at all.

Visualizing your ideal life does not mean that you are careless, make poor decisions, or are ill prepared for the worst.

It just means that you are open to all the good things that life has to offer.

To help you visualize, The Secret by Rhonda Byrne, recommends making a vision board.

Collect photos representing the things that you want in life. You can do this with a magazine and poster board or do a search in Google images. (That’s how I did it.) Then, cut/paste the images into a Word doc.

Then, place your vision board where you can see it every day.

Your vision board does not have to be all about material possessions.

For example, for my idea of having a “long, happy marriage” I found a photo of a playful older couple.

But what’s life without a few fun, material goodies, so I put a picture of a new tricked-out Zodiac boat for the HH. (Partly, because I'm trying to prove to him that this process works.)

When you look at your vision board, it will help you imagine what you want your life to be – and according to every positive-thinking/motivational book in the world, it will happen just as you imagined – or even better.

When I created this vision board about a year ago, I added an image about writing a blog, but I had no idea what my topic would be or how I’d ever find the time.

And here I am.

Vote with Your Dollars

2009-04-20T12:50:00.004-05:00

In the movie, Milk, Harvey Milk organized the San-Francisco gay movement by encouraging gay people to only patron businesses that were friendly to them.

Businesses that were nice to gay people flourished. While those that weren’t floundered.

The same can be applied to today; when you spend money, you’re sending a message.

Corporations have a lot of influence in this country, so its important to buy from those that support your values and give back to the community in a valuable way.

Frame Your Fortune

2009-04-16T17:16:00.003-05:00

The other night the HH talked me in to Chinese take out, and I’ll be darned (hey, I’m from Texas) if his fortune cookie didn’t hit him and his recession obsession a little too close to home!

So I framed it.

Its tiny art sprinkled with luck!

As for me, I make my own luck, but I’ll never turn down a charm when I receive one.

Institution Blue No More

2009-04-15T18:47:00.013-05:00

Let's just say the Happy Husband (HH) was "not so happy" when I announced my intentions to completely re-decorate the guest bedroom/my new home office all over again only two weeks after the original re-decoration.

But he's used to my antics by now.

But I'm pleased to say that after seven days of hard labor (meticulous painting, fabric fetching, and sewing), my guest bedroom/home office is now finished!

I originally decorated the room around Granmary's bluebonnet paintings, but it didn't feel right. They were just too country for my taste.

Don't get me wrong; I still love them! They'll just have to live in another room in the house.

Granmary's still around in the antique photos on the shelf (she's the one in the fabulous pink dress below) along with photos of some other people she'd recognize. She would have wanted it that way.

It's kind of like the time I dreamed that she was coming back to life because there wasn't anyone she knew in heaven.

If there was anyone who wanted things just the way she wanted them, it was her. I'm sure she'd understand.

So, the room still needs a few things here and there. I plan to sew a bolster pillow for the bed. I hope you agree that it's much better than institutional blue.

You Better Belize It

2009-04-14T11:47:00.013-05:00

I've you've cut back on your vacation budget, you're not alone. Fortunately, there's one destination that you can probably still afford: San Pedro, Belize.

Located in Central America, this island destination was the setting for Madonna's La Isla Bonita.

The people are friendly, the streets are safe, and the food is good.

You can snorkel, visit Mayan ruins, or just kick back and read. Just remember to wear your sunscreen!

We stayed at the Blue Tang Inn. It had clean, simple accommodations, A/C, and excellent service. The Ritz it is not, but it's a good bargain for a relaxing vacation in a beautiful location.

Picking the Perfect Paint

2009-04-09T11:52:00.005-05:00

As I’ve experienced lately, painting a room can be tricky. But there’s really no better – or less expensive - way to make a dramatic change to a room.

I’ve had my share of painting follies.

I’ve had a white turn an institutional blue (As shown in the pic.on the left. Yuk!) and a beige turn a nauseating mauve – because the lighting in the room was different from the big-box-store fluorescents where I chose the color.

But when it comes to painting, I’ve learned that patience is a virtue.

Take your time in choosing the right shade.
When you visit the store to choose your color, take the source of your inspiration with you to help you stay on track. Whether it’s a painting or fabric, having it with you will help you stay true to your vision.

Don’t lose your nerve. If you like a bold color, go for it. You can always paint over it.

Then, when you get home, tape the samples to the wall, so you can see how the shade differs in various lights.

If you can’t narrow down your choices, buy a sample size. Bring it home and paint a poster board to get a truer sense for the tone.

Choose the Right Type of Paint
Latex paint is easier to clean off your hands or if there’s a spill. Oil based is harder. If you paint over an oil-based paint with latex, it will peel. You can buy a test from a big-box store to find out what paint you currently have on the walls.

Finalize with the Finish
Gloss or high-gloss is best for things that get dirty easily, like doors, furniture or cabinets. Flat is best for low-traffic areas. Egg shell or satin is your best bet for walls.

Tape Carefully
The key to getting a professional look when painting is to tape carefully around the room Use blue painters tape, to cover any area you don’t want the paint to be, such as the ceiling or molding. Make sure that it adheres to the wall well. Paint can leak in to any gap under the tape.

Use Drop Cloths
Cover the floor and any furniture in the room with an old sheet. Cover everything.

Open the Windows
Even if you buy a VOC-free paint, you should have the windows open to minimize the fumes. If you're pregnant, you should not be painting.

Use a Double Coat
One coat of paint may not do the trick. Let it dry thoroughly, then give it another coat. It’s worth it to take your time and get it right.

As for the institutional blue in the picture above, I'm in the process of redoing the room completely with charcoal gray walls and pink floral curtains and accents. I'm taking my time - this time.

Pencil In Some Thanks

2009-04-07T11:41:00.009-05:00

We should count our blessings every day. But who can remember to do that?

If you sit at a desk all day like I do, then you live and die by your calendar. I use my Outlook alarms and alerts to remind me of everything from important meetings to birthdays to to-do-list tasks. And it can help you count your blessings, too.
Set a daily alarm in your Outlook calendar that says “gratitude.”

Mark the time as “free and “private,” because it’s no one’s business. I set mine for 2:00 every day.

When the alert pops up, force yourself to think of one thing you are thankful for – no matter how busy or stressed you are. Then, get back to work.

It's an good way to put life into perspective while you work and build good positive-thinking habits with a mini prayer.

Hair Must Haves

2009-04-06T11:41:00.008-05:00

My two favorite hair products are not meant for hair at all: Static Guard and baby powder.

Baby Powder

Just like clothes, your hair can get damaged if you wash it too often. So, between washings, sprinkle some baby powered on your scalp and rub it in. The powder absorbs the extra oil.

Just don’t sprinkle too generously, or you’ll have powdery gray hair!

Static Guard
Nothing gets rid of static in your hair like Static Guard. Simply spray it on your hair brush before brushing to get rid of staticy flyaways. I even spray a light mist all over to keep the electricity under control.

Try not to breathe in the fumes.

Payless for Style

2009-04-03T11:43:00.008-05:00

Smart shoppers always say that you should invest in classic items for your wardrobe, like a trench coat and a well-made pencil skirt, and spend less on trendy items, like this season’s fringe.

Payless is always great for this. Check out these sandals that are on trend for spring.

Steam to Save Time in the Morning

2009-04-02T11:54:00.001-05:00

I hate ironing. I never allow time for it when getting ready in the morning, and ironing clothes right after laundering? Well, that’s just never going to happen.

Fortunately, I learned a quick trick to avoid ironing in the morning: steaming clothes in the dryer.

Wet a wash cloth or dish towel. Squeeze out the excess water. And toss it in the dryer on high heat with your clothes. After five or ten minutes, your garments are smooth and ready to wear.

This especially works well on knits or items that need a light press. As for linen and some fabrics, well, you’ll just have to do that the hard way.

The Real Way to Get Ahead at Work

2009-04-01T19:50:00.004-05:00

When it comes to business, it's people that make things happen. And your interactions with them can make you or break you.

Dale Carnegie, the best-selling author of How to Win Friends & Influence People is really on to something. I suppose that's why his book has been a bestseller forever.

Sign up for his free, weekly e-mails to receive a friendly reminder about the most ethical way to get ahead in business - and that's doing your best, acting with integrity, and treating people well.

Here's a little snippet of his genius. Think of how you can apply this to your work:

Become a Friendlier Person by Dale Carnegie
1. Don’t criticize, condemn or complain.
2. Give honest, sincere appreciation.
3. Arouse in the other person an eager want.
4. Become genuinely interested in other people.
5. Smile.
6. Remember that a person’s name is to that person the sweetest and most
important sound in any language.
7. Be a good listener. Encourage others to talk about themselves.
8. Talk in terms of the other person’s interests.
9. Make the other person feel important - and do it sincerely.

Learn more here.

Bottle Your Change

2009-03-31T17:44:00.004-05:00

What do you do when you find a penny in the dryer or a quarter in the couch?

If you're smart, you collect all your spare change and drop it into a change jar. All that change adds up.

The HH and I collected change in this triangular-shaped bottle and cashed it in for $50. Who would have thought you could fit all that change into one small bottle!

Our change jar resides in our kitchen. Find a cute bottle or jar that you don't mind having out, and place it in a central location.

Never underestimate the power of pennies in large numbers!

Recessionistas Shop at Nordstrom Rack

2009-03-30T12:25:00.005-05:00

I think I heard angels singing when I learned that a Nordstrom Rack was opening within a mile of my work.

If you prefer designer jeans, Nordstrom Rack should be your first destination: Joe's $79; Seven for all Mankind $100; and Rock & Republic $109

Here's the catch; all of the jeans are rediculously long. Now, that's great if you are long 'n' leggy like my BFF at work, but for the rest of us, that means you should get a good tailor.

If you're a craftress, you can hem them yourself, like I did, using the original hem.

Also, I saw a really cute navy Theory shift dress for $80 something and a fabulosly gaudy nautical-themed cuff bracelet by Betsy Johnson for $35, which was later purchased by one of my friends. Fortunately, she says "finders rights" means I can borrow it.

Gotta loooooove Nordstrom Rack!

Vicky Cristina Barcelona

2009-03-25T22:19:00.004-05:00

Any independent woman needs her alone time. And as much as I love spending time with the Happy Husband (HH), I get grumpy when I don't have my time to do what I want to do every few weeks, whether it's shop, read design mags, surf the Internet, or just watch reality TV.

Take one Saturday, send the man away, in my case - to the lake, do whatever you want all day, then come home that night, drink wine, and watch Vicky Cristina Barcelona.

I've never been a big fan of Woody Allen movies, and Javier Bardem has freaked me out ever since he wielded that cow-killing weapon in No Country for Old Men, but he's appealing as a sexy Spaniard in this movie. I mean, who doesn't love European scenery - and ideals - oh wait, maybe that's just me. Enjoy the movie!

Febreeze au Naturale

2009-03-24T12:09:00.006-05:00

The list of products that were once sold to Americans as "safe" only to be found years later that they have life-threatening is long. Not the least of which are lead paint, asbestos, and cigarettes.

Do you ever wonder if some of the products you use are really "safe?"

You can't always assume that just because a product is sold that it's harmless to you, your children, or your pets.

Many mass-produced products have pleasant scents to mask the chemicals that you shouldn't be inhaling at all. You can learn more about this here.

On of my favorite products is Febreeze. But what's really in Febreeze? I have no idea. So, instead, I make my own Febreeze with a recipe I found at veria.com.

Lavender Linen Spray

1 cup of distilled water
5-10 drops of Lavender essential oil (or any essential oil of your choice)

Pour into a spray bottle, and spray on clothing, curtains, carpet, or anything you want to smell naturally delicious.

I made for my co-workers as a Christmas gift one year. I found a clear glass spray bottle at this Web site, and made my own label.

I Wish I'd Registered for a Punch Bowl

2009-03-20T12:24:00.006-05:00

Okay, it's not something you'll use everyday, but Brides, I tell you; don't forget to register for a punch bowl.

I know it may seem like an antiquated idea, but when all your friends get married/pregnant and you start throwing showers, you're going to need it.

Luckily, last Christmas, my mom gave me a pretty, vintage punch bowl that I can't wait to use it with this recipe:

Wine Punch Recipe
(When you make this, give it a fun name to fit the theme of the party, like "blushing bride punch.")

1 part fruit punch
1 part White Zinfandel

Serve this in your punch bowl with frozen fruit. Simply, pour fruit punch into a glass about 2 inches deep, toss in some raspberries or a lemon or lime slice, and freeze. Then run the glass under warm water to release the ice, and drop it into the punch bowl for pretty garnish. Plus, it keeps the punch cool. Make two or three. Happy hostessing!

What's Your Best Price?

2009-03-19T18:10:00.004-05:00

Did you know that four simple words can save you money: what's your best price.

That's the thing about the current economic environment. Even retailers are willing to cut you a deal, if you ask.

My dad is the king at this. He can wheel and deal to finagle the best price out of anyone, most recently the store manager at Bed Bath and Beyond. The box was a little banged up, so he asked for a discount. And he got it.

Granted, you might have the store clerk rolling their eyes at you, but who cares? You deserve a fair deal--no, a better than fair deal.

So, the next time find a flaw in something you like, but want to buy it anyway, ask for their best price. If the clerk tells you they can't, ask her to ask the manager. They'll usually say yes.

And it doesn't just apply to shopping. Negotiating is an important in your career as well.

They say that the reason the women typically get paid less than men is not because of the glass ceiling. It's simply because we don't ask for more. I believe it, and it pisses me off.

Always be fair, but never sell yourself short. For more on how to negotiate, see this article.

Be Nice to Interns

2009-03-18T18:29:00.009-05:00

My college internship was a terrible experience!

My classes had prepared me for the job, but nothing had prepared me for office politics and the harsh, real-world dynamics of the professional environment. So, I take partial responsibility for the traumatic summer of my first real, full-time employment, simply because I was so green.

Still, I must admit that I learned a lot that summer, and now that I've worked more than seven years as a professional, I've learned a lot about what I should and shouldn't have done as an intern. Maybe you can learn from my mistakes.

Always have a pen and paper in hand. Be ready to take notes. Lots of notes. Write down everything, even if you don't think you'll forget. If nothing else, you'll appear very diligent.

Better to be quiet, and have people think you're an idiot, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt. I can't take credit for the phrase, but I've been saved by that adage on more than one occasion. And as an intern, you don't know what you don't know, so before speaking up in a meeting, make absolutely certain that you fully understand the topic of discussion.

Ask questions in private. One-on-one with your supervisor is best. If you're in a meeting and don't fully understand, it's best to take very good notes, and ask for clarification later.

Be on time. Better yet, be 10 minutes early for everything. It doesn't hurt if you work through lunch every now and then either.

Never make them ask you more than once. Strive to work ahead of people's expectations. Keep a to-do list, and don't forget to do anything that they've tasked you with. If your deadline is tomorrow, finish it today.

Make friends with the secretary. These nice ladies can have a lot of pull around the office. The same rule applies to the security guard, IT guys, facilities staff/janitors, etc. You never know when you'll need a favor, and these people will be just the ones to help you out. Start by smiling and saying "good morning." (These friends have helped me countless times.)

Double check your work. Before you turn in an assignment, double/triple checke for spelling/grammatical errors, misspelled names, miscalculations, typos, etc. Everything should look perfect because your version of "perfect" is your boss' version of "satisfactory." After you've worked a few years, you'll see what I mean.

Predict what questions your boss will ask. And be prepared to answer them. This is important when doing any kind of research on a topic. Know the answers to who, what, when, where, how & why. And if you don't know the answer to the question ...

Say "I'll find out." Instead of "I donno."

I wish I had known these things when I began my career. It would have save me a lot of grief.

As for my internship, I feel vindicated.

About five years after my internship, my resume somehow made to the desk of the president of the agency where I interned. She sent a recruiter to invite me to interview for the vice president position. I politely declined.

So, one day when you're the big wig, be nice to interns! They just might be your boss one day.

What's Your Theme Song?

2009-03-16T17:35:00.003-05:00

Your personal theme song is a tune that you've got readily available in your head any time you need an extra pep to your step or want to feel good.

Mine changes, but right now it's "That's Not My Name" by The Ting Tings. Here are a few others that I think make fun personal theme songs. Some are from TV or movies I've seen:

"Top of the World" by the Pussycat Dolls (The City)
"Keeps Gettin' Better" by Christina Aguilera
"Labels or Love" by Fergie (Sex and the City movie)
"Love Me or Hate Me" by Lady Sovereign (The Bad Girls Club)
"When I Grow Up" by the Pussycat Dolls
"Odyle" by Heloise & the Savoir Faire (The Rachel Zoe Project)
"Bring It On" by Autamata
"So Rich, So Pretty" by Mickey Avalon
"Bossy" by Kelis
"Starry Eyed Surprise" by Paul Oakenfold
"The World Should Revolve Around Me" by Little Jackie
"Ooh La La" by Goldfrapp

It's a Lunch Purse

2009-03-15T18:50:00.013-05:00

My BFF at work, carries food in what she calls a "lunch purse." You might laugh, but after seeing it, I think you'll agree that the cute brown and pink damask is far above any lunch box you've ever seen.

Bringing your lunch to work or school is a smart way to save money and eat healthy.

Here's a few funky lunch purses that I liked at ThePolkaDotAlley.com. You can even add your monogram:

Sewing’s Not Just for Grandma

2009-03-13T11:34:00.007-05:00

If you’re going to have a stylish life without spending too much, sewing is a necessity. Why? Because you can give your home a Horchow look on a Tuesday Morning budget.

And there are places where you can learn to make trendy things you’ll actually like. I took the Project Make class at Make in Dallas. The class is inspired by Project Runway, and it did a lot for helping to increase my confidence in taking on new projects.

I also worked from the book Sew Everything Workshop by Diana Rupp. This book is great for beginners because it starts with learning the parts of the machine and ends with patterns and projects for different skill levels. The projects are very cute, too. They include pillows, skirts, curtains, pajama pants, and more. The author, Diana Rupp is the founder of Make Workshop in NYC, which is another great place to learn.

So, channel your inner craftress and city girl resourcefulness to create something beautiful with needle and thread.

Have Your Cake

2009-03-12T12:52:00.005-05:00

A very smart craftress friend of mine gave me an excellent tip for making boxed cake mixes even better. Because, let's face it, I've tried making cake from scratch and have yet to master the moist deliciousness that is boxed cake.

Just add one teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to the mix.

Sandra Lee (love her!) also says you can do the same trick with store-bought frosting.

So simple! As for the sugary dogwood flowers in the photo, good luck with that!

Crock Pot Wonderful

2009-03-12T12:38:00.002-05:00

For a career girl/Martha Stewart wannabe, there's nothing better than a crock pot or slow cooker.

You walk in the door from a long day to the smell of a home-cooked meal, and it's like you had a personal chef who's been home cooking for you all day. Here's a recipe I hope you'll enjoy.

Yankee pot roast for a Yankee - or Southern Belle in my case ; )
1 beef chuck pot roast (2½ pounds)
3 med. baking potatoes unpeeled and cut into quarters (about 1 pound)
2 lg. carrots, cut into ¾-inch slices (I would use baby carrots instead because it's less work)
2 ribs celery, cut into ¾-inch slices
1 med. onion, sliced
2 bay leaves
1 tsp. dried rosemary leaves
½ tsp. dried thyme leaves
½ c. reduced-sodium beef broth

Trim excess fat from meat and discard. Cut into serving pieces; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Combine vegetables, bay leaves, rosemary and thyme in crock pot. Place beef over vegetables in crock pot. Pour broth over beef. Cover and cook on low 8½ to 9 hours or until beef is fork-tender. Remove beef to serving platter. Arrange vegetables around beef. Remove and discard bay leaves. Makes six servings

A Chick Lit Book that I Love

2009-03-11T12:44:00.004-05:00

We all have that deep, soulful side to us when we think about the big questions in life: Where did we come from? Where does my garbage go? Why does the coffee machine at work break when I need it most?

But sometimes, you just need to check out for a while, and that's when a candy coated, fashion-laden, martini-drinking, chick-lit. book is best. Or in the case of this book, the story of an awkward girl trying to fit in in the big city.

But Enough About Me: A Jersey Girl's Adventures Among the Absurdly Famous by Jancee Dunn - It's the memoirs of a Rollingstone reporter's life, her career, her close and quirky family, and her relationships. It's LOL funny at times. Between each chapter is a short story about a celebrity interview.

You'll love it.

The New Christmas Spirit

2009-03-09T13:24:00.003-05:00

I know what you're thinking. Christmas? Now? Yes.

That's because Christmas 2009 will be different. And it's an excellent time to give pause to the origin of the gifts we give and receive and the ethics of the companies that make them.

To that end, my family is doing Christmas different this year. We're giving one another gifts that are second hand or handmade by us or someone else.

This is why I'm bringing up Christmas now. Because I'm going to need lots of time to make these gifts. And, if you like this idea, you'll have plenty of time to learn something new or perfect your craft.

Some of the advantages to this gift-giving approach are that it:

Saves money.
Supports independent artists and designers.
Is clever and creative.
Doesn't contribute to mass production, which means less waste.
Offers a truly one-of-a-kind gift.
Is more personal.

If you aren't ready to make a full commitment to this yet, I understand. You can always start small with stocking stuffers. Any effort is a step in the right direction.

A word of caution, don't procrastinate. You'll need time to unleash your inner craftress or find the perfect hand-made gift.

To DIY or Not to DIY

2009-03-09T12:45:00.001-05:00

These hard economic times call for some city girl resourcefulness. That’s when your creativity and sense of style become you’re greatest assets to avoid feeling deprived of the pretty little things we love.

But there are really only two times that it’s appropriate to make it yourself. And that’s when you either can’t find it or can’t afford it.

If you can find it and afford it, it’s best to buy it. This will help you avoid the pitfall that some crafty people fall victim to when they fill their house or wardrobe with awkward creations of their own design. Think macaroni wreath.

On the other hand, if you’ve searched high and low for the perfect bedroom curtains, and they are impossible to locate, measure the window and visit a fabric store. Any tailor can sew simple panel curtains for you–or better yet sew them yourself.

One exception to this rule is when a personal touch adds more meaning. For example, you can, of course, afford and locate a birthday card for your BFF, but a home-made card is very sweet.

By making it yourself, you can bring your own vision to life or copy a style from the Pottery Barn catalog–either way, it’s a smart way to get the look you want without spending too much or settling on something that’s not quite right.

Find Your Precious Pet at Petfinder.com

2009-03-06T09:32:00.003-06:00

I never considered myself a true animal lover before.

I liked animals, but I wasn't really passionate about them. But all that changed when I brought home a sweet, little, black puppy that I named Skipper nearly five years ago

Now, I look at all animals differently. Whether they're in the jungle, on a farm, in the ocean, or in a shelter, I see a piece of Skipper in every animal. And that makes me very protective of them.

I'm thankful to have Skipper just the way he is, but if I had it to all over again, I would have adopted him from a shelter rather than a breeder. That's why Petfinder is such a valuable resource. Check out the site to search from hundreds of pets, small and large, even some rescued pure-bred pets (if that's important to you) to find the one that's best for you.

Whatever pet you're looking for, you can find it at Petfinder.

A Word from the Big O

2009-03-04T12:04:00.001-06:00

Who doesn’t love Oprah? No one. That’s who.

Suze Orman? Well, plenty of people don’t like her, but I tend to agree with her on most things. And recently Oprah did a show on living simply with less. Ms. Orman offered up a challenge that I thought was worthwhile:

Go a day with out spending any money.
Go a week without using your credit card.
Go a month with out eating at restaurants or ordering take out.

It might be easier than you think.

Emboss Everything

2009-03-03T13:03:00.001-06:00

Nothing says class like a nice, personal touch. That’s why I’m dying to have this personal embosser stamp from Williams Sonoma.

The possibilities are endless.

You can personalize note cards, recipe cards, books and everything else. Instead of spending a bunch of money on stationery, you could just buy some high-quality scrapbook paper and emboss away. Genius!

Food Bribery

2009-03-02T12:08:00.001-06:00

They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and I take that a step further to say that the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach.

That’s why I proudly declare that I am not above bribing people with food, especially coworkers.

Now, I'm not talking about doing anything unethical, but when it comes to getting people to do their jobs and maybe a little somethin' extra, I’ve used tasty treats to get things done around the office more than once. And I encourage you to do the same.

I learned this trick from a former boss of mine, a marketing exec, who - after hearing my complaints that the graphic design team was unresponsive - said, “Go get them some bagels.”

I did, and before they could even take a bite of the cream cheese-coated carb, the design team gleefully surrounded me, each one giving me an enthusiastic update on their part in the project.

Looking back, it just might have been one of the most profound professional lessons I’ve ever had; a little thoughtfulness goes a long way.

A Dirty Job

2009-03-01T21:43:00.003-06:00

A smart girl’s gotta know when it’s time get her hands dirty − and that’s what I did this weekend when the Happy Husband and I topped off our radiant barrier by adding recycled insulation in our attic.

Surprised are you?

Well, don’t get me wrong. There’s a part of me that would have much preferred watching my DVR’d episodes of the The Real Housewives with a tall glass of red, but it is an important part of making our house more green.

There are so many ways you can make your house a greener, cleaner place, and you don’t even have to get your hands dirty.

Stop Buying Toxic Cleaners. It’s bad for your health, and the natural alternatives clean just as well. Baking soda and vinegar can work miracles.

Limit Your Plastic. Plastic is bad for a lot of reasons. Plus, it’s tacky. But, I’ll admit that many times there is no suitable alternative. Buy and recycle glass when you can. Rinse out plastic baggies with soap and water and reuse them. Use Pyrex dishes to tote your lunch.

Don’t Buy Bottled Water. Use an aluminum or glass bottle and refill it. I bought a Voss bottled water and refill it at work. It’s weird, but people compliment me on it all the time.

Unplug your cell phone charger. It’s known as one of the energy “vampires,” sucking electricity when not in use.

Fresh air. Open your windows at home on a nice day to let the fresh air clean out the toxins lurking in your house.

It’s so very eco chic.

The Sensible Celebration

2009-02-26T13:20:00.001-06:00

Love is in the air. The flowers are blooming. And your girlfriend is getting married. Or maybe she’s having a baby. Naturally, you want to celebrate with style.

But when planning the shower or bachelorette party, well-meaning friends in party planning mode can run up the cost faster than a New Years Eve dinner at Craft – and believe me – that’s fast.

The good news is that you can plan an elegant shower without taking a bit out of your happy hour budget.

Guests. First, ask your friend for a list of guests, so that you can get an idea of how many people you’ll be hosting. Will it be a couple’s shower or just women? What does she have in mind? Will this be her only shower? These are all things to take into account.

Hostesses. Your friend will also give you names of her other friends who have expressed interest in helping with the shower. Contact them as quickly as possible to ask how they want to help and share ideas. Everyone who wants to help make the day special should feel included.

Budget. Figure out what you can reasonably spend and stick to it. If it’s possible for all of the hostesses to agree on a dollar amount, that’s ideal. But don’t pressure anyone into matching your contribution. Everyone should contribute what they are comfortable with. Your friend would not want any of you breaking the bank over her shower or party.

Hostess Gift. If you contribute to a hostess or group gift, you are not expected to also buy another gift. In fact, as the hostess of the party, etiquette says that you don’t have to buy any gift at all. However, I recommend that you bring a small gift.

Food & Beverages. You are not expected to pick up the tab for all of the drinks at a restaurant. I recommend paying for the food. If that’s too expensive, don’t have it at a restaurant. It’s in bad taste to throw a party and not have anything for the guests to eat. However, if the event is held is someone’s home, you should provide all food and drinks.

No matter what, the guest of honor pays nothing.

The “Fashionista” Becomes the “Recessionista”

2009-02-25T13:21:00.001-06:00

“Recessionista,” as I recently read in Harpers Bazaar, is the “fashionista” forced to budget in the current recession. And to that I say: BRING IT ON.

No big, bad recession is going to keep me from looking cute. I mean, that’s why God made stores like Forever 21!

We’ll just have to be more, shall I say, resourceful. Here are some ideas:

Take an inventory of what you have. Project Runway mentor and my personal hero, Tim Gunn says these are the essentials for any wardrobe:

1. Basic black dress (Something you can wear to the office holiday party or a wedding.)
2. Trench coat (Consider vintage. These have been around forever, so it shouldn’t be hard to find one.)
3. Dress pants (I suggest black or charcoal.)
4. Classic shirt (Think white button down.)
5. Jeans (One pair to wear with heels, another to wear with flats.)
6. Any occasion top. (I love the Gap white Favorite T. You can wear it anywhere with the right accessories.)
7. Skirt (Should not be shorter than right above the knee or longer than the bottom of your knee.)
8. Day dress (A wrap dress is a great option. It never goes out of style. Thank you, DVF! )
9. Jacket (A classic blazer will get you through a lot of occasions.)
10. Sweatsuit alternative (Those awful velour track suits are not a good option. Find something else.)
*Bonus: Trendy item. (I suggest some type of accessory.)

Mix it up with accessories. There is no end to the way you can change an outfit simply with the accessories. Plus, it can be an inexpensive indulgence at the right store.

Mend and repair. Don’t just throw something out because it’s out of style. Even though Capri pants are way past their prime, take them to a tailor and have them made into shorts. Shoes can also be repaired by replacing the heel or having them polished. Although if something is truly past its prime, don’t feel bad donating or tossing it.

Don’t forget you can get a tax credit for donating clothes.

Buy vintage. Or “second hand” if you must call it that. You might have to do a little digging, but there are some worthwhile finds at thrift stores or eclectic vintage shops.

Clothes swap. Throw a party and invite your girlfriends bring something they are willing to part with for a trade.

Take care. Not everything has to be washed every time you wear it. Use your best judgment here. But less washing is less wear ‘n’ tear. I’m just sayin’!

Want more Recessionista info? Times Online, NY Times, The Recessionista Blog.

The Charmed Life is ...

2009-02-25T09:39:00.001-06:00

…graceful living with style–the epitome of the chic, modern woman.

Creative, stylish, socially aware, and resourceful, we are the perfect combination of our mothers and grandmothers. Through our independence we aren’t afraid to stand up for ourselves, but we can also bake up a scrumptious batch of home-made goodness.

We have a career on the rise, fulfilling relationships, can change a tire, and delicately sew on a button. And we do it all with style.

We consider how our actions, however small, may impact others, whether it’s giving a stranger a helping hand, a random act of kindness, or a fundraiser for a crisis in a land far away.

Our lifestyle is not about thoughtless excess. It’s about taking what you have and giving it a fabulous flair. And occasionally investing in a few savvy splurges. After all, we have excellent taste.

We know the world is counting on us make a difference. This blog is for us.