Grayscale

I have been wearing this shirt religiously since I spotted it buried in the confines of a thrift store rack. I literally wore it to bed, then decided I wanted to wear it for the day as well. It's just so comfortably oversized, which is definitely a plus on a disgustingly hot day as today...and it's animal print, which by now I'm sure you all know I have an unhealthy obsession with anything animal print. One day I'm going to dress head to toe in animal print...different animals too, not just leopard. Doubtful, but funny to imagine.


On to the main event. I impatiently waited all day for the UPS man to deliver my newest acquisition...these awesome Sam Edelman "Zoyla" boots/wedges. I've had my eye on them for some time, as well as with the "Zoe" version, but seeing how I last saw them on the Asos website for $353 and the "Zoe's" for around $200 elsewhere, I figured it was one of those longings that would never be fulfilled. Imagine my shock and utter excitement when I ran a search for studded boots and these bad boys popped up from the Lord & Taylor website...for $169.00. Now, I'm no math whiz, but that sounded about 50% off, and for a shoe as in demand as this one, who was I to pass up that deal? I was even more surprised when I went to checkout and found out there was an additional 20% sale going on, reducing my price to $135.00. And, as if that wasn't astounding enough, since it was over $99, they threw in free shipping, which was awesome because it was 3 day, meaning I had a lot less wait time. I was on cloud nine, let me tell you. I've had good deals before, but this one blew the others out of the water. It must have been fate, that's all I can say. If you decide to purchase, I recommend going up at least half a size. I'm normally a 7, but with different brands I have to change sizes. My JS platforms are a 6, while my JC wedges are a perfect 7. These however, are pretty narrow in the foot part. I was actually worried they wouldn't fit at first, but once you get them on, it's easier the next time around. Oddly enough, they are harder to walk in than any of my other shoes. And the sides will rub your ankles raw. But I simply inserted a gel insert pad and the problem was solved. So happy to add them to my collection at such a deal. Now if only Jeffrey Campbell would reduce his purple suede "Lita's" to a more desirable price, I'd be much obliged.

I know I just changed my header, but afterwards I was bored and created another one. Which do you prefer? I like them both for their own creative aspects, so I need you guys to decide. Or else I'll just change it in a couple months or so.



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Changing Gears

So here I am in my shop....don't know why I haven't taken advantage of this photo spot sooner. Well, actually it's probably because there's always people in here. STILL trying to figure out my damn camera, and I even bought a wireless remote.... the pics are getting progressively better, but to my perfectionist eyes, they still aren't exactly the quality I'm shooting for (no pun intended, haha).

I tried to clear out my closet of things I don't wear anymore, but then that turned into the usual "Oh, I'll wear it eventually" argument with myself. Turns out, I'm pretty set for Fall/Winter. Got some great boots at a thrift store last time I visited my sister, already own several oversize knits, found an awesome leather/faux fur jacket the other day on sale for $20 (major score!) and have an pair of amaaaazzing pair of Sam Edelman shoes coming that I got a killer deal on (can't wait to share!). Throw in the miscellaneous velvet shirts, kimono jackets and and tights I've slowly collected and I've pretty much got my wardrobe set. Not that there isn't room for more, of course. I mean, there would be, if I had cleared out some stuff today. Now, if only Mother Nature would cooperate.... here we're heading into October and it was 102 degrees today. Throw a preggo woman a bone here, geez.

Oh, and I'm tweaking my layout, in case you didn't know. Let me know what you think!

Come talk to me on Twitter and Facebook .... I like having people to talk to!

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Street Vibrations

On my way out the door, headed to Reno Street Vibrations. For those who don't know what that is, it's a massive biker event where thousands of people (bikers or not) meet in Reno, Nevada to show off their bikes and gamble. There's music, vendors, bikes (of course) and just a loud, fun atmosphere. Does it seem weird me being into motorcycles? Well, me and Mike actually own our own motorcycle business....that's right, I'm a biker chick, haha. We are meeting another motorcycle company up there who is actually distributing our own line of custom parts we manufacture. Pretty neat. I'll be playing shop photographer. And with any luck, maybe I'll win some money on the slot machines. But don't hold your breath, gambling is not exactly my forte. However, stranger things have happened. Hope everyone has an equally interesting weekend as well!

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Moody Blues

If you read my last post, then you know that for the last week I've been mourning the death of my puppy, Peanut. Today is the first day I've actually gotten dressed. It's hard to cope with, but life goes on. I still have a little girl on the way in about three months to think about. Thanks for everyone's patience and especially for the kind words, they helped me through this tough time.

Before this tragedy struck, I had bought a new SLR camera which I was trying to figure out. I believe I have conquered quite a bit with it already, but I'm still having trouble in the self portrait area. My photos are coming out much better than with my point and shoot, but not nearly as clear as I'd like...it's just really difficult to get a clear shot yourself. But practice makes perfect, so they say.

Has anyone seen the new Tucker for Target line? It's very nice, kinda boho inspired, with silk shirts (like this blue one I'm wearing) and dresses....although the dresses were too long for me. Speaking of dresses, Mike and I went to Babies R' Us to cheer me up, and I found this adorable paisley velvet dress by Cynthia Rowley....I didn't even know she made baby clothes. Also found an eyelet faux leather dress, but I figured my family would have a heart attack if I dressed the girl in it, so I settled with just this one. She's not even born yet and she's already gotten like 8 outfits..... a sign of what's to come.

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I Fall into Pieces

It's supposed to rain like crazy today, which fits my mood perfectly. Since the middle of last week, I had been trying to nurse my sweet little puppy Peanut back to health. He contracted Parvo, a very serious and common virus that affects many dogs, especially puppies. He was just shy of getting his vaccines when he fell ill. He went from being a spirited and loving dog to a lethargic puppy who vomited frequently. It was the most heartbreaking thing to watch. We thought he still might pull through though, after he started treatment. Friday night around 9 I found him limp and completely unresponsive, but still breathing. I have heard of dogs in this condition still making it, so for over 3 hours I stayed by his side watching him. Around 1 am he took his last breath. My heart literally aches at his loss. I feel as if I've lost my best friend. He was the most loving and spirited puppy and his death as left an empty spot in my heart. My hormones are already out of whack due to the pregnancy and this was the last thing I expected. I have been in bed ever since yesterday. I had to force myself to get up this morning. If anyone has been through this, or has a pet that you love more than anything, then you might know what I'm going through. I told Austin that Peanut ran away, and he took it well. I think he's just too young to understand. He already wants another puppy or kitten, but I don't think I can bear it just yet. I know life goes on, and mine will too....but for now, I need another day or two to grieve.

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In Focus

My neglect of the blog is due to the fact that I have FINALLY purchased a new camera (Canon EOS Rebel XS) and have spent my spare time trying to re-familiarize myself with this type of camera. Up until now I've been suffering with a regular ol' point and shoot, but now that I have an SLR I need to reteach myself how to use it. Believe it or not, it's been about 8 years since I last used one (in high school, yeah, I know I look young). The above photos are my attempts with different settings, of random items lying in my yard (mostly Austin's toys). The last one was taken by Mike, as he is as excited about the camera as I am. I'm actually getting the hang of it quite well, but it's a totally different story when I put the camera on a tripod and attempt to take self portraits. Totally different experience from a point and shoot. But bear with me, because if I'm known for anything, it's my stubbornness, and one way or another, I will figure it out.....eventually.

On an unrelated note, I'm getting super excited because we're finally getting the baby's room ready for her arrival. It's going to be so adorable...although I'll admit that originally I had a more unique and vintage idea in mind, but I had to remember that this isn't only my baby, so I went with a more conventional and equally cute setting to please everyone. And if anyone has any unique girl names, feel free to share :)


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In The Trenches

Just got home yesterday from a fun, relaxing time with my beautiful cousin Tori and my sis Liana. We did nothing but walk around Santa Rosa looking like tourists and probably annoying fellow people. Now it's back to reality and work.

Since Fall is presumably on it's way (taking it's sweet time I might add) I decided to do this post of "GET IT FOR LESS" about a great transitional wardrobe piece, the trench coat. Chic, stylish, and reminiscent of espionage and film noir movies, the trench coat is a versatile piece that is a staple for any closet. Going out in public and don't feel like dressing up? Throw on a belted trench over a tee and jeans with boots and dark shades and you have instant sophistication. Great for when the weather is chilly outside, but doesn't require a snowsuit and boots to travel around in.

Here's some high priced and covetable pieces:


You probably know by now how much I adore leopard print- but would I seriously part with $3,795 for this Lanvin coat? Not likely.


Same goes for this Alice by Temperley "Bonita" coat for $1,095. To me, that's a fortune which I don't have.

I do admit that if it's high quality and long lasting then sometimes it's worth it to invest your money in something that will remain in your closet a long time. I would be much more willing to spend a little more money on these pieces:

BB Dakota $120.00 revolveclothing.com

Betsey Johnson $225 Bluefly.com


Nicole Miller $148.99 Bluefly.com

And if those are still not within your budget, check out these options:

Maurices $49.00 maurices.com


Wilson's Leather $44.96 wilsonsleather.com


BB Dakota $45.00 Karmaloop.com

Don't overlook your local Goodwill and thrift stores, you may be able to find a great trench at a fraction of the price that's still in good shape. Let me know if there's anything you want me to compare for the next "GET IT FOR LESS" post.

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