Everything's Better With a Flower in Your Hair

I tried to copy this last night:

Black Flower Hairband from Urban Outfitters

And it turned out like this:

An old elastic headband that I found in my embroidery supplies (?) + black fabric flower clip from my Joann's run yesterday = an almost identical look and $16 saved!

Huzzah!

Love ya, Mean it!

Just wanted to let all my Lovely Luckies (that's you guys) know how much I love you!

And I mean it!!!

Image by the amazing and talented Kate Kowald who's work can be found here.

I've got some super fun posts planned for this week... the first post of the new series called Holidays Homemade, a sparkly wish-list gift from my darling husband, and some incredible garage sale-ing finds that I came across this weekend!

I'm holed up in my cozy home, working like crazy to get ready for a "special event" in November... but I'll have to tell you much more about that another time.

Until then, enjoy your Mondays and don't forget to make someone smile!

Totally Brill

My friend Lopi is a genius.

Via the Fashion Architect, herself.

Cotton + Diamonds = Awesome

I know she's a total bitch, but did anyone notice the fabulousness that was Taylor's plain-white-t-shirt-plus-diamondy-(probably-costume)-jewelry combo on last weeks episode of the RZP???

After googling for days, I still could not find any pictures of said accessorie, so I made do with a simple print-screen off of a video.

Not the best shot, but you get the idea.

I've been inspired by the ice queen (ha ha) to search on eBay and at local antique stores for an amazing piece of vintage costume jewelry that I can wear with a completely casual ensemble.

Check out these beauties that I've come across... they'd work perfectly for the look I'm going for - just add them to jeans and a fresh white t-shirt, and you're good to go!

Found on eBay. Auction is over, but you get the idea.

Courtney's beautiful jewels... go for it, Court!

Also on eBay, and still available. Current bid: only $12.99!

Can't wait to try this look! What a way to add some zshuzsh to your otherwise tepid T's!

Love this Outfit

Wish I had all the components to recreate this look for my interview tomorrow.



From the darling and oh-so-savvy Jessica at What I Wore.

P.S. I'm really digging bangs these days. Mom said a definite no, but I'm still toying with the idea. Any thoughts? More importantly... HOW DO I GET THE SMELL OF SMOKE OUT OF LEATHER FURNITURE!?!?

*Sigh*

The Universe Finally Decided to Cut me a Break

*I feel like I should whisper this post, for fear that my early birthday pressie to myself might spontaneously combust into flames.*

Oh to hell with it.

RUNS INTO ROOM DANCING AND WAVING ARMS...

Look what I found! Look what I fooooowwwnnnddd!

Close-up. Isn't she a beaut?
Oh ya, the kitty is pretty darling, too.

I have been searching for a vintage Eames lounger for SO long (in caramel leather, with a golden pine frame), and yesterday, my search ended in Belton, Missouri.

That's the short of it, here's the long - and HERE'S why I need your help:

I search Craigslist quite frequently for furniture that I can refurbish and add to my home or sell, and I always finish my browsing with a quick "eames lounger" search. Nothing good ever turned up until about two months ago.

I came across a listing that was posted by a guy in town who buys and sells mid-century modern furniture, and he posted the exact chair/ottoman that I had been looking for - and he only wanted 300 dollars! Now, these pieces can be purchased new from DWR for about $3,600.00 or you can try and find a vintage one, but up until then I had never seen a vintage one for less than 1,000. I emailed AND called him immediately... but alas, he told me that I was literally two minutes too late. I ALmost offered him $350, but I remembered seeing in the picture that the ottoman was in pretty bad shape, so I held off.

I was SOOO disappointed, but G assured me that I'd come across another one someday. (I grumpily disagreed, but that's besides the point.)

Flash forward to Monday night...

Found fateful posting, called my new best friend TONI, traded cars with my sweet friend Taryn, and went to sleep dreaming of a sassy new family room with a freshly brightened reading nook.

We picked up the chair today, and it is beautiful! I think it is a reproduction, and not an original, but I don't even care. Guess what else? It only cost us a quite reasonable and frighteningly under-priced FIFTY DOLLARS. Woot WOOT!

There IS a catch (there's always a catch), and we didn't realize it until we were on our way home.

The chair??? It stinks. Like old, stale, nasty cigarettes.

I know, I'm an idiot for not asking if the chair was from a non-smoking home, but... I was too excited to think of it! Plus, her house didn't smell!

So there you have it. I'm sitting here staring at my new chair, loving it a little bit more each minute, and wishing I didn't have to wear a clothespin on my nose. My cat slept on it ALLL day yesterday and today (glad you approve, Zo') and she is not allowed any where near my lap or bed until I get the chance to rub scented dryer sheets all over her.

My new reading nook!

Do any of you know how to get sick-smoke-smack-smuck-smell out of leather furniture? I have tried vinegar and water, and also a paste of baking soda, but so far... no luck. I'm getting a little worried!

Felicidades, Mis Padres!

Congratulations are in order for my two favorite love-birds around!

Today, I'd like to wish my Mom and Dad the Happiest 30th Anniversary that anyone could possibly have.

Thanks for getting married, and thanks for showing me the perfect example of how blessed and wonderful it is when you get to marry the love of your life and best friend!!

I love you both more than you know, and I pray that G and I will grow up to be just like you.

MWAH!

Puppy Love

I miss my darling Remy.

So so so much that the empty space in my heart still feels like a cavernous hole that is drippy, and sharp, and full of stalagtites (or is it stalagmites?). It's smelly and dark and probably full of bat poop. Am I being ridiculous?

I ran by the place where he got hit last week.

I'm not sure why I did it... I guess I felt like I just needed to see the place that it happened, you know? As I was jogging, I couldn't help but picture him running along with me. Watching his waggy little tail go back and forth as he trotted by my side. It was nice to imagine myself being with him one last time, especially because I never got to say goodbye.

Papillon in a purse... can't get much better than that.

From the most recent (and amazing) Anthro catalogue.

As I went, I realized that I was picking up speed, and that I wasn't getting any closer to my precious little buddy. I was running after something that was no longer there. Trying to catch up to give him one more scratch behind the ears - one more sweet hug - one more kiss on the nose.

With the tears and sweat taking the same paths down my face, I turned onto our street the same way that I left... without my beloved pup.

Portable Pup. Sharon Montrose Photographs, via sfgirlbybay.

I know that we will bring a dog into our home again someday, and when we do he/she will be furry, fabulous, and feel like a part of the family.

For now? I am still full of hurt, anger, and confusion as to why this had to happen to us, and to him.

I miss you, Remy. Thanks for bringing us endless amounts of joy, and I can't wait to join you in heaven someday.

Piperlime Pick of the Week!

There's just something about a statement shoe that always gets me going - and today, we've got two Piperlime Picks that perfectly fit the bill.

Even with the most outrageous of colors or designs, if you keep the rest of your outfit and accessories somewhat simple, most people can actually pull off a crazy shoe quite well.

Today's first Pick has a subdued color palette, but a more unique shape and a big embellishment.

Dodie by Corso Como - SALE $119.99

I know what you're thinking... "Gosh, I could never wear those." But, I assure you that you could! Or if these aren't quite your style, I know you could pull something off that is equally as bold!

I'd love to wear these with a bright yellow pencil dress (did anyone happen to see Kristen Bell on Jay Leno last night? Perfect dress... I'll add a picture here as soon as I can find one), black tights, and a black swing coat.

My second pick is just the opposite, bright colors in a block pattern, but on a more traditional shape.

Bellai by Vince Camuto - SALE $79.99

To make sure you don't knock anyone out with too many colors (although for me, there's almost no such thing), this pair would work well with a black tights, a black tulip skirt, and a pretty grey silk top!

Wish I had the time to make some Polyvore outfits for you, but I've got many errands to run and projects to finish!!! (More on my project-ing next week, so stay tuned!)

**ALSO**

Right now, on Piperlime, (I'm not sure for how long) you can add items from any of their sister sites (Banana Republic, Gap, and Old Navy) to your Piperlime order and get the whole order sent to you with NO SHIPPING COSTS. I'm not sure if this is a promotional event, but it sure sounds tempting! (Sometimes I think chopping off my hands will be the only way to prevent me from shopping online... )

Have a great weekend, Dolls! Buy something pretty in my honor!

Denver, Here we Come!!!

Ok, my dearies... I need your help!

Senior night at a San Diego Padres game

Three of my college roommates/best friends/bridesmaids and I are traveling to Denver for another friend's wedding next month, and I am working on finding us a great place to stay in the city.

Freedom Tour 2K7
(Spring Break in Palm Desert and Las Vegas)

The actual wedding is in Highlands Ranch, but since the ceremony is the only time we'll be there, I thought it would be more fun to stay somewhere close to shopping, nightlife, yummy restaurants, etc.

Roommate picture in Disneyland for one of my bachelorette parties...
The front of our shirts said "Jessie's a Batch". Ha.

Do you have any thoughts? I have never spent much time in Denver, so I am completely blind when it comes to knowing the cool spots.

I'm pretty sure I have at least three readers from there, and perhaps a few more that have visited? If you know of somewhere great to visit/eat/stay, please let me know!

Hold your breath and jump!
Ya. We're pretty fun like that.
Plus, there's nothing better than self-timer pictures.

Glam

Push

I truly hope that this will be the next thing I buy.

After I receive my first paycheck, of course.

(by her, found here)

Flipping Hilarious

I laughed so hard I almost cried... Tina Fey has Palin's mannerisms down PAT!




... AAAAAAAAAAAANDDD - lipstick.

Merde Il Pleut

Yet another snuggly, cozy, rainy day here... but I have a house to clean and errands to run before my sweet mother-in-law comes to town today.

Luxe Wool Wellies - SALE $84

I'll be wearing a variation of these babies (mine have teal grosgrain ribbon bows at the top), some comfy jeans tucked in, and a nice big sweater.

(via In(side) the Loop... which happens to be in Ike's path. I'm praying for your safety, Court!)

I only wish I had this umbrella to sheild me from the big fat raindrops! (If you are a non-French speaker, like me, Merde Il Pleut means Shit, It's raining! Hee!)

Supposedly it is going to warm up next week, so I guess I can't put away the sundresses quite yet!

Have a fabulous weekend, and I'll catch you all on Monday!

May-jah Sale: Ferm Living

Ferm living is having a humongo sale on their Collection No. 1 wallpaper. Originally at $94.50 a roll, it is now available for only 30 dollars!

These are a few of my faves...

Orhcid

Black Berry

Leaves

Dang my stupid spending hiatus... at this much of a discount, I'd love to buy a roll or two in case I ever want to use it in a project.

You never know when you're going to need to wallpaper something in a jiff!

(via the darling Door Sixteen)

New Segment: Holidays Homemade

Don't worry, this photo is not current. I took it last year when the leaves started to change... my first real fall!

Has anyone else noticed that the season of fall actually has a smell?

Over the past few days, I have become keenly aware of the odors of a beginning Autumn.

The after-burn of a lit candle, the dollop of cinnamon swimming in my coffee... even the dry, chilly air has a distinct smell that causes the inside of my nose to tingle in anticipation of the falling leaves.

I love being able to walk around the house, opening all our windows and turning off the air conditioning. It's time to pull out the throw blankets for the couch, and fill our duvet cover with the down comforter that lives in the closet during the summer.

Although I'm a little embarrased to admit, it's around this time of year when I begin to think about Thanksgiving and Christmas. The decorating, the cooking, the parties, the gift-giving - it's all so magical to me and that's probably why fall is my favorite time of year.

As I've been boxing up my bathing suits and storing away my shorts, I've also been thinking about creative ways to decorate our home for the upcoming change of seasons. I like things that I can make myself. Big impact on a small budget, if you will.

In order to highlight some ideas and borrowed inspiration of mine, I'm going to start a new segment on the Lucky Stone called Holidays Homemade. I know the holidays are not here yet, but I think they'll be here before we know it, and goshdarnit I want my readers to be prepared!

Are you ready for it people?!

Then STAY TUNED! Boo-ya.

Can it beeee?

It feels good to be home at last, and after a summer full of traveling - I am looking forward to staying put until the holidays!

When we finally hopped off the plane at KCI on Saturday evening, we were met with a very rainy city and quickly plummeting temperatures... can it be that fall has already arrived???

It seems like the chilly weather sneakily swooped down upon KC while we were busy enjoying the sunshine of Scottsdale! (Good thing I got to give my favorite summer clothes one final hurrah!)

I have been fighting a cold for the past two days and so willyoupleaseexcuse my fuzzy little medicine head, but in honor of the 55 degree weather, I am going to do a comfy cozy fall fashion round-up for today's post.

For me, thick black leggings and a super soft J. Crew waffle tee are the epitome of Autumn comfort, but for those days when you need to run errands or actually be presentable, I've found a few little pretties that you might enjoy. Don't worry... no Uggs included!

Library Date
J. Crew Cashmere Shawl Cardigan in True Aqua
U.O. Peach Tank
U.O. BDG Charcoal Skinny Pants
U.O. Oval Antique Ring
U.O. Ivy League Loafers

Dinner with Friends
J. Crew Silk-Linen Swing Cardigan in Yellow
J. Crew Pleated Tissue Tank in Pewter
Joe's Jeans Chelsea
U.O. Bird Drop Earrings
U.O. Frye Agatha Heel

Afternoon of Shopping
J. Crew Kate Dress
U.O. Ballet Leggings in Navy
U.O. Perforated Leather Boot
U.O. Sabina Leather Satchel (I have wanted this bag for FOREVER!)
U.O. Patterned Rose Square Scarf
U.O. Gilded Rubber Bangles
U.O. Stamped Initial Stud Earrings



P.S. How much do I LUUURVE Polyvore?! SO fun. And totally helped cure my super-strong craving to break my spending hiatus. Job hunting first, shopping second, my friends. (HA! Never thought I'd utter those words...)

P.P.S. I hope you enjoy the (slightly more) budget friendly selection from my two bargain fall-backs, the sale sections of J. Crew and Urban Outfitters.

Wisit

Why have we not discussed this dude?



I am just now watching the season premiere of Top Design... and while I'm not capable of an SGM-caliber recap, I would like to know what everyone thinks about Wisit and his opera singing skillz.

I wish I could find a clip of him singing on YouTube, but alas, I have not been able to find a thing. If you caught the episode, you must tell me what you think... he seems nice, but I can't tell if he's faking or not.

What's the story, morning glories?!

In Case of Emergency

This picture was taken walking down the street in Avignon.


Can you imagine walking past this whilst on a date with someone and having them let go of your hand, run back a few steps, and stick some coins into this machine!

Talk about a subtle hint.

Oh, and Happy Friday, my dears!!! Regularly scheduled posting resumes next week!

Bookworm-y

I'm feeling rather bookworm-y these days (even though I ALLLLways love to read), and the following is a list of books that I hope to add to my collection before the year is over.

Bazaar Style

Restoration Home

Printing by Hand

In case anyone was wondering what I might love for... oh... say, the birthday that I have in exACTly 2 months from this very moment (well, ok - two months from today)?

Voila! These would fit the bill!

(Hopefully, I can withstand the temptation to buy them for myself!!!!)

There's No Place Like Home

My big boy, Jordan. One of the best parts about going home!

Just wanted to give a heads up that I am blogging from sunny Scottsdale, AZ this week.

When we lost Remy a few weeks ago, my parents insisted in bringing us home for some much needed family time, and that is exactly what we are here to do.

Since I am not currently working, and G has a week off between summer classes and the fall semester, it seemed like a good time for a visit, so here we are! I arrived here on Friday and G landed this morning.

Here are some of the things that I am most looking forward to:

- Cuddling on the couch, in between Mom and Dad, and laughing at my brother's jokes (We love to laugh.)
- Seeing my best friend/neighbor/Maid of Honor, Brittany, and her family
- Shopping with the Mama (DUH!)
- Lunching and pedicures with Aunt and Mom
- Going to watch my very first varsity football game of little brother's (Go Titans!)
- Playing with my 120 lb. golden retriever (see above)
- Watching the Diamondbacks game from a suite at the ballpark
- Working out with the fam at the club

I hope you all had a fabulous Labor Day weekend, and enjoy your shortened work week!