life, done properly.

Blog resuscitation. Stat.

2012-02-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

Oh. My. Word.
Remember that one time my blog stats full-on flatlined because I didn't blog for a month?
Heavens to Betsy. Sorry 'bout that, friendlies.
Life these days is a little bit on the chicken-with-its-head-cut-off-could-use-a-gallon-of-Xanax side. Nonetheless, still fantastic.

So I'm just stopping by to liven things up with the fact that I'm pinning all of the Fashion Week photos from elle.com. Here and here and here.

My favorites for Spring brought to you by Alice+Olivia:
(You know, Spring? That time where there's not so much snow, but also not so much deaduglyness?)

Oh, and if you're dying to follow me when I'm not here, I write lots for Salt Lake Magazine. Sometimes even about fashion stuff like florals and aztecs.

Utah 101 | A tidbit about my little ol' home state

2012-01-05T15:00:00.000-07:00

Are you participating in the instagram January photo-a-day challenge? Obviously, as per above, I am. It's kind of fun.
Day One: Me (or rather the blue shadow on my blue eyes)
Day Two: My breakfast from the gas station on my way to work. The maple bar was from Banbury Cross. I could eat a whole dozen of those things. Seriously.
Day Three: Something I adore: The lavender I bought on our trip to Friday Harbor, WA
Day Four: My boring, boxy letterbox.

It was the letterbox that got me thinking. When I read the challenge for the day I thought, "Gee, I really hope that's the same thing as a mailbox." See, here in Utah we have special names for things. We call letterboxes "mailboxes." Letter carriers or postmen (politically correct, post people) are known as "mailmen."
We also have special accents.

So, for those of you unfamiliar with the Utah way of life, I thought I'd provide little lesson.
EnJOY. And you're welcome.

Utah 101

The things surrounding the Salt Lake Valley on all sides? Those are moun-ins. Not MounTains. We also have a city called Lay-uhn (not LayTon). At the Gateway mall there are foun-ins (not founTains).

Test number one. Translate the following sentence: "I colored with my crens. Then I had a nice warm glass of melk before I went to sleep on my comfy pellow."
Stumped? The answer is, "I colored with my crayons. Then I had a nice warm glass of milk before I went to sleep on my comfortable pillow."
I've also heard of crayons referred to as crowns.
Perhaps I should post a vlog of some sort, in order to assure you that this is not the way I speak and, in fact, it is one of my biggest pet peeves. Ever.

Next. SAHMs. That's an occupational abbreviation for Stay At Home Moms. These people are pretty freaking cool. They build playhouses for their kids out of cardboard boxes and they make dinner from scratch. From scratch, I tell you! And often, that scratch is organic.
It is not uncommon to witness a gaggle of SAHMs gleefully pushing their strollers down the street. 66 percent of the gaggle is usually pregnant. I witnessed this myself just this afternoon, as a matter of fact. Three SAHMs, two of them preggo, three strollers.

You may have heard that the majority of Utah's population is Mormon. Well, that's true.
Mormons don't have horns, but they do fancy jello with carrots and/or mandarin oranges suspended inside. Oh, and funeral potatoes. They fancy those as well.

Utah has a few Universities. The best one is the University of Utah. I've heard they have the brightest, most awesome students. I know for a fact that they have the awesomest professors.

Salt Lake City hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics. It was a party. It was pretty much impossible to get anywhere downtown with a car during that time so it was like living in NYC or something.
Salt Lake City is arguably one of the cleanest and most beautiful cities I ever have seen that isn't near a large body of water (great salt lake doesn't count.) It's smaller than most and it has a pretty much non-existant night life, but like I care about that when I lose energy at 9:00.

Southern Utah is breathtakingly beautiful. If you've never been to Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon or Arches... you should.

I've lived in Utah all of my 26 years and I've been skiing once. Utah has lots of great skiing. I need to ski more.
The mountains here are gorgeous. You can travel 50 miles in any given direction from the center of downtown and see and do tons of awesome things. You could probably even take a sail on the Great Salt Lake. I've never done that, though because it smells out there and the beaches honestly give me the heebie jeebies.

The Sundance Film Festival is held in Park City. Park City is also where this year's HGTV Dream Home is located. Park City is the shiz.

Utah is a good place to visit, so look me up where you get here.

More things to love: Our Paper Shop

2012-01-02T10:51:00.000-07:00

Once when I was about 7 or 8, my best friend and I found some old, faded construction paper in my mom's sewing room. Being the budding young entrepreneur that I was, (I also tried selling popcorn from a bowl, and I always used a muffin tin as my cash register) I put the paper in a fancy little crate and convinced my friend that we could make a killing by selling the stuff door-to-door.
So, out we went. But for some reason, each neighbor claimed to have no need for the paper, and our profit turned out to be a collection of puzzled looks and high-pitched remarks of "Aw, aren't you just the cutest things!?" And all I thought was, "Whatever, lady! To heck with being cute! Buy my paper! I know for a fact that my mom buys your kid's disgusting lemonade and crap! Buy my paper!"

I also loved going to the stationery store with my mom. After a while, I developed a moderate collection of pens and paper that weren't used for much more than looking pretty. I've always loved paper shops - the smell, the feel of the different textures, the colors and patterns, the innumerable options of things you can create.

Today, via twitter (love you, twitter!) I found a new paper shop. I can't smell it or touch it, but I can browse through it, and oh is it beautiful. Bre and Emma sure do know how to sell the stuff, because I want it all and it has nothing to do with their level of cuteness.

See for yourselves.

I also started following their blog and downloaded this desktop wallpaper. I love it.

The happiest new year

2012-01-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I got to do my favorite thing in the world. I spent the entire day with my best friend. Even better, we spent it in the company of some of our other best friends.
We ate Chinese takeout and chocolate licorice, we laughed until our heads and bellies hurt, and we braved heavy eyelids until the midnight hour came. And when it did, I kissed my best friend and we said goodbye to 2011. Then, I took him home, I put him to bed and I let him cuddle me until we fell asleep to the sound of nothing more than fireworks welcoming in the new year.

It was a night of auld lang syne. One that won't soon be forgotten.

when you live in SLC, you can't have too many winter survival guides

2011-12-27T07:00:00.000-07:00

Winter has technically only just begun, so this may not be the last survival guide of the season. It surely isn't the first.

1. EOS lip balm in sweet mint -- a new favorite. I love that I don't have to reapply it every 10 minutes.
2. H&M Slouchy beanie -- Only $6 and super soft and comfy.
3. Tech-friendly gloves -- Necessary for people like me who use their phone for everything.
4. La Mer Moisturizing Cream -- Pricey, but - in my opinion - worth every penny. Especially if you live in a harsh, dry winter climate and have sensitive skin. (Upside: a tiny bit goes a very long way.)
5. Crate&Barrel Latte Mug -- Perfect size for any warm drink, only $5, and it is simply gorgeous.
6. Thick, warm socks -- I've made a habit out of borrowing my husband's. Extra thick and extra warm.
7. H&M Leggings for layering -- I even layer them over tights and under dress pants (I get that cold.)
8. Clarisonic Mia skin cleansing system -- A Christmas gift from My Love. After only 3 uses, I can already feel a difference in my skin.

Do you have any favorite things/tips to help you survive the winter?
I'd love to hear about them!

Committing an old fashion faux pas

2011-12-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

shirt, leggings: Target | sweater: Banana.Republic | necklace: mom's | boots: Bulward(auction retailer)

Somewhere in the world, a middle-aged woman is clicking her tongue and shaking her head at the fashion crime I have just committed.
Yes. Yes, in fact those are brown boots with black leggings.
Thank you for noticing.

I'm going to eat a ton of sweets today, what are you going to do?

Merry and, um, Bright

2011-12-25T21:05:00.000-07:00

beanie, shirt: Anthropologie | earrings: H&M | vest, watch, skinnies: Nordstrom.Rack | socks: Justin's | shoes: Famous

Merry Christmas!

(And suddenly, there is an overwhelming amount of yellow on this blog. Whoa.)

Loving | Pure Green Magazine

2011-12-20T16:00:00.000-07:00

For your viewing pleasure.
I don't think my commentary is necessary because, yes, it is that spectacular.

A preview of the current holiday issue:

Open publication - Free publishing

Another of my favorite issues:
(The feature on the bookbinder is WOW.)

Open publication - Free publishing

Visit the Pure Green Blog
Buy an issue in print!

Red and Green are a little cliche, don't you think?

2011-12-18T22:32:00.001-07:00

I wore: sweater: TJ Maxx, skirt: J.Crew, tights, scarf: H&M, heels: Nordstrom.Rack

(Actually shown: sweater: H&M, tights: ModCloth)

Photoshop and I just recreated today's outfit for you.
Sometimes I like to pretend it's not winter by wearing primary colors instead of neutrals. People look at me with questioning expressions when I do this, but it's OK. Sometimes my hair purposely looks like I stuck a fork in an electrical socket, so I'm used to it. You can only imagine the looks I receive when I wear both bright colors and electrical socket hair. Whew.
Once, a professor commented to our class that, "if Jessica represented the caucasian race, outsiders would think we were all skinny, excessively white and had crazy hair." But that's just a side note. The truth, nonetheless. Needless to say, that professor and I became fast friends. (Also the truth.)

I know it's been a bit, so let me give an update:

For the next two weeks I will enjoy myself a holiday break, in which I ~~won't do much more than indulge in Audrey Hepburn classics and warm drinks~~ will probably go insane with boredom because I don't know how to function on an open agenda for one day, let alone a couple weeks.
Immediately following the new year holiday, I will start as an editorial intern for Salt Lake Magazine. This is a huge deal for me. One reason is because when I told my department advisor I would be applying, he said in a discouraging tone, "Well, make sure you have lots of other options because that is a very competitive internship." To which I now say: booyah, department advisor. Boo. Yah. Anyway, I am ridiculously excited to start in a field that I've dreamt about working in for a really long time.
I took the advisors "multiple options" advice and committed myself to writing for two other campus magazines before I got the SL Mag internship. So Internship + magazine writer + magazine writer + full-time student + part time employee = me from January to May. It is, no doubt, going to fly.
I've been thinking lately, how do people with children do it all? Actually, how do people with children do any of it??? Y'all are my heroes. (I say y'all because I'm practicing dialect for a future life in the South.)
On track to graduate May 4. It's exciting and saddening at the same time. School has become one of my biggest passions.
Really, though, I'm going to watch Audrey Hepburn movies. So feel free to offer suggestions on must-sees. I'm Audrey illiterate. (I watched Roman Holiday this weekend. Loved it.)

Homemade gifts | Kids

2011-11-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

Martha Stewart has the greatest (and seriously, the cutest) ideas for homemade gifts for kids.
Check it out.

Annnd... that's kind of all I have to tell you right now, other than Thanksgiving was wonderful and went by far too quickly.
And I'm approaching finals, which means that for a week or two I will be holed up somewhere or other with my nose in... well I was going to say books, but that's not true. Computers is more like it.
Happy almost-December!

Oh!
Did you win the scrapbooking software giveaway?
Click here to find out!

GIVEAWAY: Digital Scrapbooking Software (CLOSED)

2011-11-21T07:30:00.000-07:00

Today's fantastic giveaway is courtesy of MyMemories.com, a digital scrapbooker's dream.

The Prize:

My Memories Suite Digital Scrapbooking Software

(as shown here on their website)

Here is a page I just made with their incredibly user-friendly software.
It took me... oh... all of of 5 minutes. Dead serious.
(Confession: I'm not the most scrapbooking literate person in the world, and I was blown away by the ease of it all.)

To enter:
Visit MyMemories.com, pick your favorite digital paper pack or layout, then tell me about it in a comment on this post!

Easy. Peazy. Lemon. Squeezy.

For EXTRA entries*, (1 extra entry per item) follow MyMemories:
On their blog
On Twitter
On Facebook
*Please leave me a separate comment for each extra item you choose!

Even more:
MyMemories would like to give everyone a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - $20 value!
Simply enter the promo code at checkout: STMMMS71506

Other things you can do with the MyMemories software: photo books, cards, videos, and tons more!

Winner:

Congratulations, Whitney!
Email me to claim your prize!
lifedoneproperly@gmail.com

Relating a vineyard to 65 years of marriage

2011-11-19T22:00:00.000-07:00

My husband's grandparents celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary today. Actually, it feels wrong to call them "my husband's grandparents" because I have grown so close to them over the past 5 years that I consider them my own. They are some of the best people in the world and I could spend hours with them just talking and listening to their stories.

We spent the evening with them last night, just the 4 of us. We went to a little hole-in-the-wall (but delicious) restaurant, ate homemade pie and talked about the past 65 years of their lives together.
When we asked them what has changed, they listed some obvious things: technology, convenience, advances in medicine. "Back then every child got their arm caught in the wringer, even though you told them a hundred times not to put their hands near it," Grandpa said. They told us about their wedding day and the adventures they have had with their young children and grandchildren.

As I thought about my own marriage, I realized that in order to celebrate a 65th anniversary with my sweetheart, we'll have to live to be 91 and 86. I can only hope that we'll make it there.
In April we'll celebrate big anniversary number 5. Even though there have only been a few minor advances in technology, and we haven't had any kids to get their hands caught in anything, it's been an adventurous and wonderful 5 years that I wouldn't trade for anything. I've learned and grown so much because of Justin, and with all that growth I don't really even feel like much of the same person anymore. I am beyond grateful that I've even had 5 years with him.

Because I am traveling to Asia in March and I graduate in May we probably won't have an officially huge blow-out anniversary celebration until the summer, but you can bet there will be celebrating.
The important thing, though, is the fact that (I'm about to get really cheesy here) I get to spend every day with him. Even the boring days are good days.

As I think about our future together, I know there is still a lot in store for us. There are still a lot of adventures and opportunities on the horizon.
This is where the vineyard comes into play. We're dreamers. If we're financially able, we'd love to own multiple houses all over the world, rather than just having one ginormous house in one location. Sometimes on long car rides, we talk about where we'll have our beach home our our mountain cabin.
Already, I've dreamt up a few places I could stand to inhabit for a while (most of which I've pinned here) and today I added a vineyard to my list.

Isn't it incredible? I found it here on Architectural Digest.
Just imagine driving down the lane edged with endless lines of grapevines. Oh I can nearly smell them.

My Crate&Barrel Faves

2011-11-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

I've been an online shopper/admirer of Crate&Barrel for... well, a really long time.

So last week when I received an invitation to attend the Private Grand Opening Preview of their Salt Lake City store, I almost died. But I didn't. I put on some lipstick and I went. Gleefully.

A little background:

I've seen a shopping mall or two in my day. The malls in Salt Lake have become some of the most beautiful I've ever seen, rivaling the posh architecture you might find in places like LA, but situated against a backdrop of breathtakingly beautiful snow-capped mountains.

Our new Crate&Barrel (along with other great stores we've never had, like H&M and The North Face) opened at Fashion Place in Murray - a mall that has recently expanded to include newer, hipper stores and restaurants.

We're also anticipating the opening of the new City Creek Center in downtown Salt Lake in the Spring of 2012. As I follow along with its progress I am speechless at its natural beauty. I must also admit that my husband and I have considered relocating to an urban condo downtown, even if it means losing two bedrooms. That's how beautiful downtown Salt Lake City is.

So anyway, I put on lipstick.

And as I walked up the red carpet and through the grand glass doors, I actually forgot that I was in a shopping mall. Instead, I was in a little dimension of heaven. While the hustle and bustle of shoppers, window-gawkers, and ridiculously-long-line-waiters went on outside the store, I browsed the perfectly stocked shelves and untouched pillows. There wasn't a fingerprint on a jar or a fanny print on a seat. I admired the kitchen gadget wall like a wide-eyed 2-year-old, and I dreamed of taking up residence in my own little corner of the living room display. With hazelnut hot chocolate, of course.

So anyway, I couldn't let you have all the fun listing your favorite Crate&Barrel items (thanks for your entries, by the way.)

Here are some of mine. As you all know, it's impossible to choose just one.

(clockwise from left)
Weck Canning Jars
It may seem silly that out of hundreds of to-die-for products, my favorite is a jar. Actually, I have yet to encounter a Crate&Barrel jar that I didn't like. I want them all.
One of my uses for Weck jars: Storing/displaying my makeup brushes.

Vintage Sari Garland
I picked this up and put it back down in the store at least five times.
I regret not buying it, so I may have to go back for it (darn it.)
It's whimsical, colorful and fun.
Really I have no idea what my use for it would be, but that doesn't matter.

Petrie Leather Sofa
The photo does not do this sofa justice. You must see it on display in-store.
The caramel color is delicious, and I'm not typically a fan of warm tones.
Yummy.
Use? For really important visitors.

Chloe Chair
I literally gasped when I saw it in person.
There it was, an impeccably tailored chair in the classiest shade of gray.
And the awesome part is, it also comes in mustard yellow.
This may only be used for carefully sitting upon. It's too pretty to risk ruining.

Did you win the Crate&Barrel giveaway? Click here to find out!

Sweet Paul Magazine brightens the holidays

2011-11-15T08:07:00.001-07:00

Have you checked out the latest issue of Sweet Paul Magazine?
It just launched this morning. I've slowly marveled my way to page 30, and already I want to pin, tweet or just sing about every page, photo and idea.
My favorites so far: Favorite finds on Etsy (how fantastic is the artichoke lamp made out of old book pages?) and ideas for making your own fabulous wrapping paper from a roll of plain ol' white stuff.

In short, it's amazing and you should check it out.

Paul Lowe is an incredibly talented food and prop stylist. You can follow him on twitter @sweetpaul.
(all photos via Sweet Paul Mag)

*Random side note: I had to include the editor's page. As a magazine enthusiast and aspiring editor, this is my favorite page of every magazine. I love reading the editor's insights into the issue - it just makes him or her feel that much more real and human-like. Because editors aren't just human, they're superheroes. You should know this.
I want to be a superhero someday.

Speaking of things that are wonderful... have you entered our Crate&Barrel giveaway? Today is the last day, so jump on it!

Crate&Barrel GIVEAWAY! (closed)

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read that correctly.

Take a moment to catch your breath.

..........................................................

Good?

Good. Now read on.

Not to beat around the bush or anything, but let's pretend for a moment.

Let's pretend that each of us (myself included) are ecstatic about the fact that Christmas has been busting at the seams since the day after Halloween.

We're joyfully singing along with the carols on the radio, we're dusting off the nativity and untangling the lights.

Maybe we're even writing letters to Santa and hanging our stockings.

And we're doing it all on this very day in the wee hours of November.

Why? Because Christmas came early this year, my friends.

Month after anticipated month I have daydreamed and drooled as I passed the mall, knowing that soon, all the tacky yellow construction tape would be torn away to reveal the facade of a beautiful new store, the likes of which Salt Lake City has never experienced.

A brand new Crate&Barrel.

And guess what? It's finally here!

So with no further hesitation or bush beating, I should tell you this:

The incredibly generous folks at Crate&Barrel would like to celebrate with us by giving one of you lucky readers a gift!

No lie! Free stuff!!

Winner will receive (items as shown above):

(1) 3-Piece Acacia Bowl and Servers Set

AND

(1) Acacia and Glass Salad Bowl

How to enter:

Step One: Simply visit the Crate&Barrel website and browse through their amazing products.

Step Two: Leave a comment on this post telling me which product is your favorite.

That's it.

Sounds simple, right? Well it is.

HOLD IT!

That's not all.

Crate&Barrel is also giving you a chance to win the Thanksgiving of your dreams as part of a $5,000 Thanksgiving Giveaway, which includes a huge assortment of Crate&Barrel products.

Products such as:
The Graham Dining Table, Jacob Side Chairs, six place settings of Charlemagne Flatware, and even gift cards to Whole Foods and Brown Floral.

How to enter:
Simply visit the grand opening of the Crate&Barrel store located at Fashion place, 6207 South State Street in Murray, UT.
While you're there, complete an entry card and drop it in the entry container located in the store.
Just drop in sometime before or on Sunday, November 20th and you're good to go!
Sounds simple, right? Well! It! Is!

Also, when you go to the grand opening you should look for me.
Justin is conveniently taking a (well deserved) golf trip with his dad, so I will be free to shop my little heart out... within reason, of course. But I'm pretty sure I'll be there most of the weekend.
I'd love to meet up with you! We could sip a cup of something amazing and pick out great stuff for each other. Like BFFs.

Now, GO! I don't care if you stalk this blog anonymously in hopes that you'll never get caught. Would you really pass up an opportunity like this?
Heavens to Betsy, I'd hope not.

Winner:

Congratulations, Karlee!
E-mail me at lifedoneproperly@gmail.com to claim your prize!

Winter necessities

2011-11-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

Those of you who live in tropical climates can ignore this post.
Don't you have a beach you should be laying on, anyway? Jerks.

Those of you, like me, whose skin is already crying out for a little extra loving may read on.
Here's my annual review of some good things to feed your skin as we approach these freezing temperatures.

Body:

Hempz moisturizing lotion: moisturizes without feeling greasy, and smells a-freaking-mazing.

Tela Sugar Scrub: 100% organic. Ingredients like: Pure sugar cane, almond oil, soy lecithin, honey, acai and argan oils, milk vetch, oolong tea, kiwi and plum. (Sounds like it doubles as a delicious snack.)

Eyes:

philosophy miracle worker anti-aging eye cream: I have used this as a night cream because it's a bit thicker and super moisturizing. Pretty much, it lives up to its name.

Hair:

Redken All Soft argan-6 oil: can be used on wet or dry hair for smoothing and conditioning.

Nexxus Humectress conditioner: I used this when I had long hair and loved it. It worked so well that I only had to use it once or twice a week.

Nails:

Burt's Bees lemon butter cuticle cream: A perfect product for at-home manicures, a little bit goes a long way.

Lips:
Jane Iredale 'Lip Drink' Lip Balm with SPF 15: I've never tried this before, but I'm very attracted to the fact that it contains no petrolium-derived products. Just vitamins E and C and green tea extract.

Face:
Kate Somerville Goat Milk Cream: contains vitamins and amino acids that heal and nurture skin. I've also tried Kate's Nourishing Moisturizer and loved it.

Speaking of Kate Somerville, I totally want to try this: (via twitter)

Favorites: Hair

2011-11-05T11:46:00.000-06:00

Have I ever told you about my first job?

Right out of high school I worked at a beauty supply store. Let me mention that this wasn't just any chain store beauty supply (read: Sally's or Ulta). It was a locally owned, situated on historic main street, stuffed to the brim with everything you could ever dream of, amazing amazingess.

Anyway, when I was 18, I wanted to buy a brand new car (because, back then, the hand-me-down car wasn't "cool enough." Teenagers.)

So my dad said, "That's fine. Go ahead and get a job so you can pay for it."

And I probably said something in a whiny voice like "Fiiiiiine." Then I started looking for a job.

Long story short, I scored a job at the beauty supply and I bought a new car.

Where was I going with this?.........

Oh yeah.

So that's when my obsession with hair care products began. I think between my car payment and the products I purchased from the store on a daily basis I brought home about $2 a week.

So today, I thought I'd share some of my current favorite products, along with a little "Jessica's hair how-to."

From left:
Pureology Hydrate, Bed Head Self Absorbed, Paul Mitchell Platinum Blonde

I use the platinum shampoo about twice a week.
(It's purple, and helps to tone brassiness, aka yellow, out of blonde or gray hair.)
The others I just kind of rotate through depending on my mood.

Hair Style How To:

Clockwise from top:
Kenra Texturizing Taffy, Big Sexy Spray & Play Harder Hairspray, Short Sexy Play Dirty Spray Wax, Bed Head Cocky Thickening Paste

HOW TO:
While wet: apply thickening paste and spray wax.
Blowdry: agitate hair lightly with fingertips.
When dry: texturize with dab of texturizing taffy or a little more spray wax. Finish with hairspray.

From left:
Round brush (this is the kind I use, but any will do), Garnier Smoothing Milk

HOW TO:
While wet: apply a small amount of smoothing milk.
Blowdry: smooth hair forward using a round brush.
When dry: smooth with another small dab of smoothing milk.

From left:
Garnier Curl Sculpting Gel, Bed Head Cocky Thickening Paste, Play Dirty Spray Wax, Spray&Play Hairspray

HOW TO:
While wet: thickening paste and curl sculpting gel
Blowdry: agitate hair and scruntch the crap of it.
When dry. Sculpt with spray wax and finish with hairspray.

Sound pretty simple? Well it is.

Translation of Inspiration | Bedroom

2011-10-11T15:50:00.000-06:00

Often, when I am dressing myself I think things like, 'Gee, I wish I had a pillow made out of this pattern,' or 'Maybe I could paint my dresser the color of this tunic.'

I'm being 100% serious when I say that it is not uncommon for me to be seen in Lowe's holding paint swatches to items of clothing.

Just the other day, in fact, as I dressed myself in the tunic and sweater seen above, I said to myself (probably out loud because sometimes I'm cool like that), "Jess, you could probably design an entire room based on the inspiration from this outfit." And right then and there, standing in my bedroom, those little creaky wheels in my brain started turning.

And here you have it.

The bedroom I designed in my head. Which I wouldn't object to calling my own.

Clothes via:
Anthropologie (Sweater, Tunic, Cuff)
Piperlime.com (Pants, Boots)
Etsy (awesome socks, which I think I need)

Decor items via a mess of my faves, including:
West Elm
CB2
Z Gallerie
World Market
Layla Grayce

It's October!

2011-10-02T11:30:00.000-06:00

You didn't think I would let October begin without reminding you that it's breast cancer awareness month... did you?

Product info, clockwise from top:
Estee Lauder, Evelyn Lauder pink ribbon lip collection
Sperry Top Sider Pelican rain boot
Anne Klein breast cancer awareness watch
Anne Klein breast cancer awareness bracelet
Bobbi Brown 'Pink Ribbon' lip set
Dogeared 'Wish for a Cure' necklace
Essie nail polish in 'Raise Awareness'
Shiseido 'Shimmering Rouge-Breast Cancer Awareness' lip
Estee Lauder Pink Ribbon Collection pin
Estee Lauder Pink Ribbon lucidity compact
Hunter limited edition color rain boot

'I went into the woods because I wished to live deliberately'

2011-10-01T18:40:00.000-06:00

Happiness feels like 73 degrees, boots and baggy flannel shirts.
Happiness looks like throwing brightly colored leaves at your best friend.
Happiness smells like crisp, fresh air and sweet smoke from chimneys.
Happiness tastes like hot chocolate with hazelnut cream.
Happiness sounds like silence interrupted only by softly crunching leaves.

Come to think of it, Happiness is a lot like Fall.

(thanks to Henry David Thoreau for lending his wisdom to the title of this post)

Outfitted in:
Flannel shirt, boots: Nordstrom.Rack | Skinnies, Scarf: H&M | Shades: TJ Maxx
On my nails: Essie in 'lady like' | On my eyes: Estee Lauder in 'Hot Cinnamon' and 'Antique Gold' | On my lips: (combo) Cover.Girl in 'Embrace' and Lauder in 'Ripe Papaya'

How to: be an old married couple.

2011-09-30T21:11:00.001-06:00

Brought to you by: The Adams, who are sometimes Awesome.

Step One: Find a cool person with whom you are compatible.
Step Two: Put a ring on it.
Step Three: Don't have kids for a bit. Kids put a whole new spin on marriage (or so we've heard... or so we're assuming) so just remain in the "dating" stage for a while, thus forcing yourselves to come up with interesting date ideas on a weekly basis.
Step Four: Keep things spicy by sending your significant other picture messages during the week. (see figure A) This will make the anticipation of date night practically unbearable.

figure A

Step Five: Note to selves: Spice it up even more by going with the cinnamon raisin loaf next time.
Step Six: When date night comes, elect to stay in.
Step Seven: Put on some sweats.
Step Eight: Order a pizza.
Step Nine: Make a matching set of night-guard-anti-teeth-grinding trays. (You can purchase these at Wal Mart. Then you just need a little boiling water, some patience and a dash of jaw strength. Oh and a set of teeth. Luckily we had all of that stuff on hand.)
Step Ten: Entertain yourselves by making PG-13 rated statements with your mouth guards in. Ex: "Say, sugarlips, you sure look saucy in those sweats."
Step Eleven: Fall asleep on the couch before 9:30 pm. Mouth guards, puddles of drool and all.

Adventures in traffic

2011-09-28T18:56:00.000-06:00

See that?Are you thinking to yourself, "What in the world is that?"
Well, I'll tell you:
I haven't the slightest idea.
This is just my way of segueing into telling you this:
I estimate that it took me a year-and-a-half to get home tonight.
I bet it only took that guy eight months, considering his compact maneuverability.

How much are your calories worth?

2011-09-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

Raise your hand if you've ever rewarded yourself with food.
*ahem. raising hand*
Yeah. I do it much more often than I should.
Take last week, for example. I wanted to eat everything in sight.
After only 30 miles, even my husband's leg started to look appetizing.

Is it OK to eat after a tough workout?
Um, it's not only OK, it's necessary.
Is it OK to eat a Big Mac Combo after a tough workout?
Well, if that's how you want to spend 1350 calories, then you bet.

But what if each of our calories cost a penny?

...Food for thought.
(Seriously though, if I'm being honest... sometimes the crisp bean burritos and mexi fries are so worth it. Right?)

As shown above:*

1 year subscription to Marie Claire Magazine: $10

Cafe Rio Pork Salad: 995 calories

(tortilla: 420 cal, pinto beans: 150 cal, rice: 130 cal, pork: 120 cal, cilantro lime dressing: 170 cal,

lettuce/cilantro: 5 cal)

1 year subscription to Elle Decor Magazine: $15

McDonald's Big Mac Combo: 1350 calories

(Big Mac: 540cal, large fries: 500 cal, large coke: 310 cal)

NY Times best seller The Are of Racing in the Rain: $10.98

Wendy's 3/4lb triple hamburger with cheese: 1050 calories

NY Times best seller Water for Elephants: $10.27

Taco Time, 2 crisp bean burritos, small mexi fries: 990 calories

(1 crisp bean burrito: 360 cal, mexi fries: 270 cal)

Essie nail polish in "Brooch the subject": $8

McDonald's 2 cheeseburgers, small fries: 830 calories

(1 cheeseburger: 300 cal, fries: 230 calories)

*all nutritional information gathered from the websites of Cafe Rio, McDonald's, Wendys and Taco Time.

This is loosely related to Mary Poppins

2011-09-25T17:16:00.000-06:00

The national tour of Mary Poppins the musical is in town this month.
My friend, Michelle, and I decided on a whim that we'd catch it before it closed.

Now, I am no entertainment critic. In fact, as I sat watching the show I wondered what real critics had to say about it.
Have you seen it?
*Spoiler alert* It is absolutely, positively, and without a doubt nothing like the classic Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke version.
Jumping into sidewalk drawings? Nope.
Visiting a magical land of talking animals and dancing penguins? Not even close.
Riding a merry-go-round? Nuh-uh.
Tidying up the nursery at the snap of a finger? No, not really.
Singing about loving to laugh? Seriously! No!
Darning socks? Not a single one. (I don't know why, but that was always my favorite part of the movie, when Mary Poppins is singing to Jane and Michael while darning socks.)

Granted, some of those things are a little difficult to recreate on a live stage, but if they can make Mary Poppins fly across the audience and Burt walk up the wall and tap-dance on the ceiling... I would think Mary could at least darn a sock or two.

All of that aside, I have a bigger gripe.
That is the re-write of the character Mrs. Banks.
Let me refresh your childhood memory (if you were here I would totally sing it to you): "Cast off the shackles of yesterday! Shoulder to shoulder into the fray! Our daughters daughters will adore us! And they'll sing in grateful chorus..."

I bet you can guess what. This song, along with the ideas surrounding it, were not even alluded to in the musical.
Not even a breath about women's rights or suffrage or... anything.
Just a compliant Mrs. Banks who entertained dinner parties and allowed her children and husband to scream at her.

I am bothered by this for so many reasons.
Mrs Banks was, and still is, one of my favorite characters in the movie. I always loved her spunk and confidence. Even though as a child I didn't understand exactly what her "Sister Suffragette" song was about, I knew that she was proudly standing for something, and I thought that was soooo cool.
Now that I am a grown(ish) woman, and I understand the significance of suffragists, and I have seen the location in London where women chained themselves to the fence, this song has such intense significance!
I am so grateful for women who fought for my rights. Not only my right to vote, but also my right to have a career, my right to make my own choices, and my right to publicly voice my opinions (on things like poorly re-written musicals!)
Don't women deserve to be empowered and encouraged as often as possible, just like men? Women are incredible, powerful, intelligent creatures!
I am empowered by the fact that I can stay up all night and ride a bicycle 60 miles and then come home to my lipstick and high heels.
I am empowered when I go shooting with the boys and unleash the power of my fuchsia handgun held between my fuchsia tipped fingers.
I am empowered every time I see a brilliant woman turn her passions into a career, all while being a kick-trash mom.

So anyway. Instead of Women's Rights, Disney threw in giant dancing teddy bears (totally creepy) and naked, anatomically correct (I swear that's how they appeared from my seat on the back row) dancing statues.
This might be where I introduce the Mickey Mouse Monopoly, but then you'd never view Disney movies the same again. I don't. So I'll just leave it at this:

Dear Disney,
Women are freaking awesome. How dare you?

Sing it with me, ladies! "Well done, Sister Suffragette!"

Not to be confused with the city in which I attended high school

2011-09-24T08:45:00.000-06:00

I was intrigued when my friend Hannah wrote about Bountiful Baskets. And when my sister told me she had tried it, and then I visited her house and saw her fully stocked-to-the-brim refrigerator I was sold.

Bountiful Baskets is a food co-op. According to their website,
"This is a grassroots, all volunteer, no contracts, no catch co-operative. Since there are no employees at Bountiful Baskets, we as a group pay rock bottom prices on your food."

How it works:
You place your order online through BountifulBaskets.org - deadline to place orders is Tuesday evening.
When you place your order, select a pick up location. (There are tons. All over the country.)
A group of volunteers picks up the food during the week and brings it to the pick up location on Saturday.
You take your own laundry basket, reusable bags, whatev, you pile a stack of produce into them and you go home happy.

Here's my haul this week:

6 plums
7 gala apples
6 Asian pears
1 bag of grapes
5 nectarines
9 banans
1 pineapple

4 cucumbers
2 red bell peppers
1 green bell pepper
6 tomatoes
2 onions

Are you ready to find out how much it costs?
Ladies and Gentlemen.
$15.
No. Lie.
(There is an additional small first-time fee to cover the baskets your produce is delivered in.)

So awesome, right? I wish they delivered toilet paper and milk. I would never need to Costco again. (Yes Costco is a verb now.)

If you're a first timer, I would suggest visiting their FAQ page.

Just 350ish miles.

2011-09-19T11:07:00.000-06:00

Photos: 01. Justin starting out the first leg of the race at the State Capitol. 02. Our bikes in a well-organized trailer (thanks to our friends, Nate and Kristin) 03. Representin' 04. Justin making his way to the starting line. 05. Craig and Nate getting ready to transition (Craig representing our team, Take it 2 the Max) 06. Our decked out rig, pre giant rain storms.

This weekend we participated in the Salt to Saint relay with 6 of our close friends.

We experienced:
8:00 am start time at the State Capitol on Friday morning.
Taking turns riding each leg of the race, ranging from 13 - 22 miles each.
Temperatures ranging from 40- 90 degrees.
Rain, rain, rain and more freezing cold rain.
Headwinds.
Flat tires and tire blowouts and tire replacements.
Healthy food and junk food.
Riding in middle of the night on semi-lit highways and pitch-black bike paths.
1-1/2 hours of sleep (from 6 am to 7:30 am)... sitting up or crammed between the seats of the Yukon.
Beautiful scenery.
Hills and valleys.
Crossing the Utah/Arizona border and squealing with delight.
Skipping 4 legs at the end because we were running out of time.
Riding together across the finish line at 5:00 pm on Saturday evening.
Rewarding ourselves with 4 pizzas, breadsticks and soda.
Not even being able to stay awake to watch the victory of our football team against their rivals.
Ridiculously sore buttocks.
Laughing and talking and cheering on friends who we know we will cherish forever.

Can you believe September is already more than halfway over?
Within just a few weeks I'm going to have to go back to running and spinning at the gym. How boring.

In my makeup bag

2011-09-06T14:45:00.001-06:00

Come visit me over at Gaby's blog today, and find out what's in my makeup bag!
I hope you all had a fantastic Labor Day weekend!

Monochrome | blues.

2011-09-05T17:00:00.000-06:00

Outfitted In:
Jeans, Shoes, Belt, Shades: Nordstrom.Rack, Shirt: TJ Maxx, Headband, Tank: H&M, On My Nails: OPI in "Swimsuit...Nailed It"

I have to make it short and sweet today, friends.
Just remember that I love you. Whoever you are.

Color and texture and fur. Oh. My.

2011-08-30T10:54:00.000-06:00

(all image sources available via this board on Pinterest.)

Bring it on, fall. Bring it.

Interior Inspiration: white on white on white.

2011-08-28T09:58:00.001-06:00

Think for a second about the white colored things you see in nature.
A short list: clouds, snow, dandelions, feathers.
All super soft, right?
Maybe that softness and timelessness is what has me in love with white these days.
It's one of my new happy colors.
White. Gray. Yellow. I think my whole house could be only these colors and it would feel like heaven.
Would I even whitewash my floors? In a heartbeat.

I love this artice on ElleDecor.com that gives tips on decorating with white.

Photos
1. West Elm
2. pinned from paperandstitch blog
3. Elle Decor
4. Restoration Hardware
5. pinned from Mydz.Decoration.and.Design
6. Elle Decor
7. pinned from decorpad.com
8. pinned from decor8blog

Forget all your troubles, forget all your cares.

2011-08-27T19:11:00.000-06:00

Outfitted in:
TOMS: Nordstrom, Jeggings: American.Eagle, Tank: Old.Navy, Cardigan: TJ Maxx, Watch: Nordstom.Rack, Shades: Urban.Outfitters, On my eyes: Gorgeous Gold shadow, Stubborn Brown liner (both MAC), Maybelline Mascara, On my lips: Flame by Cover.Girl

This is my fave makeup combo this week; the one I introduced here.

Today, we spent the afternoon downtown shopping and eating delicious lemon fro-yo (with gummy bears, of course. Everything is better with gummy bears.)
Isn't the lighting at Juicy Berry inspiring? It changes colors.

We also discovered an amazing new artist. I wish I knew someone who knew someone, because this guy needs to be discovered by someone with connections.
His name is Preston Creed and I would highly recommend downloading his song "I Can't Move"
Justin and I are suckers for live music, so we just stood and listened for a while.

Life was slow-paced and comfortable today. Just the way I love it.

Ironing: sometimes i just don't do it. And when I don't, the world doesn't end.

2011-08-26T22:15:00.007-06:00

Justin is a very creative photographer, don't you think?
I mean, that framed-between-the-legs-and-upside-down shot is a work of art.

Outfitted in:
Shirt: TJ Maxx, Belt: Nordstrom.Rack, Jeans: Nordstrom.Rack, Shoes: Target, Earrings: H&M, Watch: Nordstrom.Rack, Handbag: Gift from world's greatest mom-in-law, On my lips: Vegas Volt by MAC, On my eyes: Woodwinked shadow, Stubborn brown eyeliner (both MAC), Maybelline Mascara

Tonight we enjoyed ourselves some Mexican cuisine at Tio's on Soda Row, where we met up with my sister and her family.
Then we parked it for a bit on a blanket on the grass and listened to some not-too-shabby live music.
As I looked around at all the happy people just enJOYing life, I remembered why I love living where I do.
How can you look at this scenery and not fall in love?

Happy weekend, dear friends.

Three of this week's shallow favorites for nothing more than visual appeal

2011-08-25T19:17:00.002-06:00

Also, a disorderly list of brain ramblings:
It feels like everything in my house is out of order. Nothing seems to have its place, and when that happens I just want to throw everything away. So if you've been coveting something of mine, now might be a good time to ask if you can have it. I just might give it to you. (Except for my husband, him I keep. You're not supposed to be coveting him, anyway. It's against a commandment or something.)

Twitter in one word: Chronic. Seriously. There's no cure for the stupid thing. It suddenly became so awesome to me, like... overnight.

I kind of felt like crying when I realized I really needed to blog and didn't know what to write/post/display/whatever-you-want-to-call-it. I am in dire need of fresh ideas. Maybe I should conduct some sort of a focus group to find out what you want to read about. (Comments are always good for this. So are polls. Maybe I'll take one of those for a spin.)

Why doesn't the University bookstore ever have enough textbooks for every student in a given class? Thank goodness for free expedited shipping on Amazon. (Note to self: don't forget to cancel that member subscription trail thingy that got you free expedited shipping.)

After 4 summers of unsuccessful attempts, I finally planted, tended-to and harvested - yes, harvested! - multiple tomatoes. Heaven, are they delicious.

Bountiful Baskets, have you heard of this? Oh my goodness. Go to their website. I got more produce than Justin and I eat in a month... and it was $15.

I follow Nina Garcia on Pinterest. I sort of really want her job. It's a toss up between her's and Michael Boodro's. I'd begrudgingly settle for either.

Speaking of Nina Garcia, it's 15 minutes into Project Runway. That means I can start at the beginning and fast forward through the commercials.

Today is Thursday, right?

this is me in all my spandexy glory. please notice the tomatoes as well.

2011-08-15T14:03:00.000-06:00

My. Goodness.
Where has the summer gone? I seriously have to keep reminding myself that I start another semester of school in a week, and I'm only semi-prepared. But I'm totally excited. In the amount of time that other women gestate a child, this woman will graduate with a BA degree in Journalism. Finally. Only 4 major-changes, 3 breaks, and 9 years later. Woot.

Anyway, here I am with my new bike and fancy gear.
My Love and I, along with some of our awesomest friends, decided last week that we're going to ride our bikes from Salt Lake to St George next month.
(That's 422.23 miles for those of you who didn't know.)
Wanna know the cool part? Until last week, I think the last time I rode a bike was 16 years ago.
In other words, all of my free time (uh, "free time") is currently spent training.
In other words, only seconds after this picture was taken, I clipped my fancy new shoes onto my fancy new pedals... and fell promptly onto the pavement.
In other words, I have a fancy new battle wound.

In other words... I am flat outa my noggin.

The end.

color blocking experiments |face|

2011-08-06T11:41:00.000-06:00

(um. so my forehead really isn't quite that giant, but these iPhone pics must suffice for this post.)

One of the many, many things I love about being a woman is that I get to experiment with makeup.
This week I picked up the latest issue of Marie Claire and absolutely fell in love with their colorful fall fashion spreads
(Seriously. Check it out.)
I am loving all the color that has come into fashion for summer and fall.

I have to admit that lately my makeup routine has gotten to be just that - routine. I've been bored.
So I decided to give my go-to Woodwinked shadow a break and try something new.
I'll be honest, it was fun. I didn't hate it.
I wore it to Walmart, even.

To create my color blocked face look, try using stuff like this:

As shown above (left to right):

Brushes: Angled shadow, small angled liner, and lip (all from MAC)
Lengthening Mascara: Estee Lauder Double Wear Zero-Smudge
Black Eyeliner: Estee Lauder Double Wear liner in Onyx (You could also try a liquid liner! I've just never had the talent of applying that stuff.)
Brightly colored eyeshadow: Off the Page by MAC (sorry it's discontinued, but I'm sure you can find tons of other awesome colors like it.)
Red lip liner: Red Dynamite by Rimmel London
Red lipstick: Nectarine by Estee Lauder
MAC Fix+: I hereby declare this product of the year. For this experiment I used it to wet the shadow.

The steps:

After applying your regular base (moisturizer, concealer, foundation, whatev), apply a light shadow (not pictured) from your lash line to your brow. I used a shimmery ivory and also applied it near the corner of my eyes. This makes them appear larger.
You may want to wet the colorful shadow a little to heighten the pigment. There are tons of ways to do this. I like to run my brush through the shadow, knock off the excess and spritz the brush with MAC Fix+. Or you can run the brush under a dripping faucet... or spritz the brush with good ol' H20 - just don't get it too wet!
Apply shadow from the lash line to the crease of your lid.
Line upper lid from the outside corner of the eye to about the center of your pupil.
Blend liner with small angled liner brush.
Apply one coat of lengthening mascara to upper lashes only (Yep. for this experiment I left my lower lashes nekkid. Then I got to work and a coworker told me in squeaky voice that I looked like a cute little girl. So the verdict is still out on the nekked-lower-lash-thing.)
Using a sharp lip pencil, line your lips and fill them in a little with the pencil. Then apply lipstick with a brush.
After all of that you're pretty much done. Unless you want to keep experimenting, then I say you rock.

...And after all that typing I'm considering vlogging any future tutorial-like posts. Good grief, did anyone even read all of that?

Happy Saturday, y'all.

Loving|Herringbone

2011-08-04T10:31:00.001-06:00

Women's coat

Women's tights

Men's vest

Men's driving cap

J.Crew

Messenger bag

Etsy(seller, mariforsell)

Knitted Cowl

Women's Wedges

TOMS shoes

Necktie

Rug

Painted Chair

DIY on MarthaStewart.com

Custom upholstery fabric

Pottery Barn

Plate

Etsy(seller, forestclearing)

Drinking glasses

artedona.

Throw

Terrain

(Please humor me as I display yet another style board post.)

summer staples|casual comfort

2011-08-03T08:00:00.010-06:00

Shirt, Pants: Anthropologie
Bag, Belt: H&M
Earrings: Charlotte Russe
Shoes: TOMS

I'm also pinning all of my style boards here.

Triathlete

2011-08-02T22:18:00.000-06:00

You're amazing, Love, and I am so proud of you.
In fact, I'm crazy for you; even if you're a little crazy yourself.

|fall preview| Menswear.

2011-08-01T08:00:00.007-06:00

weekend.

2011-07-24T11:20:00.000-06:00

Hope yours has been as wonderful as mine.

|DIY| Picture Ledges

2011-07-12T12:24:00.000-06:00

Last year when we remodeled, I had my eye on these picture ledges from West Elm.
I wasn't exactly thrilled about the $55 price tag, though.
So I thought, maybe these from Ikea instead.
Then I realized I had a handy man for a husband, and a home-improvement store down the street.
We made these in about 30 minutes, and it probably cost us $5.

white-washed picture ledges
what you need:
lumber (we used pine)
table saw
wood glue
wood clamps
pin nailer
white paint

how to build it:
(step1) cut the pine board into three pieces with mitered (45-degree) edges
(see photo above for an idea on how the mitered edges fit together)
*We basically eyeballed the dimensions. Just make sure the the back edge is taller than the front edge, because that is the part you will screw into the wall.
(step2) glue the pieces together and clamp them tightly until glue is somewhat dry
(step3) reinforce the joints with nails using the pin nailer
(step4) -My favorite part- Paint 'em! I diluted the paint about 1:1 with water and white washed them because I wanted a little bit of the natural wood grain and color to still show through.

how to accessorize it:
frames from Ikea and TJ Maxx
photos are my own from our trips to Washington (I had them enlarged at Costco)

Oh, and this is what the same wall looked like pre-remodel.

I don't miss those country-red walls and tin stars for a second.

UP |Where.i.Live|

2011-07-10T19:38:00.000-06:00

Look what landed in our neighborhood...

Read more about it here.

Beautiful People |part.one|

2011-07-07T15:18:00.000-06:00

Photo via Pinterest

I think I could end the post here and let the power of this quote speak for itself.

But today, as I sit listening to the summer rain tap against my bedroom window I have no other desire than to embrace one of my greatest, and yet lately so unpracticed, passions. So for now, the laundry will sit, my mind will wander, and hopefully my fingers will compose a symphony with only the harmonies of clicking typewriter keys and snoring dogs.

I have met a lot of beautiful people in my seemingly brief 26 years of life. Unfortunately, I have met a lot of ugly people as well. The important part is learning how to differentiate between the two.

When I was 3 years old, my mom videotaped me painting my fingernails. When I finished, I proudly lifted my polish-coated fingers to the camera and smiled. As I basked in my grown-up greatness, my older sister, Amy, came into the camera's view and whispered in my ear. I immediately snapped at her and scowled. This was my five minutes of fame and I would not allow her to have any part in it!
"Jessi," my mom said. "Do you want the camera to see you being ugly with Amy?"
I always hated it when my mom used that word. Ugly.
"No," I replied.
"Well, that's what's happening, sweetie," she said softly.
One time my mom told me I was being ugly and I cried. "You think I'm ugly!" I said. "Why don't you think I'm pretty?"
I imagine her response was something like, "I do think you're pretty. I think you're beautiful. But your behavior is ugly."

Back then I didn't completely understand what it meant to be "ugly" in the way my mom meant. I just thought that ugly people had ugly looks. And I sure didn't want to be ugly; not to my mom, and not to anyone else.
It took me until adulthood to realize that not every ugly person is ugly, and on the same hand, not every beautiful person is beautiful. There are a fair amount of beautiful people who are actually quite ugly, and there are some people who by the world's standard are ugly, but in reality they are incredibly beautiful.
Kind of like the story of Quasimodo, right?

So what does it mean to be beautiful?
What does it mean to be ugly?
I guess an answer to both goes back to that old cliche saying, "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder."

Everyone has a different definition of beauty. My friend, Natalie, has opened her blog for others to feature their definitions. And not one of them is the same.

So what is my definition?
In short, I don't know. Maybe I don't have one.
I'll start here, though.
Beauty is unique.
Over the past few years I have come to not only love the uniqueness of others, but to thrive on it.
I am enthralled by how much I can learn from people who have different opinions, cultures, lifestyles and beliefs.
Just because someone believes or lives differently than I do doesn't mean they are bad, ugly, unintelligent or in need of conversion to my beliefs or opinions, and it doesn't mean that they aren't equally as deserving of my love and friendship. And putting them down, whether to their face or behind their back, doesn't make me more of a beautiful, intelligent or righteous person. In fact, as my mom used to say (dang, she was wise) "You can tell more about a person by what they say about others than by what others say about them."
I often think about how dull this world would be if everyone was just like me.
Just think about that for a minute...
How would the world be if everyone was a clone of you?

Pinned.

2011-07-05T12:30:00.001-06:00

I'm the last one to the party, aren't I?
(Not gonna lie, when I got comments on this post that said, "I pinned it!" I was like, 'Uh... that's really fantastic. I'll have to look into the meaning of that.')
So I did.
I showed up. I fell in love. I became a pinning maniac.
You can see my pins here. (I have a feeling someday there will be a million and forty-two.)
If you need an invite, leave me a comment with your e-mail address or e-mail me.
I'll betcha a dollar you'll love it!

...Or you can just hang tight and see the pins I showcase here. Like the post below, for example.

| Laundry.Spaces |

2011-07-05T12:27:00.000-06:00

All images via Pinterest.

So I said, "Let's go climb a mountain." And he's like, "can't forget my awesome survival knife."

2011-06-28T08:22:00.075-06:00

There are a couple upsides to living in Utah. One of them is mountains. Lots of 'em.
So this year we decided to see them up close and personal. And I tell you what, I'm kind of addicted to the fresh air, bird sounds, and the fact that it's 20 degrees cooler up yonder.
Therefore, I have compiled a list of necessities (My Love threw in #9 for you) so you can get your own goods and join us. Seriously. We like the company.

1. A t-shirt. (No panicking. There are no fashion shows in the mountains, friends.) I love these from Nike.

2. A light jacket like this amazing, soft, and waterproof one from Nike. Cuz, like I said, it's seriously 20 degrees cooler up there. Fan.Tastic when it's 100+ in the valley. A little nippy when it's 80 degrees in the valley.

3. Power Bar Energy Blasts. Juicy, gummy, candy-like awesomeness. (My opinion: the raspberry flavor is the best.) You can buy them at sporting goods stores. Or maybe Walmart. You can buy everything at Walmart, right? (side note: spellcheck recognizes Walmart as a word. Apparently it doesn't have a capital M like for some reason I thought it did.)

4. Nature Valley Trail Mix bars. I buy a giant box at Costco.

5. Shorts like the ones here at Dick's. Unless you're hiking somewhere with a lot of poky/scratchy/will make you itchy stuff, then you should know better than to wear shorts and perhaps should substitute with pants.

6. A good pair of hiking shoes/boots. I chose shoes because I like to do some trail running. Trust me, these Dunham Waffle Stompers flat out rule. I bought mine from these awesome people in West Jordan (Ossine' Shoes) but I found them for you online too, here.

7. Water. Um... I'm sorry, but duh.

8. Ultra comfy socks. Get 'em here while they're hot and you won't regret it.

9. I guess you need a survival knife because you never know what predicaments you might encounter. You might get lost and need to chop down a tree for firewood and another for shelter and another for roasting marshmallows. Justin says his knife can do all of that. So we bring it along.

Accessorizing Whiteness

2011-06-27T21:48:00.000-06:00

| Shirt: H&M | Shorts: cut up some jeans I've had forever |
| Shoes: DSW | Glasses: Urban Outfitters | Watch[Fossil]: Nordstrom.Rack,
| Lipstick[Cover.Girl.Lipperfection] in Embrace | Nail.Color[Essie] in sugar.daddy

This weekend we went to a local shoe store to buy some hiking shoes. The store is owned by a cute Asian man and his wife. We started talking as she rang up our purchase.
"You have white skin," she said, motioning to her face. "So pretty."
"Thank you so much," I responded. "Wow. That's really nice of you."
"I wear sunscreen, and look what happen," she continued, pointing to a large burn on her neck. "My skin just so sensitive. I wear big hat, scarf, long sleeve, but I have to work in my yard!"

Isn't it interesting how different cultures have different views on beauty?

Over the past few years, I have actually grown to appreciate my ultra-white skin. There's something about hitting your mid-twenties that makes you grateful for any lingering signs of youthfulness, and not tanning in my teenage years means I haven't started to get a lot of wrinkles (not yet, at least.)
And as silly as it may sound, my white skin makes me feel delicate.
It makes me want to take extra care to preserve my fragility.
A fun part, though? It gives me a blank canvas to accessorize in adventurous ways.
This week, as you can see I tried out some new glasses and bright purple lipstick. I don't hate either of them.
Although, for a minute I did feel like Steve Urkel. (Please tell me you know who that is.)

|Anthro. Beachware|

2011-06-21T11:17:00.000-06:00

| All Items Available on Anthropologie.com |

[Swimwear]

1. Drawn to the Heart Maillot

2. Evelyn Maillot

3. Lane Lines Maillot

4. Haute Seas One-Piece

[Headware]

1. Heat Season Cloche

2. Caramel Masquerade Sunhat

3. Above The Fray Cap

Remember when women looked classy everywhere they went?

Summer Lovin'

2011-06-09T09:31:00.000-06:00

1. Essie Nail Polish in Boat House - $7.79
2. Essie Nail Polish in Golden Nuggets - $7.79
3. Essie Nail Polish in Mezmerised - $7.79
Essie has recently become my favorite nail polish. It covers amazingly and it lasts for.ever. I wore Mezmerised to the beach wedding we attended last weekend, and this week it's still lookin' great.
4. Estee Lauder SPF 15 Lip Conditioner - $16.50
I don't really care what lip protection you use, just get some SPF on that pretty little kisser!
5. M.A.C Lipstick in "Ever Hip" - $14.50
Because these days I love anything salmon-colored.
6. Anthropologie Patagonian Maxi Skirt - $88
I bought a maxi skirt in Cali and felt both supercute and supercomfy on the flight home. I kinda want to wear it every day.
7. Trinity Floral Print Blouse - $64
Light, flowy blouses are both classy and cool.
8. Aveeno SPF 70 Sunblock for Face - $8.99
Natural and non-greasy is a must for the face. SPF is an even bigger must.
9. Estee Lauder 5-tone Shimmer Powder - $36
Day or night, a little healthy glow always looks good.
10. Keds Slip On - $35
How can you go wrong with a shoe that has been around forever? Answer: You can't. I was totally jealous of my sisters' Keds in the 80s. Now I see what I've been missing and I want another pair. (They are also crazy fantastic for travel and airport security. And guess what? If they get dirty you throw them in the washer. Halle-lu-jah.)
11. White/Yellow Striped Scarf (hm.com for stores) - $3.95
It gets a little too warm here in the middle of summer to even think about wearing a scarf, but even if this doesn't adorn your neck, it'll look adorable tied to your handbag or beach tote.

There is a difference between seals and sea lions.

2011-06-08T09:50:00.000-06:00

I don't remember what it is though. Something about flippers and spots.
But I do know they like to hang out in La Jolla. And they're super cute.
(Sidenote: How awesome is the rock they're sleeping on? I love all its mossy colors.)

-Wearing-
Shirt: H&M
Jacket: H&M
Pants[Lucky]: Lucky
Huarache Sandals: Inherited from Mom
Watch[Fossil]: Nordstrom.Rack
Shades[Cole Haan]: Nordstrom.Rack
Earrings: H&M

And there were sailboats. Tons of 'em.

2011-06-07T18:46:00.002-06:00

Did you know?
I have been to San Diego numerous times, and not once have I had dinner at The Fish Market. (I now know that this was absolutely absurd. It is a requirement for every future trip to SD.)

Did you know?
A light breeze and an absolutely gorgeous evening make for a relaxing sail out on the bay?

Did you know?
Out of all the pictures I took all week, this one of My Love and his dad is probably my favorite.

Did you know?
My in-laws are awesomer than yours. Sorry, but it's true.

Did you know that "awesomer" is a word now? Cuz I just made it one.

Did you know?
The sailboat behind me - on the very right side of this picture - looks like it is about to tip over.
But it didn't.

In case you'd like to know, I'm wearing:
Floral Blouse: H&M
Jeans[7 For All Mankind]: Nordstrom
Shoes[Keds]: Off Broadway Shoes
Watch[Fossil]: Nordstrom.Rack
Earrings: H&M
Shades[Cole Haan]: Nordstrom.Rack

Heaven&Madness+My Love's modeling tips

2011-06-07T12:45:00.000-06:00

[Pardon my brief absence while I've been traveling.]

Upon arrival in Long Beach, the first item on our to-do list was visiting the Orange County H&M.
I say the H stands for Heaven. My love says the M stands for Madness. Or Money Pit.

We also visited Newport Beach and drove along the Pacific Highway down the coast to San Diego.
I didn't take pictures because I was too busy navigating and enJOYing the scenery.
Trust me. You wish you were there.

Would you like to know some modeling secrets?
Well you're in luck. My Love would like to share some with you.
Modeling Tip Number One: Be natural.
Want to show off your new shoes? Just fling your leg up on the car's bumper.

Modeling Tip Number Two: Stand, smile and look good.

My Love is wearing:
Golf Shirt (a summer wardrobe staple): Nike, Striped Shorts: Target, Shoes[True Religion]: Off Broadway Shoes

A shopping list.

2011-05-24T12:43:00.000-06:00

Just preparing for my H&M Spree next week if anyone wants to join me.

feeling blue. and beige. and a little wrinkled.

2011-05-20T22:04:00.002-06:00

Rainboots[Sperry]: Nordstrom.Rack, Jeggings: AE, Corduroy.Top, Ruffle.Tank, Rain.Coat: Old.Navy, Belt: Nordstrom.Rack,
Feather.Earrings: Forever.xxi, Watch[Fossil]: Nordstrom.Rack, Umbrella: Target

I tell you what, it has been a week.
It started off bad. And when I say bad, I mean like the 'what the heck'd I do to make the universe hate me?' brand of bad.
I learned that things don't always happen how or when we want them to.
I learned that some people are just insensitive, whether they mean to be or not.
I learned that this independent and stubborn woman can't do everything by herself.
And I learned that everyone has their stuff, including me.
My little life is so far from perfect. And I'm OK with that.

On the bright side (because there are oh-so-many bright sides)
I planted my tomatoes in a container, which meant I was able to rescue them from drowning and/or freezing in this insane Utah weather that feels more like March than May.
(They spent the night in the cozy garage.)

I have sturdy rain boots that let me imagine I'm going to trudge through the mud in my five-acre garden to retrieve fresh eggs from the chicken coop, when really I'm just going to Whole Foods or, even more realistically, Costco.

In two days, I learned to say about 92 things in sign language. Including, "I want chocolate."
This could come in handy.

Um. It's the weekend. 'Nuff said.

Employing my DDD (Decorating Deficit Disorder)

2011-05-14T12:07:00.000-06:00

[Does it surprise you that it's gray and yellow? I didn't think it would.]

On our docket this month:
Second floor renovation.
Including: all new hardwood flooring, baseboards/doorframes, a new shower, new paint etc, etc, etc.

So, of course, these are the goods I am eyeing for my bedroom.
1. Restoration Hardware Paint in Pumice - as seen here
2. Restoration Hardware Textured Belgian Linen Drapes in Fog - as seen here
3. Anthropologie Menlo Lamp - as seen here
4. Urban Outfitters Metal Accordian Side Table - as seen here
5. Anthropologie Filigree Leaf Sheet Set - as seen here
6. Anthropologie Capricious Canopy Pillow - as seen here
7. West Elm Stripe Duvet Cover and Shams - as seen here

I'm kind of dying to get started.

iGoogle in the morning.

2011-05-09T08:05:00.004-06:00

It just makes me feel happy.

For. Life.

2011-05-08T08:57:00.000-06:00

On Saturday, May 7, a sea of pink will blanket the streets of Salt Lake City. With the voice of Melissa Etheridge and their own powerful heartbeats ringing in their ears, hundreds of men, women and children from across the Wasatch Front will walk, toddle, roll, and run toward the same goal: a cure.
For many, this event is a celebration of life, an uppercut straight to the jaw of a monstrous disease. For others, it is a remembrance of loved ones passed, and a hope for a future where pink is a symbol of success, pride, and accomplishment, rather than a reminder of breast cancer’s ravishing wake.

Three weeks ago I wrote those words as part of a final project.
Yesterday they came true, just as I imagined they would.

Mother's Day weekend isn't the easiest for me.
Mother's Day itself is a reminder of yet another year passing without my best friend, my mom.
But every Mother's Day weekend my family gets together to participate in an incredible event and to celebrate her memory and her courageous fight with breast cancer.
This year I. RAN.
I ran for my mom.
I ran with memories of her in my heart and the feeling of her spirit by my side.

...I also ran in celebration of my friend, Lynne, who was recently diagnosed.

My Love, my beautiful sisters and my brother-in-law, Thad, all ran this year.
Here we are pre-5K.

And here we are after.

Me and My Love.
Love finished the 5k in 25 minutes and 30 seconds. Only 30 seconds over his goal time.
I finished. 'Nuff said.

Even though my mom wasn't there to cheer me on at the finish line like she did for every other event in my life, I was so glad to have my sisters, dad, brothers, nieces and nephews and husband there to remind me that Mother's Day celebrations aren't just about spoiling your mom for her greatness, but appreciating the fact that she gave you life.
And that is why I run.
For life.

**Happy Mother's Day to all of my beautiful sisters, my amazing mothers-in-law, my grandmas, and all the women in my life who make it that much easier to enJOY.**

yes, let's.

2011-05-05T09:39:00.000-06:00

ummm.... hello.
I think I've forgotten how to blog. Let me take a moment to refresh my memory.

Do you ever have those times when you feel you have so much to say, but really nothing at all?
Yeah... That's where I'm at.

So let's get down to business with some news.

Number One: I deactivated my Facebook account. *gasp!* True story.
So if you are fretting that I de-friended you, don't. I de-friended everyone.
Nothing personal. But guess how productive I've been not wasting ANY extra time on Facebook?
Super. Productive. Kinda like I'm on speed or something. (But I'm not.)

...anyway. I might come back someday. Facebook says that all I have to do is log back in and it will all be waiting for me just like it's always been.
Maybe someday.

Number Two: I am currently celebrating the successful completion of another long semester.
And I get ONE WHOLE WEEK off before I get to go back again!

Number Three: Speaking of Summer Semester, did I tell you that I'm taking American Sign Language?
How's that for awesome?
Now I can be best friends with Marlee Matlin.

Number Four: How is it that I never blogged about my Anniversary, my birthday or My Love's birthday, which all took place in April?
Well. They all rocked.

Number Five: Also, how is it that when you have plenty of gift cards to spend at Anthropologie you can't find a single thing to buy?
It makes no sense.

Number Six: Oh my Moses!! Salt Lake City is getting H&M!
This is a huge deal! HUGE!
And even better is the fact that it will be in my favorite mall, hopefully right between Nordstrom and Crate & Barrel so I can spend entire weekends there.

Number Seven: San Diego already has H&M.
I'll be there in like three weeks.
My Love will golf. I will shop. Fair trade.
Guess what else San Diego has? West Elm.
mmm hmm.

Number Eight: H&M has "shopping" on their website, but it's not really shopping. It's teasing.
Because "online shopping is not available in my market."
How rude.

Number Nine: Guess who's running a 5k this Saturday?
It's for a great cause. You should try it sometime.

Number Ten: I'm blonde again!
This is a cause for much rejoicing.

Also... the tulips in my front yard are finally blooming. I think that means it might be spring.

Eastering.

2011-04-26T11:42:00.000-06:00

There was a hunt.

And there were beautiful little girls in pretty pink dresses and pearls.

And there was even some heartbreak over temporarily malfunctioning aircraft.

But the bucket-loads of candy made everything all better.

All thanks to an ultra-awesome uncle who considers it his duty to hop 'em up on sugar and lovin' and then send 'em home with mom and dad.

that's what i wish it was, anyway.

2011-04-09T19:15:00.000-06:00

1. "Singing-in-the-Showers" Slicker
(and that's precisely what I'd do in it. Just like Gene Kelly.) @Anthropologie.
2. Chooka "Gypsy Owl" Rainboot. @Nordstrom.
3. Daniel Rainn (no, I did not plan the surname coordination, it was fate) Swiss Dots & Lace blouse @PiperLime.
4. Sailor Pant. @AmericanEagle.
5. Kimchi Blue Polka Dot Umbrella. @UrbanOutfitters.

Mother Nature thinks it's January again in Salt Lake City.
I would be pleased with April rain showers. Not so happy with April snow showers.

I do, however, have some VERY excellent news.
Remember this Anthro skirt that I was drooling over when I last stress-free shopped?
Yeah, well I scored it for reals today.
$40, my friends.
FORTY. DOLLARS.
I almost cried.

rays of sunshine

2011-04-04T14:24:00.001-06:00

My weekend, chronologically.

Friday
~Amazing date night in Downtown SLC with My Love. Sans jackets, even! It was like, 70 degrees or something!
~Shopping: AE, Lucky, Anthro (*sigh.* Anthro. Always a favorite.), Buckle, JCrew...
~Amazing dinner @Biaggi's Italian Restaurant, where we shared some bombdiggity food and I gazed adoringly into Love's eyes, and felt butterflies-giddy like it was our first date.
~Asked myself again how on earth I scored him.
~Took a drive up to the point above our house, opened the sunroof and looked at the stars. (Of course we kissed too, are you kidding?)
~Stargazing crashed by some lame-o teenage boys in a Jeep.
BEST. NIGHT. EVER.

Saturday
~Up early for an awesome run around the lake in Daybreak with my sister.
~Sister totally kicked my sorry trash in the running/endurance department.
~Felt like my insides all wanted out.
~Felt SUPER great. I like exercise!
~Husband rode his bike to sister's house and we ate toast and apples.
~I headed up to campus to work on a never-ending journalism project and finally (FINALLY!) finished it.
~Noticed some pretty intense pain.
~Drove myself home, by the grace of God, due to said pain.
~Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Freakity Ow.
~Ended up at urgent care.
~Got an IV, some Fig Newtons, a can of apple juice and a Lortab.
~Felt somewhat better.
~Left with IV still in my arm.
~Probably said and did some things I don't even remember because I was on drugs.

Sunday
~Ow some more.
~"What the 6 inches of snow?!"
~Went to the doctor. Again.
~Got more drugs and had IV removed.
~Got blood on my favorite jeans.
~Sweet Love waited on me hand and foot.
~Napped and napped and was more lazy than any human should ever be.
~Went to bed.
~Got out of bed.
~Puked in the toilet and slept on the bathroom floor for 3 hours.
~Back to bed.

Monday
~Called in sick to work.
~Took prescription drugs.
~Counted my blessings...

~such as...

The perfectly-ripe grapefruit I ate with my lunch.

The bright yellow butter dish I bought at Anthro.

The (also bright yellow) retro kitchen timer (also from Anthro), which is currently holding up my notice of scholarship from the Communication Department.
Both wonderful things.

...life is still good.

simply stated:

2011-03-22T07:31:00.000-06:00

just sayin'...

2011-03-20T19:10:00.000-06:00

I changed my comment format back to the normal blogger style. (It's OK if you rejoice - that Disqus thing was seriously obnoxious.) However, in doing so, it deleted all your wonderful comments from the previous 8-or-so posts. So I just wanted to say thanks for your comments. Even though they're gone, it makes me sad, and I don't know how to get them back, I'm happy that they were once there.

Hope you enJOYed your weekend.

Love--Jess

shoe-love @ first sight [& a tip.]

2011-03-19T19:40:00.000-06:00

I need a haircut. Pretend like that's not glaringly obvious, will you? I'm "trying" to grow it out.
The windy conditions didn't help the situation much, either

[Of course the best photos in the bunch were the ones in which I was pulling faces. Of course.]

Thermal.Shirt: Nordstrom.rack, Blazer: AE, Braided.Belt: Nordstrom.rack, Jeans[Anoname]: Nordstrom.rack, Shoes[TOMS]: Nordstrom, Earrings: forever.xxi

How much do we LOVE my new shoes?! I must admit, I've been a little back and forth on TOMS for a while. [Do I like them? Don't I like them? Awesome cause, but how do they look on my tiny pixie feet?]

Little Brother got married last weekend and requested that all of his groomsmen wear black TOMS with their tuxes, so Love bought a pair and his feet were happy all the day long. So I thought I might like some too, but in what color?? [Indecisive much?] Then I saw THESE.

I call them my Journalist TOMS, cuz they have lotsa words and look like awesome newsprint.

Now, I too have happy feet. And dang, do they look good. Especially next to Love's black ones.

Now, a belt tip:
Buying larger belts [equals] maximizing your options. In my opinion, belts don't always have to be buckled. They look ultra-fantastic wrapped and looped and knotted and all sorts of stuff. Today's belt, for example, is a size extra large. As you can see it's not buckled at all, it's knotted twice and sorta looped backwards. Supercool, right?

Happy Saturday!
[Tonight as we left the grocery store I asked Love if he wanted to rent a movie.
"Um. It's March Madness," he said. I didn't ask any more questions.]

Stress-Free Shopping: Anthro Skirt

2011-03-19T09:00:00.067-06:00

The internet is wonderful because you can shop and dream and dream and shop and save photos in folders called, "yeah, I wish"... and never even spend a penny.
Thus, a new segment I would like to call "Stress-Free Shopping" composed of items I am absolutely 100% in love with, but that don't always make it to the "confirm purchase" screen because right now they're more dreaming items than doing items.

Today's inspiration. That amazing Anthropologie skirt. It's right on the edge of little-polygamist-house-on-the-prairie, but I figure since I can rock the "high holy hair" I can rock that skirt. Right?
I am so in love with it.
On a Love Scale of 1-10, 1 being going to the gym at 5:30 a.m and 10 being Justin Adams, it's at like an 8. Truthfully.

I betcha I'd wear this outfit everywhere.

: These handy links will take you straight to the amazing items pictured above :
1. Anthro "Traveling Companion" Skirt @Anthropologie.com
2. Gingham Button-Up @Anthropologie.com
3. Oxfords [Franscesco Morichetti] @Nordstrom.com
4. Braided Belt @BananaRepublic.com

2011-03-18T23:08:00.002-06:00

First of all I hope you've all enJoyed admiring the gorgeousness that is my husband for the past few days. You're so welcome!
Second of all. I'm going through H&M withdrawal again. It's been almost six months, and I'm in serious need of roadtrip retail therapy. The only means I have of feeding my addiction is my H&M iPhone app where I can wishlist awesomeness like all of this:

Luh-hoving (that's loving to the extreme) nautical stripes for summer.

I'm even wishlisting items for my long-unborn children.
Does that mean it's getting out of hand? Of course it doesn't! Scold yourself for even thinking such a thing.
Sidenote: When I came across the photo below I immediately emailed it to husband with a caption that went something like, "Is it just me or could these kids be ours?" ...Husband had crazy cool curls as a little boy. If I could place just one order with the Man Upstairs it would be that at least one of our kids will get Justin's curls, and then I will allow them to remain as unruly as this little stud's.

all photos courtesy H&M

pitter. patter.

2011-03-12T16:30:00.004-07:00

He makes me speechless.

the awesomeness. it's in the blood.

2011-03-12T07:25:00.003-07:00

So, a few months ago my oldest sister and her family moved to Hong Kong.
Seriously!? Hong Kong!?
Seriously. Hong Kong.
How's that for coolness?

Anyway. My niece, Haleigh, is incredibly talented with her camera.
I mean, just look at all the awesome pictures she's taken.
She has a really good eye for it, don't you think?
I think. She's a maniac.

it's OK to talk to yourself, right?

2011-03-11T07:30:00.103-07:00

Gooooooood morning!
I'm back, and I'm going to answer a few of your questions!

#1. Where have you been? It's been a bit, you know.

I know. Well, I've been doing that school stuff, mostly. But I've also been doing a lot of that spending time with my awesome family stuff. And... I've been doing a lot of that "making grown-up decisions" stuff that I will elaborate on later, but for now all I can say is that stuff simply makes me anxious.

#2. You talk about school a lot. Don't you think that's boring to us ultra-awesome readers?

Probably. Actually, I'm pretty sure it is. But I love school. I mean, like, I LOVE school. Sometimes I think about graduating and it makes me happy and very sad all at the same time. (And I have found that immersing myself in school gives me a lot of supercool opportunities. So I'm a nerd. Meh.)

#3. What's your major?

Journalism.

#4. Does that mean you wanna be on TV and say the news and stuff?

No. It means that I want to be a magazine editor or commercial photographer.

#5. That's nice. Anyway, let's move on. Are you excited for Spring?
Um. Yes. I live in Utah. We have ridiculously long winters here. Why would you ask me such a lame question?

#6. Sorry. Speaking of Spring, though, do you have any favorite things for spring?

Guh! I thought you'd never ask! As a matter of fact I do.
And I arranged them into a nice little sample board for you.

One: Amplify Shampoo
Two: Essie Nail Polish in Mink Muffs
Three: Essie Nail Polish in Chinchilly
Four: Bath and Body Works Berry Vanilla lipgloss
Five: American Eagle Plaid Poplin Shirt
Six: Kenra Texturizing Taffy (for my hair. not for human consumption.)
Seven: Bath and Body Works Berry Vanilla body lotion
Eight: Bath and Body Works Nectarine Mint Handibac moisturizer
Nine: Rock&Candy brand Boat Shoes
I'm not gonna lie, I don't really feel like adding a purchasing link to each of those.
So if you're not smart enough to find them on your own, shoot me an e-mail and I'd be happy to assist.
Can't promise I won't ridicule you, though.

#7. Well how come you posted pictures of your clothes without you in them?

Another good question! (See? You're getting better at this!)
Well let me tell you about one of my very unfavorite things. It's called cheap lip-plumping lipgloss. I couldn't tell ya what brand it was, but all I know was that I purchased it at Walmart thinking, "What the hay! I'll give 'er a go!" Unfortunately, I have super sensitive lips that are very prone to cold sores, and evidently whatever was in that junk gave me a cold sore, and I woke up yesterday with half of my lip puffified (yes, puffified.) to twice the size it should naturally be. So, I guess you could say the stuff did it's job, just not in the way I would have liked it too.

And that's why I'm not photographing myself. Cuz I kinda sorta feel like Quasimodo.

#8. But are you really even a "fashion blogger" in the first place?

Nope. No, I'm really kinda not. I just put on clothes everyday, and sometimes I like it enough to share with all of you.

#9. Did anyone actually ASK you any of these questions?

[insert chirping cricket sound here]

Happy Friday, everyone!!!

how to errand like some sort of Mister Rogersy-80s punk rockerish...whatev.

2011-02-21T16:23:00.000-07:00

What you'll need:
#1. Lumberjack shirt [Gap]
#2. "It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood" Cardy [Forever.xxi]
#3. Skinnies [AE]
#4. Bright Red Nikes circa 1988* [thanks, Mom]
#5. Mood-Transforming Shades [Marc Jacobs - Nordys]
#6. Ultra fair skin that looks like it hasn't seen the sun in 26 years [genetics...and... SPF 50+]

How you'll do it:
#1. Style hair into 80s rock mullet using flat iron (Alfalfa sprouts at the crown are optional but in my opinion, preferable)
#2. Pose for a photo or two in front of a grungy background, such as a garage door.
#3. Just go with it and pretend like you know what you're doing. (As per usual.)

*Totally wore those shoes to Nordstrom today. People kept looking at my feet and I was like, "Yes you wish your feet were as sung and comfy as mine are right now."

The end.

Oh wait, Happy Presidents Day! (Thank you U.S. Presidents for giving me a reason to have the day off.)

Now, what do we do when opportunity knocks?

2011-02-15T11:52:00.000-07:00

Hey, hey.
Just me taking a break from studying more about mass media court cases than I will ever, ever, EVER care to remember...
to tell you that if anyone has an extra few hundred bucks laying around and wants to buy me these Christian Louboutin shoes, you will be my best friend for life.
Mmmkay?
Mmkay!
(Size 5-1/2 would be dandy.)

All facetiousness aside, are they not TOTES. FAB?!!?
Let's all nod our heads in agreement and recite in unison: "Yes, Jess. They are totes fab."

ahoy! it's love day 'n stuff.

2011-02-14T10:00:00.091-07:00

pink/white.striped.t: H&M, grey/white.striped.cardi: AE, earrings: Target, linen.pants: forever.xxi, belt: Kohl's huarache.sandals: inherited from mom.
[Yup. I did it. I combined stripes. *gasp!*]
It's feels like spring today!!
(Hence the linen pants, sandals, and bright pink lipstick.)
Oh and did you know that linen pants get wrinkly just by walking in them?
Yeah. But they are SO comfortable.

Anyway. I am soooo excited to finally introduce these:

How awesome are these sandals!? Serious score from my mom's closet.
I bet they've been there since the 80s.
Can't wait to wear them all summer long.

So, you wanna know our plans for Love Day?
We're working. Just like every other Monday.
How's that for total awesomeness?
Yes. We rock.

Minor newsflash: I updated my about.me and about.him pages.

Just in case you were dying for that to happen.

<-------------------They're over there.

in the passenger seat

2011-02-13T10:00:00.047-07:00

Tidbit:
I always have the same passengers traveling in the front seat of my car.
It's like they're my security blanket or something, and I have to take them everywhere I go.
So I figured I'd give 'em a little face time.

1) Handbag
2) Sunglasses (actually, just the case because the glasses ride on my face.)
3) Multiple magazines (featured here, Lucky and Elle Decor)

See... some bloggers post about the contents of their purses. Do you know how high that pile of stuff would be for me??
The last time I looked I had not one, not two, but three pairs of gloves in there.
Not to mention the overflowing plethora of lip glosses that inhabit every nook and cranny.
Hey, a lady needs options, okay?

...Just imagine how it will be when I'm no longer childless.
Acually... let's not.
I'll need a freakin' shopping cart.

it's a simple Saturday.

2011-02-12T13:07:00.001-07:00

white.t: nordstrom, jacket: H&M, scarf: H&M, skinnies: AE, shoes: Kohl's

Happys:
*The simple comfort of t-shirt and jeans.
*H&M announcing that they will be offering online shipping by the end of the year. CHEEEE-HOO!!
*Brunch with sisters at the cutest bakery on Soda Row.
*Rediscovering shoes that have been sitting in my closet for 5+ years.
*New iPhone (but maybe not so much the addiction that comes with it.)
*Hair that looks like I rode to brunch in the back of a truck. But i didn't. So it's awesome.
*The music of Sara Bareilles. Love. Her. (Might I suggest this song, which I have on chronic repeat.)
*Um. It's Saturday. 'Nuff said.

having a bad day?

2011-02-10T11:15:00.000-07:00

Not anymore, you're not.
You're welcome.

what i love about Sunday.

2011-02-06T23:00:00.001-07:00

ruffle.shirt:Banana.Republic, sweater.vest:Old.Navy, skirt:Target, belt:AE, tights:Forever.xxi,shoes:Forever.Young

Today's Happys:
1. Husband playing peek-a-boo with a little boy at church and making him giggle so much I thought his cheeks might implode. (A reaffirmation of the amazing dad he is going to be someday.)
2. Same little boy's dad handing husband a paper covered in marker scribbles and saying,
"Here. He drew this for you."
3. Those mountains! Oh those mountains. And the fact that I get to look at them all the time.
4. Spending time with friends and family and eating waaaay too much delicious food.
5. Taking off those darn shoes. They almost killed me last week when they threw me down the stairs and caused me rug-burn (it was actually quite hilarious) and I don't really feel like they're contributing to my wardrobe like they used to. But I wore them as I waved goodbye to my guests on my wedding day, and I'll even let you in on a little secret... the left one has teeny tiny teeth marks from a puppy who got ahold of them just days after we brought him home. So deep down, I love them for sentimental reasons.
6. Being so exhausted that I am sure I will fall asleep as soon as my head hits the pillow.

Well Lucky us! Free stuff!

2011-02-05T20:50:00.002-07:00

I like free stuff.

...but first lemme splain.
Every Thursday I take advantage of a break between classes to discover a new magazine. (As if my house isn't already swimming in them because I subscribe to seven. True story. I like to pretend that I am single-handedly keeping this corner of print industry alive, seeing as I plan to make a career out of it.)
Oh and as a side note, during this time I also enjoy a nuts about berries salad from Zupas,
which is absolutely to die for. Try it.
Anyway, like I was saying, each week I try to discover a new magazine.
My choice this week, Lucky.
Don't ask me how I haven't discovered it before now, but I am soooo glad that I did.
First of all, because it is chock FULL of awesomeness.
Second of all, because they give away free stuff!
Free AWESOME stuff, like this.

all photos courtesy of luckymag.com

You can join me in entering to win an item a day by going here to Lucky's website,
between February 10 and March 26.

In case you're wondering I am seriously crossing my fingers for the Becky Kelso calcite ring, the L.A.M.B Handbag, the Marc Jacobs ruffle-front silk dress, and the Soludos shoes. Yes, please.

where.i.live:Daybreak/Soda Row

2011-02-02T21:26:00.002-07:00

(Look at me blogging two days in a row. Woot woot!)
Daybreak
Daybreak always leaves me speechless with its cute awesomeness.
We visit often because it's only 10 minutes away and my sister lives there (luckyyyyy!)
Perhaps if our next move keeps us in Utah we'll live there, too.
I mean, who wouldn't want to live in one of those fantastic houses amongst all of the parks and shops?
Even the information pavilion is inspiring, don't you think?

For more "where.i.live" features, click here and enJOY.

i love me some rustic chic

2011-02-01T21:36:00.000-07:00

Hello again, friends!!!
I thought I would at least drop by to share with you a little of what I've been immersing myself in lately (a lot more print and a little less technology.)

I loved this Elle Decor cover feature so much I just had to share it!
Makes me want to getaway for a weekend with a warm drink and a good book.

I hope you're all staying warm and well and remembering that I love you!

:all photos courtesy elledecor.com:

recap tidbits: GGs

2011-01-17T11:24:00.009-07:00

A very brief recap on fashion at the Golden Globe Awards, according to yours truly.

#1. Award for: what the heck is she wearing?? (aka. worst overall)
Tilda Swinton

in Jill Sander with Fred Leighton jewels.
Maybe a lot of my distaste stems from the fact that I can't stand the woman in general, but I think I made a replica of that skirt in 7th grade home economics. And for the love of Pete, will someone please lend the lady a tube of mascara? (ooo, snarky!)

#2. Award for: staying true to your quirkiness.
Helena Bonham Carter

in Vivienne Westwood.
Now how many people to you know who can wear shoes like that and get away with it? She's so awesomely weird.

#3. Award for: I love it, but I don't at the same time because I really can't decide if I love it.
Anne Hathaway

in Armani Privé, with Van Cleef & Arpels jewels.
I love this dress, especially because of the fact that she's covered, but there's something about it that just isn't completely doing it for me. Maybe it's the fact that when husband saw it he immediately said, "Uh... the NFL called. They want their shoulder-pads back."

Award for: One word: STUNNING. (aka best overall)
Emma Stone

in Calvin Klein Collection, with Bulgari and Van Cleef & Arpels jewels.
I am speechless with the gorgeous simplicity that is Emma Stone, and I am
loving everything from her blonde locks to the fact that she's not excessively blinged out and made-up.

all images and styling into courtesy style.com

you gotta do what you gotta do.

2011-01-11T11:28:00.000-07:00

Friends.
Hi. It's me.
I went MIA again, didn't I?

Well.
As of today I am embarking on a new 14-credit-hour semester. I know to a lot of you this is a lame/nerdy/loserish excuse for not providing ultra-fantastic (or even ho-hum) posts on a consistent basis, but unfortunately "blogging more" was not on my list of 2011 resolve. In it's place was, "Maintain my current GPA and write, with a pen, in a personal journal."
And I have a serious feeling that this semester is going to be a doozy.

I still think you're so fantastic, and connecting with you is the bee's knees.

So.
I promise I'll do my very best between all the homeworking, desk-jobbing, and snuggling the love of my life to provide you with some sort of goodness, and read your little ditties in return.
Just promise you won't stop following if it doesn't happen daily. Please?
You're awesome.

All my love -- Jess.

cheers to your super soft skin

2011-01-03T22:00:00.005-07:00

Yeah... this was supposed to be posted last week, but I just didn't get around to it.
So here you go!

If you live in a climate as dry as mine, your skin just might be crying this time of year.

I know mine is.

:Face:

My lineup and routine:
1. Estee Lauder Soft Clean moisture rich foaming cleanser - $19.00
2. Estee Lauder Idealist Dual Action Refinishing Treatment - $49.50
3. Estee Lauder Resilience Ultra Firming Mask - $40.00
4. Estee Lauder Idealist Skin Refinisher - $46.50-$120.00
5. Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye - $47.50-$120.00
6. Lavender facial steamer (combo of hot water and lavender flowers)
7. Herban Essentials towelettes - $15.00
8. H2O!!

TIPS!
1. During the winter months, I use a moisturizing cleanser for dry skin as opposed to the cleanser for normal skin, which I use during the summer.
2. I exfoliate twice a week using Lauder's Dual Action Refinishing Treatment - HOWEVER, I would suggest exfoliating only as often as your skin type can handle, probably no more than twice a week.
3. I have to admit that I have never actually used the Resilience Firming Mask, but Lauder no longer makes the mask I currently use, and I'm sure this one is just as good!
--I cleanse, exfoliate, then mud-mask for 10 minutes. My skin feels like a dream after that. NOT. LYING.
4. I use eye serum both a.m. and p.m.
5. I perform a simple "facial" by steaming my face over a sink full of hot water and crushed-up lavender flowers. My skin loves the humidity and it helps calm me before bed. (A wonderful alternative to a bubble bath, too!)
6. DRINK. LOTS. OF. WATER. That's all I have to say about that.

Now... here is a less expensive alternative, if you are interested!
(Note: I haven't tried any of these products, but I see Kiss My Face products advertised in a lot of my health magazines. And they are natural and organic! Can't get better than that, right?! I might just try some myself!)

(Availability and pricing may vary. All K.M.F. products and prices found on drugstore.com)
1. Kiss My Face Shea Soy Facial Cleansing Bar - $9.74
2. Kiss My Face Jojoba and Mint Facial Scrub - $11.24
3. Kiss My Face Deep Pore Cleansing Mask - $11.99
4. Kiss My Face Ultra Hydrating Moisturizer - $16.49
5. Kiss My Face Eyewitness Eye Repair Creme - $14.25

6. Lavender steamer

7. Herban Essentials towelettes - $15.00

8. H2O!!

Tips:
Same routine as above, of course!

Now get to gettin' and pamper that pretty little face of yours!

dedicated to the woman with the best taste in handbags (who also birthed my husband.)

2011-01-01T19:08:00.000-07:00

headband: Adidas(seriously. stop laughing. i have no hair and i'm experimenting, so sue me.) black stretchy t:H&M, checkered button-up:AE, cardi:AE, belt:AE, fairisle gloves:AE,(sensing a pattern here? holy crap.) scarf:Express(a gift from my super-stylish little bro) jeggings:AE, boots:Bulward auction retailer, handbag:gift from my amazing mother-in-law

Mmmmmmkay, friends. So, a few things:

Numero Uno: Just take a guess at the temperature we experienced upon welcoming in the new year.
In the wee small hours of 2011, the south end of the Salt Lake valley was a whopping (drumroll) -4 degrees. Seriously. NEGATIVE four.

So, next: YOU try doing a photo shoot in such frigid temperatures and looking fashionable and not like you're about to wet your pants.

Third: I'm totally investing in leg warmers and ear muffs, and would welcome any advice on where to pick some up.

And: Almost everything I'm wearing is from American Eagle, and believe it or not, we went out right after this and I wore an American Eagle coat. I can't help the fact that I'm in love with their stuff lately.

Something cool: My boots only cost me $25. Pretty good deal for leather, I think. But... without proper socks they do a crappy job of keeping my toes warm. Justin calls them my Peter Pan boots.

But most importantly: How amazing is my handbag? I know, it's giant. But that's one reason why I love it SO. DARN. MUCH. I'm not even kidding you when I say that my mother-in-law (except I hate calling her my "mother-in-law" because it sounds so unfriendly, so I call her my Carol-Mom, or just mom) has truly the best-ever taste in handbags. She knows that I have very specific criteria when it comes to handbags, such as: it must have compartments and not be a bottomless pit, it must fit a number of magazines without wrinkling, curling, or bending them, and it doesn't hurt if it could possibly cart around a small child. I'm kind of obsessed with how much I love it.

Now, if you'll excuse me I'm going to put on some sweats and wrap myself around the space heater.

Happy New Year!!

2010 recap: I blogged about the things I wear, and I chopped my hair.

2010-12-30T18:00:00.011-07:00

...and learned that they're both kinda fun.

cheers to the most deliciousness. EVER.

2010-12-30T12:39:00.000-07:00

:Treats:
Pistachio Ice Cream and Pizzelles

I don't know how I hadn't discovered Haagen Dazs pistachio ice cream until this week, but I'm pretty sure I could eat my weight in it. (And...I'm actually pretty sure I almost have.)

So this NYE we'll be gourging ourselves on pistachio ice cream and pizzelles.
See the little waffle cookie in the ice cream bowl (above)? That's a pizzelle, and it's an Adams favorite. I can give you the recipe, but you need a special pizzelle iron to make it. Looks like this:

We got ours at this store in Salt Lake for $45.00, and it gets a lot of use. Justin is the master pizzelle maker in our house. Just ask our neighbors who received them as Christmas gifts this year.

As always, please enJOY.
photos via haagen dazs website and google.
recipe via allrecipes.com

Pizzelles
Note: this is not Grandma Adams' secret recipe, but similar and equally as delicious.

Ingredients
3 eggs
3/4 cup white sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
Directions
In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick. Stir in the melted butter and vanilla. Sift together the flour and baking powder, and blend into the batter until smooth.
Heat the pizzelle iron, and brush with oil. Drop about one tablespoon of batter onto each circle on the iron. You may need to experiment with the amount of batter and baking time depending on the iron. Bake for 20 to 45 seconds, or until steam is no longer coming out of the iron. Carefully remove cookies from the iron. Cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

*We make different flavors by substituting the tablespoon of vanilla extract with almond or lemon extract. YUM.MY.

cheers to a smooth, minty kisser

2010-12-29T09:00:00.104-07:00

:Natural Lip Exfoliant:

So...
With the dry, cold desert climate I live in, and the sickies I am just getting over, my lips have been a little less than happy. So I whipped up this little beauty.
enJOY!

You'll Need:
1. 1/4 tsp organic cane sugar (available at local grocery stores)
2. 1 drop peppermint essential oil (available at health food stores)
3. C.O. Bigelow My Favorite Lip Balm (available here at Bath and Body Works)
4. Mentha Organics Sheer Lip Tint in Just Blushed (available here at Bath and Body Works)

Directions:
- Mix sugar and oil into a paste.
- Massage mixture onto lips and rub lips together
- Remove undissolved grains by dabbing gently with a warm, wet washcloth
- Apply My Favorite Lip Balm (which actually happens to be my favorite lip balm, go figure.)
- At 11:58 on New Year's Eve, apply Mentha Organics for a yummy, minty, new year's smooch!

Tips:
1. Don't use more than one drop of essential oil.
- When I was experimenting with the "recipe" last week, I used two drops, which was all grand and minty, but about knocked my socks off.
2. Your mixture may turn out to be more grainy than pasty.
- That's OK, mine did too. It still works like a dream.
3. Let me know how it works for you!
- I love it so much I think I'll make it a weekly routine.

it's cold out and about.

2010-12-28T21:01:00.000-07:00

Like really, REALLY cold. (see expressions below.)

But how gorgeous are the snow covered mountains I get to look at every day?

Blouse: Banana Republic, Striped.Top: AE, Belt:Forever.xxi Skinnies:AE, Boots:Famous

Today, we hit post-Christmas sales at the mall, which was equally as crazy as pre-Christmas.
The only difference was that this time I was hand-in-hand with My Love.
So it was all good.

And guess what? I have treats for you this week! A whole lotta goodness for welcoming 2011!

:Festive Beverages:

Cranberry Sparklers

Martha's Version:
1 1/2 ounces Blackberry Puree
2 ounces white cranberry juice
2 to 3 ounces sparkling water
1 sprig mint, for garnish

My twist:
1 1/2 ounces Blackberry Puree
2 ounces white or red cranberry juice
2 to 3 ounces Sprite
lime wedge

Directions:
Place blackberry puree and cranberry juice in a champagne flute. Add sparkling water (or Sprite) to fill.
Garnish with mint (or lime wedge).
EnJOY!

Oh. I get it now.

2010-12-26T21:19:00.000-07:00

We've become anti-social nerds with our fingers glued to our techy devices.
Angry Birds congratulated me today because we'd been playing for five hours.
Sad? Debatable.

Oh and would you like to guess why I'm wearing my glasses today?
Because I have a sinus infection.
That is also why I look like I just woke up from a four hour nap.
Praise heaven for a two day work week.

Sgt. Pepper and my new fave accessory.

2010-12-24T23:19:00.001-07:00

I guess today I have a singular pose:
Simply jam your thumbs in your pockets and pivot from side to side.
(And for those anxious friends of mine, a colored photo of my hair in the aforementioned 'do.)

This cardi makes me feel like I could be on an album cover next to Paul and Ringo.

Blouse: Target, Cardi: Nordstrom, Denim Trousers: Nordstrom, Belt: Kohls, Shoes: Famous, Locket: Inherited from Mom

Favorite. Accessory. Ever.
I always used to love sitting on my mom's lap and opening and closing it over and over.

Happy Christmas Eve!
So far I got new jammies and a traditional Willowtree ornament! What did you get??

P.S. Goodness. I just read through yesterday's post and I sure sounded grinchy! Sorry 'bout that, friends.

why I hate the mall at Christmastime

2010-12-23T10:27:00.000-07:00

Wow. No pictures with this post either. I must not be feeling well.
So let me paint you one. Picture me, rainboots, knitted cardi, and sportin' what I like to call the femhawk (feminine mohawk, of course.)
Now. Mind if I vent for a moment?

Let's start here.
I'm a cosmetic snob.
Husband needs Christmas gifts from his wife.
You see, the day after I finished my finals I came down with the stomach flu. And I don't mean just the stomach flu. I mean the don't-you-dare-leave-your-bed-or-you-will-never-recover-and-don't-even-think-about-trying-to eat-anything-and-you're-also-going-to-need-to-call-in-sick-every-day-this-week flu. Horrible, nasty stuff.

So anyway, I needed cosmetic supplies and husband needed Christmas. So, I picked my frail little self up and ventured out to the local mall in an effort to (hopefully quickly) kill two birds with one stone.

First there was Leslie. Leslie represents a different class of mall workers. You see, Leslie works in a department where people drop hundreds of dollars on one ounce bottles of serums and night-creams without even batting an eye. Leslie caters to a different form of the public, and she does it well. Leslie payed such wonderful attention to me that I ended up buying a new product that wasn't the one I went in for. Go Leslie. Good start to my shopping.

Then.
Then I ventured out of the department store and in into "the mall."
First of all, I don't know why they call it the "hustle and bustle" of the Christmas season. People don't hustle OR bustle. They mosey and meander. And very often it's at a snail's pace. Now, maybe it's my impatient personality, but even if I'm not on a time-crunch, I never, EVER mosey-shop. Ever. Geez. People.
So, there I am stuck behind a few hundred moseyers while the mall choo-choo train is tooting it's horn behind me like "get out the way or I'll run your behind over!!" So of course, I had to start weaving in and out of traffic.

Upon reaching my next destination I was greeted by the usual; a scent so strong it sends your olfactories into overdrive, music so loud it'll put a stamp on your grandma's deafness, and lighting so moodily dim that you can't tell if the item you're buying is blue, navy blue, black or pink.
Long story short, I get my item and proceed to the checkout line. This is where my foot gets suck momentarily on a giant wad of chewing gum. Yum.
This is also where, when my turn comes, I proceed to the checkout desk without a single greeting or acknowledgement from Flirty McFlirterson who is more importantly engaged in chatty conversation with her male cohort.
"So, like, yeah," she says to him. "If you're not there I'm not going to stay." (bats eyelashes and giggles.)
Proceeds to ring my purchase through.
"No, like really," she continues. "I won't stay."
Dude. Brilliant chica. I'm only buying one thing. Slow going?
"Can I run my card through now?" I ask her.
She looks up in a bit of surprise like 'how did you get there??'
"Oh, um, is it debit or credit?"
"Credit."
"Oh then I'll run it here."
Fan. Tastic. I can spare another five minutes.
"Hey, do you think I could get one of your gift boxes for that?" I ask.
No response from Flirty, who I think has just repeated the same sentence three times to the poor chap next to her, and begins to bag my purchase.
Maybe she didn't hear me over the music. So I lean in a little closer.
"Can I have a box please??"
"Oh." (Like, hey, are you still there??) "We don't have any boxes. But if you take your receipt into Gateway they can give you box."
Seriously??
(Gateway is a mall in the heart of downtown SLC, about 40 minutes away from here.)
I quietly mumble, "I'm.... not going to drive to Gateway for a box. But thanks for the suggestion."
Sigh.

Then I called that shopping trip good and went home and had a PB & Banana sandwich on toast. (Which, I am proud to report, is still in my stomach.)
The end.

Merry Christmas shopping, everyone! I hope you got yours done a HECK of a lot sooner than I did!

ugh.

2010-12-22T11:26:00.000-07:00

Stomach flu, 5 days and counting.
Seriously!??

hi, my name is jessica and i'm addicted to retail therapy.

2010-12-16T10:51:00.001-07:00

Would you like to meet the H&M models I just styled?
(Yes, I realize that the first three are the same gal with the same 'do. It was a slow learning process.)

Sometimes I'm OK with the fact that Utah doesn't have H&M. Otherwise my bi-weekly retail therapy sessions would be a tidbit more spendy.

1. The "Run and Errand and look good doin' it" model.
2. The "Have a fab Sunday" model.
3. The "Have a fab Sunday wearing the same thing two weeks in a row" model.
AKA, The "Wear this instead of that" model.
4. The "Get out among the chilly festivities" model.
5. The "Open a present on Christmas Eve" model.
6. The "Military-esque" model.
AKA, the "In the miri-telly style" model (but only if you like Disney's The Jungle Book. Which I do.)
7. The "Nine-to-Five" model.
8. The "Chillaxin' at ma crib" model.

...I want it all, even down to the flowing blonde locks and the Heidi 'do. (Moment of silence for the passing of my blonde locks.)

a moment we've all been waiting for...

2010-12-14T10:24:00.000-07:00

Blogger Friends!
Were you sore afraid that I had dropped off the face of the blogosphere?
(Well, I sorta did for a bit. But I'm back now.)
Fear not! For I bring you good tidings of very great JOY!!! And revelations of....

MY REMODELED LIVING ROOM!
Gah!! Finally, right!?!?
As a refresher, this is what it previously looked like at Christmastime:
(Sorry for the crap quality photo.)

Before

And this Christmas...

After

Taking a closer look:
The Labor.
*Paint - Valspar via Lowe's
*Flooring - Hottie scored it from some warehouse vendor.
*New baseboards and door frames

The Decor.
*Ivory Curtains: Home Fabrics - $10
*Painting of Jesus and Children: Original. Hottie brought it home from Peru.
*West Elm Coffee Table- Scored from a local furniture clearance center for $25.
(The top was missing. For now I'm putting to good use the mirror we ripped of the bathroom wall.)
*Rug: TJ Maxx - $200
*Ivory Leather Chair: local retailer recently gone out of business - $60
*Faux Fur Throw: Kohl's (Elle Decor. From here, remember?) - $19.26
*Large Faux Fur Pillow: TJ Maxx - $30
*White Ruffle Pillow: TJ Maxx - $15
*Mustard Yellow Velvet Pillow: Kohl's (from here too) - $12
*Gray/Yellow Diamond Printed Pillow: Handmade by Yours Truly - $3

Now... this is my FAVORITE part.
*Sofa: Local warehouse outlet (Overstock.com)
are you ready for this???
I paid: $98.

Nope. Not a typo. Sometimes I don't know how I manage to score these bargains.

wait, my hair is actually WHAT color?

2010-12-09T13:01:00.000-07:00

Please take notice of the token blonde streak that appears so prominently in the photo directly above.
I'm pretty darn certain it doesn't stand out that much in real life.

Confession: I have not seen my natural hair color since I was 13 (boy if that isn't a story for another time)
so I'm kind of freaking out.
I have always identified as a blonde, so we need to remedy this situation right quick.

...Just as soon as I'm done with finals. (7 hours, but it's not like I'm counting.)
Oh and I suppose I should clean my house somewhere in there. And possibly finish pulling out the Christmas decor, so I can put away all the bins that are consuming the entire first level of my house.
I bet my neighbors look through my windows and think we're moving. Sorry, neighbors.

going back to my roots.

2010-12-05T21:08:00.000-07:00

I'm quite the dare devil when it comes to my hair. I once played a role in Les Miserables that required me to chop at least eight inches off my hair, and I did it without batting an eye.

I've been over my current look for a while.

So tomorrow I'm chopping it.
Here's one last look at how it looks right this very moment.

And here's what I'm aiming for.

(I have no idea who this chica is, but she inspires me to stop plucking my eyebrows and get some collagen injections.)

The good thing about hair is that if you hate it, it always grows out.
Wish me luck, nonetheless. Even if you think I'm crazy.

reasons to have friends.

2010-12-02T08:30:00.001-07:00

Because they know you so well, they stop what they're doing to send you a picture with the caption,
"At Target. Made me think of you. :)"

I think I might need all of it. I mean, at very least, the adorable rosy pillow.
Thanks, Heath.

sorta like a newsboy with red lipstick.

2010-12-01T23:56:00.000-07:00

I hate it when I'm all dressed up in my brand new out-to-dinner-at-a-super-swanky-restaurant-rubbing-elbows-with-Hottie's-work-associates attire and the only photo that sorta turns out is the one of my boots.
Aw well. They're cute right? Like maybe I could be a Newsie?

newsboy.boots: Famous Footwear, patterened.tights: Forever.xxi, pencil.skirt: Forever.xxi

gotta get it off my chest...

2010-11-28T22:14:00.001-07:00

kind of like a bandit.

2010-11-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

Can we say Black Friday ONLINE??
I may have gone a little crazy buying stuff from any online store that offered free shipping.
(Please take note of the gray/yellow/white obsession that even shows in my wardrobe.
I think the love of this color scheme is a record for me. It typically would have fizzled out by now.)

You're dying to know how much I spent, aren't you? OK fine.

1. AE Fair Isle Convertible Mittens (here) - $11.63
2. AE Classic Cardigan (here) - $14.96
3. Elle Decor Faux Throw (here) - $19.26
4. AE Skinny Jean (here) - $22.46
5. Elle Decor Velvet Decorative Pillow (here)- $12.00
6. Mossimo Mustard Ballet Flats (here) - $12.99
7. AE Striped Fingerless Gloves (here) - $3.75
8. AE Soft Jegging (here) - $22.46

...here's the thing. I haven't bought (or even tried on) pants from American Eagle for 6 years. I am crossing my fingers that they fit decently. I kinda sorta bought 'em on a whim.
...here's the other thing. Elle Decor at Kohl's!??! (insert squealing and hand clapping here.)

game day gear, part II: Lucky Reds

2010-11-27T07:18:00.018-07:00

Meet my Lucky Reds.

Original Retro Nikes: inherited from my mom; skinnies: Forever.xxi

They were my mom's from way back when. I inherited them this week.
I'm pretty sure they have magical powers.