sweetstar

Just like a star across my sky,
Just like an angel off the page,
You have appeared to my life,
Feel like I’ll never be the same,
Just like a song in my heart,
Just like oil on my hands,
Honour to love you

Still I wonder why it is,
I don’t argue like this,
With anyone but you,
We do it all the time,
Blowing out my mind,

You’ve got this look I can’t describe,
You make me feel like I’m alive,
When everything else is au fait,
Without a doubt you’re on my side,
Heaven has been away too long,
Can’t find the words to write this song,
Oh…
Your love,

-CORINE BAILEY RAE


I am still as much in love
with this man
as I ever was.

The butterflies-
have never dwindled.
The romance-
keeps getting stronger.
The morning snuggles-
feel better every time.
Oh baby.
I sure am in love with him...
My sweet- Mr. Firefighter

Unexpected Happiness

This weeks post is a from a college girlfriend of mine. Both Allie and I are very similar in the fact that we're big dreamers, yogi's, and both of us took a step back recently and realized- there's beauty in the place we are in life.... It may not be the Editor in Chief of a respectable Magazine, or Head of Design at a Corporate Fashion house, but heck- we have so much to be thankful for and suddenly we realized, sometimes happiness can't be chased, sometimes happiness falls unexpectedly into place.

Thank you Allison- please be sure to check out her blog HERE.

There’s a little old saying that is one of my favorites: “Life doesn’t always turn out the way you planned.” If I had it my way, I’d have my own column in one of the hottest publications, I’d have two doggies at my feet when I write and I would be able to cook like Giada on a daily basis. My boy and I would be living comfortably in a two bedroom apartment over looking a park; we would have great friends and drink wine. You know, living the good life.

As I type, God is laughing at me. Hell, I’m laughing at myself. That’s not my life, and who’s to say I would be happy if it was? Right now, at this moment, I’m happy. Despite a monstrous headache from one too many vodka sodas last night-I have my cat sleeping next to me and I’m waiting for my boy to come home (to my Mom’s house) from a family gathering. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Happiness to me isn’t measured by the things that you have (OK, maybe a REALLY cute pair of shoes) it’s by the things that you have. See the dilemma? For once in my life, all of the planets aligned correctly. I am happy at work and at play. It wasn’t always like this. It was either one or the other. I loved my job, but my relationship was crap. Or my relationship was great and my job was crap. For years, it was never perpendicular. I was dating a guy who I thought was the one, and doing a job that was in my projected major in college.

Now? I am dating a wonderful man that was one of my best friends for four years, and I am now working in non-profit. Complete opposites. It’s strange how happiness pops up unexpectedly. But I am right where I am supposed to be. I finally feel complete and I finally feel accomplished.

Would I mind having the “good life”? Of course not, I would be a hypocrite if I didn’t. But I am sublimely happy with the way things are right now. Happiness and life are two things that you cannot plan, they just happen. And to live a happy life, well…that’s the good life.

WOOF wOoF Wednesday! : Cutting Canine Nails

Hello Readers!

As most of you know I am an avid dog lover, and I am creating Woof Woof Wednesday’s to discuss all things canine! Feel free to chime, I mean Bark some comments my way!

This week I am pleased to introduce Christine, who is currently living in Sydney, Australia! She is the person I turn to ask dog advice; she is educated in training, grooming and she speaks all things doggie.

Thanks Christine for taking some time out of your busy schedule down under to give our readers some info! Arf Arf! So without further ado, I hand over the floor to Christine who will give us some magical tips on the dreaded topic: cutting doggy nails:


I will tell you that one of my biggest pet (pun intended) peeves are long toenails on pets. We will be talking about dogs today, but cats, guinea pigs, rabbits and the like, are all in need of a good nail trim from time to time. It’s your job to get that situation handled because not doing so can result in infected paw pads, over-extended joints, and the general discomfort of your pet. Before you go running to your vet once a month (yes, once a month.) keep in mind that most local groomers will do this for you for half the cost, and have you in and out in about 15 minutes.
All that being said, I completely understand this may be an expensive proposition, or simply a pain to fit into your schedule.

If so, I suggest you get pretty comfortable with trimming your dog's nails at home-- and I'm going to explain how.

First you will need nail clippers – you can find these at the pet store, and sometimes at your local Wal-Mart or Target. There are two types of clipper, and I am definitely opinionated about which I prefer. There is the guillotine style: which I am NOT a fan of. Or the scissor-style, which I find much more useful. If you’re at a pet store, look for Styptic Powder (sometimes called “Quick Stop”). We will talk about this later.

Be confident. Your dog will be able to tell if you're nervous about what's about to happen. And that will make him/her nervous, which will make this difficult. I suggest just going in for some nail ‘tipping’ the first time—where you only trim off the tip of the nail even if it is very long.

There are a few reasons for this. It will boost your confidence, because if your dog’s nails are very long and you’re only taking off a little bit, you will most likely not cut the vein (called the “quick”) in the nail—so don’t be scared. Tipping will require less precision, and therefore take much less time. If this first-ever nail trimming experience is short and sweet, odds are the next time will go the same way. If it’s a long, drawn-out, dramatic affair, it won’t matter if you’ve even gotten around to trimming a nail; the next time your dog sees those clippers, he’s outta there.

Get some help. At least the first time. Your mom, your boyfriend, your best friend, I don’t care who, should be there to hold your pup still. It’s not like your dog called you up to schedule a mani-pedi, picked a nail color, and is going to wait patiently still while you work your magic. She’s going to try to get away. And last time I check you need two hands to trim nails, leaving no hands for holding Foofi still. So bring a friend, snap a leash on your dog, and have them hold the leash pretty tight while you go in. They MAY need to help hold the leg (specifically, squeeze the muscle in your dog’s armpit to keep it from wiggling—you won’t hurt her, promise.

While we’re talking about wiggling pups, I should also mention that trying to get away is O.K., and to be expected. BITING, is not. If your dog is biter for things other than his nails, you’ve got bigger problems that I’m here to help you with. If your dog thinks it’s ok to try for his first nibble once you’ve got a firm hold of his paw, DO NOT tolerate it, and DEFINITELY do not let it stop you from the task at hand. It’s like letting your kids get out of doing chores if they have a temper tantrum. Not ok. Moving on.

I should say that MY dog, while being the most handsome, adorable, smart, little boy in thewholewideworld…. is also a big wuss about having his nails trimmed. If we try anything conventional (including having someone hold him still), he squirms and yells like you’re trying to take off his entire paw. BUT, I know this boy likes to cuddle, so one day I put him in my lap and flipped him upside down (he likes this, he’s weird), cut every nail, and he was completely fine with the whole thing.
My point is that you know YOUR dog. Maybe all it takes is some whispers in the ear to distract her, or treats, or anything. Just make it at little drama as possible.
Speaking of drama, the number one question I get from clients is: “What happens if I cut the quick?”

STAY. CALM. This is NOT a big deal.

And your dog won’t think it’s a big deal unless you freak out (which most people do, unfortunately). So calm down, grab the styptic powder (if you didn’t spring for it at the pet store, baking flour has a similar effect), and put it on the tip of the nail. All the while tell your dog what a good dog he is, and act like it’s all part of the plan. Nicking the quick is sort of like nicking yourself shaving: annoying, maybe a little painful, but nothing that requires a complete breakdown.

This pretty good link with good pictures, for your reference.


Thanks Christine for taking some time out of your busy schedule down under to give our readers some nail cutting tips! Arf Arf!

Manicure Monday

Although I wanted to keep up on the new & exciting nail polishes that have been coming out (and I have been scooping up) I opted to go back to an age old favorite. You Don’t Know Jacques! This is a dark gray color that blends well with my light skin, hair and green eyes. I feel that it has that chic sophistication of a black polish without the heaviness of black nail polish. It’s neutral tone and is a unique blend of purple, gray and even a bit of brown, huge perk is that it's a color that changes with the light. It’s nice to look at and two coats creates the perfect amount of luster and shine. I have both of these colors in regular and matte. Beware of OPI Matte collection- the polish chips quickly and does not stay on your nails well. I don’t even wear my Matte’s any more since they irritate me with the poor quality.

The original You Don’t Know Jacques is part of the OPI France collection; be sure to check it out!

my life.

Love.

"Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope."

The Elephant's Trunk: Flea Market

With the warm spring air, and my man by my side we usually take a nice little Sunday drive to New Milford, CT where we enjoy the day at the Elephant's Trunk Flea Market. We bring back all sorts of goodies! Flowers, jewelery, tools, photographs, paintings, and all sorts of nick-knacks! This past Sunday was 85 degrees and I sported a short black wrap dress from Old Navy, my Marc Jacobs sunglasses, Reef flops (so comfy & it's always super dusty out) and my pride and joy Fedora.

The only thing I regret about this day was I left my sun screen in the car. Both my love and I are as Irish as they come and we got nasty sun burns that lasted all week long. Note: SUNBURNS ARE NOT CHIC.



Here I am on this fantastic Stiletto high heel chair! It was so fun, but too pricey for me. Instead, I opted for a photo- it'll last longer ;-)



Some lovely Buddha's, I cannot wait until I have my very own lawn. So Luke can come home and find the lawn covered in tacky lawn furniture [have i mention I love to play practical jokes on him?]



What is a perfect Flea Market without delicious treats?!




Some musical instruments for sale, at reasonable prices!



An example of an outstanding set up- something for everyone consider at this stand!

I can't wait for this Sunday. Oh! And I may even visit a brand new Flea Market! Stay tuned!

xoxo

Inspirational Interviews: Veronica from My Hands Made It

I am thrilled about our first interviewee on FULL OF VERVE! When I asked Veronica from MY HANDS MADE IT to share some insight on sewing, fabric, vintage-vibes and planning her wedding, I didn’t realize just what a treat I was in for. Her answers are inspiring and shed a whole new light on designing dresses. What a talented and special person, I feel lucky! Congratulations on your up and coming wedding Veronica, I look forward to following your blog.

Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I’m the Creative Director and Designer behind Coco Irene – an accessories line I produce with my friend Taryn Parker. I also design and construct custom vintage-style wedding gowns and plan to launch a line of vintage- and antique-style ready-to-wear gowns in the near future. I’m getting married next month – woo hoo! – to my sweet fiancé Keith. We live in Chicago in an apartment full of fabric.

How were you first introduced to sewing?
I would cross-stitch with my mom when I was very young – around six probably. I started pinning my clothes to look more vintage a few years later, but didn’t get behind a sewing machine until my Home Economics class in jr. high. The first real wearable garment I made was the summer before my Freshman year in high school. I was fixated on ‘70s fashion then and made myself a pair of wide leg pants in a horrible sunflower fabric. I wore them with a yellow halter top my first day of high school. So hideous. Soon after that, a family member gave me all of her patterns from the ‘60s and I was completely hooked.



For people out there who are new to sewing, do you have any advice on how to get into dress making?
Buy yourself a sewing book – I prefer the vintage books from the ‘60s personally, and you can usually find them at used book stores. They are full of step-by-step sewing techniques that will teach you things like inserting zippers. My dad bought me my first sewing book for $0.25 and I still reference it all of the time – I probably know it by heart now. Start by using simple store-bought patterns and just practice like crazy. Tip: Two patterns by the same manufacturer will usually fit together, so if you like the sleeves on one dress, but like the body of another, you will likely be able to piece it together. But start with the simple stuff first, and don’t be so discouraged that you give up. Expect to make a few duds first, but keep going, because being able to make your own clothes is AWESOME. Trust me.

Where do you look for inspiration?
Old movies mostly and old photographs. I don’t think I’ve ever watched an old movie and not wanted the clothes.



Do you have a favorite wedding dress designer?
Monique Lhuillier makes such stunning gowns – I’m always in complete awe. But frankly, give me any vintage wedding dress and it shoots to the top of my favorite dress list. I can’t help it.

I know by your blog that you are having a vintage themed wedding, how did you and your sweetie decide on what decade to use?
Poor Keith didn’t even try to get involved in the style of the wedding – I can be like a tornado of ideas and it’s probably safest to just step aside and let me go. He’s super supportive though and knows he can nix anything he totally hates (like decorating the bride and groom chair backs – he was totally against that!). But anyway, to answer your question, I knew I wanted a 1930’s style gown and then built from there. The altar is very ‘30s and Keith is wearing a Morning Suit which is also very ‘30s. But the decor of the tent is very lush – not deco at all. I kept picturing an overgrown Regency style – something out of a Jane Austen novel. But then the tabletops are more ‘40s and the bridesmaids are wearing chiffon gowns that look sort of Grecian. If I get my hands on it it’s going to look vintage – I can’t help myself – but I didn’t want anything to be costumey or too theatrical. I want everyone to feel very comfortable and very much in the present, just surrounded by sweet old-fashioned things.



What is your favorite time of year?
I love the beauty of spring, but my allergies don’t agree.

Where do you find your fabric?
There is an awesome fabric warehouse in Chicago called Discount Textile Outlet. It’s like my second home. It’s just filled to the brim with discounted fabrics and trimmings – some of that stuff you know is old, because it’s been stuck under a heap of fabric for years. I also shop online a lot for Coco Irene and hit antique stores for lace and trimmings.



Do you ever go through periods where there is a lack of inspiration, or you feel ‘stuck’? How do you get out of your “stuck” feeling?
I think everyone feels that way sometimes – for me, it’s usually when someone asks for something more contemporary and out of my comfort zone. It usually helps to just walk away for a bit and watch an old movie or move on to another project. I can also spend hours looking at vintage dresses online – I always see something I want to make.



What is your favorite part of designing and making dresses?
For sure my absolute favorite part is when the woman is thrilled with her dress. Honestly in that moment it’s so exciting to see her so excited that I kind of forget I made it for her. The most satisfying part for me personally though is working through the kinks and discovering a new technique. I’m a self-taught sewer, so it’s always rewarding when I know I’ve grown. There is always something new to learn.

Thank you so much for sharing these beautiful answers with us Veronica.

Review: Carolee Schneemann and Andy Warhol: Exhibits on view at The Samuel Dorsky Museum in New Paltz, NY

I am especially nostalgic when it comes to SUNY New Paltz, the college I attended. This weekend I was happy to give a younger friend of mine a tour of campus. She is a transfer student looking to transfer into the art dept at New Paltz. So, needless to say on our list included both art buildings and the Samuel Dorsky Museum.

I have always been amazed at the big names that this small state school is able to house in the on-campus museum. On view currently is Carolee Schneemann: Within and Beyond the Premises and Andy Warhol’s: Private and Public in 151 Photograph’s. I was so excited to see Andy Warhol’s small exhibit, and really intrigued to see Carolee Schneemann’s work, I had learned about her work “Meat Joy” as an Art History student and never had the opportunity to see her work in person.

Her exhibit consists of a mix of old and new work, dating from the 1960’s to current. One piece of work struck my fear of heights along with my sorrow over September 11th. It’s a photographic montage of people leaping off of the Twin Towers after they were hit. It struck such an emotional cord in my friend and I that we were entranced by the power of the multiple images. The viewer watched through photographs the journey of the suicide. It was interesting to me mostly because of the lack of view; you created how you felt over the image. The image itself wasn’t garish or hinting at anger, instead its poignancy is loud and the images: powerful. Conveying a clear message of reaction over terror. It spoke to both my friend and I in a way that I am not sure that after nine years, anyone is ready for.

On the other hand, it was refreshing to see Andy Warhol’s exhibit; mainly it was candid Polaroid snap shots of friends, colleagues, crowds, and strangers. They were mostly taken on the streets of New York, and from the mid 80’s. It gave you a voyeuristic feel into his glamorous life of fashion shows, elegance, fashionable people, poolside lounging and rock concerts. Each Polaroid was concentrated and interesting; you really felt the happenings of that moment in time. Intriguing, alluring and quite frankly fabulous! Andy Warhol has always spoken to me in a nonchalant, charming manor, and to me it speaks volumes.

As quoted: “I told them I didn’t believe in art, that I believed in photography.” –Andy Warhol. Check out the show before it’s too late, it ends mid September, you won't be dissapointed.

Lilacism

Oh baby, do I love Manicure Monday’s! Every Sunday night I snuggle up on the sofa with My Love and we catch up on our DVR, Netflix Queue and True Blood… bliss. I usually break out the nail polish collection, line them all up on the coffee table and narrow down the choices.

This week I am so pleased with my recent spring purchase: Essie’s Lilacism, from “The Art of Spring” collection. It has a great spring pop to it and is a very unusual color. Essie was inspired by the fascinating pastel shades and silk seen on the runway.

It’s a pale and sheer color which is nice for the spring and isn’t ‘too-much’ to look at. There is a nice opaque quality to it which is great, and two coats works well. I've been wearing this color for 4 days now and there is no real chips yet. Definitely the best color from Essie's "The Art of Spring" collection. Much love, xxo.

To All of The Fools

Although I seem to be pretty good at keeping this blog politically correct, I’m going to go with my gut and cast rules into the wind. Usually this method of casting things into the wind will backfire and I’m left with a metaphorical wad of spit in my eyeball…. but, today I can’t help it! Something’s got my goat and I’m going to rant and rave.

Today’s topic is directly related to ignorance, I draw from this quote my inspiration “brilliant minds talk about ideas, average minds talk about people.” Well, shit! I heard that some girl was complaining in reference to my beloved little Pit Bull. Complaints, and pre-meditated judgment on the Pit Bull breed, or they’re technical name: American Staffordshire Terriers - really grinds my gears. This breed, like all breeds is a loving, compatible, happy, and sweet dog. IT’S ALL IN HOW YOU RAISE THE DOG. If you’re a big, fat, LOSER with an EGO the size of Brazil and want to breed and raise viscous creatures- then presto, you will wind up with a MEAN dog. If you’re ignorant, chances are your dog is going to take after your big, dumb ass. If you’re a dick, chances are your dog is too.

If you’re predisposed to judgment calls, then chances are you join the millions of Americans with a hatred towards Pit Bulls. Can I stand on top of Mt. Rushmore right now and scream my opinion? Why YES! Yes, you can!
“TO THE UNEDUCATED MASSES OF AMERICA WHO HAVE A PRE-DISPOSED OPINION ABOUT PIT BULLS, COULD YOU SIT DOWN AND SHUT THE HELL UP” and to all of you out there who have breed-ism (definition: racism to dog breeds) towards Pit Bulls, do yourself a favor, do some research, get out there and MEET the breed you hate.

How do you tell a racist person that they’re wrong? How do you tell the particular race they hate are actually people you can love? YOU CAN’T. Let the ignorant be ignorant, and carry on. For three and a half years I have been the mother to a rescued Pit Bull. Not for one moment do I regret my decision to adopt my red-headed mush of a pup. Nor do I regret that when I broke up with my college boyfriend, (the person whom I bought the dog for) – I walked out of his life, with the dog. [high-five to Nev of the past!]

My rant and rave is to all the fools out there who don’t know any better than to hate. Whatever it may be, hating on a person, a breed, a race, a sexuality preference... May your ignorance shelter you from all the bad in the world. I hope you never get bit by a big, black, gay, pit-bull- I’m not sure you’ll be able to find a cure for that.

My snark comes from three years of trying to prove that my Pit Bull rocks my world, and all Pit Bulls that I’ve met do the same. They are usually overly loving, attention reveling, food addicted, mush piles of CUTE. But, stick to your tea cup Chihuahua and your Black Lab’s- I really don’t care, it’s whatever floats your boat- just shut the hell up about the breed I adore. Stop making it hard for the people who actually do a fantastic job of raising a pup into a respectable, kind and well behaved dog.

If I hear another comment- such as “They can’t help it, their brain swells and then they snap.” Or . . . “Those dogs are scary” or how about “Michael Vick.” I say, loud and proud “Thanks, I love my Pit-Bull, she’s my best friend, where’s your best friend?” I’m tired of ignorance, and blind hatred. I love my doggy, and you’re the fool who is missing out.

It's been quite a journey. . .

February 2009

The Godfather

More To Come . . .

Some Recent Photos that Make Me Smile

I'm BAAAAAACK

Where Have I been?

Hello friends! I took a short hiatus from blogging for a bit when I was working Freelance in New York City in a major corporate fashion house. I had a great time there but feel happy to be back in Westchester working at a fantastic fundraising company. I am close to my doggy, Mr. Firefighter and the people whom I love.

My experience in corporate fashion has taught me more than I ever thought was possible and I feel enriched and saturated with knowledge. So, my blogging vacation stirred up my creative juices and I am ready to rock again. This blog will be getting an entire content make-over. I learned a ton in the corporate fashion world and can’t wait to share trend insight, reviews on local hot spots, dog training tips and much much more.

Stay tuned into my blog-o-sphere. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

Ta taaa!

Trend Alert: The White Watch

This weekend I involved myself in a daunting task: finding the perfect watch. I visited the Danbury, CT Lord & Taylor, where the jewelry sales woman was warm and helpful. I had an idea in my mind: Michael Kors big-oversized watch face with silver details. After trying on each of M.K. watches I felt that each one of his watches were much too big for my petite wrist. Although mens-wear inspired watches are super chic right now, I just can’t do the size.

I did in fact become entranced with the newest trend: The White Watch. Sandra was seen sporting the white watch trend in her latest film: ‘The Blind Side’.

The woman at the counter let me know that watches these days are a “fashion statement” since cell phones, and the digital era has taken over how we keep track of time. Watches, on the other hand- are a statement piece that can up your outfits potential and speak volumes to your personal style.

After trying on each and every white watch available at Lord & Taylor I chose this gorgeous little white watch by Anne Klein (a classic designer favorite of mine). I left Lord & Taylor happy, per usual, and I finally had my statement watch. The folding clasp style that is hidden on the inside of the wristband is a personal touch that I adore. No clasp is visible, so when the watch flips itself over it looks like a hip, plastic bracelet.

Watch out ladies, the white wristband spices up any outfit.

What's Cookin, Good Lookin?

Today I was happy & inspired.

I decided to make a lot of desserts for the two Superbowl Parties that I will be attending with Mr. Firefighter.

We went to the local grocery store and picked up all the ingredients to make :

Creamy Lemon Squares

Key Lime Cheesecake

Chocolate Pudding with Carmel Chips

and Brownie Torte.

& had a blast dancing around the kitchen, working as a team and music blazing!

So far everything is cooling. The fridge is filled to the max with delicious desserts.

Listening to Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Snoop Dogg, Hootie and The Blowfish, Pink Floyd, Phil Collins and Elton John.

I'm very proud of how the desserts have come out so far.

Oh bTW I haven't tried the lemon square's yet but I am the most excited about them since they are the totally made from scratch. Squeezed the lemons from fresh to make it!

The recipe is courtesy my idol Martha Stewart : Lemon Square Recipe

I'm so excited!

Yayy Superbowl Parties!

Pound Ridge

I've had these weird strokes of luck lately.

It's all been bad.

(Wahh.)

It was as if life had decided: no way girl, you're not cut out for this role.

You've got to find your own way.

And this one ain't it!

Somewhere in the rush of it all.

The rush of constant rejection.

I lost a lot of confidence.

I felt jarred and spit-out.

And took it personally.

Days went by.

Weeks; and regretfully they turned into months.

I couldn't even return people's phone calls because I didn't feel up to explaining what I had been up to.

I couldn't stand the thought of explaining the recent string of brush-off's.

I couldn't stand the thought of hearing myself speak it.

I crawled into myself and got comfortable really remembering who I was.

Even if I had to dig deep.

Into my past, and walk down the same paths I walked along when I was a kid.

Or simply walk my dog and try to imagine the fresh perspective she has of that rock she's sniffing, or the duck she sees waddling.

And in the midst of watching and breathing in all this delicious smell of my home town I was able to really remember the small things that matter.

The way the neighborhood smells when it's turning into autumn and people first start making fires.

The way brownies smell cooking in the oven of a warm and cozy house.

Or how excited I'd get looking out the window on a summer day and seeing sunshine.

Home town feels good.

And for right now I'm glad I'm here.

And sometimes the best things in life are right in your back yard.

Something unexpected happened while I was here. I fell in love.

With a big strong firefighter who could hear the pulse of my soul.

And those are intense words and intense feelings.

So I've got this beautiful love life that feels like constant summertime dancing.

and I can hear and feel louder than I have ever have.

It's like life is dancing fast & furiously!

and I'm sort of figuring it all out.

My dreams, my desires.

They're all coming into a point.

So this constant rhythm, called life.

That goes up and down unexpectedly, like the waves of the ocean.

This un-predictable, furious, fast-dancing life.

Really is beautiful.

and loud and messy

& un-predictable.

So, with that I will leave us with a final thought that helps me through.

The two P's (as Mr. Firefighter says) : perseverance and patience.

Kind Words

"One kind word can warm three winter months" -Chinese Proverb

This weekend was a fortunate one, I hosted a sleep-over party for my college girlfriends. We ate cake, appetizers, drank wine, painted nails and played with glitter. It was a wonderful time and I realized after I was left with an empty house; just how special and unique each one of these ladies are. I can't help but step back and admire them all and how they have grown since graduation.

They are motivated women at the beginning of their beautiful careers. Wether it be creatively inclined, a writer at the head of new-age technology, a science-lover with a passion for helping people or someone who loves planning each of these girls amaze me that they landed careers that go hand-in-hand with their personalities. "Who you are determines what you do" is a statement that is too true for each of these four ladies.

I couldn't help but to be proud of them. Each of them is like a sister to me, and I can remember late night pizza chow downs or nights where we would squeeze in homework and movies. I felt wobbly and insecure on my unemployed legs, but happy to be in the midst of people who love me for me.

A comment was said by my best friend and it's true what she said. It lit my heart up in a way that I never thought was possible. It's like someone turned a flashlight on in my insides and made me glow. We were all reminiscing over the day I brought my beautiful dog home to my college apartment. How scared my dog was in those beginning days and how I kept saying on the car ride home "I don't know about this, I don't know about this". I felt a connection right away with the dog. My dog is short, stocked with muscle, red haired, trusting but nervous eyes, and a wiggly waggly tail.

My best friend said to me, "Nev you're from that scene in 101 Dalmations where the owners are walking with their dogs and they look exactly like their dogs". For some reason I could probably forget everything that was said or happened in the short time we all had together. But this comment will forever make me smile.

I thank my wonderful friends and my beautiful dog for being the best things that have ever happened to me.

Ten Feet Deep

Check out this group: Ten Feed Deep

They are fantastic and have a zippy, up-beat, poppy feel with insightful lyrics.

They have just come out with their third CD which is TERRIFIC!

I've known them all since I was little which helps me love them a little more.

About to run out the door to catch a show.

Lately the song "Without Melinda" has been on repeat both in my head and on my iPod.

Please, do yourself a favor and check them out!

Amazed

Last night I cut up strawberries.

Into tiny little pieces, I was making strawberry shortcake

and I put one piece in my mouth and he

kissed me

and bit the tiny piece of strawberry in my mouth in half.

It was so simple and sensual.

I was speechless.

He smiled at me and said "That was the best strawberry I've ever had"

I am nauseatingly in love.

& IT'S TERRIFIC!

The Hat

Walking in Target, she spotted it.

The perfect winter hat.

She was tired of her beret.

She needed something with PIZZAZZ!

This hat was like nothing she's ever worn

She tried it on and it was dazzling and ridiculous

Ridiculously terrific.

$14.99

ooooo.

"It's an investment" she says to him whilst petting the colorful feather jutting out of the hat.

They walk around the store hand in hand.

He goes to check out and buys her the hat.

She squeals with excitement.

___________________

_______________________________________

My Sweet

From this day forward,

You shall not walk alone.

My heart will be your shelter,

And my arms will be your home.

-Unknown

_________________________________________________________

With great passion comes great pits of sorrow.

I find myself trying to be a better version of me lately.

I work a little harder. Expect less, get more.

I'm refreshed, life is succulent with triumphs and pitfalls.

The taste of defeat heavy in my mouth.

Kicked around in an unfriendly world.

But you're there at the end of the day to hug me.

To squeeze me.

Tuckle me into your strong arms and kiss me softly with your eyes closed.

You hear my smile and kiss me deeper.

This love is quiet and screams all at once.

Your body and mine together, no words.

You are true to my interests, you see my heart plain as day.

This is not difficult any longer. I am no longer complaining, I am officially happy.

I am happy and satisfied with this delicious love.

So much so that it overflows into other aspects of my life.

Passion.

This cowgirl has met her cowboy.

Phil Collins

I cannot stop listening to Phil Collins right at this moment in my life.

I would like to get a real job so I can buy a record player and put it in my apartment.

Step 1: get a job

Step 2: get an apartment

Step 3: get a record player

Step 4: get all Phil Collins records. Ever.

Confidence

I am 24 years old, and at the beginning of my career. What career? Well, I haven't quite found it yet but I'd love for it to be in the Marketing/Advertising/PR field. I have some experience with this and I find it to be absolutely great!

I have been presented with a question that is always on my mind... Where does one find confidence in their twenties? It's a great thing were coming into the very start of our careers, and mostly I feel this is the time of our lives yet it is full of muddled. Full of muddled? Yes we are full of unanswered questions, the so-called 'feeling our way' in the world. Being completely broke and not sure how the next paycheck will cover everything we need it to. . . Sometimes life in our twenties is easy-breezy and other times it's awkward, and hard to maneuver situations.

The community of twenty-something year olds have something in common: we are extremely good looking. Well, most of us are conquering (or have conquered) the awkward stage - but the question still prevails; where does one find confidence? Who knows, and who cares, if we over-think "where our confidence comes from" it can't process. We loose our suave.

Savvy?

strawberries and knocking boots

I hate that I'm a big old MUSH.

It's my kryptonite, but I've met my counterpoint.

Is it too soon to say that? (SCREAM YES, and RUN!)

When I've known someone for a year, and had good feelings for him all along.

The first trial run went sour quickly, due to the fact that we were simply not on the same page.

I wanted to run free and be a career woman, he wasn't sure what he wanted, besides me.

Now, I'm not so sure.

CLICK.

It has clicked into place. This yummy, comfortable feeling.

Ugh-vulnerability bubbles deep in my belly when I'm not around him.

Here's some lyrics that remind me of him and me:

"Cause I'm not easy to understand

But you know me like the back of your hand

I'm your girl and you're my man

and we're makin plans" -oh Miranda!

It's nice that I can say to him "Do you want to go to Church?" and we'll go.

Or I'll say "Do you want to sin?" and we'll do it

Or we'll eat ice cream til we can't move.

or listen to rap music til our ears fall off,

then switch it up to Sinatra followed by some Chesney.

Our song when we dated before was by Taylor Swift.

We used to go hiking together, and I can remember him grabbing me

so vividly. I was having an asthma flair up, he grabbed my body

and pressed it into his. It felt like my heart went from exploding

to my whole body being calm.

And no one, not anyone has had that affect on me ever.

We're back together for the past two weeks. . .

and

It's easy.

we love the outdoors and hiking!

He's a firefighter and I find myself getting mushy over that sometimes too.

I think it works because of his intense alpha male persona.

& I tuckle up into his big strong arms..

Sometimes I have such strong anxiety, and I don't have to explain it

I just am there and he swallows my anxiety with a bear hug.

Last night I cut up strawberries.

Into tiny little pieces, I was making strawberry shortcake

and I put one piece in my mouth and he

kissed me and bit the tiny piece of strawberry in half.

It was so simple and sensual.

I was speechless.

He smiled at me and said "That was the best strawberry I've ever had"

BiG SkY CouNtry n' Yours Truely: Corporate Cowgirl!

I like out west.

I haven't had much experience with it at all. . .

but what I experienced, I loved!

Now, I always thought of myself as a city girl.

I needed to be close to culture and a mecca of civilization.

However, lately- I'm not so sure about the city girl status.

I listen to Miranda Lambert and the Dixie Chicks.

I've laced up my old college drinking cowgirl boots & have

REVAMPED them to go with a business blazer and a pencil skirt.

Could somewhere along the line- wait could this be true? That

I morphed into a

CORPORATE COWGIRL?!

I like to wander around, go for drives, skip, sing.

And I don't like anyone getting in my way.

I like to know everyone, and I like to feel comfortable.

Could Big Sky country be for me?

inspiration 2010 style

Inspiration comes in many forms.

Thinking about 2009, I'm just grossed out. EW.

It started out gross and it kept getting grosser.

So, I'm going to set some goals to follow for myself, and I'm going to take them seriously

1. Blog MORE

2. Monthly Culture Intake, a new museum visit every month.

3. Drink Tea & Water MORE

4. Read more books, I am currently reading "Women Who Love Too Much" and I am about to start " The Hour I first Believed" the more I read, the more 'in-tune' i feel to ideas and thoughts

5. Join a gym! (This has been a goal for so long and now that I have a job, it is going to come true!)

6. Cook MORE! I love to cook, it's a period at the end of the day, and it's something that makes me VERY, VERY happy.

7. Pay MYSELF first means 10% of paycheck goes into SAVINGS!

8. Move out of my house

9. Go After my dreams!

I didn't think I'd get into the whole 'making goals' thing for 2010. but the more organized I am, the better I actually feel. Oh life! So poignant...

New Year, new do, new me, new you

Happy 2009.

Boom!

What are your New Years Resolutions?

Mine is simple: Become better.

Better at what?

-A better friend

-A better daughter

-A better listener

-Better with patience

-Better with money

-Better with self preservation

-Better with follow up and GUMPTION

-Better at finding my inner voice & life calling

Perhaps, for me one of the biggest problems I have is that I am a dreamer. I dream myself into situations - & it's hard to realize- damn it! - You're 24, you want to live in New Zealand, California, NYC, Austin, try my hand at teaching English as a second language. For Heavens sake, I sure have a lot of plans . . . and perhaps my late night woe comes from this innate pressure I put on myself.

breathing. in & out. in & out.

I'm second guessing myself, and I feel anxious over this new chapter. I can't tell you why, I just ALWAYS imagined myself as being great someday.. and I know I will be, I'm just not sure why it's taking so long. I see all of my friends buckled down with careers, serious boyfriends and rent payments. I'm still trying to get my feet on the ground and settled into a career.

So I do not want to continue to whine, I want to let you know that life is beautiful. I have wonderful supporting people in my life. I'm sort of falling hard for an old beaux who has recently reared his head into my life again, and I must say it's going so well! I realized I am so attracted to the simplicity in life, I love going for drives, watching things, cleaning things, loving, snuggling. This new attention that is happening to me is so necessary right now, and I love how he doesn't say "what about me" to any of my elaborate life plans.

And most comfortably I have reached a point in my life where I am fine by myself. I enjoy my own time, and I am good at assimilating a situation for what its worth. Anyway, I should quit it, all of this self examining and be happy.

Because life is happy.

Oh.. adding to the list:

Becoming better at happiness.