Sneaky Chic

Ok, this is the BEST, and when I say best, I mean smokin' hot completely awesomest price I have seen for this lovely specimen of leather and steel. Go HERE and buy this for $345 - and no, I did not forget a zero. Barcelona, Ibiza, same diff.

Santa, are you reading this???

Bougainvillea

2008-11-30T12:56:00.000-08:00

Today is cold and snowy and all I can think about is being someplace warm, sitting on a patio with an iced coffee, surrounded by Bougainvillea.

Pieces

2008-11-09T10:44:00.000-08:00

Here is a kick-ass home decor site that sells a bunch of awesome stuff that I can't afford. Enjoy!

Distractions

2008-11-05T04:46:00.001-08:00

Prada Sequined Peep-Toe Pumps, Saks, $850

Because I need one today.

So True

2008-11-02T08:31:00.000-08:00

Buy this and other beautiful things HERE.

31% OFF

2008-10-25T11:13:00.000-07:00

Diane Von Furstenberg, Red Rose Bush Heerlen Dress, $345

Lee Angel, Gold Beaded Necklace, $253

Karen Zambos, Polka Dot Natalie Top, $320

Alexis Bittar, Retro Hinge Bracelet, $545

Kors, Red Missy Trench, $195

Loeffler Randall, Charcoal Yvette Cutout Pootie (pootie? as in shoplifting the pooty?) $575

Alexis Bittar, Knotted Flower Necklace, $1,495

Just a few of my favorites at Chickdowntown.com.

Acquisitions

2008-10-22T17:18:00.000-07:00

Enamel Graphic Ring, Banana Republic, $39

Angora Beret with Flower Applique, H&M, $5.90

Sam Edelman Whitley Bootie, Macy's, $89.99 (reg $135)

While I was getting fatter, my wallet was getting skinnier. What can say?

Warning

2008-10-21T16:41:00.000-07:00

Blog-cations make you fat.

It has been one month since my last post. I just sort of lost my groove and had nothing too exciting going on, plus work was super busy, blah, blah, blah. Anyway, I'm back in the swing now, oh yeah and with about 7 lbs more of me to love. So sad. But I am back on the sauce, and by sauce I mean salads everyday for lunch. And those evil chocolate chip cookies at the bakery in my office building, those are banned, damn it! (not counting the one I ate today, it was a gift from the nice Peruvian dude that cleans the tables, so it would have been rude not to accept) I can justify anything...

Back to fun topics like shoes and fashion and maybe some low fat, healthy recipes to help my cause, you know, the important things in life!

Image found here.

Gorgeous

2008-09-21T10:48:00.001-07:00

Oscar de la Renta

Badgley Mischka

Oscar de la Renta

All from Fashion Week. Images from Style.com.

Coco Chanel The Movie

2008-09-13T18:30:00.000-07:00

Tonight on Lifetime. Be there or be square.

Best Packaging Ever

2008-08-30T08:29:00.001-07:00

The cheese is pretty good too. Found at Super-Target. It was used to make this insanely good recipe with my awesome new Panini press. I made mine with peaches, it was too good for words.

Too Much?

2008-08-14T19:48:00.000-07:00

D&G Dolce & Gabbana Ocelot Print Pencil Skirt, Saks $365

I really love it. It will last forever. But $365?

Just the other day, my Mom reminded me about a shopping rule that I used to have. I would not buy anything over $20. This was a long time ago when I was young and always broke, so it was a very practical rule. I think this is how I became such a great bargain hunter, because I had to. But when I started making a little more money, I started upping my limit. For my 30th birthday, I bought myself my first Louis Vuitton handbag. That was a year ago, and sometimes I find myself thinking "what's next?".

I think I might need to go back to the old limit system, but maybe I'll make it a little more than 20 bucks this time...

I'm curious, where do YOU draw the line?

The Fall Runway - Finishing Touches

2008-08-08T18:06:00.000-07:00

When it comes to jewelry this Fall, the bigger the better. Large, chunky and bold. All metals are in; silver, gold and gunmetal. Look for fun pieces that really make a statement, none of that dainty, petite jewelry. Large cuffs, bangles and rings are great ways to punch up an outfit.

As far as nails go, keep them clean and neutral. Buff pinks, light metallics, and black will look the part. One color that would really be amazing would be a super pale grey, but I cannot find one anywhere, so if anyone sees it, give me a shout!

The Fall Runway - Accessories

2008-08-07T17:16:00.001-07:00

When choosing belts, shoes, and bags, pick items with a little edge and a little attitude. Black is back (again, thank God!) and no more "chocolate" brown everything. Grey is HOT. Belt everything - thank you Sex and the City. Anything croco, quilted, or studded will give your look that little something extra it needs.

Booties are everywhere, especially with skirts. The good news is when that trend is over, you can still wear them with pants and they will look great.

My favorite look this season is hard vs. soft. An example would be a cream silk ruffled top worn with a black leather (leatha for you Project Runway fans) studded belt or bag. Perfection.

Tomorrow: Finishing Touches...

The Fall Runway - Translated Part 2

2008-08-06T17:01:00.001-07:00

The next trends were inspired by Blumarine and Chanel. Blumarine is showing major femininity with heaps of ruffles and flowing fabrics and Chanel is classic and perfect as always, with an emphasis on the color grey (and black, but that's a no brainer).

Here are some examples of ways to incorporate these beautiful elements into your own wardrobe. Think ruffles, pleats, tucks, rosettes and detail. Neutral colors keep it clean and from looking costume-y or overdone.

Grey is easy. You most likely already have grey basics in your closet, so bust them out and wear them proud! All shades from light heather greys, to deep charcoals will look great - even together.

Next up, accessories...

The Fall Runway - Translated

2008-08-05T17:23:00.000-07:00

There are so many gorgeous trends on the Fall runways this year, and they have me looking forward to Fall fashion. Don't get me wrong, I would happily skip all of the other seasons if it meant having warm Summer weather year round, but I live in Colorado and I have to face reality. Fall is right around the corner.

For my fellow Summer lovers, I don't mean for this to be a downer. I am simply giving you a heads up on some fun items to add to your wardrobe in the next few months.

We will start off with a little gift from my favorite gay Italian designers, Domenico and Stefano, aka Dolce & Gabbana. I.LOVE.THEM.

Basically, the D&G runway looks like attack of the tartans; very plaid, and very red. Since I don't wear ball gowns very often (never), I found some examples of how to participate in this trend in real life, without looking like I should be carrying a bagpipe (well, kinda).

This trend in particular should of course be used sparingly, meaning DO NOT wear a plaid pencil skirt with a plaid blazer or blouse. A little plaid, goes a long way. I know this warning does not apply to 99% of you, but there is always that one woman who will inevitably go ape-shit on a trend - you know the one.

Here is a collage to illustrate my point of view.

More to come tomorrow...

Perfect Summer Lunch

2008-08-03T12:02:00.000-07:00

Grilled Squash with Garlic
Organic Mixed Baby Greens
Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella, Roma Tomatoes, EVOO and Balsamic Vinegar
Garlic Breadsticks

A Night on the Town

2008-08-02T14:47:00.000-07:00

This outfit makes me happy.

Remember The Jetsons?

2008-07-27T18:14:00.000-07:00

Remember that awesome food machine where they would just push a button and in seconds have like a T-bone steak and garlic mashed potatoes? I wish I had one of those machines for clothes. Wouldn't that rock? Birkin Bag, presto! Perfect black pencil skirt, coming right up!

If I had a Jetsons clothes machine, I would be wearing this to work tomorrow.

Asparagus Pee?

2008-07-26T21:51:00.000-07:00

I literally ate one spear of asparagus at dinner, and had asparagus pee. I have had this conversation with my friends and it seems that some people get this and some people have no clue what I am talking about. So, to cure my curiosity, lets do a poll:

Do you get asparagus pee? (poll results)

Every time I eat it 10 (76%)

Nope, not me 3 (23%)

I don't know what that is 0 (0%)

Interesting... And very scientific.

So...

2008-07-23T19:53:00.000-07:00

Abstract *TUNIC*, Forever 21 $22.80

It turns out that my new "minidress" is actually a shirt. Who knew? I was so excited to wear my new "minidress" because I never wear skirts or dresses cut above the knee, so I was really venturing out of my fashion comfort zone with this one. I went online to get a picture of the dress to show my girlfriend, and found it listed under the "Tops" category, not the "Dresses" category. What a dork.

I'm rockin it anyway.

Wii Likey

2008-07-19T10:05:00.000-07:00

Nintendo Wii

I do realize that this post is neither sneaky, nor chic, and probably classifies me as a nerd. However, for those of you who have not played the Nintendo Wii, you are totally missing out. Trust me, I AM NOT a video game person. In fact, I hate video games. But the Wii is so much different. It gets you off of your ass and you even get to create a little character in your likeness called a Mii. That is so cute! Thanks to my friend Melanie and her adorable daughter Lauren, I had the opportunity to play (and get spanked by a 4th grader). We played Tennis, Bowling and Boxing. I also read online that there is a Wii Yoga too - I have got to try that! Now I finally understand all the hype.

If I Had...

2008-07-17T14:35:00.000-07:00

Black and Crystal Earrings, LUC KIEFFER $242

an extra $242 just laying around, I would SO buy these. But, I don't. And even though they are completely awesome, I just could not pay that amount of money for plastic and rhinestones.

J'Adore Dior

2008-07-07T18:44:00.001-07:00

Christian Dior Extreme Cutout Sandal, Neiman Marcus $780

That's all.

Meow!

2008-07-06T09:12:00.000-07:00

Julie Haus Tranquility Zazel Dress, chickdowntown.com, $403
Rachel Leigh Studded Belt, $150

Have you seen those super annoying commercials on TV for chickdowntown.com? Well, they are really lame and don't even show cute outfits, but the theme song was stuck in my head all day yesterday, so I guess the commercial was successful. I went to check out the site and found this gorgeous dress and some awesome accessories. The belt was inspired by Carrie's vintage studded belt in the Sex and the City movie. Me-ow!

Chair Lust

2008-07-04T08:18:00.000-07:00

So, one of my current obsessions is a white or cream Barcelona Chair. I really want one (actually two). That chair is just plain awesome. Clean lines, timeless style, a little leather, a little chrome, modern and classic all at the same time, I love it.

I recently posted about my design dilemma here. I am trying to re-vamp my living room that was done by HGTV. I got so many great ideas from the blog world (THANK YOU!). I have been making small changes since then, but now I need chairs. Should I do two of the same, or two different? I kind of lean towards two of the same because I normally prefer symmetry.

Here are some that I like, including the gorgeous Barcelona chair that haunts my dreams. If anyone has a source for a good deal on these, let me know!

Barcelona Chair, DWR $5,027

Abigail Slipper Chair, William-Sonoma Home $995

Beatrice Slipper Chair, Madeline Stuart $ if I have to ask, I can't afford it

Louis XV Bodine Arm Chair, frenchdressing.com $895

I know I have a few different styles going on here, but that's how I roll. I have DMPD design multiple personality disorder. Deal.

Home Sweet Home

2008-07-03T10:06:00.000-07:00

My bed.

Vacations were fabulous, but there is NOTHING on this earth better than coming home and sleeping in my own bed! You know what I'm sayin?

The Riu Resort in Puerto Vallarta was great. The grounds were very clean and well maintained. The staff was awesome and really took care of us. If you are a big drinker, then this is the place for you. In addition to being all-inclusive including alcohol, each room has a mini bar stocked daily with sodas, beer, water, tonic and club soda. Why would you need tonic and club soda you ask? Because right above the fridge is a liquor cabinet with Vodka, Gin, Rum, and of course, Tequila - all free. Crazy.

The food was good, not spectacular, but definitely better than I expected- and lots of options. We ate at the Brazilian style restaurant one night and that was really tasty and entertaining.

I was very careful and used bottled water for everything, but I still managed to get sick. Really sick. The kind of sick I am not even going to elaborate on because it is so foul. Unfortunately, I had to travel to our second destination in this condition. Ick.

Riu Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Pretty sunset, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

The Dominican Republic was wonderful as always. It was fun to visit my husband's family, whom I love and adore. His class reunion was really nice. I was the only spouse there for the first half until a really nice guy called his wife and told her to come and hang out with me. I guess we didn't get the memo. I was happy to see my husband's face and the excitement in his eyes as he got reacquainted with people that he had not seen in 25 years. That was cool.

First wedding anniversary, June 22, 2008 Dominican Republic

All in all, Montezuma's revenge aside, we had two great trips. Now I have to go tend to my kitty, who at the moment hates my guts for leaving her for 3 weeks. This will require about three full days of ass kissing, petting and brushing before she is back to normal and will let us sleep through the night. God bless the little fur ball!

Coco, my very furry and codependent kitty

Adios Amigos

2008-06-09T07:44:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I leave for 3 weeks in Latin America before I start the new J-O-B. The first week will be spent at a lovely (I hope) resort in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for a little one year wedding anniversary celebration. I am hoping I do not pull a "Charlotte" while we are there, I will definitely be keeping my mouth shut in the shower. For the two weeks following that, we will be in the Dominican Republic for my Husband's 25th class reunion (he's a little older than me :)

I will be back in early July, but if I can post while I'm away, I will. Everyone take care and I will write to you soon!

Bed & Tango (and Breakfast)

2008-06-07T08:23:00.000-07:00

There is an amazing woman that you all need to meet. Her name is Valorie Hart aka Visual Vamp. She blogs, she decorates, she tangos, she travels, and she has an adorable dog named Cholo - she is fricken fabulous!

I have to admit, I have never met Miz V in person, we became acquainted through the Internet. But, it is my goal to meet her in person one day. I have to. I have to touch her to make sure she is real. :)

Valorie and her husband Alberto Paz, are Tango Masters and run a Bed & Tango out of their home in the NOLA neighborhood of New Orleans. The weekend package includes private tango lessons and practice time, a guest room with a queen size bed, private bathroom, breakfast and refreshments. PLUS you get to visit the great city of New Orleans - Jazz, shopping, drinking, eating, what could be better?

The Weekend Package price is a very reasonable $600 for one or two persons up to four nights or $225 per day.

For more info or to book your getaway you can visit the blog Visual Vamp or email Valorie directly at mizvtheb@planet-tango.com

Now, get your Tango on!

Back to The Grind

2008-06-06T06:29:00.000-07:00

I finally got a job. Boo. Getting laid off was scary, but it was also fun. It gave me time to reflect and to explore what I really want to do with my life. Now I have a goal and a plan for my future, and that is what will motivate me as I return to Corporate America for a while. Hey, I need a paycheck. So for now it is back to the grind, but one day in the near future, there will be bigger and brighter things for me.

I think a new job totally justifies new shoes and a new bag, wouldn't you agree?

Versace Open Toe Pumps $660

Botkier Isis Hobo $625

A girl can dream, can't she?

Worst Blogger Ever

2008-06-05T07:32:00.000-07:00

ME!

You know how when you find a blog that you really like, you read it everyday? Me too. And then on the days when there is not a new posting, you are so disappointed? Same here. You think to yourself, why haven't they posted? What is going on in their life that is so important it would keep them from posting? I hope they didn't die (this one is probably just me because I am paranoid and irrational) :)

So, sorry for being the worst blogger ever lately. I will try to do better.

Love,

Sneaky

Cheeky Bev Naps

2008-05-30T08:59:00.001-07:00

I love them all, but my favorite is "I love not camping" - that is so me. Available at Z Gallerie for $5.95 per set of 20.

Not So Sneaky

2008-05-29T08:18:00.000-07:00

I have been spending an inappropriate amount of time on Craig's List the last couple of days. Seriously. I have a problem. My friend Hayley and I have been constantly emailing each other our awesome CL finds. And she has a job! Anyway, yesterday I scored a cute, cute, cute little credenza/sideboard piece for $60. I am going to work my magic on it and I will post pics when it is restored and glamorous.

It was too big for me to sneak into the garage on my own, so I had to get help from the Hubs. He was not pleased. Not because he had to help me move it, but because I once again purchased something that I do not need. Bah Humbug!

I have learned my lesson: next time I'll get my neighbor to help me :)

Cool Rugs

2008-05-27T08:07:00.000-07:00

Just for fun. All available at overstock.com at fabulous prices.

Best Top Coat Ever

2008-05-24T08:37:00.000-07:00

I HATE painting my own nails, really because I am impatient and I hate waiting for them to dry. I always seem to mess them up. Not any more! This top coat dries your nails completely in about 15 minutes. I use a base coat and 2 coats of color underneath, so you know this stuff is good! The bonus is that it is super shiny too. I love OPI!

Bravo Samsonite!

2008-05-20T13:50:00.000-07:00

I was in the mall the other day and passed by the Samsonite store. I had to do a double take when I saw this awesome luggage. This is part of the Samsonite Black Label line and there is even a collection by Alexander McQueen. I never imagined Samsonite could be so cool. Great, just another thing for me to want!

Seriously?

2008-05-19T11:56:00.000-07:00

This is Whitney Thompson, the winner of America's Next Top Model, correction: the "plus-size" winner of America's Next Top Model. She is a size 10.

Since when is size 10 a plus size???

Considering the average size in this country is 14, I think the wrong message is being sent by labeling size 10 as plus size. I think they mean well by showing that a woman who is not stick skinny is beautiful and can be a model. But really, is size 10 the new 24?

I am disgusted.

Design Depression - Please Help!

2008-05-16T07:17:00.000-07:00

I must preface this post with: "I really don't mean to sound ungrateful"

Now that we got that out of the way... A few years ago my Husband (fiancee at the time) and I were very lucky to be chosen to be part of a new show on HGTV called My First Place. It was a very exciting and fun experience. HGTV gave us a designer and 3k to decorate any room of our choice in our first house. We chose our formal living/dining room, we figured, 2 birds one stone.
We both loved the room, and I cried on camera like a total moron. As time goes by, I like this room less and less. In fact, it is making me a little ill. I am not sure if it is just the normal "I'm getting tired of looking at this shat" or if it really sucked to begin with, but I was caught up in the moment.

So my dilemma is this, how can I change/update this room to make it look better without upsetting the Husband. You see, he is very frugal and practical, and I AM NOT. He would think I am crazy for wanting to change this room. To me, it feels cluttered and dark. I would love to get some outside opinions from the insightful blog world. Here are the ground rules:

1. Paint color stays - that was a bitch to paint, and I aint doin it again!
2. Window treatments stay - this will be too obvious and hard to justify to the hubs.

3. Painting stays - it was done by Moi, so if you hate it keep that to yourself - I'm fragile

That's it! Any and all advice is welcome!

Best Yogurt Ever

2008-05-15T11:13:00.000-07:00

This yogurt is so good that it has caused me to become a hoarder. The first time I tried the passion orange pineapple yogurt from Safeway, I was in love. My husband loved it too and requested that I only buy this flavor going forward. I went back to Safeway, a place that I normally don't shop at because the prices are a little too high compared to Walmart Supercenter (please don't hate me for shopping the so called "evil" corporation, it is a matter of economics and convenience) and low and behold, no passion orange pineapple yogurt. The shelf was completely empty. I was a bit p*ssed off because that was the only item I went there to buy and the store is a bit out of the way. I even had a clerk check the back for me with no luck.

The next time I went to Safeway, they had 3 containers of passion orange pineapple yogurt, so I snatched them up and had the clerk, again, check the back. No more. WTF? Obviously, people like this yogurt and are buying it, why don't they order more??? It looks like Safeway needs a little lesson in JIT, ya think?

So last week, when I went to Safeway (just for GD yogurt) I was fully expecting to once again be disappointed and angry. As I came around the corner to the dairy case, I could feel my blood pressure starting to rise a little, was this going to be the day that I gave the Manager a piece of my mind? Just as I was going over in my head all the things I was going say, there they were, a fully stocked row of passion orange pineapple yogurt. It felt like Christmas! I was so happy.

I bought Every. Single. Container.

So, now I'm a hoarder, but I have yogurt for the next 2 weeks! Seriously, you gotta try it.

Sangria!

2008-05-13T09:16:00.000-07:00

I love making Sangria for guests because 1) it is delicioso 2) you make it in batches, so you are not constantly playing bartender 3) it is very easy and looks pretty in the pitcher. I think I might get this book from Amazon to get some new recipe ideas. Sangria is awesome because you can pretty much make any concoction you like, white wine, red wine, any fruit, any juice - whatever. Here is my signature recipe (Sneaky Sangria):

1 orange, sliced into rings

2 limes, sliced into rings

1 bottle Sangria wine - yes the cheap stuff with the handle, its like $10 for a gallon

1 cup O.J.

1 can Fresca

I put the fruit, O.J. and Fresca in a big pitcher with ice, then fill it the rest of the way with the wine. The jug of wine will make many batches. Very refreshing and it tastes grrrreat! Cheers!

Feeling Beachy

2008-05-12T08:26:00.003-07:00

I have a yummy little vay-kay coming up in June and I need a new swim suit. Here are a few that I like, but I need good support/coverage on the top. I think the halter has worked best in the past (because you can hoist em up), but I am not a swimwear or breast engineering expert. If anyone knows better, please do share.

Deco by Jets $194

Plaza de Cibeles, Madrid by Kristi Grinna $138

Zest by Jets $150

Worth Ave, Palm Beach by Kristi Grinna $111

Design Dream Vacation

2008-05-11T08:20:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite design magazines, Veranda, is hosting a design tour in Venice. Five days of architecture, design, art, parties, great food and wine, and a luxurious stay at the Hotel Danieli. Sounds like a great time. For information call Dynamica Travel at 212-370-1528.

Hey Jozette!

2008-05-09T09:17:00.001-07:00

I was so excited to learn about polyvore.com from Jozette at Regardez Moi this morning, I just had to check it out! This site is so cool. Jozette, I made you another birthday party option, just for fun. Hope you like it!

Grecian Satin Dress, Forever21 $24.80
Very Noeud Slingbacks, Christian Louboutin $795
Pink Tourmaline Ring, Vera Wang $3100
14k gold-plated Chandelier Earrings, Banana Republic $29
Lace Cuff, Nordstrom $148
Popcorn Clutch, ynotshop.com $?

I'm a Fatty

2008-05-08T15:18:00.000-07:00

So, I am returning a pair a very cute Trouser Jeans that I purchased at Banana Republic-somehow they shrank just hanging in my closet before I had the chance to wear them, and I am NOT buying a bigger size! I have already paid the bill, so I will need to either exchange or get a credit to my Banana account. Since I am all about instant gratification, I vote for exchange... but what shall I get? I think fluffy people are safe with accessories, right? Here are some fun options.

Window Earrings $32
Basketweave Cuff $39

Mother-of-Pearl Earrings $34

Bamboo Silk Clutch $79

No Reservations Here

2008-05-06T16:49:00.001-07:00

Anthony Bourdain, if you are out there, I love your show and I love you.

I just had to get that off of my chest. If you like travel, food, and sarcastic, sexy, older men, then this show is for you.

Watch it on the Travel Channel Mondays at 10pm ET.

Medallion Bowls

2008-05-06T09:57:00.000-07:00

I want these bowls from Target. They are so cute and have, in my opinion, the perfect bowl shape. I do not need these bowls, but I really love them. Maybe I will buy them when I am gainfully employed again.

Best Beach Towels Ever

2008-05-03T10:30:00.001-07:00

Missoni beach towels: You complete me.

Peep These

2008-05-01T17:25:00.001-07:00

Today I went shopping for some new shoes for a job interview. This is what I found. No, I will not be wearing them to an interview, but they were too cute to pass up. Turquoise and peach Nine West canvas peep toe wedges $19.99 at T.J. Maxx. God I love that store!

Today on Oprah: Sex And The City Cast

2008-05-01T08:21:00.001-07:00

Fire up your DVR! The Sex and the City Cast will be on Oprah today, including Mr. Big! I cannot wait to see it! I am getting a little scared that I will be disappointed with the movie because I am building it up so much in my mind. I think I am going to start convincing myself that it will suck. Maybe that will help?

The Salvation Army LIES

2008-04-29T17:26:00.000-07:00

The reason I am writing this post is because I read a funny story here and was inspired to share my recent Salvation Army experience. It started as a comment on SGM's blog, but it was one of those inappropriately long ranting comments, and needed its own forum.

So here we go...

F the Salvation Army! Yeah, I said it.

Last Tuesday I received a phone call from the S.A. with a recording explaining that they were coming to my neighborhood for a pick-up on Thursday and in the spirit of efficiency they like to have more than one pick-up in each neighborhood. The recording instructed me to press *1* if I had any items for donation. PERFECT! I have a big ass couch that has been sitting in my garage for 3 years that my Husband is always complaining about. I pressed *1*. The recording confirmed our address and said to have the items on the curb by 8am with signage stating "Salvation Army". Simple. I followed these instructions and felt relieved that the couch sitch was resolved and I was also donating it to charity. Win Win.

So when I got home on Thursday night, guess what was on my curb? YEP! My big ass couch. All my tattle-taley neighbors had probably already called the f-ing HOA and told on me for braking the covenant. I was so pissed off, I could not wait to get inside and call the S.A. to rip em a new one (I really would never do this because I don't have the cajones, but I sure wanted to). When I get inside there is a message on the machine stating that "we are very sorry, but do to high participation our truck was full and we could not pick up your items. Please have them out by 8am on Friday and we will pick them up by 4pm. Ok, fine.

Of course it was starting to rain so we had to move the couch back inside for the night, and then haul it back out (in my P.J.s) the next morning. So at this point I was getting pretty irritated with what was supposed to be a simple donation. I came home on Friday night expecting the front of my house to not look like we had been evicted, but no such luck. This time there was no message on the machine. Nothing. Nada.

So, F the Salvation Army! They are assholes. And if anyone wants a free couch, let me know!

Red Door Swingin'

2008-04-27T16:20:00.000-07:00

Red Door Swingin' is a cute little boutique in the Highlands neighborhood in Denver. I love this store because you can find really unique and interesting items. They carry all sorts of home decor pieces including furniture, lamps, and lots of fun accessories. There is also great artwork, jewelry and a large collection of Matt & Nat bags. The owner Suzanne is so sweet and a blast to chat with. She also carries her own line of handmade totes and bags called Hipslip. Stop by and check it out!

Ivanka Does It All

2008-04-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

So, not only is Ivanka Trump insanely beautiful, educated, privileged, creative, entrepreneurial, stylish and well mannered, but she can decorate too. I guess this is Karma's way of paying her back for having a pompous-ass retard for a father.

I saw this article about how Ivanka made over her assistant's apartment and thought it was fun and had some good decorating tips. The final product is teetering on the gaudy side for me, but I would still live there (maybe half of the week because although I loooove pink, I might start to feel a little Steel Magnolia-ish).

Read the full story here:

"Ivanka Trump, make over my dump!"
By Kim Gieske

The Reason My Husband Married Me

2008-04-21T19:07:00.000-07:00

Because I can tear it up in the kitchen... Normally I just make up my own recipes, but I saw this on foodnetwork.com and had to try it. Sooooo good and so easy!

Prettiness

2008-04-18T09:10:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share these roses because I thought they were gorgeous. Can you believe I got the cute little vase at Ross for $1.99? I love myself sometimes!

To Keep or Not To Keep?

2008-04-15T10:52:00.000-07:00

That is the question. Orange leather Tahari sandles with a slight banana heel. $50 at T.J. Maxx.

Should I keep them?

Los Amigos Invisibles

2008-04-15T10:19:00.000-07:00

If you don't know about this group, please let me introduce you. If you do know about this group, then you know what I'm talking about.

They are from Venezuela and have actually been around for a long time - I am just fashionably late to the party. I went to their concert a couple weeks ago and I now am smitten. I'm not normally a concert person, but I would definitely go again. AND... the lead singer is pretty darn cute, I mean if you're into that sexy, Latin, sultry jazz voice thing. Whatever.

See a video here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5ZO7DFU7gk

Tory Burch

2008-04-10T16:20:00.000-07:00

For the record: I LOVE TORY BURCH.

I recently visited her store in New York, and I wanted everything! Her designs are fun and happy, and chic and modern at the same time. Lots of color and interesting patterns. I have to admit, when I first became acquainted with TB it was through those stupid flats with the HUGE logo on them - and every wannabe had them, so I thought TB was lame. But after going to the store and seeing the clothes and jewelry and handbags, it is a completely different story. I still don't like the flats, but everything else is amazing. You should really check it out:

http://www.toryburch.com/

Best Shoes Ever

2008-04-10T13:20:00.000-07:00

Ok, I already know that you are thinking OMG, those Manolos are like, so two seasons ago. I know. I found them at Neiman Marcus Last Call for a steal. But honestly, these shoes are the most beautiful pair I have ever seen. I would take them over any of Carrie Bradshaw’s amazing collection any day. Actually she probably owns these. Too bad they didn't have my size.