Merci Blah Blah

Random (p)Inspirations: The Print Edition

2012-02-10T08:11:00.000-06:00

Source: becauseimaddicted.net via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: alovelyescape.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: carolinesmode.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: refinery29.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: runningonhappiness.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: tumblr.com via Carlo on Pinterest

Source: lookbook.nu via J on Pinterest

Merci!
Shan

Aw, Shucks....Lil Old Me?

2012-02-10T06:00:00.000-06:00

Guess who has two thumbs and was nominated for Circle of Mom's Top 25 Moms With Style blog? THIS GUY. I appreciate the nom, and all the readers, and would love it if you took a minute to click here and vote for me. Or you can click on the pink circle to the left and get to the same place. You can actually vote once every 24 hours, so if you REALLY like MerciBlahBlah, I'd LOVE it if you did that too.

WWD: The Pink Pants-er

2012-02-09T08:20:00.000-06:00

Please excuse the world's worst, blurriest photos. They flat out suck. This is me rushing to take photos in the office before anyone else gets in.

Two things I'm dying for this spring? Neon - duh. I've only mentioned that about eleventy-five beeeelllion times, and Mesh. Done and done. Pink pants and mesh sweater from Old Navy and F21, respectively.

I've mentioned it before, but Old Navy is KILLING IT lately. I am in serious love with their stuff.

Swapped out the sweater for a slouchy tank, chambray shirt, sequin jacket and my Vince Camuto's for a girls' night out surprise party last night. Did I take a photo? Of course not. Thorry. You'll see it eventually, as I'm sure I'll wear these pants to death this spring.

Oh, and that teeny, tiny fluorescent heart necklace? $1.50 at F21. Lubs.

Sweater, Necklace, Earrings: F21

Pants, Boots: Old Navy

Tank: Wal Fart

Merci!
Shan

WWD: Big Dull Dud

2012-02-08T06:00:00.002-06:00

They don't all work, folks.

This is what happens when I don't plan out my ensemble the night before.

I end up wearing something that, by the end of the day, I can barely stand to look at.

Blargh.

Ah well, better luck tomorrow.

EDIT: Hey - see that big pink button on the left? Top 25 Circle of Moms? Click on that bad boy and vote for me. I may win a meeeelllllion dollars. Or not.

Dress: 12th Street by Cynthia Vincent

Vest: F21

Boots: Thrifted

Necklace: Threadsence

Earrings: Gift

Merci!

Shan

WWD: Up Ya Nose...

2012-02-07T06:00:00.001-06:00

...with a foam rubber alphabet letter????

Our weekend was pretty uneventful, unless you count taking the Gavinator to the emergency room Thursday night because he stuck a foam rubber alphabet letter up his nose. IN THE MIDDLE OF MY GIRLS' NIGHT OUT. With this foxy lady, who, sadly, is no longer blogging, but you can read back through her old pages here and cry in your beer because a) she's no longer blogging, and b) you are green with envy that THIS GUY got to have drinks with her. I'll wait.

So in the midst of dinner, The Hubs calls to say, "Yeah, you may want to come home. Gavin stuck an alphabet letter up his nose and we need to take him to the ER." Suffice it to say, dinner was officially over, I high-tailed it home, and we took him to the ER closest to our casa, where as soon as the doc stuck the long sharp tweezer up Gavie's nose, he succeeded in pinching the inside of it, causing it to bleed, and insuring that nothing was coming out of said nose that night. Instead, he said we may want to try Children's Mercy Hospital the following day, where they wrapped him up like a papoose and successfully removed this:

Not the dime, just the green thing. When I asked if they did that very often, they immediately said, "Oh, YEAH - we just removed popcorn kernels from someone's ear." I was somewhat reassured. When I was relaying this story to my co-worker, she helpfully reminded me of the time I found a Cheezit in the crack of Simon's arse when I went to change his diaper. What the hell is it with my boys sticking things where they don't belong? I don't know if Simon was trying to swipe a credit card or what, but who sticks a frigging Cheezit in their ass????? Those things have sharp corners!!!

Aside from our ER visit, the rest of the weekend was pretty quiet.

Except for maybe when I dropped a dresser drawer on the top of my foot whilst taking it out to the garage because SOMEONE broke it.

I won't name any names, but their initials start with SIMON AND GAVIN. Little jerks. This is the second drawer they've broken, luckily from the same dresser. Which is an antique, by the way.

I maaaay have cussed a blue streak when it happened, which, incidentally, is pretty much what the top of my foot looks like now. Lovely. Hope your weekend went better! By the way, this post was brought to you by the middle of the letter "O."

Sweater: Old Navy

Shirt: Target

Skirt: French Connection, thrifted

Shoes: Steve Madden

Bracelet: F21

Necklace: Charming Charlie's

Merci!

Shan

Um, YUM.

2012-02-06T06:00:00.000-06:00

Made my new favorite dish this weekend. I don't know why, but I woke up wanting slow cooked short ribs on Saturday, so I found this recipe by Big Bewbs De Laurentis, and It. Was. CRAZY BANANAS GOOD. The only difference in mine was that I used some artichoke ravioli from Trader Joe's, and did not have bittersweet chocolate on hand to grate over the top, which REALLY bummed me out. Oh, I also kept everything in the pot with the temp as low as it would go for about 3 hours total, as opposed to 2, and the meat just fell off the bone. The first bite was nothing short of hebbinly, if I say so myself.

I threw in some parmesan-roasted brussel sprouts too, for good measure.

That's an almost-clean plate you're lookin at there, folks.

For dessert, I wanted chocolate cake. Not just any chocolate cake, but a sour cream chocolate cake. I have the fondest memory from childhood of it. I remember staying with an aunt once when my parents had something to do, and she made the BEST sour cream chocolate cake. It was Christmas time, and I recall watching Rudolph, and going into the kitchen to sneak bites of cake. I don't know why I have never made one until now. Found this recipe on Pinterest (God bless Pinterest), and it was soooooo good.

I did substitute cake flour for all purpose flour, but that damn cake was so light and fluffy, even with the sour cream, that it was almost difficult to frost. In fact, if I make it again I would double the recipe for the frosting and do a crumb-coat before putting the final frosting layer on.

Oops, didn't clean up my crumbs from the edge of the plate before I took that photo, did I?

Or that one...

If you are looking for a good winter-night dinner, might I recommend ALL of the above? It edges dangerously close to my go-to meal in terms of sheer taste satisfaction.

Merci!
Shan

...and the Winner Is....

2012-02-06T05:59:00.000-06:00

...the lovely Courtnee from Moments of Whimsy. Congrats - I'll be contacting you to get your digits!

Mwah!

Shan

WWD: Dream A Little Dream

2012-02-02T06:00:00.002-06:00

Dreams have always been fascinating to me. I wrote a term paper on lucid dreams in high school and have read several books on them. Once, when I had an extremely vivid lucid dream - that I can still recall very clearly, I found an internet site where they interpret your dream and submitted mine for interpretation. In that particular dream, I dreamt I was in an old castle with stone walls, and was walking down a very long corridor. I started running, and it was like what you see in the movies, as if the corridor was stretching in length the longer I was running. I was picking up speed, and coming to the end of the corridor, which was a stone wall where the corridor turned. Just where it turned was a large, arched window that was open. I was running faster and faster, thinking to myself, I'm either going to crash into the wall, or I'll have to jump out the window. At the last minute, I jumped, and found myself soaring in the sky, flying. At that moment I realized I was in a dream, and was able to control my actions in the dream. It was dusk in the dream, and there were black birds flying in crazy circles. I remember doing loop-de-loops in the sky with them, and feeling so free and happy. It was amazing.

I remember a dream I had from when I was a girl, VERY vividly. My sister and I shared a room, and I dreamt that there were snakes crawling down the wall in the hallway just outside our room. My parents, sister and I were all sitting on our bed watching the snakes, and when they would reach the floor, they would turn into hair ribbons, and my mom went and collected them (in real life, she kept a drawer in her dresser for our hair ribbons).

I had the weirdest dream last night. I went to the gym (which didn't look like the gym I attend). There were several different levels, and I got on the elevator to take it to the floor where my class was being held, except I couldn't remember which floor it was on.

I took it to floor 5, and there was a class there, but not the one I was looking for. I got back on the elevator and took it to floor two, and it was the same class, with the same people, that I had just seen on floor 5. Tried another floor. Same class. Took the stairs and kept running back into the same class. I never made it to the class I wanted to attend.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?????

Are you interested in dreams? Ever have yours interpreted? Ever interpret them for others? Have a crazy dream you want to share? Let's hear it, peeps.

Jacket: Worthington, Thrifted

Dress: Kensie

Shoes: Vince Camuto

Necklace: Urban Outfitters

Earrings: Clothing Swap

Bracelets: Old Navy

Merci!
Shan

WWD: I'm GIVING IT AWAY, for the love of Charo!

2012-02-01T06:00:00.000-06:00

First of all, if you haven't gotten in on the drawring, DO IT here. Come on, I realize I'm not giving away a bag worth several hundred dollars, but I AM giving some little gifties away. What da hail, peeps????

I mean, I wish I COULD give away a bag worth several hundred dollars, but until someone gifts me with a couple (one for me, one for you), you're stuck with my home-spun gift bag.

Sheesh.

In other news, I feel very 70s suburban housewife in this getup.

That's about all I have to say about that. Oh, did I mention I HAVE A GIVEAWAY GOING ON??

Sweater: Old Navy

Jeans: Gap

Shoes: Jessica Simpson

Necklace: F21

Earrings: ABC Trading Co.

Bracelets: F21, Target

Merci!
Shan

WWD: Dork Alert!!

2012-01-31T06:24:00.000-06:00

Thought I'd share some weekend snaps and ensemble photos. Take a look at the photo below, just where my shirt is tucked in. Das right, it's gaping open, and you can see my stomach. Every single photo was like that. NERD.

Lucky you - you get to see the fruits of my tummy tuck. You're welcome. And even after I ate my face off this weekend. Asked The Hubs what he wanted for dinner on Saturday night, and he requested rack of lamb. I made my go-to recipe when I want to impress: herb crusted rack of lamb. Okay, okay, I know the recipe is actually herb-crusted pork loin, which I have made before, but I love love love it on lamb.

I have also been known, when I'm being lazy, to just do the rub on the meat and skip the herb crust, which is good too. The mix of cinnamon and cumin is DIVOONE, and smells hebbinly, especially in the fall and winter. What is YOUR go-to meal to impress?

I don't mean to toot my own horn, but TOOT TOOT - my roasted potatoes are pretty damn good too. Dice them up, toss them with some EVOO, kosher salt, cracked pepper, paprika, and chicken spice rub, then roast in the oven on about 425 for 30 minutes, tossing after 15. Or you can do them at a lower temp for 40 - 45 minutes. For dessert? Tippins' French Silk pie. I don't know if Tippins is just a midwest thing, or if you can get it elsewhere, but if you cannot, I feel sorry for you, cuz it. ROCKS.

What is UP with the shirt gape??? Man, I may have to rethink wearing that shirt again.

Best part of Sunday morning? The first cup of coffee, just after putting in a lil fat free half and half (I had a dream there were clouds in my coffee, clouds in my coffee....) and the Sunday paper.

Seriously? It's like this shirt and my bosoms are conspiring against me. That's just ridiculous.

At least I have cute jewelry, and at least ONE photo where my bewbs and/or belly aren't trying to escape. And again I say, YOU'RE WELCOME.

Jacket: Macy's

Shirt: Vintage, thrifted

Pants: T.J. Maxx

Shoes: Vince Camuto

Necklace: Threadsence

Earrings: F21

Merci!
Shan

SAGALICIOUS

2012-01-30T11:48:00.000-06:00

I had NO idea the SAGs were on until too late. Sads. Still, will that stop me from critiquing those in attendance? Hells NO.

My favey crocketts:

Amber Heard: Bandage Chic at its finest.

Emma Stone: I could carry you around in my pocket all day long, you adorable thing, you.

Julie Bowen: Love the chic simplicity of the silhouette, LOVE LOVE LOVE the color. I am PRETTY sure we would be BFFs if we were ever to meet in real life.

Naya Rivera: This is so frigging Tony Orlando & Dawn fabulous I can't get over it. Seriously. I'm pretty sure Telma Hopkins wore something just like this at one time or another.

Sarah Hyland: While I'm not loving the color on this one, I just think Mila Kunis, Jr. is as cute as a bug in a rug.

Jennifer Carpenter: I always appreciate what JC does on the RC. This is no exception.

Ashlee Simpson: If loving you is wrong, I don't wanna be right. Serious fondness for this flappery numbah.

And now for my least faves:

Lea Michelle: Stop. Just stop.

Jane Krakowski: I love you, and I think you're prolly around my age, which is why I cannot figure out why you insist on wearing these aging beauty queen gowns to every event.

Rose Byrne: Her head looks gorgeous. Love the hair and makeup. In fact, the Fug Girls would call this a scroll down fug. I can get on board with this UNTIL we hit pants level. Then it all goes to hell in a big, sequin lace, Vegas pantsuit.

Busy Phillips: THE HELL IS THIS HIPPIE SWISS MISS NONSENSE???? Girl, I LOVE you, but this look GOTS TA GO.

Merci!
Shan

Random (p)Inspirations: Parts Is Parts

2012-01-30T06:00:00.001-06:00

Source: sparkling-glitter.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: fitfabulousforever.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: instagr.am via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: s3.amazonaws.com via Shannan on Pinterest

P.S.

Don't forget to enter to win the goodie bag here, yo.

Merci!
Shan

FREE DONUTS!!!

2012-01-27T07:51:00.000-06:00

Okay, so I really am not giving away free donuts (that's how I would make sure people opened my emails at a previous employer - what can I say? engineers REALLY like their donuts - ESPECIALLY if they're free)....BUT I DIGRESS.

I AM, howevaaaah, giving away a goodie bag of some of my favorite things. I have been wanting to do it for a while, and since I just realized I FINALLY hit the 250 followers mark, I figured now was as good a time as any.

The rules? Be a follower of ye olde blogge. Leave a comment below saying so. Das it. Simple, right? So what are you in for? Take a look-see...

and maybe a lil of this:

(pretend that this is a better quality photo, mmm-kay???)

P.S. - the photo above does NOT represent that you will get a stained, chipped yellow mug, but my current favey crockett lipstick - L'oreal's British Red. A NEW tube, of course. Duh.

There may be a few other items thrown in too, but you'll just have to play to win. You have until next Sunday, and I'll announce the BIG WINNER the following Monday (February 6). Let's recap - FOLLOW - ENTER - WIN. Well, maybe not that last one, but you catch my drift. Good luck, ya'll!!!

Merci!
Shan

WWD: Blog-spiration

2012-01-26T07:54:00.000-06:00

Loves me some Cheyenne meets Chanel, and when I saw the following photo on her blog, I knew I could recreate it easily. It may be my new favorite ensemble. Know what else I loves?

Source: cheyennemeetschanel.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Eggs over easy on toast. I eat it every morning for breakfast. YUMMMMM. If I'm REALLY feeling ambitious, I'll make eggs over easy toast + cheese + bacon sammich.

My new tennies:

Source: footlocker.com via Shannan on Pinterest

I think you know by now that I ALWAYS wear black cross trainers (my cuz brought it to my attention that one day she was googling black cross trainers, and guess who's photo popped up on page one of the image search? TRUE STORY). In fact, I even bought a new pair of them at the same time I got the ones above (both pairs were about the same amount as the current shoes I have been wearing now for waaaayyy too long).

Source: 6pm.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Sadly, I don't think I love these as much as the trainers I'm replacing, but I'll withhold judgement until I wear them to class tonight. The poyple and orange neon ones though? LOVES. I think the last time I wore tennies that weren't black or white was in grade school, and if memory serves, I wore a neon yellow pair of Nikes with a blue swoosh.

What else do I love? A man with a sense of humor. Or humour, if you're British. It doesn't hurt if he looks like this in the process:

Source: mariealamode.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

A big ole THANK YOU to Marie a la Mode for posting that photo on your blog the other day (as well as all the others).

What else do I love? That my gym finally - FINALLY - added another Turbokick class to its schedule on Fridays. It's about damn time!!! Thank you, powers-that-be who actually read the suggestions in the suggestion box!! Now if you could kindly heed the suggestion SOMEONE left re: NO MORE DANCE MIX VERSIONS OF REGULAR SONGS, I would - errrr....I mean THEY would probably appreciate that.

Starbucks Blond Roast. Blondie, I met you for the first time eaaarrrrllly on a cold morning after my 5:30 Boot Camp class, and it was love at first sip. Smooth, velvetty, and nutty, you are the wind beneath my wings.

Christina Applegate. SOMEONE was tardy to the party on Up All Night, but I swear, I love her more each time I see her. I am PRETTY sure that we would be BFFs if we met in real life.

Source: google.com via Shannan on Pinterest

My L'oreal British Red lipstick. LOVES. I love it so much, in fact, that I'm giving some away, along with some more of my favorite things. Keep your eyes peeled - I hope to have the post up by Monday - for followers, so if you're not a follower, GET SIGNED UP. What da hail are you waiting for anyway?

So loves, what do YOU loves? Share.

Jacket: Newport News

Sweater Vest: F21

Jeans: Marshall's

Boots: Old Navy

Necklaces and Earrings: F21

Tee: Shop Frankie's

Merci!
Shan

WWD: Random Thoughts

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000-06:00

Best thing I heard all day? When The Hubs turned to me during Intervention and said, "I wonder if Jeff VanFondleberg will be the interventionist tonight." VanFondleberg is almost as good a name as Vanderpump. It's an even better euphemism for sexy times, i.e., "why don't you get over here and VanFondleberg me?" or "I think we should Vanderpump."

I am skurred that I may have accidentally created a time machine out of a Delorean and time-traveled back to 1982, because apparently? Someone has two thumbs and CANNOT get enough neon, and it's this guy. And also? This guy found himself browsing the interwebs yesterday for mesh tank tops. Let me repeat that. MESH. TANK. TOPS. Granted - I want one to work out in (over a sports tank), but still, MESH. TANK. TOPS. I'm not talkin bout sheer, thin mesh either. Nope, I want the big old, black, fish-netty looking mesh. Hold me.

"Yo, check me out. My name is Amber, and here's how I do. I got nonstop hotness, hardcore learning disabilities, constant horniness, and I'm rockin' one leg. Whoo! Yeah! I don't know what they can do to me, 'cause this bird is already Swanned out! All I want is some medicine for my ringworm, and a cool-ass face tattoo. What-what?!" (If you have never seen Amy Poehler in that SNL sketch, well, I just feel sorry for you)...

Coffee, I want to make sweet, sweet love to you....

I mean it. I want on you. NOW. Let's Vanderpump.

SOMEONE looks a wee bit stoned in that photo. Tis not me, howevs. I can assure you, I have only smoked weed once, after drinking an entire bottle of wine. And then promptly threw up. A stoner I am not.

I think I have shared quite enough for one day, don't you? Buh to the Bye.

Jacket: NY&Co

Plaid shirt: Nightshirt on clearance at Old Naaaavy

Tee: Old Naaaavyyy

Leggings: Target

Boots: Olllld Naaaaavyyyyy

Arm Party: ABC Trading Co., and wait for it....Ollllllllllllllld Naaaaaaaaaaaaavvvvvvyyyyyy

Earrings: Ladies Night Clothing Swap

Necklace: Threadsence

Merci!
Shan

WWD: Barf O Rama

2012-01-24T06:00:00.002-06:00

I am writing this whilst watching last week's Project Runway All Stars, and the challenge to the designers was to create a dress for a celebrity. That celebrity? Miss F@#king Piggy. This may not be a popular opinion, but I frigging HATE the Muppets. Like HATE. THEM. It is K-I-L-L-I-N-G me to listen to the designers talk about a puppet like she is an actual living, breathing, human being. I seriously don't know if I can make it through to the end.

Someone just said "I've seen a lot of photos of Miss Piggy, and she has really pretty legs." IT'S A FUCKING PUPPET, PEOPLE.

(don't be jealous of my Mad Acting Skillz...)

Oh sweet Jeebus on a Cheezit, even JOANNA COLES has been sucked into the Miss Piggy ass-kissing. Did the Muppet conglomeration underwrite this entire episode of Project Runway???? Give me strength.

You can't tell me there's not one designer there who is thinking "What the EFF are we doing creating a look for Miss Piggy??? Where the hell is the Cher challenge? The Gaga challenge? Hells bells, even a Jessica Simpson challenge..."

And if someone could send Kenley to elocution school, I would appreciate it. I cannot STAND the whiny way in which she says EVERYTHING. I will give you that she has the prettiest, shiniest hair (suck on THAT, Kyle Richards), but UGH to everything else.

Even Isaac Mizrahi couldn't be bothered to show up for the runway show.

Angela Lindvall, knock it off we the "We're HONORED to be in the presence of a true superstar" shit. I just threw up in my mouth.

Michael - get over yourself. You made a short, strapless dress with an uneven hem that looks like you ripped off of Rami's design a few weeks ago. Build a bridge and get over yourself. Uh oh, I just saw Kenley's dress, and so far, it's my favorite. I can't help it. Yes, she threw a GINORMOUS pink pouf of tulle on the model's head and called it a hat, but I still like it. Good Gawd - I just realized something - if I like that, I AM MISS PIGGY. Noooooooo!!!!!!

Has Mood been REALLY pushing their stock of feathers on the models? Cuz there are an awful lot of em on the runway. COME ON, KARA - what the hell is that crap? What's the deal with the elbow length hot pink satin gloves? Blech. Anthony - MORE FEATHERS. Rami - another giant pink tulle AND FEATHER hat. Mila - FINALLY - a decent, wearable dress. Love it. Gordana - is that a nightie from Woolworths, circa 1972? Austin What The Eff Is That Hot Mess Scarlettttttt????

UGH - the "comedy" that they are providing is making me cringe with embarrassment for everyone involved.

ARE YOU FRIGGING KIDDING ME WITH THE WINNER OF THIS TRAVESTY????? Dis-gus-ted.

And a 6-hour-challenge NEXT week? I think PRAS has officially jumped the shark.

Thus concludes my half-assed jeedging of the show. Are you watching along wif me? Chime in if ya have a hankerin' to.

Blouse (sounds SO 1979, doesn't it???): Macy's
Pants: Zara. Like you din't already know that.
Shoes: Vince Camuto. Ditto.
Urrings: ABC Trading Co.
Belt: Thrifted

Merci!
Shan

Random (p)Inspirations: And It Was All Yellow

2012-01-23T06:00:00.000-06:00

I'm definitely having a yellow moment right now. Join me on the yellow brick road, won't cha?

Source: apartmenttherapy.com via Shannan on Pinterest

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WWD: Multi-Tasking

2012-01-19T06:00:00.001-06:00

These photos are the result of what happens when I a) go directly to work from the gym, and b) try to take my OOTD pics whilst chatting on the phone with my sister.

For that, I apologize.

Please make note, howevah, that I DID shower in between gym and photo op. Who do you take me for - Courtney Love?

I also realized after I started my workday, that even though I LIKE the tan suede jacket with my outfit, it was virtually IMPOSSIBLE to bend my arm and perform the simplest tasks, like BENDING MY ARM. Or writing. Or typing. Or BENDING MY ARM.

Thus, I ditched that beyotch just after the Big Photo Shoot.

Probably much like the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills will ditch the faux housewife Dana as soon as this season ends. What is going ON with those ladies???? Kim Richards, if you're reading this, PUH-LEEZE call Jeff Van Vonderan and book a room at Promises Rehab in Malibu TOOT SWEET. I can't take much more of this. Hold me...

On that note, I'm going to end this nutty, disjointed post TOOT SWEET.

Tee hee...I said toot....TWICE.....

Jacket: Thrifted

Chambray shirt: JC Penny

Sweater: T.J. Maxx

Pants: Zara

Shoes: Thrifted

Necklaces: Thrifted, Gifted from my sis

Merci!
Shan

WWD: To Vacay or NOT To Vacay

2012-01-18T06:00:00.001-06:00

...with kids...THAT is the question.

Having managed to maneuver all of 2011 without a trip back to Laguna Beach, I have a hankering something FIERCE to head west this year. My conundrum? Beg someone to stay with the kids and make it a trip for just The Hubs and me, or bite the bullet and take The Trio of Terror on their first vacation...

The thought makes me break out immediately into a cold sweat, because taking the kids on vacation? Well, would be NO vacation. In fact, it'd probably be harder, and more expensive, with less sleep and crappier beds.

Still - I know we need to do it EVENTUALLY, but do I want to tarnish my beloved Laguna, or go someplace perhaps a little kid-friendlier for their first time, and save Laguna for juuust the two of us (we can make it if we tryyyyy, just the two of usssss, you and I....)

I would LOVE it for those of you with kids to weigh in on this one. When did you first take your rug rats on vacation? Are we crazy for waiting this long (they'll be 4 in May), or are we crazy for considering taking them anywhere?

And completely off-topic here, can I just say that SOMEONE went a leeettle too heavy on the blush today. DAYUM. I guess I was going drag for work today.

Thank God my hurr looks fantastic. Granted, it doesn't look Amy Bo Bamy fantastic, but still...

(don't kill me, Ames. P.S. - when are you sending me that necklace???)

KIDDING - I kid. I only think my hair looks fabulous, not QUITE fantastic. But those CHEEKS???? Ugh.

I also wish the details on this outfit stood out a little more, cuz it looked way better in real life. Ah well. Those two little white dots on the photo above are sequins shining through (I wear a sequin skirt as a slip under the pleated skirt).

So back to the vacation thing - seriously folks, what to do, what to DOOOOOO???? Gimme some guidance here. Espesh if you have multiples (PY Jammy, I'm looking at yoooou).

Jacket: JC Penny

Tank: Wal Fart

Sequin Skirt: ????

Pleated skirt: Vintage, thrifted

Shoes: J Simpson Dany's

Necklace: Threadsence

Merci!
Shannan

Random (p)Inspirations: Black & White & Fresh All Over

2012-01-17T08:40:00.000-06:00

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Source: acidwonderland.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: vogueforbreakfast.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: trulyfantastic.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: fashionisglory.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: thefashionsecret.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Merci,

Shannan

Pardon Moi

2012-01-16T08:13:00.000-06:00

Guess who has two thumbs, $10, and a new web domain??? THIS GUY. Be sure to update your bookmarks, favorites, etc. etc. to www.merciblahblah.com. Not only cuz you just love me, but ALSO because in the near future I'm going to be giving away a giftie gift bag of my favorite things to a loyal follower of ye olde blogge, including, but not limited to, the following:

My Favorite Things by merciblahblah on polyvore.com

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Original - 11ml Health & Beauty |...
£15 - hqhair.com

Nicole by OPI Nail Polish - Glitter in My Stocking : Target
$7.04 - target.com

I know, I know - it's a random assortment of items, but I wanted to thank ya'll for sticking wiv me. SOMEONE just crossed off one of the items on their New Year's Resolutions...

Merci!

Shannan

Golden Globes Recap

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000-06:00

Award season is here, bitchez!!! Let's recap the Globes, shall we? Starting with...

The Good

Rooney Mara:
For someone hardly anyone had heard of a year ago, girlfriend hits it outta the park every time she is on the red carpet. She's a little weird, a little retro, a little Bladerunner all rolled up into one glam package.

Maria Menounos:

Ooooooh, the yellow that graced the carpet last night. This was my favorite of the canaries. I love love LOVE the 60s retro vibe, and think her hair and makeup are flawless.

Mireille Enos:

I have NO EARTHLY IDEA who this is, but I am digging her dress. Hurr and makeup are also gorge. Way to go, whoever you are!

Paula Patton:

In every photo I have seen of her recently, Paula always looks like she is having more fun at whatever event she is attending than anyone else. How could she not, in this dress? The silhouette itself is nothing new (in fact, it reminds me a lot of my own wedding dress), but that color? The COLOR???? Lubs.

Sarah Hyland:

Typically I do not like dresses that match one's skin tone, but this is lovely. The lace and the black push it into Special Dress Land (as opposed to Special Ed Dress, which is apparently what Piper Perabo is wearing - see below...).

Sarah Michelle Geller:
Forget Bootylicious. This is Bufflylicious. Girl? You. Look. UH-mazing. I love love love this dress. Gasped a little when I saw it initially. So freaking cool and tie-dye-ey and shocking and gorgeous, and I could eat it up with a spoon.

Emma Stone:

Giving some SERIOUS Zoolander here. Love this color on her, and hair and makeup is bananas. Blue steel indeed.

Salma Hayak:

Studio 54 called and wants to know if it can borrow your dress. Love the art deco disco hybrid.

Jessie Tyler Ferguson:

I love a man in a velvet suit, espesh when said man call pull off the velvet suit. You have just Robert Downey Jr'd your way to my favorite man of the evening. Well done, sir.

Helen Mirren:
Not much more to say than what Tom & Lorenzo would say - "Bow down, bitches."

Nicole Richie:

She is always gorgeous, but I think her hair and makeup look better here than I've ever seen.

Claire Danes:

I hold a soft spot in my heart for her because something about her reminds me of my sister, plus, come on - Romeo & Juliet was a KICKASS movie back in the day. She is always simple, chic, and elegant. LOVING the backless numbah she wore.

Evan Rachel Wood:

Something about this is a little drag queen, what with the peacock color PLUS sequins PLUS feathers, but I don't care. I'm in LOVE and I don't care who knows it!!!

Kristin Wiig:

Lady boner in da house! Don't actually love the color, but my "reception" dress from my wedding looked almost just like this, plus her hair just looks so shiny and soft and I love her. Kristin, call me...

Eva Amurri:

She so purty - looks JUST like her mother. Loving her with this hair color, in this color.

The Meh...

Angelina Jolie:

It's no secret, I'm not a fan of Angelina Jolie, and commented last night to The Hubs that both she and Mark Wahlberg need to LIGHTEN THE FUCK UP. Stop taking yourselves so seriously - you pretend for a living. Anyhoo, despite all that I will say that she looked gorgeous - from the neck up. Not many women can wear their hair slicked back and look glamorous and amazing, but Angie Jo certainly can. I also loved her lipstick, and that it matched her dress, AND that her dress was not black or taupe or sack-like. I could not help but thinking, howevah, that she reminded me of someone else, and then I realized who:

They could almost be the same person, except that the Evil Queen has more meat on her bones. And that brings me to my second point - Angelina needs help. She does not look healthy. I could not help staring at her arms. And because she was wearing her hair slicked back, it only emphasized the bobble-head effect. Not good.

Charlize Theron:

Like Angelina above, not many women could wear a mullet dress and pull it off. Oh, wait - INCLUDING Charlize. Why oh why couldn't this have been long in the front? It would've been gorgeous. Alas, tis not to be....

Reese Witherspoon:

She certainly looked happy whenever I saw her last night, but the Jessica Rabbit look for Reese is throwing me off. It just doesn't seem to fit her personality, or something, that I can't quite put my finger on. Plus, I'm not loving the hurr for the red carpet.

The Bad

Madonna:

Ya'll, did you realize Madonna had not two, but FOUR boobs??? True story. This dress, aye-yai-yai!!! So wrong on so many different levels. Waaaaay too tight. So tight I was uncomfortable just watching her. The cap sleeves are not doing her any favors either, and the stupid leather glovelet? Girl, you're not fooling anyone. We've already seen the photos of your veiny hands, and we don't care. You're just calling attention to them with that nonsense. P.S. - What I said earlier about Angie Jo and Mark Wahlberg? Goes double for you.

Jessica Biel:

If this was 1979, and I was in the Jones Store begging my mom to buy me a Gunne Sax dress, I would have died a happy lass if she caved and bought this one. Howevah, being that it is 2012, and she forgot her slip so we can see her granny panties? It's not so great.

Kyle Richards:
What. The. EFF????? Why was Kyle at the Golden Globes? And why did she apparently steal Portia's Valentine Barbie Doll and have the local David's Bridal seamstress recreate her dress? And when did she time travel back to 1991 to have her hurr did to show off that choker? No no no no nooooooo.

Kelly Osbourne:

Who did you piss off to end up like this? For the last several years, Kelly has looked UH-mazing on the red carpet, but this dress, and that horrendous hair???? I have just two words for you: Crazy Train.

Matt LeBlanc:

I have always loved a lil LeBlanc, which has been rekindled thanks to the really cute guy in my Wednesday morning boot camp class who looks like a cross between you and Andy Cohen (true story), but this navy blue tuxedo? Has. Got. To. Go. PLEASE.

Michelle Williams:

I will say I almost teared up during her acceptance speech, but ENOUGH OF THE TWEE, GIRLY LOOKS on the red carpet, already! Yeesh. Between her and Zooey Deschanel (who IS adorable, but still), I have had it up to here with those looks. I HAAAATE that headband with the firey passion of ten thousand burning suns.

Viggo Mortenson:

Apparently got lost on the way to the insurance seminar at which he was the keynote speaker.

Piper Perabo:

The HELL????!!! Kelly Osbourne, did I call you Crazy Train earlier? I take it back. Piper is the engineer on that train, and she just derailed.

Who were YOUR favey crocketts? Least faves? Share. This is a safe place.

Merci!
Shannan

Random (p) Inspirations: Neon

2012-01-12T06:00:00.001-06:00

Typically, a trend that I so blatantly followed back in the day, I tend not to love the second time around. I WISH I had the school pic of my sis sporting a neon yellow polo shirt (with the collar popped, of course), a neon blue mesh scarf around her neck, rocking braces and a mullet with her Tootsie glasses (thank GOD I wasn't the ONLY one in our family with those damn glasses). One trend that surprises me this time around? Neon. I cannot get enough apparently, if my Pinterest pages are any indication.

Source: oldnavy.gap.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Lemme just say that right now, Old Navy has about twelvity-five things that I NEEEEED, including the above orange silky shirt. When Shopping Embargo 2011 has lifted, I am HOPING some of their stuff has gone on clearance.

Source: goodthingsarewildandfree.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Neon Nails? Nice.

Source: atlantic-pacific.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Of COURSE Blair is rocking neon. And looking fab. Jerk. Kidding. Call me.....

Source: scandinavianchic.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Love the tribal braceletty nailiciousness of this.

Source: etsy.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Mmmm-hmmmm....love it on these frames too. D-O-P-E.

Source: Uploaded by user via Shannan on Pinterest

Neon and Neutral? Nifty.

Source: laceandtea.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Just stupid gorgeous.

Source: weststreetglamor.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

I love everything about this.

Source: manrepeller.com via Shannan on Pinterest

And this. And if I thought I could wear my hair like that and get away with it? I would in a heartbeat.

Source: maccosmetics.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Creepy yet cool. So what are YOUR favorite trends for spring?

Merci!
Shan

WWD: The Quick and The Bad

2012-01-11T06:00:00.003-06:00

1. Having to mentally prepare myself to ACTUALLY GET UP when the alarm goes off at 5 a.m. tomorrow to get to Boot Camp on time.

2. Waiting waaay too late to type up tomorrow's blog post before having to get up at 5 a.m. for a stupid Boot Camp class.

3. Realizing, as I'm scrolling through these photos, that this ensemble, though as comfy as jam-jams, makes me look several times larger than I actually am. Ah well, you win some, you lose some...

4. Peas. Seriously, mom? NO ONE LIKES THEM. Every time you feed them to my kids, I end up throwing them all out. BLECH. Peas. The Pariah of Vegetables.

5. A crippling Real Housewives addiction. Nuff said.

6. Wait, so you're saying we did NOT go to Laguna Beach at all in 2011???? What. Da. HAIL?

7. Spending money on stupid stuff like new tires or property taxes.

Whachooo talkin bout, Willis?

8. Gaining and losing the same few pounds every. single. day. since Thanksgiving. Arrrggghhh!!!

9. EDIT: FORGETTING to set the damn alarm clock, and hence walking in late to Boot Camp. Blargh!

Ch-ch-check out Everybody Everywear right here, ya'll...

Leather Jacket: Newport News

Sweatshirt: Loft

Tank: Sears

Pants: JC Penny

Boots: Old Navy

Necklace: Threadsence

Merci!

Shan

WWD: Good Stuff

2012-01-10T06:00:00.000-06:00

1. New magazines in the mailbox.

2. Californication and Shameless back on Showtime, bay-beeee!!

3. Overheard last week when I took Gavin to wash his hands (with our soap that is cranberry coconut)...he washed them, dried them, smelled them, and said, "Mmmmm - DELICIOUS!"

4. How Scarlett says Delicious - DEEE-WISHIOUS!!! So cute I could die.

5. Realizing this weekend that it has been DAYS since I have had to change a poopy diaper. (Mostly) Potty trained kids are DA BOMB.

6. Beer, pizza, and the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills for dinner. God bless Landshark, California Pizza Kitchen, Andy Cohen, and those wackadoos on the left coast.

7. The first cup of coffee in the morning.

8. Looking at a magazine and being inspired to put new ensembles together with pieces ALREADY IN MY CLOSET.

So what's YOUR good stuff for the day?

Sweater: Old Navy (and on clearance for $7.49 RIGHT NOW).

Skirt: Laundry, via Consignment

Shoes: Vince Camuto

Earrings/Bracelets: ABC Trading Co.

Merci!
Shan

WWD: The Year of the Dragon

2012-01-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

Dude. I was just using the Year of the Dragon as my title because it was a riff on the movie The Hubs and I saw New Year's Eve, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, and butter my butt and call me a biscuit, when I went to check what year it was? It IS the Year of the Dragon. I am like, SO PSYCHIC in the New Year, I'm practically Nostradamus. I'm pretty sure this means that my dream about Daniel Craig begging me to run away with him will come true any day now.

Little trivia about me, I was born in the Year of the Rooster, which always makes me laugh because some Chinese restaurants refer to it as the Year of the Cock (tee heeeee). I think we all know how those refined ladies of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills must SHUDDER to think of someone born in the Year of the Cock (tee heeee), what with their delicate sensibilities about the word C-o-c-k and all. Well, except for Brandi, who, incidentally, was born in the Year of the Monster Truck.

(Doing the Michael Jackson loses a little something when you have to hold onto the mantle to avoid falling down...)

So, back to the Dragon Lady - my new favorite color for lips and nails in the new year? Dragon Lady Red (which, obvs, I'm not wearing on my lips in THESE photos, but I AM wearing on my nails, courtesy of Revlon's Cherries In the Snow, a color which has been around since my grandma fell off her dinosaur.

I took these photos just before going out for dinner with a Triplet Mom's group that I am a member of, and although it is GREAT to see and compare war stories with my friends who have kids "the easy way," aka - one at a time (said with tongue FIRMLY in cheek) - it is altogether different to talk to other moms who know exactly what I'm going through, and who, when I asked, "So, has anyone else has to turn the locks around on their kids' doors?" ALL responded with a resounding "HELLS YES," rather than looking at me like they had an urgent desire to call the DFS.

I swear to you, it was the first time I have felt like a "normal" parent in about a year (since my last dinner with the group).

Note to self: add "Get together with Triplet Mom Group MORE in the new year" to my list of resolutions.

Dragon Lady, OUT.

Jacket: Clothing Swap
Chambray shirt: JC Penny
Tank, leggings: Target
Boots: Old Navy
Necklace: Threadsence
Earrings: F21

Merci!
Shannan

Random (p)Inspirations: Um, YUM.

2012-01-05T07:30:00.000-06:00

I can ALWAYS find a good recipe or 37 on Pinterest when I'm looking for one, and 9 times outta 10, it's something sweet, unfortch. I love to cook, and my M.O. usually involves deciding on an ingredient I want to use, and then googling or checking pinterest for that ingredient until I find a recipe that satisfies that particular urge. Sometimes, though, I don't even have to do that much. In the words of Willy Wonka, come with meeee, and you'll beeee, in a world of pure imagination, what you seeee will defy explanaaaation...

And in the words of Sesame Street, "one of these things is not like the otherrrr, one of these kids is doin his own thing...." I'll let you decide which one it is below.

Source: spoonforkbacon.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Let's just break this one down, shall we? Rose. Water. and. Glitter. Cake. SOOOO making this for my next special cake event. Truth.

Source: spoonforkbacon.com via Shannan on Pinterest

While you're checking the recipe for little sponge cakes with coffee buttercream and toasted almonds, stick around spoonforkbacon and short-circuit your keyboard whilst drooling over all the OTHER amazing recipes they have.

Source: intimateweddings.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Look, I don't know what it is with me and s'mores recipes either, but someone has two thumbs and an obsession, and it's this guy. S'mores bars, s'mores cookies, s'mores cake, s'mores shakes. In the oh-so-elegant words of Barry White, I can't get enough of your love, baby.

Source: ourbestbites.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Chocolate strawberry nachos? That's just stupid good.

Source: threebakingsheetstothewind.com via Shannan on Pinterest

And while we're talking about stupid good, how bout some sex panther brownies? I kid you not. Someone actually crafted the amazingness of the above said brownie. How do I know, Whitney Houston? Well, it's because for some asinine reason I was cruising for Ron Burgandy stuff on Pinterest last night and came across them. Thank GOD. I've been HOPING to come across a good recipe for sex panther brownies.

Source: yourcupofcake.com via Shannan on Pinterest

I am not much of a donut fan (except for a Krispy Kreme now and then), but I can get on board with these baked apple pie donuts fo shuckle, my knuckle.

Source: thegreatbalancingact.com via Shannan on Pinterest

And for a palate cleanser? Curry chicken, of course. Duh.

Now it's your turn. Give it up. Share your favey faves from food land. I can always use a new recipe in my repertoire.

Merci!

Shan

WWD: Witchy Woman

2012-01-04T06:00:00.000-06:00

Luh-huh-huuuving this dress I got for Christmas from my sissie, from none other than Shop Frankie's, the new shop of one of my favey fave blogs, Frankie Hearts Fashion.

Because I was wearing it to work, and it's backless, I knew that I needed a lil coverage, so my faux fur came to the rescue. Added my thrifted cowboy boots and D-O-P-E new necklace my sissie got me along with the dress, and what can I say? I love em all together.

I dig the witchy woman vibe the pieces lend to one another.

Yup, that's my brawr. For the love of Jill Zarin, some of us cannot go brawrless, much as I would've liked to with the dress. Alas and alack, tis not meant to be.

I think when it's a little warmer out, I just need to get a brawr in a crazy color and be out and proud about it under the dress.

I couldn't find a decent version of the original, but this version of the song is pretty dope (from one choir geek to another)...

Dress: Shop Frankie's

Vest: Rachel Zoe for QVC

Necklace: Threadsence

Boots: Thrifted

Rings: Charming Charlie's

Merci!
Shan

WWD: New Year's Rezzies

2012-01-03T06:00:00.008-06:00

I know, I know - it's that time when all of blogland posts their resolutions, and I can't help it. Maybe if I put mine in print, I'll be more likely to keep them. Typically I'm not big on resolutions, because I think if they're things that one really should do, to put oneself on a "scheduled start date" like the beginning of the year, it builds them up too much, and for me, I'm more likely to fail (way to go, me!!)...

Nevertheless, I still have some goals (some small, some not so small) that I'm working towards in the new year. In no particular order:

1. More ensemble photos of casual weekend wear. Yay, me! See - I TODE you they weren't all of significance. And yes, I totally re-wore this look from my top ten of LAST year, but still, baby steps...

2. Spend less damn money, for the love of Captain Stubing. Seriously. I don't need to shop so damn much, but having this blog, and loving to browse other fashion blogs, it definitely sets up an "I NEED THAT IN MY LIFE" attitude that does not help ye olde chequebook. I mean, do I REALLLLLY need those faux leather skinnies from Express? No, I do not. However, there are a few items I AM going to allow myself in the next few months. A new pair of cross trainers. Surrsly, peeps, if you smelled the ones I'm wearing, you would prolly buy me a new pair yourself. That's not why though. The reason is the ones I'm wearing I have been wearing since the trips were born. That is WAY too long, and I cannot believe I haven't developed shin splints yet because I'm still wearing these. I'm a wee bit anal about my workout shoes, howevah. They MUST be black (or maybe charcoal grey), and I prefer cross trainers to runners. Not super duper easy to find black cross trainers. Apparently designers of such shoes think women prefer to look like Jerry Seinfeld when wearing cross trainers, as the majority of them are big, bad and white. If you have any recommendations on black cross trainers, I'd love to hear them.

What else am I allowing myself? Some new perfume that has been on my wish list since LAST Christmas, and which I haven't yet gotten. Ginestet Botrytis, come to mama. Aside from those purchases, I am going to do my DARNDEST to curtail my clothes shopping. I have no idea how this will work, but I am going to attempt a 30-day shopping ban. Gulp.Wish me luck.

3. Wear more bright lipstick. I have about 837 tubes of the same color of gloss or lipstick, all made by different brands. Light peachy pinky nude. Every time I buy another one, I think - NOW I'm REALLY going out of my comfort zone, and then I compare it to all the others, and guess what? SAME DAMN SHADE. For New Year's Eve, I got the shade I'm wearing above, Loreal's British Red, and I love it. Who's wearing bright lips in 2012? THIS guy.

4. Get my eating in check. I read a quote the other day that said something like "People need to concern themselves less with what they eat the week between Christmas and New Year's and worry more about what the eat between New Year's and Christmas." TOUCHE. It's not that I eat terribly, it's just that since Turkey Day, I have definitely gotten more lax with my sugar intake. I intend to do a juice cleanse (preferably the one that Miz Julie details in her blog) in the next week. I'll letcha know how it goes.

(My little Simonator)

5. Finish re-upholstering my antique fainting couch, dammit!!! The Hubs and I started tackling this project in October. OCTOBER, PEOPLE. It is not a huge, detailed piece of furniture, but we got to a curve on the back that tripped us up, and just stopped. It's almost finished, but I have this terrible habit of procrastinating when I'm afraid I'm going to jack something up. JUST DO IT.

6. Get the kids' bedrooms finished. Paint, new bedding, new bed for one, hang some stuff on the walls. Simple, right (except that part where the boys rip things off their walls so I have to find a cute way to hang things high enough that they can't reach and that looks like I INTENDED to hang them too high).

7. Get some new bedside tables for the master bedroom. I know, I know - I just said I'm curtailing my shopping, but these have been on my list for far too long. What we're using now is crap, they're too small, and they're awkward with the bed. I'm not saying I'm getting them in the next month, just sometime this year. Sheesh. Gimme a break, peeps!!

8. Create more artwork, and do more artwork with the kiddos. There was a time when I painted on a pretty routine basis, but since the chillruns, alas and alack, tis not to be. Why not do more myself AND with the kids at the same time??? It's two! Two! Two! Goals in one.

9. Get the kiddos enrolled in preschool. Nope, they haven't been yet. I'm ready for it, I hope THEY'RE ready for it. They need to be in a more social environment. Let the school-shared illnesses begin!!

Work. It.

10. Bring sexy back. And by "sexy," I mean "photography." And noooo, I don't mean "sexy photography...." I just mean, take more photos. Of my kids, of my world, in general. I used to be OBSESSED with Flickr, and was a member of a bejillion Flickr groups and loved it. It was such a creative outlet. Totally miss it. I love how working a creative muscle is like working any muscle - the more you use it, the stronger it gets.

So here's to a new year and new goals. What are YOU working towards this year?

Jacket, Boots: Charlotte Russe

Shirt: Quicksilver

Pants: Target

Necklace: Threadsence

Merci!
Shan

10 of 11

2011-12-31T10:54:00.000-06:00

Thought I'd throw in a little retrospective of my top 10 favey crocketts of 2011, if only to remind myself what the hell to wear again when I'm all, "I have NOTHING TO WEAR in my closet!!!"

10. See - I had COMPLETELY forgotten about this ensemble and love it. In fact, I'm going to go change into it today to wear running around.

9. More stripes, and my beloved fringey boots. This outfit was totally comfy casual chic, IMHO.

8. Another easy peasy lemon squeezy ensemble.

7. LOVED this sleeveless long vest. Probably one of my top three buys of the year, and it was el cheapo at F21.

6. Yup - I had forgotten this combination too. Definitely bringing this one back. Why do I look so pissed?

5. I dug the faux fur layered over my leather jacket-ness of this.

4. Here's my favey fave vest again. This was like wearing sweats, but less "I have Juicy stenciled across my ass..."

3. Recreation of an SJP ensemble, and I LOVED the color-blocking.

2. The only thing that kept this from number one is that I don't like how the top of the dress peeks out over the sweater. I wish it had a different neckline. Ah well - I may recreate a similar look for NYE tonight.

1. In going back through my year, I was surprised this one was my favorite, but I love the polka dots with sequins with bling with distressed denim with studded shoes. Of course, my top two looks have sequins. DURRRRR.

Have a GREAT New Year's Eve, yo, and see you in 2012!

Merci,

Shan

Random (p)Inspirations: Happy New Year!

2011-12-30T07:13:00.000-06:00

Thought I'd leave you this year with some of my latest pinspirations. Whatever you're doing for New Year's, be safe, be happy, and for the love of toast, BE CHIC.

Source: google.com via Mercedes on Pinterest

Source: thistimetomorrow-krystal.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: classy-in-the-city.tumblr.com via Agnès on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: ineedacupcake.tumblr.com via Christine on Pinterest

Source: songofstyle.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Kate on Pinterest

Source: tomandlorenzo.com via Glamorous on Pinterest

Source: ffffound.com via Danielle on Pinterest

Here's wishing each and every one of you a big sloppy kiss at midnight. Mwwwwaaaahhh from me to you!!!

Merci,

Shannan

I DIY!!!

2011-12-27T06:00:00.000-06:00

Hey - check ME out, DIYing. I love the stylemint I'm Almost Not Crazy tee that's all over the interwebs, but knew I could do that myself for a fraction of the price. Enter 2 dollah tee from Old Navy (thanks, 30% off coupon), some repositionable letter stencils and matte black fabric paint courtesy of Hobby Lobby (or HobLob as I like to call it), and about 5 minutes later, voila!!

Merci!
Shan

Scenes From Christmas

2011-12-26T09:15:00.000-06:00

Leaving cookies and carrots for Santa and his reindeer.

These cookies are the DEVIL'S handiwork. I CANNOT resist them. If I'm walking through the room and one is there, it's in my face.

The Best Breakfast EVER. Seriously the best thing I made all weekend. Find the recipe here and send me a thank you gift later.

The Aftermath. Why is it that every toy we got had eight BEEELLLLION pieces? Seriously mom - we needed tinker toys AND lincoln logs? Thanks for that.

Best pressie EVER. Thanks sissie.

This dinner did not photograph well, but it was delish. Trust. How white trash is my tupperware container of cranberry salad?

Um, YUM. Banoffee Pie, I love you.

Hope your Christmas was fruitful.

Merci!
Shan

Happy Christmas

2011-12-25T06:00:00.000-06:00

I wanted to share photos of one of my favorite places in the world, Harrods of London. It is magical, especially at Christmas.

Source: thewindowdisplayblog.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: google.com.au via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: annaink.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: 3.bp.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: google.it via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: adoretoexplore.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: brusday.com via Shannan on Pinterest

May you get everything your heart desires for the holidays.

Merci!

Shannan

Best. Videos. EVER.

2011-12-23T07:10:00.001-06:00

Just for you, I thought I'd share some of my favorite videos on the interwebs. Enjoy.

Best. Christmas Makeup. Tutorial. EVER.

Funniest. Thing. Ever.

Son of Funniest. Thing. Ever.

Kristin Wiig? GIRL CRUSH.

Pretty pretty pretty.

Source: youtube.com via Janine on Pinterest

Pretty badass. Honey badger don't care.

Source: youtube.com via Amanda on Pinterest

I think you'll agree - nothing says Merry Christmas like a National Geographic video of a badger eating a cobra. Fa la la la laaaa la la la laaaaaaaa!!!!

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Joyous Kwanzaa, or Jubilant Festivus to you!

Merci!

Shan

All I Want For Christmas Is More Than 243 Followers

2011-12-22T09:20:00.000-06:00

SERIOUSLY folks. I have been at that number for months. For the luva Redd Foxx, it is RIDIC. I know, I know - the number shouldn't matter, but just like the number on the scale everyday, unfortch, it does.

Okay, enough whining about that. Let's talk food again. Yesterday I came across a recipe in my local paper that trumped my Guinness Shepherd's Pie Christmas dinner. It was a revelation. The inspiration for an entirely new Christmas Day menu. Let's talk turkey, shall we? Or pork, as the case may be.

I present to you...

Source: kansascity.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Pork Tenderloin with Chipotle Cranberry Sauce. Y to the U to the Mmmmmm...

Let's take it a step further though. We're gonna side that with this:

Source: weelicious.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Cheesy Polenta with cream cheese and Parmesan. Uh huh - das right - TWO kinds of cheese. Can you handle it? The Hubs can't, so I'll throw in some roasted potatoes, since "he doesn't liiiiiike polentaaaaahhhh...." Sheesh - whine a little more, why don't you? I thought the creamy mild polenta would pair well with the spicy pork. TOP CHEF IN DA HOUSE!!!

Don't stop now though. Let's add this to the menu:

Source: candcmarriagefactory.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Bacon. Walnuts. Brussell Sprouts. GOOOOOD.

And for dessert? The piece de resistance...

Source: curtisstone.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Banoffee Pie, courtesy of Curtis Stone. DOUBLE YUM. Don't take my word for it though, check it with your own damn peepers....

Source: onehundredjobs.ca via Shannan on Pinterest

You're welcome.

Tis my Christmas gift to you. Seriously though, folks - meet me at camera three.

Whether I have 243 followers or 43 followers, you all are the reason I show up everyday. I truly treasure the friendships I have made through ye olde bloggity ogg, and sincerely appreciate each and every one of you. Through my bouts of sadness or weirdness or too much talk about farting, ya'll are the wind beneath my wings. Love love love!!

Sweater: Old Navy

Jeans: F21

Shoes: Thrifted

Bracelet: F21

Necklace: Urban Outfitters

Belt: Target

Merci!
Shan

Get Your EAT On

2011-12-21T06:00:00.002-06:00

I've been working on my menus for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and thought I'd share witcha. First, I have to say I LOVE Pinterest for sheer inspirational value. Can I get an amen? Hallelujah.

I also decided I'm Totes McGoats wearing this same outfit for Christmas day. It's oh so comfy and waaaarrrrrm.

For Christmas Eve, I picked up a really soft, yummy cheese at Costco the other day they were giving samples of. It's called Gourmandise with nuts (tee heeee), and is a soft, spreadable cheese with walnuts in it. YUM. Will be delish with some grapes, apples, and cracker-like substances.

I'm also debating doing these on the suggestion of my cousin Holly, who says they are deee-lish:

Source: the-girl-who-ate-everything.com via Holly on Pinterest

But the most important part of Christmas Eve??? The cocktail. DUH. I'm thinking these Ginger Sparklers:

Source: marthastewart.com via Shannan on Pinterest

or these Coquito's (COQUITO's - THAT'S fun to say...) look sinful...

Source: marthastewart.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Not only that, but the Coquito's come highly recommended by my homegirl Peetzi Jen.

Then, of course, there are the cookies. I can't decide between these two recipes:

Source: creatingpostitnotes.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

This one, or this one:

Source: foodnetwork.com via Shannan on Pinterest

They're pretty similar, but just different enough that I CANNOT DECIDE. Maybe I do bof.

For Christmas brunchy stuff, this savory bread pudding slash egg concoction looks nummers:

Source: foodandwine.com via Shannan on Pinterest

and to drink? another adult bevvie. DUH...

Source: marthastewart.com via Shannan on Pinterest

I'm going to keep dinner easy peasy, and do either a Guinness Shepherd's Pie or Pot Pie. I cooked my face off for Turkey Day, so I'm taking it relatively easy for Christmas.

So let's hear it, peeps, what's on YOUR menu for the big day? Any special traditions that you carry on? Any yummy recipes that you need to share? Don't be shy. Go tell it on the mountain.

Shirt, Leggings, Bracelets: Target

Vest: F21

Boots: Sears

Merci!

Shan

Green Eyes

2011-12-20T06:00:00.001-06:00

Best buy of the weekend? Two sweaters from Old Navy - this one in leopard, and another in green and navy stripes. KEYOOT, and they had about twelvity five different prints, and I could've gotten each one and been happy.

What pisses me off, you ask? Well, the fact that I'm getting ready to sit down and watch Dexter, thinking I was going to have a California Pizza Kitchen Fire Roasted Veggie pizza and beer, and we are OUT of pizza. I ALWAYS have at least one frozen pizza, usually two, in the freezer. I'm sitting her seriously debating running to the store before we hit play on the FINAL EP of the season.

Okay - done and done. Beer, pizza, and Dexter coming right up.

So I've been wearing green liner and shadow for a few days now, and I'm digging it. Just use a golden bronze shadow on my lid, then line in an evergreen pencil and go over that with a green shadow.

I have to say, I'm digging it.

I mean, it's no Coldplay live in Kansas City at the Sprint Center 3 years ago doing Green Eyes (a concert which yours truly attended), but my shadow'll do just fine.

As for Coldplay, you can enjoy them below. Not a great video, but the sound is good, and Chris Martin ROCKS live. Their concert at the Sprint Center was good, but The Hubs and I saw them at Verizon Amphitheater a few years prior, and that one was hands down my favorite concert ever. Better even than seeing Shaun Cassidy at Kemper Arena when I was in first grade. Gorgeous September night, the weather was perfect. We just had lawn seats, so we took a blanket and chilled, and it. was. perfection. Sigh.

So what was YOUR favey fave concert experience, and why?

EDIT: Pizza and beer, CHECK. Season finale of Dexter? Holy sh!tballs. I mean, SERIOUSLY. Anyone out there a fan and wanna talk offline (so as not to spoil it for those who haven't seen it yet)????? Gulp.

Sweater: Old Navy

Pants: Zara

Shoes: Vince Camuto

Necklace, Ring: Charming Charlie's

Bracelets: ABC Trading Company

Merci,

Shannan

Random (p)Inspirations: Sparkle-tacular

2011-12-19T06:00:00.000-06:00

Some sparkleriffic inspirations from Pinterest. What can I say? I'm a sucka for a sequin.

Source: prettystuff.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: imofficiallyaflower.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: twitter.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: legendaryshit.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: cs10201.vkontakte.ru via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: letrixacuteangle.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: emmaclements.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: ffffound.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: weheartit.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Happy Monday, yo!
Merci,
Shan

FBFF LBlogger Link Up - Christmas Par-tay!!!

2011-12-16T06:00:00.055-06:00

Source: apartmenttherapy.com via Laura on Pinterest

Lordy but it has been a WHILE since I've done a FBFF link up with ModlyChic. I'm in the Christmas spirit though, so imma join in and share the Christmas quiz witcha. Feel free to spout off your own answers in the comments, peeps.

Source: welke.nl via Chantal on Pinterest

No holiday party is complete without: In my family? A shit-ton of food, apparently, and none of it healthy.

My favorite Christmas song/album: Religious - O Holy Night; Non-religious, I have a few: Happy Xmas, War is Over, John Lennon; Merry Christmas Everybody, Slade; Same Auld Lang Syne, Dan Fogelberg; All I Want For Christmas Is You, Mariah Carey (I know, I don't believe it either). If we're talking albums, The Vince Guaraldi Trio's Charlie Brown Christmas is the BEST.

My favorite seasonal recipe: Butternut Squash and Pecan Gratin with Goat Cheese. In fact, I will be putting one together today to take to our extended family Christmas tomorrow. You're welcome, Holly.

Source: cdiannezweig.blogspot.com via Michele on Pinterest

The perfect New Year's Eve outfit includes: Sequins. duh.

At the parties, I'll be drinking: YES

Eggnog, good or bad? The drink of SATAN.

Did you ever take pictures on Santa's lap at the mall? Yup

Gingerbread Latte or Peppermint Mocha: Neither. Instead, I'll take a Grande nonfat one-raw-sugar-latte, please.

Worst gift I ever got: Almost anything from my mom. She is of the "I do not shop from Wish lists!" (or registries, for that matter), and instead, likes to do her shopping in the clearance section of the store the year prior. Makes for some craptastic gifts. It's like she feels like she HAS to get something, but does it grudgingly, so just gets whatever is cheapest. All-weather-picnic-blanket? Ummmm, no thanks.

Best gift I ever received: I don't know that I have ever received a "best" gift. I have received some great gifts, but none I would put at the pinnacle of the list.

If I could only buy all my gifts from one place, I'd shop at: West Lake Hardware. KIDDING! I kid...I'm a kidder....Guh - this is a toughie. In pretend land where Shannan had all the money in the world, it'd probably be Anthropologie. In the real world - Target.

Rudolph the Red-nose Reindeer or Frosty the Snowman: Rudolph - claymation RULES

My favorite holiday memory: Spending Christmas crammed into my grandparents' very small house with all of my aunts, uncles, and cousins. I specifically remember one Christmas Eve, and I was sharing a bed with one of my aunts (EVERYONE was sharing a bed with someone), and I was very concerned because I wasn't at home, and how would Santa know where I was, and my aunt assured me that Santa ALWAYS knew where everyone was, and he would bring my presents to my grandma's house. And she was right!

Source: plan59.com via Emelie on Pinterest

(Nothing says Christmas like a carton of smokes)

My favorite Christmas movie: A Christmas Story. Or White Christmas. Or Love, Actually.

The best part about holiday decorations is: This year, it was putting them up with The Trips for the first time. Our trees aren't very pretty this year, but I still love them.

Rip off the wrapping paper or neatly pull off the tape: RIP. THAT. SUCKER. OFF.

Miracle on 34th Street or It's a Wonderful Life: It's a Wonderful Life

It doesn't feel like the holiday season until: Thanksgiving is over

All I want for Christmas is: a YSL arty oval ring

Have a great weekend, ho ho ho!
Merci,
Shan

WWD: NoDoze

2011-12-15T07:38:00.000-06:00

These craptastic photos are the result of having to take my tripod and camera to the office after having done my 5:30 a.m. class yesterday. Not so happy with them. Ah well. At least it's still a cute jacket.

I scored it at an estate sale for $3 last weekend. HOLLA!!!

I might try to do something crazy and wear it wif my navy and blue polka dot pencil skirt next time. I'm nutty like dat.

Those shoes are old as the hills Stuart Weitzman's I scored at Nordstrom's Rack many moons ago while I was working in the O.C. They are in TURRIBLE condition, and I need to have the heels replaced, and see if there is anything they can do about the scuffs on the toes.

This may well be the most borrring post in the history of posts. Brought to you by NoDoze. When you need that extra BOOST. Thankfully, it's over. Now all you have to do is read the deets:

Jacket: Estate Sale
Tee: Target
Jeans: F21
Shoes; Stuart Weitzman
Jurreys: Thrift, F21

Merci!
Shan

WWD: Just. Do. It.

2011-12-14T07:41:00.000-06:00

Ugh. I'm sitting here at 10:30 on Tuesday night psyching myself up to go to a 5:30 a.m. boot camp class on Wednesday. I used to work out early all the time - it was great. You have more energy throughout the day, tend to eat better, and best of all - you're FINISHED with it.

Since having The Trips, howevah, when sleep is at a premium, I have not been able to make myself get up that damn early to work out. The earliest I work out now is a 7:30 Cardio Fusion class I take on Saturdays.

Source: atlantic-pacific.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

(P.S. - on another note - Blair from Atlantic Pacific inspired my outfit du jour. I'm not QUITE as classy looking as she is - more like Klassy with a K.)

Back to the workout - we'll see, and I'll edit this after the fact to let you know if I DID in fact drag my ass out of bed at 5 a.m. to get to the gym, or if I hit snooze 13 times.

Does anyone else work out at such an ungodly hour? How in the hell do you make yourself do it - especially if you're a parent? It's funny - my sister asked me "Why don't you just take the babies to the gym and put them in the daycare?" and I said, "HAIL no!" The gym is my sacred place - all to myself. I know good and well someone would have to come pull me out of class to deal with some drama in daycare. I'd rather just wait until The Hubs is home, or I have a sitter.

Or apparently, haul my ass out of bed at some ungodly hour to go. Ugh.

Natch, I'm rushing through my post so I can get to bed.

On that note, I'll leave you with our Elf on a Shelf, Buddy. Buddy likes to hang with Woody and Bullseye from time to time, throwing back shots of Wild Turkey, noshing on Cheez Doodles, and wreaking havoc in general.YOU KNOW HOW ELVES ARE.

Jacket: Newport News

Dress: Target

Boots: Old Navy

Scarf: Store in Laguna Beach

Bracelets: Target and ABC Trading Co.

EDIT: I DID IT!! Feel so much better for having done it. I'm going to attempt to make this a habit. Have a good one, yo!

Merci,

Shan

WWD: Girls On Film

2011-12-13T07:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to another edition of Copy Cat Chic. This time, the inspiration? Is here:

Source: bittersweetcolours.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

I don't mean to toot my own horn, but - TOOT TOOT - I think this is a pretty damn good representation. Of course, I don't have her BADASS green suede brogues, DAMMIT, but I GUESS I can live with my leopard spots. Thing is, I actually have green suede driving mocs, but they were a more dusty green, and just didn't look quiiiite right with the bright colors in the rest of the outfit. Sigh.

Sads.

Wanna turn that frown upside down - or at least into a grimace? Then let me share some random items that have been flushed down our toilet in the past few days. If you've seen my Facebook post, you already know: 1) Paper towels, 2) UNUSED, UNOPENED feminine hygiene products (what - we're not THAT gross), and 3) One sock with T. Rex from Toy Story on it.

Luckily, I was able to fish item number two out before it went down. Unluckily, there was also a number two in the toilet.

Okay, maybe we ARE that gross.

In order to get THAT image outta your brain, let me share a video that I thought of today and haven't seen in many a moon. I STILL loves me some Duran Duran, and Girls On Film? Rocks. I have a friend who, to this day, believes that I named my son Simon after Simon Le Bon. I'LL never tell... Enjoy!

Sweater: Thrift

Pants: Zara

Shoes: Target

Earrings: ABC Trading Co.

EDIT: It's Every Body Every Wear Sequins & Sparkles today - lucky for me last week was Week O Sequins - check everybody out here!!!

Merci!
Shan

Get Thee Hence!!! The 12 Days of Giveaways

2011-12-13T06:42:00.000-06:00

Get thee hence! Apothica's 12 Days of Giveaways starts today on their Facebook Pages. Need a last minute gift (or do you do the thing that I do - "one gift for mom, one for myself; one gift for BFF, one for myself...") No matter - Apothica and SkinCareRX will be giving away more than $5,000 worth of products between on their Facebook pages from December 13^th to December 24^th. Dude - that's a lotta product!!! And if you don't win, just stick around and pick up some stuff anyhoo - they have everything from Deborah Lipmann to Too Faced to Bond No. 9.

To enter SkinCareRx’s giveaway, go to http://facebook.com/skincarerx

To enter Apothica’s giveaway, go to http://facebook.com/apothica

Well whachooo waiting for? Go git you some! Good luck!!

Random (p)Inspirations: Tell Me About It, Stud

2011-12-12T06:00:00.000-06:00

I have been lusting over studded trenchcoats forever, and came across a veritable buttload of inspiration thanks to Pinterest. I swear, one of these days I'm going to pick up a trench at the thrift store and try it myself. Lord knows there are plenty of ideas to choose from.

Source: shopfrankies.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: voguechanel.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: quid-est-veritas.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: nailasaurus.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: studdedfloral.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: lovwekanc.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: monicarosestylist.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: freepeople.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Studded boots? Yes, please.

Source: studdedfloral.tumblr.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: nailasaurus.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

And a studded mani to go wif? HELL to the yes.

Source: atribecallede.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Want a DIY tutorial? Check out the above site. You're welcome.

Have a studly Monday.

Merci,

Shan

Tip O the Day: Sequinnimon!

2011-12-08T07:18:00.000-06:00

Someone left a tip last week in a comment that gave me an idea for a new feature on ye olde blogge: Tip O The Day!

Recently I waxed poetic about my love for cinnamon, and this little lady suggested my new favorite thing.

TIP: Rather than sprinkling cinnamon on top of your coffee before drinking it, add a lil cinnamon to your coffee grounds BEFORE you start to brew it. That way, no gloppy cinnamon blobs that float on the coffee and mysteriously never dissolve. I tried it, and haven't looked back since.

SO. GOOD.

So here's to YOU, Julie. If you haven't been to The Daily Julie yet, GO. Girlfriend is funny, and has great tips on shopping, food, health, shopping, fashion, and shopping.

Here is Julie in Charleston (one of my favorite towns). Julie - if we ever meet, and you're wearing those boots? I will wrestle you to the ground for them. Just kidding (no I'm not).

I have NEVER considered doing a juice cleanse until I read Julie's post on it. Have I done it yet? No, but that's not because I don't want to. Only because I'm too lazy.

I'll take one of each. Thanks, Julie!

So whatchooo waiting for? Get over there and check girlfriend out.

And if YOU have a great tip that you leave in a comment or e-mail? Well, I may just feature you in the next Tip O The Day.

Sweater: Old Navy

Gold Sequin dress as skirt: Alice & Olivia, via eBay

Booties: Target

Bracelets: Target and ABC Trading Co.

Earrings: ABC

Merci!
Shan

Sequin-tial

2011-12-07T06:00:00.000-06:00

I TODE you this was Week O Sequins. Day two - picked up this lil sequin sweatshirt (fanks for the tip, Ames), at Target.

I knew as soon as I saw this look on Atlantic Pacific, I wanted to recreate:

Source: atlantic-pacific.blogspot.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Of course, with a Target sweatshirt, cheapo jewelry and a skirt from consignment (real leather, but consignment nonetheless), it's not QUITE as luxe as Tory Burch, Zara, Celine, Michael Kors, and YSL, but I'm okay with that. I'd also be okay if any of the aforementioned wanted to gift me something to pimp out. Das right, I have no shame.

I wish I had decent black booties to wear in the winter. Alas, I have el cheapos from - guess where? - Target. These shoesies are my Vince Camutos, which, after I took my pics, I realized there was SNOW on the ground, and I quickly changed into the el cheapos for work.

I have to say - this skirt was my favey fave purchase in The Lou. It's Laundry, only $35 at the Scholar Shop, and is like BUTTAH. Thooo thoft.

The pic above cracks me up, cuz it looks like I'm wearing buttery soft leather walking shorts. NERD ALERT!

I only wish I would've had the $145 buttery soft leatha motorcycle jacket from Scholar too. No worries - I'm keeping my eyes peeled at thrifty thrifts around town. Stay tuned....

Sweatshirt: Target

Skirt: Laundry, via Scholar Shop

Shoes: Vince Camuto

Bracelets and Earrings: Target and ABC Trading Co.

Merci!
Shan

Week o the Sequin

2011-12-06T06:00:00.000-06:00

Because my work holiday party is this Wednesday, I decided this was the Week o the Sequin. Or Week o the Sequins, as it were, since there will be many sequins. It is NOT, as I read from time to time on the interwebs, the Week o the Sequence, and which drives. me. BONKERS. Week o the Sequence denotes a week of continued or connected series; a succession of repetitions; or even 7 days of a set of elements ordered so that they can be labeled with the positive integers, according to Webster.

A Week o SEQUINS, on the other hand, is a delightful confection of small, sparkly plates of shining metal or plastic used for ornamentation, especially on clothing.

Now THAT is something I can get on board with.

I thought this vintage beaded shell was poyfect to kick things off, espesh since I took it to The Lou for girls' weekend and never wore it.

It was pretty bereft from not getting worn for girls' weekend. I don't know about YOUR clothing, but MINE is very persnickety, and items tend to get their feelings hurt if they are not put in rotation as often as they feel they should be.

Some pieces can be quite bitchy, when you get right down to it. I don't want to name any names. Just don't tell gold vintage jacket what you read here. BEYOTCH.

Jacket: JC Penny
Shell: Vintage
Velvet pants: Loft
Shoes: Vince Camuto
Earrings: ABC Trading Co, from Amy Bo Bamy
Ring: F21

merci!
Shan

Girls' Weekend in the Lou Part Trois

2011-12-05T06:00:00.000-06:00

Here are some snaps from my weekend in The Lou with Amy Bo Bamy (but sadly, minus Natty Lite and another near-car-stranded-on-the-side-of-the-road-because-we-were-almost-out-of-gas-but-saved-thanks-to-a-little-J.T.-incident). Ames is moving to the east coast in December after 6 years in St. Louis - and not NEARLY enough girls' trips, we decided during the weekend. Hence, this was our last weekend together before she goes. I cannot properly express a) what Amy means to me - she's like another sister, the other side of my brain, my partner in shopping excess, and 2) how may-jahly bummed I am that she is not moving closer, but further away.

It wasn't a sad weekend though - we made sure of that with waaaay too much food (colonic, here we come!!), some drinking (DUH), and shopping like it was our job. Taste the rainbow.

First stop in the Lou? Their KICK ASS consignment/thrift shops. After a few hours of this, it is customary to kickoff a girls' weekend with cupcakes the size of one's head. I present to you Jilly's cupcakes. We made it through about half of each of these before asking for take-home boxes.

Next up? DINNER! Okay, this was a good while after the cupcakes, and whilst we were waiting for takeout (i.e. - The Best Salad Ever). Or was the wine dinner? My heart says no, but my hangover says yes.

May I introduce you to the Best Salad Ever? Romaine lettuce, figs, goat cheese, bacon. Nuff said. We decided to fancy schmancy it up and get some cheese and bread to go wif, but changed into comfy clothes for the feast to come, all of which led to the brainstorm of our band name, FINALLY. I present to you:

CHEESE & SWEATPANTS!!! I'm Cheese - she's Sweatpants - THANK YOU SAINT LOUIS!!!

Second verse, same as the first, this time more thrift shopping couldn't be worse. Suited up and ready for a day of shopping our faces off. Amy is WAY cuter in her F21 maxi, T.J. Maxx sweater and leatha jacket.

Hey, is that a new pink sweater you're wearing, or are you just happy to see me? Why yes, it IS a new (old) pink sweater, that I scored our first day of shopping on thrift for $8. It pained Ames that I wore it wivout washing, but it looked SO poyfect with my pleatha pants that she acquiesced, as long as I didn't touch her. HMMMMPFH! I never! Next up? LUNCHTIME!

WHAT??? Beer is PRACTICALLY lunch. Okay, we went back to the same restaurant on Saturday that we got takeout from Friday night, because the salad was so damn good. This time we got pizza too. I TOLD you we need a colonic.

Pizza on the left? The Edgar Allen Poe, with roasted garlic, cheese, tomatoes, and kalamata olives. On the right - The Green Lantern, with marinara, pesto, artichoke hearts, spinach, and cheese. YUMMMMMM. After literally shopping all day, from 9:30 - 4:30 (which I have not done in oh, about 4 years), we were spent, and decided to do takeout AGAIN - lamb kebabs, rice, hummus, and meat candy, as we liked to refer to the bacon wrapped dates. DOOOOHHHH so good. Drank a little more and watched Crazy Stupid Love.

Got up this morning, and duh - went to eat. Can I just say that this breakfast - at Half&Half, was hands down the Best. Breakfast. EVAH. Better than the resort we stayed at on our honeymoon (The Hubs and I, not Amy and I), better than my huevos rancheros in Laguna (which are definitely at the top of my list). I'm not even going to try to describe it. Just brace yourselves:

Waiting for our brekkie wif bottomless cups of coffee.

Here it comes: fried egg sammich with cheese and bacon, and rosemary potatoes. I know - it sounds harmless enough, doesn't it? IT WASN'T. Trust. I cut into the sammich to cut it in half, and egg yolk oozed out like velvet. And those potatoes? Which look like every other potato on any random breakfast buffet? Were magical crispy salty crunchy bites of goodness, with enough rosemary to kick them up to magnificent. But wait, there's more. CAUTION: FOOD PORN AHEAD...

Banana french toast with rum caramel and candied pecans.

HODE UP. Don't forget the mascarpone cheese that is melting in the middle. Simply the best thing I have ever put in my mouf. HEY - get yo dirty minds out the guttah. I'm not even kidding. I think we both offered to sleep with whomever made this. Okay - maybe it was just ME who offered, but I'm PRETTY sure Amy would have too.

The carnage. Horrific, isn't it? I TOLD you we were getting our colonic on starting tomorrow. I shudder to think of all the calories that were ingested this weekend, in breakfast alone, not to mention all the other meals we ate. Blargh. It was worth it.

I just want to say to Amy - thank you for everything - your hospitality, your time - cuz I KNOWS you are crazy busy right now, but most of all, your friendship. It is not everyday that you meet someone you feel an instant kinship with, and I do not take it for granted. You are my second sister, and I love ya like tuna noodle casserole.

Mwah!

Shan

Santa Baby

2011-12-02T06:00:00.000-06:00

Source: tomandlorenzo.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: mylusciouslife.com via Shannan on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Shannan on Pinterest

Merci!

Shan

RIP

2011-12-01T06:56:00.000-06:00

Sometime on Tuesday after the broadcast, local weatherman Don Harman committed suicide, leaving behind his wife and 2 year old daughter. He was 41. I had a crush on Don for years (what can I say - I love em short and funny). Don was hilarious - one of those people who didn't care what he looked like as long as he was making people laugh. His laughter was infectious, and based on the thousands of comments on the news station Facebook page, everyone else felt the same way. He was very involved in local charities, and just watching the newscast this morning, I realized not only did he become publicly involved, if something touched his heart, he took time on his own to privately help others in need out as well.

I cannot fathom what his wife and family are going through, including his on-air family. Never have I watched a station where the newscasters were more in sync than Fox 4 Kansas City's morning show. I love each one of them, and the grace and resolve with which they are conducting today's newscast is impressive. I salute you all.

As I watch the morning news and share tears with Mark, Loren, Nick and Carli, it is always amazing to me how someone I have never met in person can have such an affect. I do not know why Don felt his only option was to end his life, and my prayer for his family and friends is that they get some closure to that question for themselves, and that they have peace. I had the thought last night that, being in the business he was, on television, it could be both a blessing and a curse to have so much video of him, for those who wish to remember him. Me, being one to always appreciate the inappropriate? Love this video, which went viral on YouTube:

and this one. Don, you truly were a Real Man of Genius. I salute you, Mr. Weather Guesser Guy.

Merci.

Shan

Maxxinista

2011-12-01T06:00:00.000-06:00

How the HELL does one become a Maxxinista, T.J. Maxx? I would be HAPPY to pimp your wares in exchange for product. I think I'd made a GRAND Maxxinista - I shop on a budget, love the selection at The Maxx and enjoy the thrill of the hunt.

I have never been a huge "purse" girl, and in fact my main purse is one I purchased on Gilt a few years ago. I was in The Maxx today on my lunch hour and saw a gorgeous black leather DKNY purse which originally retailed for $425. FOUR HUNDRED TWENTY FIVE DOLLARS. Now I realize there are Birkins and other bags that cost in the tens of thousands of dollars, but I can assure you I have never spent close to that. I have never spent close to $425. The Maxx price was $179.

It took me about 2 seconds to decide to put that baby on layaway. Yup, layaway.

I've got no shame about using layaway. In fact, I just read an article in a local paper the other day that more stores are offering layaway again, after doing away with it for the most part in 2006. Lucky for me that The Maxx, being one of my favey fave places to shop, has always offered it. I don't know that I have used it in years and years, but today seemed as good a time as any.

The problem now is being patient enough to pay it off before I can use it. Arrrggghhh, the agony!!!

The good thing is that I can reiterate to my mom that I would LOVE a gift card from The Maxx for Christmas. Who knows, maybe THIS will be the year she actually gets me something other than what she found on the clearance rack at Sears last year. Come on, big money!!! Mama need ta get my purse outta the clink!!

My new bag even has one of those dust covers with it. I'm so excited! I'm telling you, my usual bags run around $25 at Old Navy or Target. I have the same philosophy when buying sunglasses, and could NOT spend hundreds of dollars on an item that I either lose or sit on in my car. Fifteen buckaroos is my max limit on shades.

So let's hear it, dear readers, what are you willing to splurge on? What would you NEVER drop serious dough on? Inquiring minds want to know.

As for you, T.J. Maxx, call me. I'm SURE we can work something out.

Jacket: Ladies Night Clothing Swap

Tank, Jeans, Bracelets: Target

Boots: Old Navy

Necklace: Charming Charlie's

Merci!
Shan