Last Sunday night I watched the premier of America: The Story of Us on The History Channel. And you know, while I've always loved European History, American History never really excited me. Pilgrims? Blah. Continental Congress? Snooze. Declaration of Independence? Meh.
But this show is REALLY good. It made me fascinated in the history of our country, and the formerly (in my opinion) boring "players" turned out to be immensely interesting. Peppered with commentary from famous Americans (Donald Trump, Colin Powell, Tom Brokaw, etc), the show really bring everything to life. The first episode covers the pilgrims coming to the New World and building the colony, the first Thanksgiving, the role tobacco and lumber played in America's beginnings and the Revolutionary War. And it looks like this Sunday, we'll see our ancestors head West.
The show comes on The History Channel Sundays at 8 p.m. CST and lasts two hours. And if you want to get caught up, the first episode is available on iTunes. Give it a try - turning off Family Guy and turning on America: The Story of Us upped my intelligence substantially on a Sunday.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Beauty Review: Almay Eyeliner
If I had to select just one item from my makeup bag to wear while the rest of my products went unused, it would be eyeliner. I don't feel awake without it. And I've tried lots of different kinds over the years, hovering back and forth between the crayon kind and the liquid kind. Recently, I popped into my local Walgreens and picked up Almay Eyeliner in black ($7.79).
And you know how the whole point of eyeliner is to make you look awake and refreshed? Well, this made me look like a droopy-eyed raccoon after about 15 minutes. It just... slid an inch down my face. And that was when I was sitting in an air-conditioned office. I looked like I'd gone out drinking until 4 a.m. the night before, when actually, I had gone to bed at 9:30, because I'm 70.
So I switched back to my usual liquid eyeliner, also by Almay:
Some people think applying liquid eyeliner is hard (especially if you've got the shakes - you know - from going out drinking until 4 a.m. the night before), but I think it's easier to put on than the crayon kind. The key is to start in the outside third of your eyelid, and work your way to the outside corner of your eye, making a TINY little cat eye (think very UN Lady Gaga here). Then move to the inside - back and forth with little strokes. Perhaps a makeup tutorial video is in this blog's near future.
Bottom line: pass on the Almay crayon eyeliner, unless you're into that whole went-to-bed-with-heavy-makeup-on look, and give the liquid a try.
So I switched back to my usual liquid eyeliner, also by Almay:
Bottom line: pass on the Almay crayon eyeliner, unless you're into that whole went-to-bed-with-heavy-makeup-on look, and give the liquid a try.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Beachy Keen
Beautiful beach houses are just about my favorite thing ever. So here's a gratuitous post of amazing beach places to transport you away from your stinky office.
Where would one procure a teal oven? You know I love a white kitchen. This one just says, "Come - fix a cocktail."
I love these pops of red! And if you think I'm not going to hunt for some stumps to spray paint, you would be mistaken.
This swing is just delicious. I wonder if all the pictures from Decorology are from the same house? If so, and if this is your house, please invite your blogger friend Katy over. I love porch swings, especially when they're easy on the tushie with thick cushions.
Another great beach kitchen. I think the worn, mismatched stools are great - like they've been there forever. And a small porch screen door as a pantry door is genius. I would slam that thing all the time.
"Katy, do you want to come outside and hang out?" "No thanks, I'm enjoying a cocktail in the tub for the next 4 hours."
There's so much great light in this bedroom, and I love the crisp white linens. Plus, the orchid painting over the bed is wonderful.
I would love big French doors that open out onto a deck overlooking the ocean. And that ikat pillow is great.
Where would one procure a teal oven? You know I love a white kitchen. This one just says, "Come - fix a cocktail."
I love these pops of red! And if you think I'm not going to hunt for some stumps to spray paint, you would be mistaken.
This swing is just delicious. I wonder if all the pictures from Decorology are from the same house? If so, and if this is your house, please invite your blogger friend Katy over. I love porch swings, especially when they're easy on the tushie with thick cushions.
Another great beach kitchen. I think the worn, mismatched stools are great - like they've been there forever. And a small porch screen door as a pantry door is genius. I would slam that thing all the time.
"Katy, do you want to come outside and hang out?" "No thanks, I'm enjoying a cocktail in the tub for the next 4 hours."
There's so much great light in this bedroom, and I love the crisp white linens. Plus, the orchid painting over the bed is wonderful.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Garden Update
For those of you interested (and let's face it, you're ALL interested, right?), here's an update on how the garden's growing, two weeks after planting. And, as a reminder, here's how it looked right after planting:
And here's how it looks now:
I hadn't realized how much everything had grown until I looked at the pictures side by side. But it looks like the squash and peppers are beating the other plants in a race to my tummy.
If you have any ideas of what to cook with some of these ingredients once they're harvested (ha - harvested. I'm such a farmer!), leave a comment and let me know!
If you have any ideas of what to cook with some of these ingredients once they're harvested (ha - harvested. I'm such a farmer!), leave a comment and let me know!
Monday, April 26, 2010
An Issue of Motivation
Hello, Birmingham YMCA Greystone Branch. It's been a while since we've seen each other.
So, I've scoured the internet looking for some tips I haven't heard a million times (and some I have, but they're still good). Here's what I'm going to try to see if I can get remotivated:
- Reward yourself. Yeah, OK - I'll treat myself like a dog and try this. I've been wanting to head to Forever 21 lately, so maybe I'll only go after 5 good workouts.
- Mix it up. Maybe I need to head out for a hike or a bike ride on a REAL bike, and not just a stationary bike. But something other than the treadmill and Muscle Works class at the gym sounds like it might get me going. I think I'll also try walking Molly in the morning before work, if I can muster up the will power to get out of bed that early.
- Write down your goals and achievements. I used to do this on my bathroom mirror with a dry erase marker. Time to find that marker and set some goals I can see every morning.
- Take a different route. I tend to walk or jog the same route when I go out. I think I need to find a new place to run that's still close to home, but that will give me some new sites to see. Maybe I'll head to one of the big nice neighborhoods and pretend I live there.
- Read a sports magazine. This was a tip I hadn't heard before, but it might actually be a good one. I think I'm going to go pick up a copy of Runner's World and see if that motivates me to hit the pavement.
- Picture Jillian Michaels screaming at you. OK seriously, this is enough to make me get out of my chair right now and go to the gym. I can just picture Jillian calling me a fat cow, and it terrifies me.
- Feel your butt shake while you brush your teeth. Well, this just happened to me this morning. So either I am brushing MUCH too vigorously, or it's time for some squats.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Book Review: The Time Traveler's Wife
OK so I didn't just finish reading this book. I read this about a year ago, but since I haven't been doing a ton of reading lately, and I figured it was time for another book review, I thought I would go back in time (ha!) and review The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger.
From ReadingGroupGuides.com:
Audrey Niffenegger's innovative debut, The Time Traveler's Wife, is the story of Clare, a beautiful art student, and Henry, an adventuresome librarian, who have known each other since Clare was six and Henry was thirty-six, and were married when Clare was twenty-three and Henry thirty-one. Impossible but true, because Henry is one of the first people diagnosed with Chrono-Displacement Disorder: periodically his genetic clock resets and he finds himself misplaced in time, pulled to moments of emotional gravity in his life, past and future. His disappearances are spontaneous, his experiences unpredictable, alternately harrowing and amusing.
The Time Traveler's Wife depicts the effects of time travel on Henry and Clare's marriage and their passionate love for each other as the story unfolds from both points of view. Clare and Henry attempt to live normal lives, pursuing familiar goals—steady jobs, good friends, children of their own. All of this is threatened by something they can neither prevent nor control, making their story intensely moving and entirely unforgettable.
I don't like to oversell things on this blog too much, but this is the BEST. BOOK. EVER. It's probably my favorite. While it can be challenging to read at times since you have to figure out where Henry is in his life when he's speaking and how that relates to where Clare is in her life (which requires that you flip back a few pages from time to time), the story is so interesting that it completely captivates you. From the first page, the characters are developed and you just fall in love with them. I literally couldn't put this book down, and at the end was left dangerously dehydrated from emotion.
When the movie came out, I actually saw it in the theater (which is rare for me), and was of course disappointed. I mean, we all know that movies never live up to their books, so if you saw the movie and were sort of "eh" about it, give the book a try.
Bottom line: stop whatever you're doing right now and go read this book. It's a must.
From ReadingGroupGuides.com:
Audrey Niffenegger's innovative debut, The Time Traveler's Wife, is the story of Clare, a beautiful art student, and Henry, an adventuresome librarian, who have known each other since Clare was six and Henry was thirty-six, and were married when Clare was twenty-three and Henry thirty-one. Impossible but true, because Henry is one of the first people diagnosed with Chrono-Displacement Disorder: periodically his genetic clock resets and he finds himself misplaced in time, pulled to moments of emotional gravity in his life, past and future. His disappearances are spontaneous, his experiences unpredictable, alternately harrowing and amusing.
The Time Traveler's Wife depicts the effects of time travel on Henry and Clare's marriage and their passionate love for each other as the story unfolds from both points of view. Clare and Henry attempt to live normal lives, pursuing familiar goals—steady jobs, good friends, children of their own. All of this is threatened by something they can neither prevent nor control, making their story intensely moving and entirely unforgettable.
I don't like to oversell things on this blog too much, but this is the BEST. BOOK. EVER. It's probably my favorite. While it can be challenging to read at times since you have to figure out where Henry is in his life when he's speaking and how that relates to where Clare is in her life (which requires that you flip back a few pages from time to time), the story is so interesting that it completely captivates you. From the first page, the characters are developed and you just fall in love with them. I literally couldn't put this book down, and at the end was left dangerously dehydrated from emotion.
When the movie came out, I actually saw it in the theater (which is rare for me), and was of course disappointed. I mean, we all know that movies never live up to their books, so if you saw the movie and were sort of "eh" about it, give the book a try.
Bottom line: stop whatever you're doing right now and go read this book. It's a must.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Skirting the Issue
My friend Sarah left this post on my Facebook wall yesterday:
So, I'm needing you to do a blog post on the latest skirt fashions. I'm in a quandary.
Although this statement is almost too Devil Wears Prada to deal with ("Andrea, get me some skirts..."), I will oblige for my bestie. Seems like this year I'm seeing a lot of elastic waist skirts, which is good for those of us who have been neglecting the gym lately. And pencil skirts are always classic. And even though I tend to be a dress girl more than a skirt girl, skirts are just as easy to wear and ALWAYS replace shorts in my book. So, Sarah, here are some cute skirts, all under $50.
Skirts for Work
Laltramoda salmon pencil skirt, $45
Style & Co. black belted pencil skirt, $29.98
Anthropologie pleated taupe skirt, $49.95
Arden B. white exposed zipper skirt, $29.99
The Limited striped border skirt, $34.99
Anthropologie abstract greenery skirt, $49.95
Merona orange Meg Dobby skirt, $24.99
Jones New York tweed midnight herringbone skirt, $42.99
Skirts for Play
I.N. San Francisco colorblock skirt, $34
Takara printed pocket skirt, $29
Takara elastic waist skirt, $29
Arden B. tye dye elastic waist skirt, $44
Sonoma cargo skirt, $34
Forever 21 tiered skirt, $29
Necessary Objects yellow elastic skirt, $39.99
O'Neill Native skirt, $45.50
Forever 21 leaf stencil skirt, $11.50
Athleta rogue sunburst skirt, $34.99
Alloy polka dot skirt, $32.90
Top Shop pleat hem linen skirt, $44
Forever 21 organza ruffle skirt, $26
So, will these skirts suffice? Are these the skirts you were looking for? I have no idea if I've accomplished my goal today.
So, I'm needing you to do a blog post on the latest skirt fashions. I'm in a quandary.
Although this statement is almost too Devil Wears Prada to deal with ("Andrea, get me some skirts..."), I will oblige for my bestie. Seems like this year I'm seeing a lot of elastic waist skirts, which is good for those of us who have been neglecting the gym lately. And pencil skirts are always classic. And even though I tend to be a dress girl more than a skirt girl, skirts are just as easy to wear and ALWAYS replace shorts in my book. So, Sarah, here are some cute skirts, all under $50.
Skirts for Work
Style & Co. black belted pencil skirt, $29.98
Anthropologie pleated taupe skirt, $49.95
Arden B. white exposed zipper skirt, $29.99
The Limited striped border skirt, $34.99
Anthropologie abstract greenery skirt, $49.95
Merona orange Meg Dobby skirt, $24.99
Jones New York tweed midnight herringbone skirt, $42.99
Skirts for Play
Takara printed pocket skirt, $29
Takara elastic waist skirt, $29
Arden B. tye dye elastic waist skirt, $44
Sonoma cargo skirt, $34
Forever 21 tiered skirt, $29
Necessary Objects yellow elastic skirt, $39.99
O'Neill Native skirt, $45.50
Forever 21 leaf stencil skirt, $11.50
Athleta rogue sunburst skirt, $34.99
Alloy polka dot skirt, $32.90
Top Shop pleat hem linen skirt, $44
Forever 21 organza ruffle skirt, $26
So, will these skirts suffice? Are these the skirts you were looking for? I have no idea if I've accomplished my goal today.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Top 11 Yard Sale Tips
As you may remember, I had a yard sale recently in an attempt to get rid of some stuff and avoid being on an episode of "Hoarders." The thing is, I'm guilty of the "I may need this one day" syndrome. I mean, why get rid of the picnic basket that came with my 1.5 gallon bottle of Grey Goose? I may need that if I ever decide to actually take a picnic! And that AM/FM radio/black and white mini TV/ cassette player? THAT thing has sentimental value. I mean, I MADE this lamp from an empty wine bottle, so of course I can't get rid of THAT! That? That's the pillow Molly threw up on after Thanksgiving 2008! Those are cherished MEM-O-RIES!
Something had to be done.
So in a mad woman state, I cleaned. I purged. I emptied, dumped and piled. And I had...
Something had to be done.
So in a mad woman state, I cleaned. I purged. I emptied, dumped and piled. And I had...
But I did. Basically, after a month of off-and-on cleaning and seriously looking at my things and saying OUT LOUD to myself, "Katy. Dahling (I call myself Dahling most of the time). This? This you can do without," I had accummulated quite a collection of just, well - junk. So, if you think you're up to the challenge, if you think you can part with many of your possessions for literally pennies on the dollar, here are my 11 Yard Sale Tips:
1. You don't need it.
No seriously - unless it's your insulin or cell phone, you probably don't need it. When in doubt, throw it out.
2. Don't bother organizing anything.
Within 10 minutes of your yard sale's first visitors arriving, everything will be moved around anyway, so don't bother having a "bed and bath" section and a "small kitchen appliances" section. You have one section, and that section is "Junk I no longer need."
3. Do not, under any circumstance, bring yard sale items BACK into your house.
You got rid of it for a reason. Resist the urge to say, "OH! I definitely shouldn't have included THIS in the yard sale! This is too cute/useful/new!" This one is hard. I struggled with this. But ultimately, the only things from the yard sale that came back into my house were a red hat (and I swear to you I will wear it in Ireland and post pictures for you to see) and a porch swing that I'm still debating putting on Craigslist. This rule also applies after your yard sale is over and you're left with items that even yard salers didn't want. Keep it out. of. your. house.
4. Get some change.
I almost forgot about this until the day before. Even though most people who go to yard sales carry cash, get some singles at the bank so you can make change.
5. No buy now, pay later.
"I really want this chair/painting/dehumidifyer, but I need to go to the bank. Will you hold it for me?" No, you will not. If someone else comes along with cash in hand to buy that item, you sell it. After all, this is a yard sale, not the lawnmower section at Sears - there is no layaway.
6. No bathrooms.
"Can I use your bathroom?" No.
7. Don't hate.
People will buy anything. ANYTHING. One woman actually bought a stack of old plastic Taco Bell cups from me. So, even if you look at something and think, "No one will ever buy this," you might be wrong. Put it out there and see what happens.
8. Merchandise a little.
Even though you don't want to organize your items into sections, it helps to merchandise the big items a little to draw more traffic. If you've got a nice set of porch furniture or a good desk chair for sale, put them out front, and when they sell, rotate in other "good" stuff.
9. Advertise.
I ran a free garage sale posting in Craigslist, spent $5 on an ad in al.com and put garage sale signs in three places close to my street. And my rough estimate is that more than 200 people came to my house. It was packed, and I can't help thinking that it's because of those ads.
10. Bargain, but not too much.
The main goal of your yard sale should be to get rid of things you don't need. If you can make a little money in the process, great, but don't haggle people until they give up and don't buy anything. I realize you paid $200 for that porch table and chairs a couple years ago, but you got your use out of them and now, you just have to understand that they're probably going to go home with someone for $30.
11. Have it hauled away.
After your yard sale, hopefully you've sold everything you had. But you probably didn't. So for what's left, call your local Goodwill/Salvation Army/King's Ranch and make a tax-deductable donation. It will make you feel good and get rid of the last yard sale stragglers. And remember Rule No. 3 - don't bring that stuff back in your house.
So, here's what my yard sale looked like at 6:30 in the morning when I'd finally gotten everything in the driveway:
11. Have it hauled away.
After your yard sale, hopefully you've sold everything you had. But you probably didn't. So for what's left, call your local Goodwill/Salvation Army/King's Ranch and make a tax-deductable donation. It will make you feel good and get rid of the last yard sale stragglers. And remember Rule No. 3 - don't bring that stuff back in your house.
So, here's what my yard sale looked like at 6:30 in the morning when I'd finally gotten everything in the driveway:
And here's what it looked like after about five hours of bargaining:
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
For the Hostess with the Mostess
Now that it's spring, you may have some trips ahead of you to visit friends or family. Or maybe you're getting married or having a baby and some of your pals are throwing you a shower. Even if you're just having dinner at a friend's house, don't show up empty handed (or with that predictable bottle of wine). Here are some great hostess gift ideas to show someone you appreciate their hospitality/shower-throwing skills/culinary prowess.
A great tray does double duty as a serving piece and decor when it's this cute. This fretwork tray from Target is so chic and would be a great hostess gift paired with some cute cocktail napkins.
Everyone loves coffee. Pick up some fancy whole beans and a cute travel mug like this one from Lilly Pulitzer for your hostess, and watch the caffeine take effect.
Jonathan Adler is making some really great stationery items right now. I love this note cube and stylish pen, and your hostess will too!
A board game might seem like it's for kids, but your hostess will love the fact that you're giving him or her fun in a box. Cranium is a good choice. So is Catch Phrase or Taboo.
A pretty vase and fresh flowers never fails. You can find reasonably priced vases all over the place, and grocery stores have flowers that are just as good as your local pricey florist.
Just because your friend is playing hostess for the night or weekend doesn't mean that she isn't still a Hot Mess. Show her you still see her true colors with this Hot Mess flask and very random (but cool) wild animal candles.
In my opinion, you can never have too many pretty cloth napkins. Pair a set with a mug donning your hostess' initial, and you're sure to be the most popular guest at the soiree.
If your host is into crafts (like Yours Truly), she would LOVE the cheeky "Big Ass Book of Crafts." And who knows - she might send you home with one of her creations!
Although they're a little more pricey and require some forethought, personalized self-inking stamps are such a great way to say "Thank you for inviting me to your 15-room beach mansion."
Kitchen hand towels or pot holders are a fun way for your hostess to remember you when she's pulling something out of the oven and not burning herself.
Pull together a pretty woven basket with great-smelling soaps and wash cloths for your hostess. This can be a really inexpensive gift that makes a big impression.
A great tray does double duty as a serving piece and decor when it's this cute. This fretwork tray from Target is so chic and would be a great hostess gift paired with some cute cocktail napkins.
Everyone loves coffee. Pick up some fancy whole beans and a cute travel mug like this one from Lilly Pulitzer for your hostess, and watch the caffeine take effect.
Jonathan Adler is making some really great stationery items right now. I love this note cube and stylish pen, and your hostess will too!
A board game might seem like it's for kids, but your hostess will love the fact that you're giving him or her fun in a box. Cranium is a good choice. So is Catch Phrase or Taboo.
A pretty vase and fresh flowers never fails. You can find reasonably priced vases all over the place, and grocery stores have flowers that are just as good as your local pricey florist.
Just because your friend is playing hostess for the night or weekend doesn't mean that she isn't still a Hot Mess. Show her you still see her true colors with this Hot Mess flask and very random (but cool) wild animal candles.
In my opinion, you can never have too many pretty cloth napkins. Pair a set with a mug donning your hostess' initial, and you're sure to be the most popular guest at the soiree.
If your host is into crafts (like Yours Truly), she would LOVE the cheeky "Big Ass Book of Crafts." And who knows - she might send you home with one of her creations!
Although they're a little more pricey and require some forethought, personalized self-inking stamps are such a great way to say "Thank you for inviting me to your 15-room beach mansion."
Kitchen hand towels or pot holders are a fun way for your hostess to remember you when she's pulling something out of the oven and not burning herself.
Pull together a pretty woven basket with great-smelling soaps and wash cloths for your hostess. This can be a really inexpensive gift that makes a big impression.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Ireland Bound
Welp folks, your ol' pal Katy is going to Ireland in T-minus 26 days. My mom and I, and our friends Dicky and Connally, are heading to the land of potatoes, green pastures, Guiness and leprachauns. (I hope to come back with a less stereotypical view of the country.) Has anyone been there? Have any tips or must-sees?
DIY: Cheap Shelves to Chic Shelves
In an effort to get my life in order, I've been getting my house in order. Since my yard sale last weekend, I've been organizing what's left in my garage and decided that my small art/crafting corner needed to move inside (It's hard to make stuff when it's too hot/cold to be in the garage for any length of time). My home office is a small, awkwardly shaped room, and I needed some serious shelving along one wall to hold all my stuff. But I also didn't want to spend a couple hundred smackers on something. So I decided to improvise and turn regular old cheap laminate bookcases into nicer looking shelves.
I found these 3-shelf bookcases at Target on clearance for just $13! They were run-of-the-mill maple laminate, and I normally would have just passed them by. But at that price, I figured I'd see what I could do with them. So I bought three.
I brought them home, and put them together.
I stopped by Lowe's on the way home and picked up two 6-foot pieces of chair rail molding and a quart of cream paint.
With my trusty saw (scary, I know), I cut two pieces of molding for the top and bottom of each bookcase to give them a more polished look.
Then I just glued it on and let it dry. Use strong glue, and make sure it adheres to plastic, since that's essentially what these bookcases are made of.
This is what you'll end up with.
Next, it's time to paint. Now, if I was a bit more conscientious, I would have sanded the bookcases so the paint would stick better. But I absolutely loathe sanding anything and avoid it unless absolutely necessary. I should have gotten some spray primer, but didn't think of that at Lowe's, so I just started painting. I used a foam roller instead of a regular kind of roller, because I think it makes the paint go on smoother. These bookcases needed three light coats of paint. The first coat will make you think that the paint won't stick, but let it dry and keep going. Eventually, the paint will look good.
So, you'll paint and paint and paint, and when you're done, you'll have something that looks presentable enough to be moved into you home office.
When I finished, I loaded all my supplies (and I literally had NO IDEA how much stuff I had) onto the shelves. The little stuff went into fabric bins. But look how organized! This project took a while, but was totally worth it. The total cost of the shelves including all the supplies was only $62, which I think is a steal. So if you're in the market for some shelves but don't want to drop a boatload of cash, go the DIY route!
Friday, April 16, 2010
The 10 Commandments of Weight Loss
Who doesn't love Dr. Oz? He offers great health tips on a wide array of subjects and has a knack for explaining things so even Yours Truly can understand them. He recently shared his Ten Commandments of Weight Loss on his show, and I thought it was so interesting I wanted to make sure my fabulous readers got to learn them too.
I'm not a fitness guru or a nutritionist, but I do spend L-O-T-S of time reading about health, diet and fitness (for my "real" job and in my spare time), and have definitely tried every diet, exercise, and, well - food - out there. And while some of these Commandments are old hat, many of them I haven't heard before. So, Commandments below, my comments in italics.
Your clothing is an early-warning system for weight gain. When it’s getting hard to snap your jeans, you know it’s time to be vigilant. Wearing stretchy clothes allows you to live in ignorance of how your body is growing, making it easier to pack on pounds without knowing it.
I agree with this, mostly because it falls into my "Leggings are not pants" mantra. This Commandment falls flat though when you're talking about many spring dresses. And since I'm a dress/skirt girl this time of year, I put on the SAME pair of pants every week to make sure there's not more of me to love.
2. Thou Shalt Not Keep Bad Clothes in Your Closet
When you keep the clothes you wore at an unhealthy weight, it gives you a back-up plan if the pounds don’t come off. Instead, force yourself to stay on track by 86ing your “fat pants.”
Oooh this one is hard. I'll admit that I'm one of those girls who has pants in about three different sizes in my closet, because, well, you just never know. If you have the self-control to throw out your "fat pants," then God speed.
3. Thou Shalt Not Eat Meat That Walks on Four Legs More Than Once a Week
Meat that comes from an animal with 4 legs is higher in saturated fat (the unhealthy kind) than that which comes from 2-legged animals such as chickens, or animals with no legs, like fish. Plus: women who eat large amounts of red meat more than once a week have a 50% higher chance of dying from heart disease and have higher cancer rates.
I do this not because I'm trying to lose weight, but because I just don't eat red meat that often. However, I love a good steak, and red meat is important to keep your iron levels up.
4. Thou Shalt Not Graze
Plan your meal before you open the refrigerator, get what you need, and close the door. Opening it throughout the day leads to impulsive choices and overeating.
Oh Lord. Yep - my grazing hour occurs around 4:30-5:00 when I get home from work. It's not dinner time yet, but damn - I'm hungry. And before I know it, I've grazed through 1,000 calories. This is a tip I'm going to keep - planning what I'm getting out of the fridge before the door is opened.
5. Thou Shalt Not Eat After 7:30pm
When you eat late at night you are more likely to be eating in front of the TV (when you won’t pay attention to how much you’re putting in your mouth) and you’re more likely to pick high-calorie snacks.
This is an oldie but goodie. It's hard to do if you're a night owl, but if you're in bed by 10 every night and get heartburn like I do, it's easier.
6. Thou Shalt Not Pile Food More than 1 Inch High or Within 2 Inches of the Plate Edge
Larger portions equal more calories. ‘Nuff said.
I love this. I've always heard to use a salad plate instead of a dinner plate, but something about that makes me feel like it's not a meal. And not letting your food get higher than one inch could really limit the amount on your plate. I'm adopting this Commandment tonight.
7. Thou Shalt Not Chew Food Less than 20 Times Per Bite
Chewing allows your body to realize that you are eating food, prompting it to create a sensation of fullness at the appropriate time. When you don’t chew enough, you get ahead of that process, eating well past when you are actually satisfied.
Guilty, guilty, guilty. I think I chew my food like twice, because, like my dad, I'm a fast eater. A REALLY fast eater. Adopting this tonight too.
8. Thou Shalt Not Covet Thy Neighbor’s Plate
Spend your day nibbling bites on someone else’s sandwich or afternoon snack, and you will add on 1,000 calories easy.
True, and I'd like to add that I think this also means that if you're out to eat with friends and you had planned on ordering the grilled fish, but your buds are eating burgers, stay the course. I am SUPER guilty of this.
9. Thou Shalt Not Carry Small Bills
Nothing loves a small bill better than a vending machine. When you have them at the ready, you are one step closer to an impulsive, calorie-loaded afternoon slip up.
I'm not a vending machine gal now, but I used to be. Big time. And you know, when I didn't have change or a dollar bill, I would still go troll around the office for a kind soul who would give me 65 cents. So I don't know how valid this one is. The better tip is to keep healthy snacks in your desk - almonds, fruit, peanut butter - for when the hungries hit.
10. Thou Shalt Not Eat While Standing Up
Eating sitting down enables you to be aware of what you’re eating and eat it slowly so that your body can tell you your full before it’s too late.
I've never really noticed it, but this is true too. Go to a party and nibble on snacks for an hour standing up, and you don't feel like you've had dinner. But if you actually fill your plate and sit down, your brain thinks, "OK - here's my meal. I'll be finished after this."
So there they are, girls (you're all girls, right? Do guys read this blog? Doubt it). What do you think of these? And, do you like reading these kinds of posts, or would you rather I stick with the home decor/fashion/DIY/recipe thing? Your comments are appreciated (as always)!!
Who doesn't love Dr. Oz? He offers great health tips on a wide array of subjects and has a knack for explaining things so even Yours Truly can understand them. He recently shared his I'm not a fitness guru or a nutritionist, but I do spend L-O-T-S of time reading about health, diet and fitness (for my "real" job and in my spare time), and have definitely tried every diet, exercise, and, well - food - out there. And while some of these Commandments are old hat, many of them I haven't heard before. So, Commandments below, my comments in italics.
Dr. Oz - the Moses of health. Photo via www.doctoroz.com.
1. Thou Shalt Not Wear Pants that StretchYour clothing is an early-warning system for weight gain. When it’s getting hard to snap your jeans, you know it’s time to be vigilant. Wearing stretchy clothes allows you to live in ignorance of how your body is growing, making it easier to pack on pounds without knowing it.
I agree with this, mostly because it falls into my "Leggings are not pants" mantra. This Commandment falls flat though when you're talking about many spring dresses. And since I'm a dress/skirt girl this time of year, I put on the SAME pair of pants every week to make sure there's not more of me to love.
2. Thou Shalt Not Keep Bad Clothes in Your Closet
When you keep the clothes you wore at an unhealthy weight, it gives you a back-up plan if the pounds don’t come off. Instead, force yourself to stay on track by 86ing your “fat pants.”
Oooh this one is hard. I'll admit that I'm one of those girls who has pants in about three different sizes in my closet, because, well, you just never know. If you have the self-control to throw out your "fat pants," then God speed.
3. Thou Shalt Not Eat Meat That Walks on Four Legs More Than Once a Week
Meat that comes from an animal with 4 legs is higher in saturated fat (the unhealthy kind) than that which comes from 2-legged animals such as chickens, or animals with no legs, like fish. Plus: women who eat large amounts of red meat more than once a week have a 50% higher chance of dying from heart disease and have higher cancer rates.
I do this not because I'm trying to lose weight, but because I just don't eat red meat that often. However, I love a good steak, and red meat is important to keep your iron levels up.
4. Thou Shalt Not Graze
Plan your meal before you open the refrigerator, get what you need, and close the door. Opening it throughout the day leads to impulsive choices and overeating.
Oh Lord. Yep - my grazing hour occurs around 4:30-5:00 when I get home from work. It's not dinner time yet, but damn - I'm hungry. And before I know it, I've grazed through 1,000 calories. This is a tip I'm going to keep - planning what I'm getting out of the fridge before the door is opened.
5. Thou Shalt Not Eat After 7:30pm
When you eat late at night you are more likely to be eating in front of the TV (when you won’t pay attention to how much you’re putting in your mouth) and you’re more likely to pick high-calorie snacks.
This is an oldie but goodie. It's hard to do if you're a night owl, but if you're in bed by 10 every night and get heartburn like I do, it's easier.
6. Thou Shalt Not Pile Food More than 1 Inch High or Within 2 Inches of the Plate Edge
Larger portions equal more calories. ‘Nuff said.
I love this. I've always heard to use a salad plate instead of a dinner plate, but something about that makes me feel like it's not a meal. And not letting your food get higher than one inch could really limit the amount on your plate. I'm adopting this Commandment tonight.
7. Thou Shalt Not Chew Food Less than 20 Times Per Bite
Chewing allows your body to realize that you are eating food, prompting it to create a sensation of fullness at the appropriate time. When you don’t chew enough, you get ahead of that process, eating well past when you are actually satisfied.
Guilty, guilty, guilty. I think I chew my food like twice, because, like my dad, I'm a fast eater. A REALLY fast eater. Adopting this tonight too.
8. Thou Shalt Not Covet Thy Neighbor’s Plate
Spend your day nibbling bites on someone else’s sandwich or afternoon snack, and you will add on 1,000 calories easy.
True, and I'd like to add that I think this also means that if you're out to eat with friends and you had planned on ordering the grilled fish, but your buds are eating burgers, stay the course. I am SUPER guilty of this.
9. Thou Shalt Not Carry Small Bills
Nothing loves a small bill better than a vending machine. When you have them at the ready, you are one step closer to an impulsive, calorie-loaded afternoon slip up.
I'm not a vending machine gal now, but I used to be. Big time. And you know, when I didn't have change or a dollar bill, I would still go troll around the office for a kind soul who would give me 65 cents. So I don't know how valid this one is. The better tip is to keep healthy snacks in your desk - almonds, fruit, peanut butter - for when the hungries hit.
10. Thou Shalt Not Eat While Standing Up
Eating sitting down enables you to be aware of what you’re eating and eat it slowly so that your body can tell you your full before it’s too late.
I've never really noticed it, but this is true too. Go to a party and nibble on snacks for an hour standing up, and you don't feel like you've had dinner. But if you actually fill your plate and sit down, your brain thinks, "OK - here's my meal. I'll be finished after this."
So there they are, girls (you're all girls, right? Do guys read this blog? Doubt it). What do you think of these? And, do you like reading these kinds of posts, or would you rather I stick with the home decor/fashion/DIY/recipe thing? Your comments are appreciated (as always)!!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
7 Outfit Makeovers for Spring
InStyle has an article about Instant Outfit Makeovers for Spring. And I disagree with, oh, 7 of them. Mostly because my opportunities to wear a formal dress are limited, and we don't wear suede or scarves past January in Alabama, and double cuffs make you look like Wonder Woman, and there's just so much wrong with giant hoop earrings that this blog doesn't have the file space for it. But mostly, I'm just a regular girl who goes to work, hangs out with my friends at restaurants and the occasional bar and doesn't have a wheelbarrow full of cash to drop on random trendy things.
Don't take that to mean that I won't drop a LITTLE cash on random trendy things. I most certainly will, within reason. I just try to be judicious about them. Here's what I'd put on my Outfit Makeover list for spring to replace the ones that, in my opinion, InStyle missed:
1. Something peach
2. Turquoise
3. A colorful cocktail ring
4. Tie Dye
5. One-shoulder tops and dresses
6. Strappy platform wedges
7. Rompers
Here are some more options from each category to get you going:
Thoughts? What are you going to incorporate into your spring wardrobe? Leave a comment and let me know!
Don't take that to mean that I won't drop a LITTLE cash on random trendy things. I most certainly will, within reason. I just try to be judicious about them. Here's what I'd put on my Outfit Makeover list for spring to replace the ones that, in my opinion, InStyle missed:
1. Something peach
Peach smocked waist ruffle top, Arden B., $39
If the color peach makes you think of the '80s, you're not alone. But the color is really popular right now, and is cute with white for spring. Are you going to want to wear it next year? Maybe not. But something affordable for this season is great.2. Turquoise
Turquoise Elizabeth shirt dress, Delias, $44.50
Not only is it Pantone's Color of the Year for 2010, turquoise is bright, cheery and summery. The Native Americans got it right - turquoise is fab in any form, whether it's a dress, top or ring. And speaking of rings...3. A colorful cocktail ring
Yellow enamel ring, Dillard's, $15
Something about wearing a big, bold cocktail ring makes me feel all fancy. There are lots of great, affordable options out there that will brighten up your outfit.4. Tie Dye
Tie Dye Maxi Dress, Forever 21, $27.80
You read that right. Tie Dye has been revamped for 2010, and now it's not just for hippies and high school pep rallies. There are lots of fun ways to incorporate this look into your outfit, and the best part is, if you have a washing machine, you can make something fab yourself!5. One-shoulder tops and dresses
Floral one-shoulder tunic, Arden B., $39
This trend was in when I was in college, and 10 years later, it's back! One shoulder tops and dresses let you feel a little more covered up while still showing off one of those great shoulders you've been working on.6. Strappy platform wedges
Burnished strappy wedges, Old Navy, $29.50
I was skeptical about these until I found a pair at Old Navy and decided to give 'em a whirl. And they're now my favorite pair of summer shoes in my closet. They make you taller and they're easy to walk in. 'Nuf said.7. Rompers
Navy Beach Romper, Harmony Lane, $22
I know - they scare me too, and not everyone can pull these off. But I think I'm going to give this shorts/top combo a try. Rompers look so cool and easy to wear, and there are lots of cute, affordable options out there right now. This one would look so great with a big chunky statement necklace. Is this a trend that's going to carry you through the years? Nope. But it can be fun for a season.Here are some more options from each category to get you going:
Thoughts? What are you going to incorporate into your spring wardrobe? Leave a comment and let me know!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
First Ever Giveaway Winner is...
Claire!
"I've shared this blog with several peeps! I like what you have going on here- I just wish I could hire you to organize my life!"
I used random.org to generate a winner based on the order of comments (and the second and third comments by Melissa counted as one, since there was only one entry per person), so Claire, send me your address (to katy.c.harper of the gmail variety) and I'll get your snazzy apron to you!
"I've shared this blog with several peeps! I like what you have going on here- I just wish I could hire you to organize my life!"
I used random.org to generate a winner based on the order of comments (and the second and third comments by Melissa counted as one, since there was only one entry per person), so Claire, send me your address (to katy.c.harper of the gmail variety) and I'll get your snazzy apron to you!
Got my Sew On
Attention: If your name is Sarah Chandler, stop reading here.
You may remember several weeks back when I told you I was Gonna Get my Sew On at The Smocking Bird. Well, it's four weeks later, class is complete, and I wound up making a really cute little seer sucker romper for my friend Sarah's son Will. It took patience, which many of you know I lack, but it's so rewarding to see something go from a bunch of fabric to a wearable piece.
I was aprehensive about handling my sewing machine, since I literally knew NOTHING about how to use it. But Kay, our teacher, taught me everything I needed to know, including how to thread the darn thing. We learned to read a pattern, and I even mastered making a buttonhole. Eventually.
For your consideration:
You may remember several weeks back when I told you I was Gonna Get my Sew On at The Smocking Bird. Well, it's four weeks later, class is complete, and I wound up making a really cute little seer sucker romper for my friend Sarah's son Will. It took patience, which many of you know I lack, but it's so rewarding to see something go from a bunch of fabric to a wearable piece.
I was aprehensive about handling my sewing machine, since I literally knew NOTHING about how to use it. But Kay, our teacher, taught me everything I needed to know, including how to thread the darn thing. We learned to read a pattern, and I even mastered making a buttonhole. Eventually.
For your consideration:
I'm really hoping Will doesn't grow AT ALL before I have a chance to see if it fits him.
I attempted to make a skirt a couple nights ago, but ran into a few problems. But not to worry - I'll be trying again, and will give tips when (if?) I create something successful.
My nemesis, the buttonhole.
If you live in the Birmingham area and have even a moderate desire to learn to sew, call The Smocking Bird. The Beginning Sewing class was only $60 (plus supplies) for four sessions, and I learned a LOT. And if you're not in the Birmingham area, consider finding a sewing shop and taking some lessons.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
I Love Lucite
There's just something about one great piece of lucite in an otherwise traditional room that looks polished and chic. Whether it's a coffee table or a fabulous Louis Ghost Chair, the clear-ness keeps the room open while adding another dimension.
From Better Homes and Gardens.
I absolutely love the Louis Ghost Chairs. And the mosaic tile in the faux fireplace. And the rug. And the curtains. And the chandelier. See how the chairs play off the crystals above them?From Metropolitan Home.
The clear legs on this bench look great with the monochromatic color palate. Is the bench floating? No, it's just lucite.From Elle Decor.
This console table is great - if it was made of heavy wood, it might be too much for the space. But the lucite (or acrylic?) is perfect. I also think the surfboard is such a cool detail. And the pups don't hurt, either.From Color Me Happy.
There's just so much right with this room. The simple lucite coffee table keeps the room from feeling too closed off. It's contemporary lines play nicely against the uber-traditional fireplace mantel.From Amoroso Design.
I love this lucite bar. This would be a great place to curl up and read with a cocktail! And that purple is really rich.From Amanda Nisbet Design.
Contemporary chairs in an otherwise traditional room. The lucite with the cheery yellow just makes me happy. Good mix.
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