Always Alexandria

are you there blog? it's me alexandria...

2011-12-23T08:09:00.000-08:00

So the last time I posted was over four months ago! Four whole months?! That is craziness. What can I say? Life has just gotten super busy. The good news is that I am ready to come back to Blogland! I have missed posting and sharing about my life, and I miss catching up on all of my ibffs' blogs. So, after Christmas be prepared folks...Always Alexandria is returning!

I am going to be honest with y'all. A big reason of why I haven't been blogging is because of this guy. More about that to come. Let's just say I am blissfully happy right now...

Until next time...xoxo

always alexandria's greatest hits {3.}...

2011-08-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

We are getting closer and closer to the blog birthday! I really hope you all are loving this little trip down memory lane. Hopefully this is awesome for my new and old readers. On to greatest hit number three...

Always Alexandria's Greatest Hit #3:

Post Title: 'Listen Here...'

Posted: December 14th, 2009

I am 99% positive this is my all time favorite post! Enjoy friends!

xoxo

always alexandria's greatest hits {2.}...

2011-08-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

It is day two in celebrating my blog's almost second birthday! I hope you all enjoyed the revolting post that I picked yesterday, if you didn't get to check it out click here. Now onto the next hit...

Always Alexandria's Greatest Hits #2:

Post Title: 'A Walk Down Memory Lane...'

Posted: November 18th, 2009

This isn't a happy, funny, cheerful post. But it is a raw, loving, real post. This was one of the hardest times I have ever been through and this blog and all of my ibffs support meant so much to me.

xoxo

always alexandria's greatest hits {1.}...

2011-08-14T16:17:00.000-07:00

This week something awesome happens. On August 18th, this Thursday, it will be my blog's second birthday. Sometimes it seems like I have been blogging for decades, and other times it feels like I am still a newbie to the blog world. But the point is that I have been blogging for two years. A silly little site that I named and put together all because I was on summer break from college and discovered other people's blogs. Something I thought I would maybe stick with for two weeks. Maybe. But no. I stuck to it. While I may not post as often as I use to, or as often as I would like to, I still love my blog.

To commemorate my blog birfday, I am going to post 'Always Alexandria's Greatest Hits'. This will be me linking back to *my* favorite posts. Maybe you have read them, maybe not, but I am going to start a little trip down memory lane.

Always Alexandria's Greatest Hits #1:

Post Title: 'Story Time...'

Posted: September 24th, 2009

This post was possibly one of the most sicknast things that I have ever witnessed, but it was also SO freaking hilarious. Enjoy...

xoxo

30 post photo challenge {9.}...

2011-08-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

I am continuing on with the 30 post photo challenge. Even though it is taking me forever, I am getting there! Here we go with day 9...

Post #9: A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most...This one is a no brainer. My mama has always been my 'person'. No one has been there for me like her. If I can grow up to be half the woman she is I will be one blessed gal. She is amazing, end of story.

Who has gotten YOU through the most? Please share in the comments section.

xoxo

wise words wednesday {31.}...

2011-08-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have this friend, her name is Ashton. I met her via Blog Land and she has become one of my best friends. In fact in a couple of weeks I am hopping on a plane to Las Vegas to spend the weekend with Ash, and our other bestie Lauren, who I also met through blogging! Anywho, Ashton is wise beyond her years and she gives some of the best advice. I jokingly call her 'Mama Ashton'. Some of her best advice is only a couple of words long, "Pull your life together." Thus inspiring this weeks wise words...

{31.} Wise Words...

This week I will attempt to pull it together. I also know that if I don't, I can sent a rant filled email to Ashton and Lauren and they will still love me through it.

xoxo

iphone photos {4.}...

2011-08-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

Oh, blog pals how I have missed you all! I really have no excuse for my absence but I truly miss blogging. I am going to try to get back into the groove of posting on a regular basis. I am so grateful for my iPhone; it helps me capture many of the moments of my days via photographs. Let me catch you up on what has been happening in my neck of the woods. If you are one of those people who are sick of posts full of instagram photos...well move along right about now.

My life as of late...

{1.} Mama and Bug celebrating their independence.

{2.} My new Otterbox case to keep my precious iPhone safe and sound.

{3.} Hootie ring.

{4.} My houndstooth nails. They were tacky but awesome all at the same time.

{5.} Yours truly with entirely too much makeup on. The things I did for Work Bff Tania's wedding...

{6.} 'Cause baby she's a firework.

{7.} Me and my Bug-a-Boo.

{8.} Summer when you are six. As it should be.

{9.} This is what my drive to work looks like. Country livin'.

{10.} That is me rocking a Mama Made scarf to work.

{11.} I tried some MAC red lipstick. It's called 'Ruby Woo', do we like?

{12.} Why yes. I am driving a caged van. That is just one of the perks of working for mental health.

{13.} I AM MAGICAL. The end.

{14.} I love watching how my tan progresses throughout the summer. Still not as dark as I want to be. Working on it.

{15.} Mint ice cream is how I consoled myself after viewing the final Harry Potter film.

{16.} That one time I went shopping in San Francisco. I spent an entire pay check. No lies.

{17.} A girl after my own heart. She is six and can order her own green tea from Starbucks. *proud*

{18.} This is a daily occurrence in my car on the way to work. I have no shame.

{19.} I am obsessed with OPI Shatter. OBSESSED.

{20.} I love summer.

I am back y'all! I hope to keep up with regular posts!

xoxo

must have monday {13.}...

2011-07-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

After spending the weekend in the Bay Area and shopping my little heart out, (literally. when I got home and added up how much I spent my heart stopped for a few minutes), you would think I would be over swooning and shopping. But no. I am not. I am still ALL about it. What can I say? I love to shop. End of story.

Ok...not end of story really. I am super excited that in one month I will be hopping on a plane to Las Vegas to see Adele in concert. Jealous? Well if you aren't when I tell you I am also meeting up with Lauren and Ashton, you will be. I am so excited to see two of my besties and have a blast in Vegas with them. I am not so excited about being in Las Vegas in August. Seriously. Anyone who has been there knows it is pretty much like living in an oven. This sparked a shopping frenzy for some cool summer dresses, because jeans when it is 120 outside are a little ridiculous. That is what inspired this weeks, 'Must Have Monday'.

Enjoy...

{1.} 'Demeter Maxi Dress'-ModCloth

I am seriously loving on this fierce maxi dress. I mean the shoulder alone is super foxy. So, while wearing an all black dress in Las Vegas during the day may result in death, rocking this little number out to a fabulous dinner would be cool and hot all at the same time. You can find this gem over at ModCloth for only $59.99!

{2.} 'Peaceful Evening Dress'-ModCloth

Now this dress would be perfect for a day out and about on The Strip. Yes. I did just make 'The Strip' a proper noun. I am loving how delicate and pretty this little number is. I think it would be perfect for a day of shopping and running around. I also love how with the right shoes and accessories you could make it a bit fancier. This is over at ModCloth for $42.99.

{3.} 'Let's Go On A Dot Dress'-ModCloth

I want this dress in the worst way. I love items that can be worn a bunch of different ways. I could see this as a bathing suit cover-up, a flowy little dress, or belted with some high heels. It also has pockets, if a dress has pockets I typically deem that dress as legit. Once again head over to ModCloth and pick this up for only $49.99!

{4.} 'Second Verse Dress'-ModClothThis is such a fun and classic take on the LBD. I mean what woman doesn't own one? This just seems like such a classy little number. Once again it is black. Yeah, yeah. I like to wear black. So, this would only be used as nighttime wear in LV. Do we love? It is $99.99 at ModCloth!

{5.} 'Catchphrase Dress'-ModCloth

I love how comfy this dress looks. It would be so cute with some shiny gladiator sandals and a cute hat. Anything that is made out of jersey knit makes me think of pajamas. I love pajamas. For $42.99 you could have this to lounge, shop, and play in!

Okay fellow fashionistas, what is YOUR way to look cute and feel cool all at the same time? Also, if anyone has any must-do Vegas suggestions please share in the comments section! Happy Monday pals!

xoxo

30 post photo challenge {8.}...

2011-07-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday everybody! Hope you all had lovely weekends. Continuing on with the '30 Post Photo Challenge' I bring to you Day 8...

Post #8: A picture that makes you laugh...

If you even need to ask why this picture makes me laugh...well, you just have no sense of humor. This picture pretty much explains Bff Jil and I. We are weird gals, but we never fail to have a good time together. Also, it must be said, Jil makes THE best fishy face in the history of all fishy faces. Ever.

xoxo

wise words wednesday {30.}...

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

Sometimes life gets really complicated. Sometimes being a female can be super frustrating. Even though we are at a time where men and women are 'equal', sometimes that isn't exactly true. Sometimes I get a little pat on the back, wink, and a "Thanks hun" from a male at work. It pisses me off. Do NOT call me any sort of pet name at work. Do not pat me on the back and wink at me. Do NOT treat me as if you are any more capable than I am. I may come to work rocking out some fierce outfits and ridiculous heels...but that is because I can. And yes, EVERY outfit that I wear to work is accessorized with confidence.

{30.} Wise Words...

Ladies let's all wear our best accessory this week, ok? Ok.

xoxo

bachelorette weekend in tahoe {2.}...

2011-07-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

After our night of debauchery, that included learning how to be strippers, we moved on to day 2 of our bachelorette weekend. This day was planned by yours truly. We decided that we would all chip in and pamper the bride-to-be with her very first visit to a spa. Please do not even get me started on how Tania had lived 38 years and had never been to a real spa. Being the control freak that I am, I scheduled every ones spa treatments. We were all pampered for about four hours, it was heavenly. Plus, our strip-tastic activities the night before had left us all a little sore, and massages were greatly needed by all.

Jess striking a pose in her fierce robe, Cindy in the background fighting with a bottle of strawberry champagne.

Ahhhh...relaxed already.

A little snuggling on the couch in the relaxation room. It was so warm and cozy in the spa.

A group shot...unfortunately we were missing a few of our girls in these pictures. We all look like hot freaking messes in this picture, oh well. We were at a spa y'all.

Cheers! Yum...strawberry champagne for all, well all except for Tania. Homegirl is clean and sober!

Apparently Tania didn't get enough relaxation during her spa treatments. She hopped right into the awesome jacuzzi tub that was in our hotel room.

After our day of pampering, shopping, and eating delicious food, it was time for us to all get done up and head out on the town! We booked a VIP booth at the best club in Lake Tahoe and went to tear it up!

Yours truly, all glammed up and ready to go.

Heyyyy private booth and free bottle service! All of the ladies with our yummy vodka and crans. Delish!

Um...remember those vodka cranberries I was talking about? I am pretty sure this is what happens when five too many are consumed.

Excuse me Mr. Security Guard? Can you take our picture? okthankbye.

Heather and I taking a break from the dance floor! The music was off the hook at Vex that night, it was beyond fabulous.

Ms. Shannon and myself.

See this? We, as good friends, only embarrassed our bachelorette by making her wear a sash. This bachelor, was forced to wear a Sunshine Bear costume. Oh, do you hear that? Yep. That IS the sound of awesome friends.

Happy Bachelorette Weekend!!

And with a ten minute drive we were out of Nevada and back in our beloved state. We had a freaking blast. It may have been a quick weekend trip, but we for sure made the most out of it.

Psbtw, please do not ask why the spacing is all jacked up in this post. I really don't have an answer, other than I spent about 30 minutes trying to fix it.

xoxo

30 post photo challenge {7.}...

2011-06-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

Post #7: A picture of your childhood crush...

My very first crush was the one and only Anthony Pachecco. He was so dreamy, and would chase me around the playground every recess. I don't have a picture of him, but he was the hotness. So, I am going with my first celebrity crush, and like many of you, my very first celeb swoon happened during an episode of 'Home Improvement'. Oh Jonathan Taylor Thomas...how I loved thee.

Alright folks, spill! Who was your numero uno crush?

xoxo

30 post photo challenge {6.}...

2011-06-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

I am very proud of the fact that I have been semi-consistent with my blogging over the last two weeks! I missed this blog of mine, and I missed reading all of your blogs as well. Now onto post 6 of the photo challenge! Are you attempting the challenge too? If so leave me a link, I would love to check it out.

Post #6: A picture of a person you'd love to trade places with for a day...

Do I even really need to explain this choice? Probably not, but I will anyways. I adore Oprah. Say what you will, but this is one amazing human being. I have watched her show since I was born, literally. There is a picture of my mom and I watching Lady O when I was about 5 months old. She is strong, honest, spiritual, and has a huge heart. I am sure she can also be one of the biggest bitchfaced divas on the planet, hence why I would love to be her. Not only would I throw a party the day I was Oprah, I would call every celeb in her address book and invite them. Then I would go on a shopping spree. I would conclude my day by bathing in a jacuzzi tub full of all of Oprah's money.

Who would YOU all trade places with for a day? Please, share in the comments section!

xoxo

wise words wednesday {29.}...

2011-06-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

I don't know about everyone else, but I realized something pretty darn important a little while ago. Life is hard. It isn't easy. It can be a straight up bitch sometimes. But, life is worth it. It is beautiful. It can be amazing if we allow it to be.

{29.} Wise Words...

The point? We are all going to make it. We may be a little damaged by the time we do, but we will be there. I for one, will be there with bells on.

xoxo

bachelorette weekend in tahoe {1.}...

2011-06-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have quite a few picture explosion posts planned, being that I took an unofficial blog hiatus and failed to blog about some of the fun things that have been going on. All the way back in April I took a fabulous weekend vacation to Tahoe to celebrate work bff Tania's bachelorette party! We drove up in an insane amount of snow, all in flip flops, and sequestered ourselves in some seriously swanky hotel rooms. One of Tania's bridesmaids, and our fellow coworker, planned our first night. It was a total surprise, no one knew what we were doing. We all got dolled up and ready for a night out, we figured sicknast male strippers would happen. Thankfully, what Shannon planned was way less gross, and SO much fun. Here is the insanity that went down...

Our fabulous bride-to-be! We customized her bachelorette accessories with skulls. Yes, you did read that right. This is one heavy metal bride.

I look like a giant compared to Tania. This is what happens when I throw on some heels. Hell, I am way taller than her in flip flops too. Can we just say she is short?

Taysha, Tania, and Bridesmaid Shannon. These two were behind the shenanigans of this unforgettable night. They are such a blast to be around.

This is Heather, she is another gal that we work with. We were all smiles.

Tania was very upset that she couldn't figure out what the surprise was. This is one girl who hates surprises, but she was such a trooper that night.

Shannon had to basically force Tania through the hotel room door. She was enjoying torturing the bride wayyyy to much. Hey, what are friends for?

The music was pumping, and some stranger was rubbing her bum all over Tania's. Um...is that a pole that I see in the background?

Aaaannnddd the blindfold is off! Is it a female stripper, which is way less gross than a dude, or what? Tania was just relieved is wasn't a random sweaty dude swinging his junk in her face. I was relieved as well, especially when we found out we were all getting stripper lessons!

This is such a smokin' hot picture of Tania. I mean hello! Get. It. Girl.

There I am, getting ready to shimmy and do a peek-a-boo.

Ms. Taysha...she is mid peek-a-boo as well.

Shannon completes the peek-a-boo.

Lin worked that pole like she has been doing it for years! 'Atta girl!

Heather was mid shimmy.

Yup. That just happened.

Tania doing a step-kick slide down the pole. Yes these are all technical terms from our fabulous stripper teacher, Ms. Candy Cane.

Jess is also getting ready to slide down that pole.

After an entire twenty minute routine was learned by all, including straight up spinning around the pole, we were hot sweaty messes. But we still posed for some group shots with our boas.

Another group shot, showing our love to the bride.

Such an amazing group of ladies. Please, do not ask where those bunny ears came from. I honestly have zero clue...

What I loved most about this night, other than the fabulous company, was how this wasn't about being sexy for someone else. The instructor was super professional and awesome, she was all about empowering woman and making us feel hot. Which we did. I would suggest a pole party to anyone out there! Part two of our trip will be up soon!

Happy Monday folks...I want to be back in Tahoe, not back in the office. Le sigh...

xoxo

it's pretty much a sad day...

2011-06-19T17:05:00.001-07:00

I love reading everyone's posts about their fathers. Then I want to write my own Father's Day post, but it makes me feel weird, and I get a little emotional because I have to use past tense when I talk about my dad. I can't say, "He is such an amazing man." I have to say, "He WAS such an amazing man." But then I think, at least I get to say that. At least I can say I had a great dad, he was always there, he was funny, he pissed me off, he loved me. He really WAS an amazing man.

Happy Father's Day to all of the amazing dads out there, but especially to my own. I miss you pops.

xoxo

wise words wednesday {28.}...

2011-06-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have being feeling super overwhelmed by life lately. I have gone from having a job that I love, to being really unhappy with my position as of now. I miss being a drug and alcohol counselor, plain and simple. I think that my new position at mental health is amazing and I am lucky to be on the ground floor of a great program, but I spend more time organizing and handling paperwork than getting to know my clients. The new program, The Health Care Collaborative, is starting tomorrow. It has been hectic, stressful, and has created an amazing amount of anxiety in my life. It has just been hard, and we are sort of playing it by ear. I am hoping everything runs as smoothly as possible...I shall be repeating this as my mantra all day long.

{28.} Wise Words...

Wish me luck my friends.

xoxo

must have monday (12.}...

2011-06-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

It has been over two months since I have done a 'Must Have Monday' post. What is wrong with me? I suppose I have just been super busy, but I miss my blog and reading your blogs, so I am bringing 'Always Alexandria' back! My last 'Must Have' post was about tops to wear to a bachelorette weekend in Tahoe...yeah that trip happened forever ago. I will be posting about it later this week.

This weeks post is dedicated to dresses. I have been such a dress whore lately, which if you know me, you know that is highly strange. I am a jeans gal all the way, but there is just something about the comfort of work/summer/lounge/fancy dresses that has me addicted to them! So, here are some dresses I am currently swooning over...enjoy!

{1.} 'Alternative Apparel Diego Strapless Navy Blue Dress'-LuLu*s I have a love for dresses that can be worn for many different occasions. This dress would rock a fun night out to dinner with the girls, it could be made a little fancy with some funky jewelry, it could be worn on the beach with a bathing suit underneath, or it could be belted and made a little casual for a Friday at the office. Basically I love this dress...I could probably even sleep in it. It looks comfy like whoa. Also, it has pockets. If something has pockets it automatically sells me on it. I love me some pockets. This cuteness retails at $71.00 bucks over at LuLu*s.

{2.} 'Ease of Elegance Dress'-ModCloth

This little number is super casual. It would be perfect for a day out and about shopping, or grabbing a coffee with some friends. I would definitely not wear this out to dinner, or to work, but it would be perfect for day to day running about and errands. I would totally accessorize it up with a black belt and some funky black wedges! This cuteness is over at ModCloth for $59.99.

{3.} 'City of Lights Dress'-ModCloth

I cannot even begin to express how freakin' cute I find this dress. I want it like right now, in fact I think as soon as I am done with this post I may place an order for it. I am so wishing I would have found this before work bff Tania's wedding last weekend. It is totes adorable, and I have THE perfect shoes for it. It shall be mine, and will be in my closet within the next week. End of story. You can find this gem for $312.99 over at ModCloth.

{4.} 'Farmer's Market Navy Blue Dress'-LuLu*sI apparently have a huge thing for navy blue at the moment. This dress is a little on the short side for me, so I would probably wear some leggings or jean capris underneath it. Unless it was a beachy fun kind of day. Or just tan my legs and then rock out the shortness. Anywho, this is over at LuLu*s for only $41.00!

{5.} 'Languid Paisley Maxi Dress'-Anthropologie

I l-o-v-e this dress so much! It is the perfect comfy casual summer dress. One could easily dress this maxi up or down. It is beyond fabulous, I would of course belt it, because...well...I belt everything I wear! This lovely can be found over at Anthropoloie for $148.00. Why does Anthro have to be so pricey? And why does everything there have to be so effin' cute? Le sigh...

So, ladies...and fellas, what do you think? Which is your favorite? What is YOUR summer fashion obsession? Please share!

xoxo

30 post photo challenge {5.}...

2011-06-12T16:06:00.000-07:00

I started this "30 day challenge" months ago. I knew I would never get it done in 30 days, so I switched the wording so it was a 30 post challenge. That I can do. Slowly but surely, I am getting there! On we go...

Post #5: A picture of your favorite memory...

I don't have a lot of older photographs on my computer. But this picture will suffice for now. I must say some of my best memories have been from our family trips to Disneyland. We have been MANY times, it has been an H* Family tradition since before I was even born. I honestly think it is physically impossible for one to ever get tired of The DL. Impossible I say! This picture is from the first time we all went as a family and were able to take Bug with us. It was amazing to see the excitement through the eyes of a child. Her excitement made all of us feel carefree and childlike. It was an awesome experience.

Here is to many, many more family trips to Disneyland! I hope this is a tradition that can happen again in the near future! It has been far too long since I have been!

What are some of YOUR vacation traditions? Please share in the comments section!

xoxo

happy monday...

2011-05-31T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have basically disappeared off of the planet. The only people who see/hear from me, are the people who I live and work with. This is not ok. Work has been crazy busy, home life has been crazy busy, and I have not had a bum around lazy weekend in what seems like forever! What is my point? I miss things. I miss my real life friends, I miss my ibffs, I owe like one hundred emails, I have SO many things to blog about, and I am exhausted. I am hoping to pull my life together soon...we shall see. In the mean time, please go and check out the Made Made Shoppe for some fabulous new items!

Happy Monday all!

xoxo

baby jayden {2.} vlog edition...

2011-05-20T16:07:00.000-07:00

Blog Friends, I am alive. Barely, but I am. I have plans on rejoining the world of the blogging soon, but for now I just have a vlog for you all to watch. Trust and believe it is adorable. Also believe that I talk baby talk...it is annoying, I am aware, just deal. Happy Friday folks!!

xoxo

happy egg day...

2011-05-03T07:30:00.000-07:00

Do you all remember when the Easter Bunny came a couple of Sundays ago? Yeah. I do too. However, I am just now getting around to posting all of The H* Family's Egg Day pictures. Enjoy...

{1.} Bug on her way to find all those eggs. The ones you can eat? Meh. The ones with money? She was all about!

{2.} My mama and myself. I love that woman.
{3.} Bastina and myself...and my ghetto fabulous earrings. I mean COME ON, those bad boys deserve an honorable mention at the very least!
{4.} She is such a ham. Ask her to smile, and you receive this...

{5.} Mama and Brother Jon-than. I am so excited I actually got a picture of him. He is a picture dodging ninja, in my opinion.

{6.} Bug and her loot!
{7.} Our signature peace signs. We are awesome.

{8.} Brother Jason and his baby girl.

{9.} This has to be the cutest, and my most favorite, picture ever. I love it...

{10.} The brotherly one, Bug, and myself...
{11.} Bastina and I, giving Bug kisses. <3

{12.} Bug and I throwing up peace signs...my mother...um...not throwing up a peace sign?
{13.} Egg-actly...sorry. I had to pun.
{14.} Money!!!

{15.} She is so my niece. Girl, loves her some dolla' bills y'all...

Well, there you have it folks. I blogged about Easter...and only a little over a week late. Go me.

xoxo

30 post photo challenge {4.}...

2011-04-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

I am slowly, very slowly, but surely getting through the 30 post photo challenge! I swear one day I will actually complete the challenge. Look for the final post in about a year at the rate I am going. Anyway, on we go with number four...

Post #4: A picture of your night...A Saturday night does NOT get any more legit than curling up in bed with People Magazine, some yummy fresh strawberries, and Season six of 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer'. Ok...so yes. That is a pathetic Saturday night, but I couldn't care less. I am exhausted from the chaotic work week and that is just how I roll. I know your all jealous.

What did all of YOUR Saturday nights consist of? Anything that can top mine?

xoxo

iphone photos {3.}...

2011-04-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

I am having a fit of vanity today. I am also having a lack of creativity and time, which is why I am just throwing up some iPhone photos. Most of them are of me...because I get bored and like to take pictures of myself so I can play with my instagram app.

{1.} Sweet Baby Jayden. I am madly in love with him.

{2.} See. Madly...

{3.} ...in love.

{4.} Off to work...and exhausted.

{5.} Peace and love.

{6.} Off to work again. Loving my new black and white paisley shirt.

{7.} This is the insanity that happens when I do NOT have time to flat iron my curly mop of hair. So horrible. So sad.

{8.} Feeling sassy.

{9.} Rockin' my custom made crochet headband from FSIL Bastina Balicious. Isn't is presh?! Psbtw, check out her store!

{10.} Peace earrings and scarf.

Ok. Sorry for the lame post. But, at least I have a Monday post! Goooooo me! Do y'all have instagram on your iPhones?! Are you as obsessed as I am?! Oooh how I love it!

xoxo

30 post photo challenge {3.}...

2011-04-12T19:28:00.000-07:00

So I have been a pretty horrible blogger. Life has been super busy as of late. I had a fabulous weekend in Tahoe for work bff Tania's bachelorette party, so I didn't have time to blog last weekend. But so many pictures were taken, and there was so much craziness that I cannot wait until I have time to blog about all of it. Just a few words: pole dance lessons & bruises. Anyways...

Onto the 30 post photo challenge thing-a-ma-jig...

Post #3: A Picture of the Cast from your Favorite Show..

Oh Gilmore Girls, how I miss you. This will always be my very favorite show. I mean I was a loyal fangirl from the premiere episode in 2000. I own all seven seasons. I have watched them all more than ten times, which to some may sound sad, but in reality it is pretty awesome and hardcore. I can pretty much quote the entire series. Also, if you were to give me a quote I could tell you what episode it was in. Yep...I am a badass.

xoxo

30 post photo challenge {2.}...

2011-04-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

It is now time for post numero dos in the photo challenge. For post numero uno click here. Why am I counting in espanol? I have zero clue. Anyways...

Post #2: A picture of you and the person you have been the closest with the longestSo, I could pick a family member for this one, since those people have known me since birth, but I decided to turn it into a friend one.

I cannot believe how rarely I mention Bff Fabi (short for Fabiana) on my blog. It is probably because she got married when we were nineteen and moved with her Air Force hubby to Arkansas, then to Alaska. This being the case I don't see her very often. We have been best friend for about 14 years now. She is the total opposite of me, and this is why we click so well. She is hilarious, spur of the moment, and a tad ditzy. This balances well with my sarcasm, obsessive need to plan and analyze every little thing. She is an amazing person and I love her like a sister. I am going to stop writing now, because it has been too long since I have seen her and I miss her a whole freaking lot.

I am thinking a trip to visit her in Alaska is going to happen this summer. Moral of the story? Fabi is one of the best friends a gal could have.

xoxo

baby jayden {1.}...

2011-04-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

So my last post shared a bit more about my personal 'baggage' that is happening in my life. I normally don't 'go there' on the blog, but it is MY blog...so I think I get to. The last post I wrote about was a sad/happy post about a bad situation that is hopefully being molded into a good situation (if you didn't read click here). Now I just get to share the amazingness that is the newest member of my family. I didn't think it would be easy to welcome Rachel and Baby Jayden into the family, just because of how stubborn I am, and how hard it was for me to accept that my sweet little toe-headed blonde boy Sean was having a baby. But one look at him and I was hooked. Check these pictures out, can you really blame me?

Jayden Sean Alan Eakes

Born March 22, 2011

9 lbs. 1 oz. 21 1/2 inches

{1.} Jayden's very first picture. He looks full grown he is SO big. Like pack that kid a lunch and send him to school. He is ready.

{2.} Rachel was so lost in her baby boy. It made my stone cold heart melt.

{3.} Sean looking down at his boy. He was such a proud papa. Two seconds after this picture was snapped I was sobbing

{4.} Tania and Rachel with their half-assed smiles.

{5.} She was so loaded and exhausted in this picture. After being awake for almost 48 hours she was out of it, but still such a beautiful and happy new mom.

{6.} My first time holding the little man. He is so precious. I may not ever want kids, but I love other people's babies.

{7.} He is such a proud daddy.

{8.} Tania and her 'crumb-snatchers' as she so affectionately calls them. She is the most amazing person and juvenile drug court counselor. I cannot thank her enough for how hard she has worked with Rachel and Sean. I know it is her job, but she has connected with them on such a deep level.

{9.} Close up! Isn't he absolutely beautiful? Okay, okay...I know newborns aren't really cute to anyone, but to me he is one handsome devil.

{10.} The newly formed Eakes Family. I am really proud of these two. I hope and pray that they can keep their heads on straight and raise little Jayden to be an amazing human being.

Please don't kill me, I have A LOT of pictures of Baby Jayden and I will be blogging about him a lot. So, y'all have fair warning. Once again please send prayers and positive thoughts to these kids, they need all the help they can get.

xoxo

wise words wednesday {27.}...

2011-03-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

Just a quick one today! I think ALL of us should be reminded to do this!

{27.} Wise Words...

I hope everyone is having a lovely week.

xoxo

some families are a bit dysfunctional...

2011-03-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

So today let's take a dive into my dysfunctional family, shall we?

When I was 8 my mom's sister passed away. She left behind my 18 year old cousin Jen, my four year old cousin Megan, and my 2 year old cousin Sean. The death of my Auntie Bee devastated my entire family. It was one of the most awful times I can ever remember. The story gets worse...my aunt's husband was a lousy parent and a hardcore alcoholic. Basically even though everyone tried to help with the kids, it wasn't enough. They were raised by freaking wolves. Sean has had an especially tough time. He never knew his mom. He has not one single memory of his own about her. He started drinking, drugging, and being promiscuous and the ripe old age of 12. This has led to screaming matches, my cop brother almost having to arrest him, him running away, becoming an addict, and then being in and out of juvenile hall many, many, MANY, times. It was hard, to say the very least. After his last bought in the hall, Sean came out with a different attitude. He started attending Juvenile Drug Court and counseling (at the place where I work). His girlfriend Rachel has pretty much the same story, only difference is she is also in a foster home. One day at work I went out to see Sean, and he told me Rachel was pregnant. I could have killed him. Here we had two SEVENTEEN year old recovering addicts who were in the juvenile justice system, and now they are going to have a baby. I was pissed. I also wanted the kids to get a paternity test. Let's just say I was NOT supportive in any way shape or form. I was straight up mean to Rachel, I acted like she did not even exist. I honestly did not want to deal with the situation. Plus, she is a snotty 17 year old, and if she would have rolled her eyes at me one more time I would have probably strangled her. After a lot of work on myself I finally decided that it was best to just love Sean and welcome Rachel and their baby into the family. That is what they needed. They didn't need judgement, they didn't need anyone unsupportive, they needed love and acceptance. Might I also mention that ever since they found out a baby was on the way the have BOTH stayed clean and sober and out of trouble. I am very proud of them.

So after all the growth and change I saw happening for both of them I started trying to be more supportive. I started by taking them to get belly pictures taken before Baby Jayden arrived. Rachel really wanted to document her pregnant belly, but they couldn't afford to get pictures done. Even though it was last minute I booked an appointment at freaking WAL-MART (which was the only place available) , picked them up, and off we went for a photo shoot. A few hundred bucks later (yes. expensive) we had some beautiful pictures. Although, I hated they were from Wal-Mart, I have to admit they turned out better than I expected, even though I felt like I was on an episode of '16 & Pregnant'. I am going to share a few of them here...

{1.} Rachel and her big ol' belly.

{2.} This little idea was Sean's. He wanted to do the typical heart on the belly, but with each side of the heart being one of their hands. Rachel freaked because she didn't paint her nails. Oh, to be 17...

{3.} This picture is my absolute favorite out of all of them. It is beyond precious.

{4.} I wanted to smack him for leaving his hat on, but at least it matched her outfit...right?!

{5.} This is another of my favorites. They look so cute.On March 21st Baby Jayden was born. After 20-something hours of labor, Sean and Rachel welcomed their handsome baby boy to the world. A post of pictures of the handsome little man will be coming soon! I would really appreciate some prayers/love/positivity (whatever you believe in) sent to this new family. The three of them will need all the help they can get.

xoxo

30 day (post) photo challenge {1.}...

2011-03-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

Here is the deal, I try super hard to schedule my blog posts and at least try to post three times a week. Unfortunately, life happens and my creativity sometimes dies. So, I decided to *yoink* this lovely idea from the always adorable Elyse. It is a 30 day photo challenge, that I am turning into a 30 post photo challenge. Why? Because the odds of me actually posting 30 days in a row is SO never going to happen. Anywho, here we go...

Post #1: A picture of yourself and ten facts

{1.} I work for G* County Mental Health as a counselor.

{2.} I am obsessed with Glee. I love the show, even more I love the songs. I have every song from every episode downloaded. I am seeing them in concert in May with Bff Jil. You could say I am an intense breed of fangirl.

{3.} My favorite color is black.

{4.} I have two older brothers who irritate me, but I love them anyway.

{5.} I watch entirely too many trashy reality shows. Real Housewives, anyone?

{6.} I have a mild undiagnosed case of OCD. I also have diagnosed anxiety.

{7.} I love my iPhone 4.

{8.} I watched 15 episodes of 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' over the weekend.

{9.} My favorite author is Jodi Picoult.

{10.} I only eat raw veggies.

There we go! Post one down, 29 more to go. Thanks Elyse for the great idea! Hope you all have fun and fabulous weekends!

xoxo

wise words wednesday {26.}...

2011-03-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

I really love these wise words posts. They normally turn out to be some of my favorites. I enjoy looking up all the quotes, and getting inspired by them. I find it funny that no matter what my issue of the week is, I can always find a quote that relates to it. Most of the time those quotes make me feel a bit better.

Here is the deal folks, it is time for me to get real. I was doing really well in the watching what I eat/working out at least three times a week routine for awhile. Then I slowly stopped working out, thinking that if I stuck to eating healthy it would all be a-okay. Then I started to go back to my crappy eating, and now I just feel gross and fat (so not a ploy for y'all to tell me I am beautiful. seriously). To sum it all up I am not happy with who I am, or what I look like. Instead of complaining about it I want to empower myself. I want to make good eating choices, while not depriving myself. I want to workout and enjoy the way it makes me feel. I want to try on jeans and just once look in the mirror and say, 'Damn. I look good.' I want to feel beautiful on the inside, and on the outside. Basically I want everything this quote is about...

{26.} Wise Words...

Is happy the goal? Of course it is. Is confidence the goal? You bet your ass it is. Is skinny the goal? Nope. While being a skinny Minnie would be fabulous, I just want to be healthy. I want to look in the mirror and like what I see. Not for anyone else, but just for myself. So, here goes another attempt. Wish me luck friends!

xoxo

must have monday {11.}...

2011-03-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

It has been quite awhile since I have done a 'Must Have Monday' post! So, since I was not productive at all this weekend I spent a great deal of time window shopping online. However, this time I had a specific purpose and destination for the clothing I was lusting after. In April we are having a bachelorette party extravaganza for work pal Tania! Tania's maid of honor also works with us, and she has planned quite the little party. Only a few work girls are going (which has caused interoffice drama. Hi, I thought we were done with high school) but with the addition of Tania's other pals we are going to have a blast! So, the itinerary includes heading to a swanky hotel in Lake Tahoe, hitting up the shopping, buffets, clubs, and the spa! I am pretty much excited to have a Friday off work, and a fun filled girls only weekend. Now all I need are some cute tops to wear when we head out on the town. I am pretty basic, even when it comes to getting dressed up. So, here are some of the blouses I have been lusting after...

{1.} 'Fizzy Delight Tank'-ModCloth

{2.} 'Well Thought-Out Top'-ModCloth

{3.} 'Capirona Blouse'-Anthropologie
{4.} 'Les Fleurs Rouges Top'-Anthropologie

{5.} 'Stage Presence Vest'-ModClothI am pretty much loving on all of these cute tops. I want/need them right at this very moment. Stay tuned to see which ones I actually bought for our girls trip!

Happy Monday loves!

xoxo

iphone photos {2.}...

2011-03-17T19:23:00.000-07:00

I apologize for my lame week of posts. I was super busy over the weekend, which is normally the time that I write my posts for the week. So...I decided I would iPhone/instagram it up...again. I picked a theme this time though, let me take you on a mini tour of my office. My name is Alexandria and I will be your tour guide for the next 3 minutes, climb aboard (and yes that IS what he told her) and enjoy (he said that as well) *ahem*...

{1.} The ring I was wearing the day I snapped all these photos. Isn't it cute?

{2.} My keyboard...which is always stocked with lip gloss. Just in case, ya know?

{3.} My bitch face when a coworker is bugging me and another coworker is 'playing' with my iPhone, and secretly snaps a photo of this horrible face.

{4.} One of my favorite quotes ever. I got this sticker at the Prop 8 protest.

{5.} I read this every morning when I get in my office. It helps me keep my sanity throughout the day. It reminds me I am powerless over other peoples actions, but that I have full control over my own.

{6.} My lovely corkboard. It contains pictures of the people I love, a key chain Bug made for me, and a wedding invitation for Work Bff Tania's wedding

{7.} My ghetto work phone. I spend my day attached to this damn thing.

{8.} My coffee cup/pen holder that was given to me by my supervisor as a welcome aboard gift. I love it.

{9.} My little cupcake that Bastina made for me. He is named 'Sprinkle', he loves his new home under my computer screen. He told me so.

{10.} A headband that will be going in the Mama Made Shoppe soon! This has nothing to do with my office, but I needed 10 pictures so my OCD could relax.

I apologize for the lameness of this post. I am doing nothing but relax this weekend, so hopefully I can write up some semi-decent posts! Happy Friday folks!

xoxo

iphone photos {1.}...

2011-03-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I finally joined the tech savvy world and purchased a smart phone. I headed down to my local Verizon (which trumps AT&T, psbtw) and bought the iPhone 4! I am SO happy with it! Happy and addicted, but let's focus on the happy. I have been going app crazy as of late, but my very favorite app is instagram. It let's you edit your photos and has so many funky options. I adore it. I snap really random photos throughout the week just because I like to play on instagram. I decided I would share some of my favorite/random pictures...

{1.} My Starbucks drink of choice.

{2.} A funky new ring I purchased at Forever 21 over the weekend.

{3.} The BEST smelling strawberry candle I purchased at Bath & Body Works. Their candles are amazing.

{4.} The newest must try yummy from Starbucks. Birthday cake pop, anyone?

{5.} Snapped a photo of myself while on my way to work.

{6.} The beautiful almond orchards that are in full bloom. My favorite time of the year.

Happy Monday, folks!

xoxo

handwriting...

2011-03-11T06:00:00.000-08:00

A little over a week ago I was tagged in a post from the lovely Elyse! I was super excited to be tagged to participate in this fun little blog game. I love seeing people's handwriting...I think you can tell a lot by it. Plus, it is just fun to look at. I happen to not be a super big fan of my handwriting, but I decided to participate anyhow. So...I did!

Here are the rules:

Write all of these down on a piece of paper...

{1.} What's your name/blogger name?

{2.} What's your blogs URL?

{3.} Write, "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog."

{4.} Favorite quote?

{5.} Your favorite song?

{6.} Your favorite band/singers?

{7.} Anything else you want to say?

{8.} Tag 3 bloggers to participate!

Thanks for the tag Ms. Elyse! Everyone make sure to go and check out her blog, she is an absolute doll! Ashton, Lauren, and Sam y'all have been tagged. If anyone else does this fun game, make sure to tell me so I can creep over and see if you are a serial killer based on your handwriting.

xoxo

wise words wednesday {25.}...

2011-03-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

I had a perfect lazy weekend. I didn't really do much at all, I did laundry, I made some headbands for the Mama Made Shoppe, and I watched some movies with my mama. It was actually quite lovely. I finally watched, 'Love & Other Drugs' it was amazingly beautiful, and not only because Jake G is naked throughout the entire flick. If you haven't watched this movie go watch it now, also don't read this because it is a recap of one of the last scenes in the movie. This scene touched me in a lot of ways. Mainly in how much I related to both of the characters. I have been known to be very guarded in relationships. I don't let a lot of people in to really see me. I don't let myself need other people, or at least I try not to. Which is why this scene really got to me...

{25.} Wise Words...
Jamie- I am full of shit, okay? No, I'm knowingly full of shit. Because...because...I have...I have never cared about anybody or anything, in my entire life. And the thing is that everybody just kind of accepted that. Like, "That's just Jamie!" And then you...Jesus. You. You. You didn't see me that way. I have never known anyone who actually believed that I was enough. Until I met you. And then you made me believe it, too. So, unfortunately, I need you. And you need me.

Maggie- No, I don't.

Jamie- Yes, you do.

Maggie -No, I don't.

Jamie- Yes, you do.

Maggie- Stop it. Stop saying that.

Jamie- You need someone to take care of you.

Maggie- No, I don't.

Jamie- Everybody does.

Maggie- (sobbing) I'm going to need you more than you need me.

Jamie- That's ok.

Maggie- No, it's not! It isn't fair. I have places to go.

Jamie- You'll go there. I just may have to carry you.

Maggie- I can't ask you to do that.

Jamie- You didn't. Hey, let's just say in some alternate universe there is a couple just like us. Only she's healthy and he's perfect. And their world is about how much money that they're gonna spend on vacation, or who's in a bad mood that day, or whether they feel guilty about having a cleaning lady.

I don't want to be those people. I want us. You. This.

This scene had be bawling. It was so well acted, and so heartfelt. It also really made me think...is it so bad to *let* yourself need someone? No, I don't have the answer...but I am currently looking for it.

xoxo

dear starbucks...

2011-03-07T06:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Starbucks Coffee Company,

I love you. Oops! Was that a bit too forward? Was it a bit too soon? No? I didn't think so. See we have had an ongoing relationship since 1998. I still remember the first time that I ever met you. I was in Ashland, Oregon with my Aunt Barbara. We were in town to attend The Shakespeare Festival. It was a cold night, and we were in the outside theatre so we decided to hook ourselves up with some warm beverages. We somehow wandered into your store. It was there that I first consumed my Starbucks drink of choice, a grande hot white chocolate mocha, no whip. From then on out we had a great love affair. I visited you often, even though for many years your nearest location was 45 minutes away from where I lived. My love for you grew so much more when you relocated to my hometown. Now I get to see you every day, sometimes more than once a day, and we are no longer in that horrible long distance relationship we had for years.

Over time I switched my Starbucks drink of choice. After awhile I decided to ditch the calories that were contained in my beloved white chocolate mocha, although I do still indulge every once in awhile. My daily drink became a delicious iced green tea. It was half the price of my mocha, and less than half the calories. It is basically an amazing beverage. Now whenever I visit you, dear Starbucks, your employees greet me by name and they honestly don't even have to ask what I am ordering (well...they ask if I want one or two because coworker Tania, shares my drink of choice). Then around Valentine's Day, you surprised me with a way to make my drink even better. You introduced a new size...the one, the only, Trenta. Holy mother of all things delicious, I was so excited to see the introduction of this ginormous new cup. Now I get to say these lovely words to you every weekday, "I will have a Trenta iced green tea, no water, extra ice, and four Splenda. Thank you!"

Starbucks you are my one true love. A constant in my never ending hectic life. Here is to our our twelve year long relationship! May the joy just keep on coming.

Forever Yours,

Always Alexandria

xoxo

mama made shoppe sale...

2011-02-28T06:56:00.000-08:00

Hey y'all! Hope you are all having happy Mondays! Don't forget today is the LAST day to get 15% off ALL merchandise in the Mama Made Shoppe!

xoxo

wise words wednesday {24.}...

2011-02-23T06:00:00.000-08:00

This weekend I decided I was going to get stuff together to decorate my new office at work (Okay...I have had it since January 3rd, but I have been busy and haven't had time to decorate. For shame!) I have a pretty spacious office...it has two desks in it, but no one uses the second desk. Basically it is a pretty blah space at the moment. I decided the best thing to start with is a picture collage. I mean what is better than pictures of those that we love to perk up a space? Nothing, in my humble opinion. So, I started to peruse my picture archives and I put together quite a lovely collage. As I looked at my finished product I examined it and felt so blessed. Why? Because of the crazy amount of love I have in my life. Here is just a little gander at the different kinds of love I am lucky enough to have...

{24.} Wise Words....

"All you need is love."-The Beatles

{1.} Grandpa and Step-Grandma.

{2.} Brother Jason and Niece Jordan

{3.} The whole H-Family clan

{4.} Future-Sister-In-Law-Bastina, Bff Ashton, and Bff Lauren

{5.} Dad

{6.} Bff-Sister-from-Another-Mister- Jil

{7.} Lifelong-Bff Fabi

{8.} Mama

{9.} Bug

{10.} Brother Jonathan and Bastina

You all made the office picture collage. Why? Just cause I love ya!

xoxo

this makes me laugh...

2011-02-22T06:00:00.000-08:00

Sometimes Bug and I stay up way past our bedtime and make videos with my webcam. Then I share these videos with y'all. If you don't laugh at this...there is something wrong with you. The end.

xoxo

and the winner is...

2011-02-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Thank you all SO much for entering my giveaway! I am so glad that you all took the time to do so. This will not be the last of my giveaways. I think they are so much fun, and I hope to do a few more throughout the next few months.

Now to announce the winner....

Ashton Dene!!!!!

Congrats Ash!!!! You will have a package of awesomeness arriving in the mail sometime soon! Email me your address when you get a chance.

So, I realize that people are going to think this thing was rigged, but it was NOT. I used random.org to get the winner and this is what it came up with! Am I happy that my giveaway is going to a real life bestie?! Of course! But I would have liked to have been able to give something to every person who entered, so the best I can do is if you use the code 'alwaysalex' when you checkout of the 'Mama Made Shoppe' you will get 15% off ALL merchandise for the rest of the month!

Thanks again to all who participated! I hope you enjoy the 15% off code until the end of February! Hope you are all having a lovely Monday. I know I am. Thank the stars for having President's Day off from work!!

xoxo

a week in review {2.}...

2011-02-18T20:32:00.000-08:00

It is Friday! Not only is it Friday, but it is the Friday BEFORE a three day weekend. This makes me very happy. That extra day off is basically just what the doctor ordered so that I don't lose my ever loving mind. So, it is time for 'A Week in Review'...

{Monday}: Monday was an okay day. I had some personal stuff going on that wasn't exactly the most fun to deal with, but choices were made and things are getting better. Which is good. Monday was also Valentine's Day...which I don't really celebrate whether in a relationship or not, but one of our van drivers gifted me with Dove chocolates which made my life. He is my new favorite and I told him he bought himself first call when I put together the after-hours crisis calender. Anywho, I hung with my new work clique. There are some amazing gals in that group, and I have loved getting to know them all. Then after work I had dinner with the loves of my life; my mom, big brother Jason, and Bug. It was a good day. On Monday I also blogged about my VERY first 'Always Alexandria' giveaway. I am super excited and y'all have until 2/19/11 at 8:00 pm to enter!!

{Tuesday}: This was the day from Meeting Hell, and yes that place does exist. When and where does it exist? In the 'G' County Mental Health building every third week of the month. This day was a giant suckfest...I was in meetings from 9 to 5. With barely a 30 minute lunch break. Thank heavens for the previously mentioned Van Driver Jeff for keeping me supplied with Starbucks mocha deliveries. I hatttte meeting days. They depress me and make my brain feel as if it is melting. Pretty sure I tuned out around 3:00. You best believe I bolted out of the office with the quickness as SOON as that clock said five o'clock! I then went over to have pizza and girl talk with Bff Jil. It had been over a month since I had seen her, and it was super nice to catch up with her. I missed that girl.

{Wednesday}: Oh Wednesday. You were sorta epic. After our forever and a day long weekly staff meeting in the O-town office, I headed back home to my W-town office. I didn't have much going on work wise, so I kicked it with Tania and Van Driver Jeff while we rocked out to 80's music and they spoke Jersey Shore to each other. Their favorite quote? "The cabs are here." It was too funny. We had a blast. Then the best part of the day...watching Tuesday nights 'Glee'!! Which was all kinds of amazeballs. It also gave me the fever...you know which fever I am talking about. Don't judge.

{Thursday}: Thursday was a meh kind of day. It is storming like crazy in my little corner of California. It is yucky depressing weather. It even snowed a little. THAT is unheard of! The good part about Thursday was that I was able to attend my weekly supervision with Supervisor Supervisor. Basically every week the clinicians, case managers, and supervisors have a meeting just to check in, get advice and blah, blah, blah. Then right after that I have my one on one supervision. It is really amazing because it is basically an hour long therapy session, where our supervisors help us with work issues, personal issues, and any other issues that need to be processed. I really needed it this week, and it felt good to get stuff off my chest. Psbtw, I absolutely adore Supervisor Supervisor. She is too legit to quit, my friends.

{Friday}: I have zero clue what is happening (being that I am cheating and writing this on Thursday night!) Yep...I am sneaky like that.

This weekend will be full of big plans though. I am heading to Sacramento with work friend Tania to help her get stuff for her wedding. Makeup, shoes, and all that fun stuff. Sunday is Tan's birthday and we are getting a girls group together to assemble her wedding invitations, then we are having a lovely lunch to celebrate her day of birth. Monday will be catching up on rest and laundry....why yes, I am super exciting.

What are YOU all planning for the weekend? Please share in the comments section. Also, don't forget to enter my giveaway right here.

xoxo

wise words wednesday {23.}...

2011-02-16T06:00:00.000-08:00

I have a lot of goals and plans for my life; I mean, doesn't everybody? We all have this picture in our heads of what we hope our lives will look like eventually. I have a vision of what my future will look like, and perfect is not in it. I hope to have a fabulous life, where I accomplish my goals and plans, but perfection doesn't exist. If I am to be 100% honest, I am glad that perfect isn't reality. Why? Because life wouldn't be as interesting and exciting as it is. While I have all these dreams, the one thing I know I will never waiver on is being happy. I don't care what I am doing, where I am doing it, or how much I am being paid to do it, if I am not happy, it isn't worth it. In my opinion anyways. Which brings me to one of my all time favorite quotes...

{23.} Wise Words...

Be happy. That is all.

xoxo

Psbtw...don't forget to enter my giveaway!! It ends on 2/19/11 at 8 pm (west coast time)!!

must have monday and giveaway {10.}...

2011-02-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

It is Monday again, my friends. This means back to the office for another five day work week. It also means it is time for me to lust after some items that I need in my life. Or in this case, time for me to do a little shameless self promotion for my Mama's Etsy shoppe! Which just so happens to have some new items in it...made by yours truly! So, here is a little looksie into the new items..

Since I did indulge in some shameless self promotion, I figured I would make it up to you all with my very first giveaway! I am SO excited and I really cannot believe I have never done one before. So here is the deal, I want to surprise the winner with a custom made creation...and some other little surprise goodies! So, in order to enter this giveaway I want you to leave a comment with your favorite colors/color combo, and how you would describe your personal style, that way the hair accessory can be a surprise, but also something that you will LOVE. For additional entries you can tweet about this giveaway, then comment again with the link! You can also blog about this giveaway, then comment with the link to your post! That gives you all a total of three entries! The winner will be announced next 'Must Have Monday'. You have until 8 pm (west coast time) next Saturday (2/19/11) to enter!

May the odds be ever in your favor! Oh...Happy Valentine's Day m'dears!

xoxo

wise words wednesday {22.}...

2011-02-09T22:34:00.001-08:00

Okay so I realize these words aren't 'wise' but they are basically how I felt all day at work today. Plus, they made me laugh. Enjoy my friends...

{22.} Wise Words...

xoxo

must have monday {9.}...

2011-02-07T06:30:00.000-08:00

I sat down to write a 'Must Have Monday' post and I drew a blank. Well, not a total blank...more of a 'focused on only one thing in the universe' blank. About a month ago my mom and I went shopping in Sacramento. We wandered into a Coach store...and I fell in love. Pure, sweet, undeniable love. With one thing. Last Thursday Mama and I ventured to San Francisco...I bolted into Coach to visit the item that I want SO freaking bad. I was sweating by the time I left the store, because I was about thisclose to just saying "eff it" and buying this bag. What bag? Oh, let me share with you all what I am swooning over...

{1.} 'Poppy Patent With Flower Highlight'-Coach

I cannot explain WHY I love this bag so much. I just do. It is not my typical style (or even close to it) but I dream about this purse. It would so be hanging on my arm if it wasn't $448.00. Le sigh. I may still buy it...I am debating at the moment. I will keep you all updated!

xoxo

urban hilarity {3.}...

2011-02-04T07:00:00.000-08:00

Do y'all remember that time when I was slightly obsessed with spending time learning new words over at Urban Dictionary, and then I blogged about them? No? Well, that would be because it has been forever and a day since I actually did it. For a refresher class click here and then here and you will be all caught up. Now it is time for another installment of, 'Awesome words/phrases that I learned on Urban Dictionary that I will now start to use in real life.'

{1.} Soap Grafting: The act of attaching an almost completely used piece of soap to a new, unused piece because it is too small to be conveniently used but you also don't want to waste it.

My commentary: Oh em gee! This made me laugh so hard. You would think in the year 2011 most people would have made the switch to shower gel right? I mean do that many of y'all still use bar soap? All I know is my mother still uses it, and she refuses to use shower gel. Why? No clue. But I cannot tell you how many times I have climbed into the shower to see that my mother had previously morphed the very laaaast little chip of a soap bar onto a fresh one. She is crazy...or eco-friendly. I am going with crazy. Love you mama!

{2.} Urban Farmer: A person who constantly plays 'Farmville' and acts like they know everything about a real farm--but all they do is live in the city, sit at a computer, and at a certain time, need to stop what they are doing to farm their imaginary crops.

My commentary: This is possibly one of the MOST annoying things Facebook has done to the world. I mean really? REALLY? Can someone please explain to me why those games are fun? I mean...when a coworker has to take a break at work to take care of their faux farm...it makes me want to punch a baby. Hard.

{3.} Sinlaws: The parents of your live in girl/boyfriend.

My commentary: Dude. I don't care who you are, but that is straight up hilarious. If you don't all start using that word immediately we will no longer be friends. Christina, I am talking to you! My mama is so your 'Sinlaw'. Looooove it with me folks!

{4.} Sea-Kittens: An attempt by PETA to convince the general public to call fish by a name too cute to eat.

My commentary: Ummmm. Is this for real? I mean I could probably Google this and fact check it, but I am being lazy. I think this is hilarious, no offense to those who keep their meal plates animal friendly (more power to you), but sea-kittens? Fish as sea-kittens? I don't know about you, but I could go for a lovely grilled piece of sea-kitten at the moment. Just sayin'...

{5.} Drunken Immunity: Complete disregard on the part of a friend, girl/boyfriend or ex-girl/boyfriend for any minor stupid thing you said or did while drunk (i.e. drunk texting, drunk calling, drunken Facebook status updates, drunken confessions, etc).

My commentary: Why on earth was this phrase not around during my college days? Oh well, I now pass it on for all of you to use and enjoy. When in doubt, just straight up plead drunken immunity. Holler.

I love Urban Dictionary. It basically makes me laugh my booty off. I hope to keep these posts up, because I have a list of over 50 words that I want to share with y'all. I mean these are super important lessons friends. Well, I am off to help my mom with her soap grafting project...

Which of these are YOUR favorites? Are you going to throw some of this epic language into your everyday conversations? Please share in the comments section! And yes I do realize I may be the only person who finds these words funny, but that is a-okay with me

xoxo

wise words wednesday {21.}...

2011-02-02T07:00:00.000-08:00

Here is the deal. I blog about my job a lot. I mean a lot. I am sure you are all aware of this because you are kind enough to read my ramblings and rants. I feel as though many of my 'Wise Words Wednesday' posts are directly related to my job. I mean they mostly deal with my current state of mind, but I also really hope you all find them as cathartic and healing as I do. I try to choose words that can be relatable to everyone in every walk of life. So, I use these posts to vent. I want all of you to feel free to vent back in the comments section. Share what is going on with you, what is making you happy, what is frustrating you, anything and everything. With that, I go into another post about The Job.

{21.} Wise Words...

{via}

I have mentioned before that my supervisor at work is the head of our entire department. I have mentioned that she is pretty much a big deal, and that it is hard to have her as a supervisor because of the power she holds. Basically she intimidates me. She is a lovely woman, but I make quadruple the effort because I know she is watching me, haha! So since she is such a busy person and is not always available for me to go to with questions, ideas, or concerns, she has been deemed my 'task supervisor'...this basically means she gives me tasks and I get them done with the quickness! I also have a supervisor supervisor. She is someone who is around all the time and yes is busy, but she is someone I can go to if I am having an issue that I don't want to bother The Boss Lady with. I am so, so, so grateful for her. Every week we have a supervision meeting, where we talk, she gives advice, I ask her questions, and I can vent. Let's just say I would be crazier than I am now, if I didn't have her.

Back to the point. I have been feeling kind of lame at work lately. I work for the county, a small county at that, and things go slow. Work isn't slow. We are always super busy, but processes are slow. Getting things cleared, signed, sealed, delivered...it's sloooooow. So, getting this grant program up and running is going at snail speed. For those of you who know me, you know I only have one speed. I am like a freaking bullet train (so says my supervisor supervisor). I want things done yesterday. I like to work hard. I like to beat deadlines. I like to get ahead. I like to have control. I am very black and white. It is either this or that. I don't really have a gray area. It doesn't exist for me. When I went for my weekly supervision appointment last week I vented my frustrations to Supervisor Supervisor.

She sat back and looked at me. Then she started laughing at me. She called me a bullet train and tried to explain to me that the county is slow, and she understands that I want to go, go, go. She also said that while she understood me, she was giving me an assignment. Her exact words were, "Alex...things go slow here. You are over thinking things, and you don't have control over those things. I honestly see you doing big things in your life, not in this county because you will outgrow it, you are already ready for something bigger. I am going to make you grow now, and you will hate me for it. I am ordering you to live in the 'gray'. To be uncomfortable in the gray. I know it will drive you crazy, but it will be good for you." I looked at her like she was out of her mind. Me? Live in the gray? Learn to be comfortable there? Fuhthewah?!

I gave her a straight up crazy face...and then she told me she was going to smack me if I looked at her like that (this is why I love her). So, this week I am in the gray my friends. I am relinquishing control. I am slowing down. I am going to stop over thinking things. I am going to learn to wing it. Or...at least try to do all of the above. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, right? Right?!

Wish me luck friends.

xoxo

must have monday {8.}...

2011-01-31T07:00:00.000-08:00

Since last weeks 'Must Have Monday' had a theme, I figured I would theme it up again this week. I love t-shirts. I mean who doesn't love a nice comfy tee? I basically spent all four years of college living in band shirts and jeans, and I live my weekends in them now. So, I decided to go check out the mecca of hilarious shirts, also known as Snorg Tees. Enjoy...

{1.} 'Mexican Standoff T-Shirt'-Snorg TeesThis shirt is so freaking cute. I got to play 'Rock, Paper, Scissors' at work the other day. Are you jealous? Well, go get a degree in psychology and you too can play games with little kids at work. It was pretty legit. And I will admit that when I lost to an 8 year old, I was a little bitter. Super cute shirt that is only $19.95. That is what I like to call a steal my friends.

{2.} 'Moustaches Make Everything Better T-Shirt'-Snorg Tees

This shirt makes me think of my bffs Lauren and Ashton. They have a love for all things moustache related, which I share. Basically if you don't agree that if you add a moustache to something it gets 100 times better...well then I just don't know what to tell you. This shirt is also a steal at $19.95.

{3.} 'Stay Classy San Diego T-Shirt'-Snorg Tees I love this shirt. It makes me think of 'Weatherman' which is a completely stupid, but hilarious, movie. Stay classy and buy this shirt. I mean what is better than a yellow tee, with the BEST state in the United States, and a martini with an olive on it? Yeah. That is correct. Not a thing. Once again, this shirt is only $19.95. Hmm...Snorg I am sensing a trend in your pricing.

{4.} 'It's a Satchel T-Shirt'-Snorg TeesIf you are wondering if I bought this shirt...I did. This shirt also reminds me of my bffs Lauren and Ashton. We have a shared love for 'The Hangover'. That movie is the most hilarious thing I have ever seen, and Lauren, Ashton, and myself quote it in emails daily. We are a wolf-pack. Amen. It was only $19.95!

{5.} 'That's What She Said T-Shirt'-Snorg Tees If I have to explain why I love this shirt, then you are obviously new to this blog. We all know that I have a deep love for all things twss related. Seriously. If you go to the top left corner of my blog and type 'that's what she said' in the search box all will be revealed *ahem*. Once again...only $19.95 for this lovely. I must admit that if this shirt came in a not so fug blue I would have purchased it.

Just a little side note, I am wearing my new favorite 'Cupcakes Make Everything Better' shirt that Lauren and Ashton gifted me. So basically this post is about how much I love shirts and Lar and Ash. The end.

Oh wait! Not quite the end, more along the lines of almost the end. If you all have any places YOU go to find cute tees please share in the comments section! I am always looking for my next fix. Now it is really the end.

xoxo

whoa...i talk really fast...

2011-01-30T17:14:00.000-08:00

I now present you with another installment of 'Alex is bored and doesn't feel like typing and decided to make another vlog where she acts cray-cray'. Please love that I talk SO freaking fast! You would think I was on speed...but no! That is really how I am. Also love that I am pimping out some headbands. Enjoy my random ramblings...

xoxo

shoe fetish...

2011-01-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

I blogged about shoes a few posts ago. I went shopping for shoes a few days ago. The point? I am developing a shoe fetish. Thank goodness it isn't for designer shoes, or else my bank account and I would be having some serious problems. Designer sunglasses? Absolutely. Designer purses? Of course. Designer shoes? Meh. Not quite there yet. When I was a full time student my biggest getting ready in the morning dilemma was, 'Which Vans slip-ons match this hoodie?' Now that I am a working girl (no hooker reference intended) my biggest getting ready in the morning dilemma is, 'Which shoes will make me feel fierce today?'.

I would really like to say that I don't play favorites when it comes to fashion. I am a liar. My favorite sunglasses are my Jimmy Choos, my favorite purse is my black patent leather Coach bag, my favorite shoes? Well...how about my top five?

*Disclaimer: These favorites are subject to change at any point in time*

These are the most comfortable of my favorites. They are great for work, for a day out shopping, or for dancing the night away. Yes, they really are that comfy. They make me super tall...and I love them for it. They look perfect with a good pair of skinny jeans.

These lovelies are a new favorite of mine. They are not so comfortable. When I wear them to work my feet basically scream for me to remove them right when the clock strikes five. That, my friends, is a small price to pay for fashion.

Do not judge me for my blinged out semi-cowboy boots. They are fierce and I love them. I wore them to work the other day and I felt so bad ass it was ridiculous. Love them with me folks.

These shoes equal permanent nerve damage in my feet. They hurt so damn bad. I love them so much that I hate them. I got them to wear to Lauren's wedding and my toes were numb for three days after dancing all night long in them. Yikes. Cute but vicious.

While I am embracing wedges and heels as of late. I am still all about my feet being happy. So I embrace flats often as well. I really love these. The zipper rosette is my all time favorite. Cute, comfy, and cheap!

xoxo

you know you are awesome when...

2011-01-27T07:00:00.000-08:00

You know you are awesome when....

{1.} You know you are awesome when you spend your weekend watching an entire season of a show that started in 2004. I have always been an avid watcher of anything that was on The WB/The CW (minus 7th Heaven...that show makes me gag). So how in the freaking-freak did I miss the most amazeballs show ever, also known as 'Veronica Mars'?! Seriously, if you have not seen this show you better get right with God and start watching. I thank two people for my new found love of this show; Bff Ashton who told me to pull my life together and watch, and Netflix which allows me to insta-watch 22 episodes of awesome via the interwebs. One season down, two more to go. Side note: I want to be Veronica Mars when I grow up. She is a total bad ass.

{2.} You know you are awesome when you spend your weekend being deathly ill and this is what your surroundings look like. I hate being sick and I pretty much almost died. I even documented by almost-death in a vlog. If you haven't watched click here.

{3.} You know you are awesome when while playing with your hair in order to not look totally heinous while making a vlog you come up with a hairstyle that in the moment is meh...but after closer examination looks pretty darn cute. I ended up really liking the beachy waves that I then side braided, only leaving out a view wavy curls. Not the best picture of it...but I kinda dig it.

{4.} You know you are awesome when you spend the weekend hanging out with the most legit humidifier ever. Yes, I actually used this all weekend long to help me breathe. Yes, I did jack him from Bug's room. Don't be jealous folks.

{5.} You know you are awesome when you spend some of your weekend making headbands for your Mama's Etsy store. I really love these and I hope you all do too. I sense a giveaway coming along!Even though I was deathly ill with my pneumonia/bronchitis/double ear infection/sinus infection loveliness...the weekend actually turned out to be pretty relaxing. Thanks Ashton for sharing the amazingness of 'Veronica Mars' with me. You made my weekend!

xoxo

wise words wednesday {20.}...

2011-01-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

I have been a total Debbie Downer when it comes to my life as of late. I am not so happy at my new job. I am missing my old coworkers a lot. I hate the new office building I am in, because it is SO uptight and full of the big bosses. I have an assistant who is extremely annoying. My supervisor is a big BIG boss and is hard to work for/with. I haven't had very much client contact since I started at Mental Health. I am having to present a huge presentation about what I have been working on thus far with the grant money. It is basically a job that is stressing me out, and making me semi-miserable. It makes me feel inadequate...and like, 'What the hell am I, of all people, doing in a room full of super important people?'

Plus, I have missed a few days of work last week because I have been so sick. You know? The whole pneumonia/bronchitis/double ear infection/sinus infection thing. Basically, I feel like I am in over my head and that they think I am so much more awesome and skilled then I really am. This feeling of inadequacy is helped along by the fact that I have some very bitter new coworkers who have been with the department for years longer than I have, and who would have killed for this opportunity. They are not so thrilled with me. But all I have to say to those people, and to myself is this...

{20.} Wise Words...

What now biatches?!

So I may not be 100% happy at my new job, but I will learn to love it. Even though I miss my old coworkers I still get to see them at least a couple of times a week. So I work in the office with the BIG bosses...it is just more time for me to do some networking and get to know those people well. Sure my assistant is annoying, but I am only 25 years old and I actually have MY own assistant. That is pretty badass. I may not be seeing clients all day long anymore, but I am getting a program together that will enable me to do so. I am not inadequate. If I am in a room full of these big important people, then there is a reason I am there. Maybe I do deserve it. Yes, I have been super sick (a lot probably due to stress) but I am on heavy duty steroids and antibiotics so I will get better. Lastly, to those coworkers who are not happy for this great opportunity I have, well they can basically suck it. Hopefully, they will climb down from their high horses and deal with this like adults.

This job is an amazing learning experience. I am making excellent contacts and getting killer letter of recommendations from a lot of people. I am in charge of a huge project we are undertaking and this will look amazing on any and all future resumes. I will start being more positive. I will kill it at this new job.

Just watch me.

xoxo

must have monday {7.}...

2011-01-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

This post will be the second time that I have dedicated an entire 'Must Have Monday' to my new obsession with shoes. I have always been a strictly comfort gal when it comes to footwear. If it hurt my feet, it was not going to happen. I lived in Vans slip ons (which I still red puffy heart), flip-flops, and occasionally Uggs. Does life get much more comfy? I think not. However, lately I have been going through a fashion transformation. I don't know what it is all about, but I am way stepping out of my comfort zone. I am continuing to embrace my height and not really caring that a lot of my shoes these days put me close to 6 feet tall. As I was perusing the interwebs for some new wedges (i love heels...but wedges are more comfortable when I am running around like crazy at work) I was SO excited to see some old styles that are becoming trendy again! Enjoy the retro shoe porn ladies....(and fellas)...

{1.} 'Jeffrey Campbell Foxy Navy Canvas Platform Heels'-Lulu'sI have a picture of my lovely Mama wearing shoes almost exactly like these. This was back in the 70's...the time of some of the most killer shoes around. Why o' why did my mother NOT save any of her old shoes? Why o' why do I have gigantic feet, compared to her itty bitty size 6 feet. Le sigh. Anywho I want these so bad. The platform toe is 1.75" tall, and the heel is a ginormous 5" tall. I would be a giant, but a fierce giant at that. These retail for $118 over at Lulu's.

{2.} 'Pros and Contrast Heel'-ModclothWhy does ModCloth have the most adorable shoes ever? Why are they always sold out whenever I find some that I really, really want to buy? I mean they are probably saving me from myself, but come on ModCloth! Pull your life together and stock your inventory! These shoes are perfect for a day at the office. I would feel so chic walking the halls in these lovelies. Plus, they come in my all time favorite color combo, black and white. They are classic. These beauties are ONLY $54.99 at ModCloth! Hurry up and buy them!

{3.} 'Honey Pie Wedge'-ModCloth
I die. I freaking die. I really need these shoes in my life. They are so fun, so cute, so retro, so foxy. These shoes are so far out of my normal style, but that is what this post is all about! I am branching out. I really want to branch out with these shoes. I am trying really hard to be (and stay) on a budget, but these shoes might make me break the rules. They are $115.99 over at ModCloth. I am going to try to fight the urge to order them. I will keep you updated with how I do with that little goal. Stay tuned...

{4.} 'It's a Jungle Out There'-ModCloth

These shoes I would never have gone for, because one has to be pretty damn fierce to rock these. A few months ago Ashton emailed me a picture of these and I fell in loooove. I told her it was her fashionista duty to purchase them. She did. She also brought them with her on our trip to Flo-rida and I tried them on (it is awesome we wear the same size shoe) I have been dreaming of them ever since. They fit like a glove and are SO edgy and fun. I want them in my closet...actually on my feet. These are only $42.99 at ModCloth. That my friends, is what I call a steal!

{5.} 'Almond & Indigo Heels'-AnthropologieRemember how I mentioned a few shoes ago that I am trying to stay on a budget? Well, when one is on a budget they MUST stay away from Anthropologie. I have been doing so...until today. That is when I happened upon these retro gems of shoe glory! I am normally not a fan of wearing a lot of brown, but these shoes make me want to wear nothing but clothing that matches these heels. I would wear them every single day for the rest of my life (why yes I do tend to exaggerate). I will NOT be buying these shoes. Why? Because they are $388 over at Anthro. One day...one day...

Now that I have shared my current shoe loves, share yours! What shoe trends are you feeling? Where do YOU shop for shoes? I am always open to new sites/stores to look at! Share away in the comments section my fellow fashionistas. Also, Ashton can I just have your leopard shoes? The end.

xoxo

that one time i won a giveaway...

2011-01-23T12:15:00.000-08:00

I am an awful blogger sometimes. Ever since I joined the real world and got a big girl job my blog has fallen by the wayside. I am trying to fix that little problem, because I really do love this blog. Back to the point, forever ago (9-22-10, to be exact) I won a lovely giveaway from an overseas blog pal. She is darling and I adore her. Make sure to check out her blog here. Here are some pictures of what was in the secret package that Mar mailed to me. Thanks girl! I really did love it...and I am thinking I need to place an order for some of that spectacular candy you placed in the box!

1- Oooh I was so excited. I love that Mar wrapped every little treasure and wrote cute messages on the paper.

2- An adorable little Moose friend. I am pretty sure Bug jacked this from me right as I opened it.

3-Cute wrapping and a little message.

4- How precious are those little animal tea bags?!

5- Hootie owl earrings! I love them and I wear them all the time.

6- A hilarious sticker, and a moose magnet!

7- Mar must know all about the love affair I have with sunglasses.

8- More cute wrapping.

9- Precious Parisian themed pins.

10- Look at all the goodies!

Yay for giveaways! Thanks Mar, I loved the gifts so, so much. Sorry it took me SO long to blog about it! Now I am thinking it is about time I hosted a giveaway of my very own. What say ye blog pals?

xoxo

I am sickly...and crazy...

2011-01-21T19:32:00.000-08:00

So...I am whacked out on meds, bored out of my skull, and home sick on a Friday night. If that doesn't equal a rambling vlog then I don't know what does...

Psbtw...I apologize for the sicknast coughing. I have the plague. What can I say?

xoxo

sales, new fabrics, and napkins. oh my...

2011-01-18T06:00:00.000-08:00

This weekend was semi-hectic, semi-fun, and semi-crafty. I went shopping with my mom on Saturday, worked on Sunday, and got crafty on Monday. We will soon be introducing headbands to the 'Mama Made Shoppe' (yes, i am aware 9 million people sell headbands, but these are a little different and i love them).

Over the weekend I also helped my mom with her shoppe. We put some items on sale (hurry check 'em out)! I modeled some of her newer scarves (yes, i know i look pissed in all the pictures, but she was supposed to crop that part out). Mama has also added the most darling napkins to her store. Here are some of my favorite new items...

{1.} 'Cup o' Coffee Napkin Set'-$18.00 for six...

{2.} 'Black & White Infinity Scarf'-$15.00... {3.} 'Perfect Plaid Cotton Infinity Scarf'-$18.00...{4.} 'Spot On Cotton Knit Infinity Scarf'-$15.00...
{5.} 'Trippy Hippie Polyester Infinity Scarf'-$18.00...Like I said, I look super pissedspice in these photos...but I promise I wasn't. I just figured a smile wasn't necessary because the scarf was the focal point...not my pissy pouty face. haha.

Anywho, I hope you all had a lovely three day weekend! Go and check out the 'Mama Made Shoppe' asap! Why? Because my mom rocks, that's why. Psbtw-stay tuned for some super cute (affordable) headbands!

xoxo

wise words wednesday {19.}...

2011-01-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

I finally feel like I am getting back in the regular blogging groove. This makes me happy, because I truly do love this little blog of mine. It is a good outlet, and it helps me keep in touch with the many ibffs I have made since I started blogging. You all are awesome by the way. Now it is time for a new 'Wise Words Wednesday' post. These can be some of my very favorite posts. I adore this quote...and I honestly don't think that it needs any explanation at all.

{19.} Wise Words...

I think in 2011 I am going to really try to remember this quote. My new motto? No regrets. I am just going to enjoy living! Here is to another amazing year.

xoxo

the three best friends reunion {3.}...

2011-01-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

It is now time for the final installment of 'The Three Best Friends Reunion'. I am sure you are all sick of hearing/reading about it, but like I said in Part 1, I am stretching this adventure out because my life has been extremely boring as of late. I present you with the last picture explosion of my trip to Flo-rida.

The Three Best Friends Reunion Part {3.}...

The day of Lauren's wedding Ashton and I knew she would be a super busy bee. We also knew Lar and her wedding party would need all the space of our joint hotel room to get all beautified. So, Ash and I decided to peace out and get out of everyone's hair while they were getting ready. We went to see 'Tangled' in 3D...it was the cutest movie of my life. Then guess who we ran into at the movie theatre? Yep. You guessed correctly...we saw The Biebs. Holler.

After our lovely movie date, Ash and I booked it over to get Lar's wedding gift. Yes, it was last minute but only because we didn't want to have to check it on the flight, or ship it out there. It doesn't even matter, because we got her a killer present. lol However, the GPS is a big fat liar, and we ended up taking WAY longer than anticipated. We ended up having about 45 minutes to shower, do our hair, makeup, and get dressed. Basically if Ash wasn't there to help me pull my life together we would have never made it on time to see Lauren get hitched.

I think we pulled ourselves together quite nicely in the 45 minutes we had to get ready. Ashton looked fabulous. Her dress was all kinds of fierce.

This was our table, we once again sat with an amazing group of people. Aren't Lauren's flower arrangements beautiful?! I loved them so, so much.

If you think Lauren's flowers were awesome...check out the wedding favors. Um...who DOESN'T love a good coozie. I mean really? Best. Idea. Ever.

Not sure if you all got the memo yet, but I absolutely adore these girls. They have become two of my closet friends, and I am so happy that I met them through this little ol' blog of mine. Anyone who says that you cannot make 'real' friends online has zero clue what they are talking about. I am so happy that Lauren invited Ashton and I to be a part of her special day. I am even more happy that we were both able to be there. I cannot wait for the next adventure the three of us have. Seriously...it will be so very epic.

xoxo

week in review {1.}...

2011-01-07T22:09:00.001-08:00

I honestly do not think I have EVER been so excited to see it be Friday! This week was bananas, b-a-n-a-n-a-s. So, I am not sure if I have shared on my blog that I have a new job. Yep...another one. Let me break it down for y'all. In July I nabbed a super great job working for the county as a Substance Abuse Counselor. I loved that job. I mean I loved it with the passion of a thousand fiery suns. It was a field I never really considered entering, especially working in a treatment court program, but it was an amazing opportunity and I learned so much during the six months I worked for Drug & Alcohol Services. However, in December I was encouraged *cough* forced *cough* to apply for a position that was open in Mental Health Services. How it works with the county is we have the entire Health Services Agency, many departments fall under that category. Mental Health Services and Drug & Alcohol Services are combined under the umbrella of Behavioral Health (even though we share a building it is two totally different departments). Anywho, I was basically stolen from my happy D&A home and moved over to Mental Health. I was NOT happy about that little situation.

Basically because I have OCD organization skills and I work super hard at my job, they wanted me in Mental Health in order to be on the ground floor of developing a pilot project for how smaller counties in California will be handling health care reform when it comes into play in 2014. Hi. I am SO not qualified to be in charge of something this HUGE. I mean...I don't think I can stress how big of a deal this project, and the grant that is paying for it, is. I don't think I want to even try because just thinking about it makes me get gray hairs and frown lines. Yikes. Am I overwhelmed? Yuuup. Is is a stellar opportunity? Hells-to-the-yeah.

Okay, so moving on from complaining. It is a great job. I am going to learn so much. It is going to look killer on an all future resumes. I am trying really hard to be positive about the situation. I miss my old job, and coworkers, but I still see them when I am in the other office building and my new coworkers are pretty alright people. Plus, I really went to school to be in the mental health field anyhow.

So last week my new supervisor set me up with a shadow schedule. She wants me to see EVERYTHING that Mental Health does, so that I can have a full grasp of what the services are, how they are administered, how/if they need to be changed, and what else needs to be added.

Since I have already written a freaking novel (sorry guys, I understand if you don't read all of this) I will just give you the highlights of my first week as a employee at Mental Health Services.

{Monday}: I was bitter this entire day. My main beef was that I was moved to a different office building. We have two main buildings for Behavioral Health, the O-town building (my former home base) and the W-town building (which is so stressful and uptight and where the BIG time bosses work). Guess which is my new home base? Yep...the uptight one. Awesome. I spent the entire eight hours of my day talking to our department head, and reading a 168 page grant. Kill me now folks...

{Tuesday}: Tuesday was SUCH an improvement from Monday. I got to shadow one of our clinicians, who is amazing. She is about 28 and shares my love of all things designer...we were basically pals from the moment we started talking purses. I got to shadow Steph throughout her day. We went out in the field, and I went on some client home visits with her, I met some very interesting people. We had super delish turkey burgers for lunch, took some crisis calls, chilled at the hospital with a guy who was in crisis, then met with a 6 year old little boy whose mother called that he was in crisis. His mom brought him in and it was...whoa. I honestly don't think I have the words. He was a scary little kid. I am not going to go into too much detail, because of confidentiality laws, but holy crap I was scared this boy was going to hurt one of us in that room with him. It was very alarming.

{Wednesday}: Wednesday I had my appointment to sign up for health benefits, life insurance, union stuff, oh my! Then I scurried out of that appointment with the quickness so I could run off to the O-town office, and catch the end of our staff meeting. This meant I was in my old home base! I got to see my mentor Susan, and chat with her, she put my complaining ass in check, and then I was back to shadowing Steph again. We went to our drop in center, and I sat in on a 'Hope and Healing' group , it was a great group.

{Thursday}: Thursday was chill. I chatted with my boss, then headed to the O-town office to have group supervision with all the clinicians, case managers, and whatnot. It was great. Then I had one on one supervision with my direct supervisor...I love her so bad. She is awesome. I of course snuck over to see Susan and the DH Girls in my spare time. Susan and I grabbed lunch. Then I went to Juvenile Drug Court because I was shadowing Tania...it was great. I really enjoyed seeing the juvenile treatment court program, because it is so different than what I did with adults in treatment court.

{Friday}: Basically I spent my morning doing more shadowing, and that's it. Then I left the W-town office to go to O-town because my supervisor is LEGIT! She allowed me to take 3 1/2 hours in order to be at the DH Girls graduation. I was SO happy she said yes. I know I don't work on that side of things anymore, but I love those women and their children. I wanted to be there to honor them, and they told me that if I wasn't there they would hate me forever. It was an amazing, tear filled ceremony, Susan gave a great speech to them, and both graduates gave speeches that warmed my heart. I made a teeny tiny speech, just to let them know that I respect them and that I honor them for all their hard work. Then Susan goes and busts out a certificate to me for my dedication to the women of Discovery House. It was a total surprise, and so very sweet. Yes. I did cry if you were wondering.

Holy crap. I am so sorry I wrote so freaking much. I guess I just needed to vent/share a bit of what week one was like. I am thinking I may do this on Friday's if exciting things happen during my work days. I promise they will be WAY shorter than this one.

Here is to everyone having a very happy weekend! My plans? Sleep...and a ton of it.

xoxo

wise words wednesday {18.}...

2011-01-05T06:00:00.000-08:00

Over the New Year weekend, I was basically dying. By dying I mean I was curled up into a ball on the couch, under a blanket, in my pjs, dying of strep throat/sinus infection/migraine awfulness. So, I rented a bajillion movies...and watched them ALL. Seriously, I have to quit partying like this. I am SO hip and exciting, but whatever. One of the movies that just melted my heart was, 'Away We Go'. This movie stars Maya Rudolph and John Krasinski as a couple who are in their mid-thirties, who are looking for a place to call home for them and the baby they have on the way. So they travel all over the place, looking for that 'perfect' place. They meet a ton of zany characters, and these wise words may not make tons of sense unless you have seen the movie, but they are beautiful.

To sum it up, this couple, Verona and Burt, have been together for a VERY long time. They are looking for a home, she is pregnant, she also refuses to marry Burt. Burt and 'Rona travel to see his brother, who has just been left by his wife. The wife who left also left their lovely 8 year old daughter. Thus, this conversation happens...on a trampoline in the middle of night...

Verona: Burt, what are you doing?

Burt: I am calling everyone she knew. Her old company. Her friends.

Verona: At midnight?

Burt: Right. The element of surprise.

Verona: Well, can you stop, please?

Burt: I mean, what kind of god damned person leaves her daughter?

Verona: I don't know. Maybe not such a strong person. Please stop.

Burt: And you know what the worst of it is? There is nothing we can do about it. Because she is gone. And this family can't be fixed. And that is it. And what if one of use freaks out like that?

Verona: We won't. It can be fixed. And you know it. Look at me, please?

Burt: But really. I mean, what if something happens to one of us and just makes us go crazy? I mean, what if I'm walking by a construction site and something falls, and then my frontal lobe gets chopped off and my personality's altered and then I'm not a good dad? What happens then?

Verona: Well, be careful walking near construction sites.

Burt: What about Munch?

Verona: She'll be careful walking near construction sites, too.

Burt: No, really. Don't you just look at her and want to give her everything she has ever wanted? It's so incredibly unfair that she can't...

Verona: It's unfair that she won't ever be able to have a baby, and that bad parents still get to be parents and good parents die when their daughters are in college. So what?

Burt: I'm sorry 'rona.

Verona: Look all we can do is be good for this one baby. We don't have control over much else.

Burt: Will you marry me? At least.

Verona: Never.

*long pause*

Verona: I will never leave you.

Burt: Yeah.

Verona: I promise.

Burt: No, I know. You...you promised never to marry me because you don't want to get married without your parents there. I get that. You promise never to leave me. Do you promise to never leave this baby that we are having?

Verona: I promise. I do. Do you promise to stop talking about your ability to find or not find my vagina after I give birth?

Burt: I do. Do your promise to let me cobble-

Verona: Carve.

Burt: ...carve in my spare time? And let me teach our daughter the lore of the great Mississippi?

Verona: I do. Do you promise never to develop a thing for seahorses?

Burt: I do.

Verona: Good.

Burt: Do you promise to let our daughter be fat or skinny or any weight at all? Because we want her to be happy, no matter what. Being obsessed with weight is just too cliche for our daughter.

Verona: Yes, I do. Do you promise when she talks, you'll listen? Like, really listen, especially when she's scared? And that her fights will be your fights?

Burt: I do. And do you promise that if I die some embarrassing and boring death that you're gonna tell our daughter that her father was killed by Russian soldiers in this intense hand-to-hand combat in an attempt to save the lives of 850 Chechnyan orphans?

Verona: I do. Chechnyan orphans. I do. I do.

Does this seem odd? Yeah, a little. Hence, why you need to watch this film to truly *get* it. This is the most perfect, specific, non-wedding, wedding vows. This to me is romance. Making promises to the one you love in your pajamas, on a trampoline in the middle of the night. Silly, sincere, loving promises. Odd...but true.

Now please do yourself a favor and watch this movie as soon as possible. Holler.

xoxo

the three best friends reunion {2.}...

2011-01-03T06:00:00.000-08:00

I am going to stretch out this reunion series of posts...because my life has been mega-boring and this is ALL I have to blog about. I apologize ahead of time, my friends.

The Three Best Friends Reunion Part {2.}...

After a day of shopping and getting our nails did, it was time for Lar's rehearsal dinner. It was so sweet of her to include Ash and myself in this small little gathering. She put us at THE BEST table...with super cute place cards and everything. Hmm...wonder what that says, oh yeah 'Alexandria'...which was weird because only my mother calls me that.

Here is a lovely photo of Ashton with her place card! Like I said...we were at the best table in that joint. We sat with two of Lar's bridesmaids, Amanda and Amber, Amber's mom and step dad, and her girlfriend Nichole. They were hilarious and we had a blast. Just a few words ladies..."I like to buy my food retail." The end.

Ashton, Lar's bridesmaid Amanda, and myself hanging at the rehearsal dinner. Ash and I look like giants. We both had fierce shoes on. Mine were SO fierce my toes were numb for like the next two days. That is the price we pay for fashion. Holler.

These are some of our awesome table-mates. From right to left: me, Ashton, Lar's bff and bridesmaid Amber, Amber's girlfriend Nichole. Basically I adore these two gals! They were so much fun, and absolutely hilarious. We ended the weekend being total besties with both of them.

And the piece de resistance, THE Three Best Friends. Has anyone else noticed that Lauren is always in the middle of our pictures? Yep, the world is LarCentric and we are all just living in it. I just love these ladies. Words cannot even sum it up.

xoxo

the three best friends reunion part {1.}...

2010-12-27T06:00:00.000-08:00

Does everyone remember the epic San Francisco adventure I had with some of my ibffs (now real life bffs)? No? Well click here and here, then you can be all caught up.

Now I will get to the point of this post. At the beginning of December Ashton and I journeyed to Flo-rida to see our bff Lauren get married! This meant the MOST stressful flight experience of my life...which included frantic Nook tweeting to Ash, and sprinting through the Hot-lanta airport to catch my flight. Overall, it worked out...thankfully. It was also SO worth it. We had a freaking blast. Since I have quite a few pictures, I am basically going to do a few posts about our adventure. Please, sit back, relax, and enjoy the picture explosion.

The Three Best Friends Reunion: Part {1.}...

This is perhaps the most sicknast photo in existence. I mean ew, especially when it comes to my horrible face. Oh wells, this was our "Reunnnittted and it feeels sooooo gooood" picture. Disclaimer: This was taken after a day full of running through airports and that is why we look like this. Whatever. I still love this picture because I love these ladies.

The next morning Ash and I got to sleep in, while Lar was having her brunch. Lauren was sweet enough to get us an adjoining room next to hers, and let us use her car the WHOLE weekend. Thanks for everything Lar. She also recommended that we go to a restaurant called, 'Another Broken Egg.' It was bomb.com my friends. We ordered some beignets as an appetizer...they were bite sized orgasms. Holler.

Here is the lovely Ashton, thoroughly enjoying her delicious breakfast. I had SO much fun hanging with her the entire weekend. She is hilarious and gives amazing advice. She is lovely, funny, and has one of the biggest hearts. Ash, I love your face sister from another mister.

Not only did Lauren totally get us a free hotel room, she also treated us to manis and pedis. It was so sweet of her, but that is Lauren for you. She was super sneaky about it...but we got her back for it. Trust.

Here is a MUCH better Three Best Friends Reunion picture. The first was taken WAY too late, after WAY too long of a day. This was taken after a good nights sleep, some makeup, and fierce outfits. Holler.

So, these are just the first batch of photos from the trip. Many more will be coming your way. What I can say now is that I had an amazing time, and that I love these girls so much. Anyone who says that you cannot find 'real' friends online...is full of it. These two are lifers. Ladies, I love you both and I miss you both. Our next trip needs to be planned STAT!

Until Part {2.}...

xoxo

this is what my job entails...

2010-12-24T06:00:00.000-08:00

I know I talk about 'The Job' quite a bit on my blog. That is probably because it consumes about 85% of my life at the moment. Would you all like a peek into what the happenings have been like in my office for the past week? Yes? Ok...this is what went down on Tuesday.

Yep. Santa AND his merry little Elf came to kick it with us at the office. Okay...to be be honest they came to bring presents to the women and children in our perinatal treatment program, but we still got a picture with him. I wish I could share the pictures of the women and the kids, they had SO much fun. It was so joyous I actually teared up. Unfortunately, due to HIPPA laws I am unable to share those photos. So...I will share one of my co-workers.

From left to right: Cindy, who is the always sweet and patient daycare worker, who Susan and I torment with our foul mouths and crudeness. Then there is Bob, who is retiring next week. He has been my direct supervisor since I started working there. Then there is the Elf dude, who was SO good with all the kids. Then there is little ol' me. Santa of course. Crouched down in front of me is my work bff and favorite co-worker EVER Susan.

Merry Christmas y'all. Just remember...one is NEVER too old to get their picture taken with Santa Claus.

xoxo

lovelies...

2010-12-22T06:00:00.000-08:00

So, almost a year ago I won a giveaway that my name twin, Alexa had on her blog. The big prize was a $50.00 gift certificate to The Vintage Pearl. This store is A.Maz.Ing. I love it so very much, I also just finally used the gift certificate. On Friday this little gem arrived on my doorstep. It is so precious...

I got another little lovely last weekend as well. While I was in Florida with Ashton and Lauren (post on that epic trip to come), they gifted me with a 'congratulations on your life' gift. It is very obvious by this gift that these ladies 'get' me and are my soul sisters...

I love them. I also love this t-shirt...and it is no secret that I love me some Sprinkles cupcakes. Holler.

xoxo

i have a question...

2010-12-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend I was recuperating from the flu. This means that I curled up on the couch with a blanky and watched movies and caught up on my DVR. Minus the whole flu part, it was lovely. On Saturday night, my sidekick Bug was curled up with me. We decided to get into the holiday spirit and watch 'How The Grinch Stole Christmas', the Jim Carrey edition. I love that movie, it is le adorable.

However, as I was watching this movie I couldn't help but think...

This is the OG (original gangster) version of sweet little Cindy Lou Who...

This is the real life movie version of the way adorable Cindy Lou Who...

This is what happens when the real life version of Cindy Lou Who turns 17...

Holy crap. Christmas is in some serious trouble my friends. All I can think of is some crazy spin off porn video starring Cindy Lou Who. AKA Little J. AKA Taylor Momson. You know... along the lines of 'How The Grinch Stole My Virginity' or something sick like that. How does THIS happen?

Seriously. This has disturbed me all day. Ha!

Merry Christmas!

xoxo

pardon me...

2010-12-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

I will happily be away from my blog until next week. Why? Because I am journeying to Flo-rida. Why?

The Three Best Friends Reunion..

YES! I cannot wait to be reunited with Lauren and Ashton. Seriously, they are real life besties who I met via this little ol' blog of mine. Also, Lauren is getting MARRIED on Saturday! I am so happy for her. Ash and I cannot wait to see her be made an honest woman ;-).

So there you have it. I leave today, get back on Sunday. Florida, look out. You have a tornado of awesome heading your way!

xoxo

random thoughts {1.}...

2010-12-06T21:00:00.000-08:00

I am the worst blogger right now. Oh, well...at least I try. Right? Right. I have zero interesting going on in my life right now. Seriously. So, I am going to share some random thoughts I had throughout my day with y'all...

{1.} Oh my sweet, sweet baby Jesus can you PLEASE hook a sister up and rid me of this heinous sickness that has been cast down upon my being?! Seriously. I am a sicknast hacking, sneezing, earache ridden mess. Plus, my throat is wicked sore and I sound like a dude...or a REALLY masculine woman...or a heavy smoker. *Let the record show, I am not any of those things.

{2.} I got to actually testify in court on behalf of one of my clients last week, and the attorney said, "Let the record show Ms. H***** indicated my client in her statement." I felt SO freaking legit. It was like being on one of those killer/crime/solved in 45 minutes/lawyer/cop tv shows. It was legen-wait for it-dary.

{3.} My coworker Susan was gone Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of last week. We share an office and we hang out and talk shizz all day long. She is hilar and 75% of the reason why I love my job so much. Basically, I was bored out of my skull for the majority of last week. Thank goodness she came back today...or I was going to have to start talking to myself. Which I already do. The point? I missed her like whoa.

{4.} I bought the CUTEST shoes over the weekend. They are from the Kohl's Vera Wang Collection, and were on sale. I will have to post a picture once I wear them. They are the sexiest black platform heels ever. They are like 4 3/4 tall. I feel like an amazon woman in them...but I love them so freaking bad.

{5.} The last thought leads me to this thought: I need these shoes for a wedding. On Saturday. I am going to Florida for it on Thursday. I get to see Lar get married. I get to chill with her AND Ashton. I am beyond excited! Watch out Flo-rida...here comes California!

xoxo

i am thankful {2.}...

2010-11-29T07:00:00.000-08:00

Last year I did a post in December...about Thanksgiving. In case you all are not aware, Thanksgiving is in November. I was a slacker. However, it is only three days after The Day of Thanks and I am blogging about it! Goooooo me! My turkey day post from last year, is one of my all time favorite posts. I am doing it the same way this year. Ready for a picture explosion? Enjoy...

I am thankful for being able to spend an enormous amount of time with two of my favorite ladies. My mama and Bug are the loves of my life...

I am thankful Bug is awesome. I have no idea where she learned all of her awesome ways...

Oh, wait...

I am thankful for my future sister-in-law, Bastina Balicious. She never fails to give me a stellar Thanksgiving photo op. Once again I refer to last years t-day post. Bastina's gangsta pic is priceless...

I am thankful for my grandpa. He is my one card carrying democrat family member. If it were not for him, I would be the lone voice of reason and sanity at the dinner table...

I am thankful Bug has her Grandpa the Great and Marylou to love on her and spoil her. That girl deserves all the love in the world...

Like I said, this girl deserves all the love in the world...

Remember what I said about stellar photo ops? Yep. Case and point...

I am thankful I have someone to save my favorite childhood clothing items for. Yep. I did rock a leather cowgirl jacket WITH fringe in my day. So epic...

I am thankful I have a mama who is a skilled seamstress. See that super cute hounds tooth cardi I am wearing? Yeah. That is a Mama Made couture creation. Love it with me folks...

I am thankful that I snapped this picture of sheer glory. I have zero clue what happened to cause these facial expressions on my family member's faces, but I thank the Gods of Awkwardness for it...

I am thankful that they are not mouth breathing while playing the Wii. It seems to be a habit of theirs...

I am thankful that Jordan is being schooled in the ways of knitting. By 'schooled' I mean driving Christina crazy by asking her what every single thing in that bag is. I am also thankful she put ALL of Bastina's knitting tools back where they belong. That could have been a nuclear meltdown had something gone missing...

I am thankful that Bastina snapped this gem. What can I say? My mom makes really good chocolate cream pie...

I am thankful for my loved ones. Plain and simple. What are YOU most thankful for?

psbtw, new creations are in the Mama Made Shoppe!

xoxo

must have monday {6.}...

2010-11-22T07:00:00.000-08:00

One trend that I am all about right now is the ginormous chunky rings. They pretty much own my heart...even if they are intense and can sometimes get in the way. I am starting quite the collection and I am loving it! Basically this post is to woo all of you over to the dark side! So far my huge ring collection consists of these gems...

{part of ring wearing awesomeness is having fierce painted nails. love this polish. love this color.}

xoxo

happy friday...

2010-11-19T08:00:00.000-08:00

It is Friday...which always rocks. It rocks even more when someone has a super awesome giveaway happening. Head on over to Busy Bee Lauren who was sweet enough to host a giveaway for my mom's new Etsy store!

The winner will get their pick of the Mama Made Infinity Scarves! The winner can even request a custom order! Go on ahead and enter here. The giveaway ends next Thursday so hurry up and enter!

I am so excited for my mom! I hope you all have lovely weekends!

xoxo

wise words wednesday {17.}...

2010-11-17T06:00:00.000-08:00

This week is busy, but I just wanted to do a quick and dirty (twss) post!

{17.} Wise Words...

I think I will leave it at that, because who can say it better than Audrey? I hope you are all having a lovely week.

xoxo

must have monday {5.}...

2010-11-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

It is time for me to start my week off with a whole lot of swooning. I have finally decided to own the fact that I am slightly tall. I am about 5'8", and while that isn't gigantic, it is still a bit above average for women. This fact has always kept me feeling uncomfortable in heels or any shoe with height. But, whatever. I am loving my height as of late, and have been rocking some super cute/super tall wedges. I looooove them so bad. Guess what the theme is for this Must Have Monday? Yep...shoes. Enjoy the shoe porn my friends.

{1.} 'Detective'-Naughty Monkey

Why hello super foxy wedge boots, would you like to come and live in my closet? I think you would. I am really feeling wedges this season, in a big way. I also am needing some boots in my life. These are too freaking cute. Wedge? Check! Boots? Check! Heather Gray? Check! Only $99.95 through Zappos? Check! These babies are true freaking love.

{2.} 'Ruby, Do Ya Know Wedge'-ModCloth

These are too cute for words. Are they a little 'much'? Probably, but they scream fun to me. They are perfect to spice up a bland work look, or to go out and dance in, or to wear on a weekend outing. I adore these because, to me, they can dress up or dress down any outfit. These are a little wild for my taste, but I am working on branching out with my fashion. These are only $37.99 at ModCloth!

{3.} 'Classic TV Heels'-Anthropologie

I am not even sure I have the words to express how freaking adorable these heels are! I want them. Okay, I actually NEED them. It is not a want, it is more of a spiritual need to have these lovelies sitting in my closet. My oh my Anthro, you have done it again! These retail for $138.00, and yes I will be checking on them every single day so I can pounce on them the moment they go on sale.

{4.} 'Easy Rider Boots'-Anthropologie

While most of these shoes are all about the height, these obviously are not. I mean has anyone ever tried to wear heels every day of the week? Yeah, no. My poor feet would hate me. These boots are cute and badass all at the same time. They look so comfy! These bad boys are over at Anthropologie for $378.00, that means that they will not be mine now or probably ever.

{5.} 'Plum Wedge'-L.A.M.B

Once more we end up with gray! I am swooning over all things gray for some strange reason. These are to freaking die for. These are 4 1/2 inches tall...which is intense, but I still want them. These babies are over at Zappos for $275.00, which is far too rich for my blood. Someone go and buy them now.

Now that I have shared my must haves with you all, share yours with me! What shoe trend are you loving this season? Do you rock the wedges? Are you a strictly flats girl? Does anyone want to buy all these for me? If so I will be your very best friend. The end.

xoxo

one year ago...

2010-11-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

One year ago today I said goodbye to my dad for the last time. I remember the night before he passed so vividly. My brothers sleeping on the floor in the living room, my uncle on the couch, my mom and I in my dads bed, right next to the hospital bed where my dad was unconscious. I remember how that night, when no one was looking I went and sat next to my dad. I like to think that he knew I was there and that he heard all that I said to him. I will not go into detail about what all I said, just some things that needed to be said, some apologies I needed to make. Then I let go of his hand, kissed him on the forehead and whispered, "It's okay Dad. We are all going to be okay. We are all here. I love you. It is time to go. Dad, I love you and it is okay for you to go. It's okay, it's okay, it's okay." I later found out that my brothers had similar conversations with my dad that same evening.

At 4:54 a.m. my mom woke me up and told me my dad had passed away. I sat up out of bed, looked to my right and I could have sworn he was just sleeping. My brother Jon-than came in and kissed him, while I sat on the bed crying. Jon-than sat down and held my hand while we waited for the coroner to come to declare the time of death.

It was hard. It was sad. It is still hard, and still sad. I miss my dad. As much as he used to drive me crazy, I miss him like crazy. The hardest thing was not having him there when I graduated from college. That was always SO important to him. But I did take a picture of us to graduation, so he was in my pocket as I walked on to that stage and received my diploma. So now I just have some words of advice. Be kind to the people you love. Tell them how you feel, don't ever wait to do so. Enjoy the time you have with loved ones, because it is always limited.

Dad, I love you and I miss you. A lot.

xoxo

thank you...

2010-11-11T16:00:00.000-08:00

I love politics. Anyone who knows me is aware of that fact. I tend to be on the left side of things, most are aware of that as well. A lot of people think that if you are against a certain war, or policy, or conservative ideal, that you are not supporting the those who serve and have served in our armed forces. However, our troops have nothing to do with my politics. I honor them. I respect them. They have served our country and kept us safe and for that I say thank you. For that I am grateful. Thank you to all of the men and women (and their families) who have sacrificed so much to keep this country safe. Happy Veterans Day.

xoxo

this week...

2010-11-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

I miss blogging. I guess when you grow up, get a job, and are a part of Big Girl World blogging goes by the wayside. I think I am going to try to start using Sunday afternoon to backlog some posts so that my blog will be alive throughout my busy days.

So, in honor of this decision I am sharing with you all what my week looks like, thus far.

{Monday}: I share an office with my favorite coworker, Susan. She is hilarious and I love her to pieces. She runs the women's day treatment program, that I also work in. The only conflict with this plan is that we both are counselors, so we both have individual appointments. So, we have to get together to schedule who gets the office when. Since she is in our out of town office on Monday's, this means I schedule all of my individuals on Monday. That way I have the office to myself. This Monday I have 6 new clients to meet with. That is 6 hours of people who are either in serious withdrawal, or who are totally still high and using. Awesome.

{Tuesday}: Tuesdays are DH days (DH is what we call the women's day treatment program). I love these days. I get to learn and co-facilitate group all day long. Watching Susan work with the women is SO amazing, I hope one day I am as skilled as she is. While I love these days, they are completely emotionally exhausting. I have bonded so much with these clients, I spend 18 hours a week with them, and they all have some seriously heavy stuff going on right now. Between helping run group, I also help the daycare worker with the women's kids. I love these kids, but sometimes they make me want to rip my hair out. Insanity.

{Wednesday}: This is THE big day. My supervisor is retiring in December, he is the only one who has ever ran the program that I work in. This means when he leaves I am in charge of the program, so I have been learning the logistics over the past five months. The second Wednesday of every month my clients have court, my supervisor and I have been going together every month. This month he is not going. I am doing the entire thing solo. This means I am responsible for meeting with the judge in chambers, I am responsible for speaking for the clients in court, basically my ass is on the line if anything does not go right. Am I intimidated? Yeah, pretty much.

{Thursday}: This day is pretty legit. Why? It is Veteran's Day. This means I get the day off. Why hello, sleeping in. I love you. Also, one of my coworkers made signs to hang on the door that our office is closed that day. I happened upon a stack of them last week, they said, "Our offices are closed on 11/11/10 in observance of Vetrens Day." Has anyone ever heard of spellcheck? C'mon people. Come-freaking-on.

{Friday}: This day is always my favorite day. Why? We get to kick back and have a relaxing fun day in DH. We hang on the couches and we just talk and process at a comfortable group level. We laugh, we talk about life, love, and loss. It is a great day. Then Susan and I grab lunch and talk crap in our office for the remainder of the day. I love it.

So, it is a pretty busy week. I adore my job though so it is all good. Plus, I get a day off, who doesn't love that? What is on your to-do list this week? Please share!

xoxo

that's my girl...

2010-11-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

I am not a big fan of Halloween. I don't really like to get dressed up and go to a bunch of parties where everyone will get drunk and stupid; in costume form no less! Yeah...no thank you. I am a homebody, I love just being home, warm, reading, and catching up on my DVR. Basically I am lame.

However, every year since Bug was born we have a new Halloween tradition; I go trick-or-treating with my niece. It is always fun to watch her run around hopped up on sugar and acting all crazy-like. She is the best.

This year Bug was a girl after my own heart. Why yes, she IS the one and only Little Mermaid. Ariel is her favorite Disney Princess...she is mine as well. I was Ariel in 3rd grade. I love this kid. Her taste is impeccable.

Oh, I guess I did dress up this year...I went as 'Death Warmed Over'. Ick. I am looking pretty rough in this photo...just love me through it. Focus on the cuteness explosion next to me.

This is my favorite candid of the evening. She is so precious. I love this kid so freaking much I can't even stand it. Work it mini-diva!

My two favorite ladies: Bug and my Mama. They both hate having their pictures taken, so to get one that has both of them in it is a Halloween miracle. Seriously, if they would have smiled the heavens would have opened up serenading us with a version of 'Hallelujah'. No freaking lie.

This kid basically was planning on trick-or-treating all night long...her aunt (aka me) had other ideas. Those ideas included me being in bed by ten o' clock. So, I gave this adorable mermaid a kiss and a hug and headed on home.

Overall my Halloween was pretty down to earth, and I wouldn't have it any other way. So please share what were YOUR Halloween plans?

xoxo

wise words wednesday {16.}...

2010-10-27T19:16:00.000-07:00

I feel like my 'Wise Words Wednesday' posts can be a little redundant. I feel like they are always related to my job, and sometimes they are kind of depressing. I then go and try to look for more cheerful quotes, words and whatnot. Then I realize that my job and what I do is becoming a big part of who I am. This job is molding me into a better person. This job is teaching me that there is SO much more to life then I ever thought possible.

I am learning to not be so judgemental, and that every single person is full of their own complexities. It is showing me that I am compassionate and empathetic. It is showing me that I am not heartless and cold like I have always presented myself to be. I am beginning to think that I will make a great counselor. That I really am making a difference. There are days where I despise my job, but for the most part, I really enjoy what I do, and that is a blessing.

{16.} Wise Words...

Everyday I go to work I work with people who have nothing. When I say nothing, I literally mean NOTHING. Some sleep under trees. Some eat out of garbage cans in order to buy formula and food for their children. Some have been beaten and assaulted. Some have sold their bodies for money or drugs. Some have lost everything except for their lives. Yet they are trying. Most people look down upon them. They think of them as useless druggies, or even worse they don't think of them at all. I think of them all day, everyday. Some of their situations haunt me. They are so much stronger than I will ever be. I look up to them. They teach me. They show me how blessed I am. I hope by me sharing these stories they open your eyes a little as well.

xoxo

must have monday {4.}...

2010-10-25T18:51:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday was my birthday. I am officially 25...which is super close to 30. Anywho, my wonderful mother gifted me with a Nook! At first I was super skeptical about e-readers. I wanted nothing to do with a Kindle or a Nook, but then I heard more and more about them and of course I had to have one.

I basically love it. Will I give up buying actual books? Never. Will I take The Nookster with me everywhere? You best believe I will. And yes, I did name it 'The Nookster'. This little contraption is A.Maz.Ing. It is for sure a must have item.

The front:I photographed The Nookster in my favorite reading corner. How cute and happy does he look in his new home? Please note the ADORABLE Jonathan Adler cover that I purchased to safely carry The Nookster in. It is presh.

The Inside:Once again I adore my happy little Nook case. It has pockets and a place to store my ID/debit card. Oh how I love thee.

The Back:I am in looooove. My mom is a excellent gift giver. Pat yourself on the back mother, you did good! My first e-book purchase was 'Bright Lights, Big Ass' by Jen Lancaster. If you haven't read her books...get right with God and run out to purchase them. They are laugh out loud hilarious.

Do yourself a favor and gift yourself with a Nook...or ask for one for Christmas/your birthday. You will NOT regret it.

Also, I moved my mom's shop from Big Cartel over to Etsy this weekend. It is a more user friendly site. Please, go and check out The Mama Made Shoppe!

xoxo

things i am bitter about...

2010-10-20T17:55:00.000-07:00

I know I like to keep things happy/uplifting/funny on this blog. Normally every Wednesday I find some wise words to share with all of you. Well, not today. Today I am tired, grouchy, and pretty darn bitter. So, this post is a total bitchfest. Love me through it folks...

Things I am Bitter About...

{1.} I am still bitter about my flight from Salt Lake City to Sacramento being seriously delayed on Sunday evening. This resulted in me not getting home until the next morning instead of at 10:35pm as was originally scheduled. This also resulted in me missing work on Monday...and having to cancel three appointments with new clients. This made me look unprofessional and like a slacker. It also caused me to have some SERIOUSLY intense dark circles under my eyes. Way to suck Delta Airlines....way to suck.

{2.} I am completely bitter about being denied time off from work on the 29th. This is the story my friends: I bust my booty at work. My department head always tells me I do the work of about three employees (yes, I am patting myself on the back. deal.) I work really hard...as we all should when we are at our jobs...the 'work' part is implied. Or so I would think. Some of my coworkers have the crappiest work ethics I have ever seen in my life. They come late, leave early, call in sick ALL THE TIME, do personal stuff at work, and are sometimes completely unprofessional (yes this is coming from the chick who threw someones briefcase into the hallway, moving on). Point being, I totally should have been able to leave early on this day. What was my direct supervisors response to my request? "Nope. That is the day court reports have to be faxed to probation. You have to fax them since you are taking over the program when I retire." Um. What? I have to be the one who faxes the reports? Does no one else in this office know how to operate a fax machine? As long as MY clients reports are completed why do I have to press the 'send' button? Anyways...this means that the super-awesome-birthday-surprise-that was supposed to be a secret but I figured it out-from Bff Jil is cancelled. What was said surprise of awesome? Tickets to see Lady Antebellum LIVE. I am supremely bitter about this. Okay, I lied. I am effing pissed about it.

{3.} I am totally jealous and bitter that my eldest brother took his annual trip to Southern California to hit up Universal Studios/Warner Brothers Studio last week. He came over last night and told me he met, "That kid from the singing show." I said, "Glee?! You met someone from GLEEEE?!" He replied, "Yeah. The one who has glasses." Me, "ARTIE?! Shut up!" Him, "Seriously. Who even likes that show?" What a complete waste. I want to meet Artie. I love that kid. It so should have been me...or Amanda.

{4.} I am slightly bitter that I work with a bunch of reformed criminals (who i love, mind you) Since I work in a drug and alcohol program, most of the other counselors are former addicts/alcoholics/criminals. I am the only 'normal' one...they like to call me 'The Normi'. So, the only other employee who does NOT have a criminal record is the daycare worker. Since I do not have a criminal past I passed the Live Scan fingerprint thing when I began work there. This means I can help in the daycare and look after the children. This also means I got puked on yesterday by a 6 month old. Yep...all down the front of my blouse/jeans/arm. Sick.

{5.} I am bitter that Glee was not on this week. I mean REALLY? My week is incomplete without Glee. It needs to be next Tuesday to cheer my life up.

So, I started the bitchfest...feel free to join in! What are YOU bitter about at the moment? Am I justified in all of my pissed off glory? Let me know. Thanks for reading the rants of a crazy person!

xoxo

broken record...

2010-10-14T07:39:00.000-07:00

I have had a super busy week, this is why there has not been a post since Monday. Oh well. So, I am heading out of town this evening and will not be back until Monday.

I am just going to do a half-ass post and refer you once more to my mama's new shoppe! She has already sold two scarves and is SO excited about it, she even went and finally bought a super high quality sewing machine that she has been coveting for like ever. I am so excited for her. There are only a few selections of materials and prints on the actual store, the rest are in my last post.

Please go and check it out! Also, please hit the 'contact' button, on the Mama Made Shoppe homepage, if there is a certain color/pattern/fabric that you would like to have crafted into a scarf. My mama has no problem with making custom orders with no extra charge!

Support my mom! She is amazing, and makes fabulous stuff!

Have amazing weekends my friends!

xoxo

must have monday {4.}...

2010-10-11T05:00:00.000-07:00

I am super excited about this week's 'Must Have Monday'! Why? Because I spent the better part of the weekend setting up a little Big Cartel shoppe for my mama.

My mom is all kinds of fantastic. She is pretty much the queen of sewing things. Seriously. She makes me tops, skirts, purses, and most importantly scarves! I am obsessed with scarves, I wear them all year round. I am majorly swooning over the heaven that is the infinity scarf. There is only ONE thing I hate about these scarves, the price. I mean I am all about you get what you pay for, but come freaking on. When I shell out $40.00 bones for a scarf...that is unacceptable.

So, what did I do to fix this little dilemma? I went to the motherly one and pouted until she took me to the fabric store and made me a scarf. I then immediately told her she needs to start a little online store and make these for all of the interwebs to enjoy. I now present you with things YOU must have.

A 'Mama Made' infinity scarf!

Dude. I am SO not a model, but I did the best I could. Make sure to go and check out the shoppe, 'Mama Made'. There are pre-made scarves, and fabric that can be made to order. Since Big Cartel only allows you to post five items; I am cheating and throwing up some more fabric choices on my blog. If you want to order a different print just click the 'contact' button on the shoppe and tell her which one you must have!

{1.} 'Animalistic'

{2.} 'Back to Basics'

{3.} 'Black Tie'

{4.} 'Nature Girl'All of these fabrics can be whipped into a fabulous scarf in no time! Hopefully the shoppe will have something for everyone. There are animal prints, florals, neutrals, and a little bit of funk. If you prefer one of these fabrics over what is currently in the shoppe, just say so in the contact email. Let her know which one you like and *bam*! It will be heading your way shortly.

I am so excited for my mama. I hope that you all love her pretty little creations. Please, email her or comment here if there is something you would love to have but isn't available. Do you want a damask print? Some hounds tooth? Maybe some fun stripes? Or a hot pink solid? Mama will go out of her way to customize a creation to your specific taste! Don't forget to head over to Big Cartel to see her shoppe!

xoxo

i challenge you {4.}...

2010-10-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

Well, I pretty much failed in the whole '30 Day/Post Challenge'. I honestly forgot all about it. Here is a little reminder about what exactly this little challenge is all about. I am going to just pick up where I left off. Post #4 of the challenge...

Day 4-Your Siblings...

This picture slays me every time I look at it (yes it is taken in line for the Indiana Jones ride at Disneyland). See that girl in the middle with the pissedspice look on her face? Yep, that is yours truly. See that guy with the stubble who is very authoritatively telling us something? That is the eldest brother Jason. See the one with the hat that is permanently attached to his head, who is clearly not listening to his big brother? That is the second oldest in our clan, Jon-than.

These two have the powers to piss me off more than anyone else on the planet. They are pretty damn obnoxious at times, but they are pretty damn awesome at other times. They are my over-protective, loveable big brothers. They make me glad I do NOT have any sisters. Seriously. Sisters sound like they suck. Brothers are for sure the way to roll.

And yes. I am the baby of the clan. Which means I pretty much always whine and get my way. I am pretty sure this pisses off both of the brotherly ones.

xoxo