I wanted to share with you today some of the best shots from my recent shoots. :)
Check out my Facebook Page, Photos by Jenise, for more photos!
xoxo,
Jen
Monday, November 21, 2011
Venturing out...
I'm sorry - I know I have been awful about posting. Things have been so busy (in a wonderfully amazingly good way!), that I feel like I haven't had a moment to breathe, much less update my blog. So my photography business is finally taking off, and I have been nonstop between work, photo sessions, and keeping my hubby full and happy. :)
I wanted to share with you today some of the best shots from my recent shoots. :)
I wanted to share with you today some of the best shots from my recent shoots. :)
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Notable, Quotable
I posted this because, well, it's absolutely, positively, 100% true. While we may love someone with our whole heart, it doesn't mean we're necessarily going to like them all the time.
People do things. Some things make you happy, some things irk you, some things don't even warrant your attention. But some things just piss you off make you really upset. And in those moments, you don't necessarily like someone. In those moments, you want to yell, and kick, and punch, and slap. You want to throw things. You want to grind your teeth. You want to jump out of a moving vehicle and make them regret doing stupid things.
But when the storm passes, and your head is clear again, remember why you love them. And remember that while we all make mistakes, and nobody is perfect, there is someone out there who completes you, who is absolutely the best fit, the most perfect person for you. And when you find it, hold on tight. That's your soul mate.
Xoxo,
Jen
Monday, October 17, 2011
A Facelift
Hello Everyday Delights has a new look! Or at least, a new banner! After months of trying to figure out what I wanted to change, I finally decided that I knew EXACTLY what I wanted to change - my blog needed a new banner! So I've been working on a little something for a while now, and today the whole thing came to fruition. So I introduce to you the new banner of Hello Everyday Delights!
Xoxo,
Jen
Font Freak
So if you are anything like me, before you create anything (and I do mean ANYTHING), you agonize over fonts. The look of something can really change depending on the font you are using. Whenever I create worksheets for my students, or notes to other teachers, or anything that will be posted in my classroom, I am very selective about which fonts I will use. I think the font says so much about what you are trying to get across in your message.
I found this site, Fonts for Peas, and I am OBSESSED. All my dreams of handwritten fonts are right there on this adorable blog. So I am adding their button to my homepage, because I think it needs to be shared!
I hope you enjoy it as much as I have!
Xoxo,
Jen
Saturday, October 15, 2011
A Little Something for Teachers
So I know teachers are always trying to find free stuff that they can use in their classrooms. At least, I know I am. I'm going to try and feature some of the more useful things I have found or created on here While teaching Expository Writing, I always have my students create a "Main Idea Table." The table top is the topic sentence, and the table always has 3 legs. Each leg is a supporting detail for the topic, and a rug at the foot of the table keeps the conclusion. This year, I decided to create a worksheet to help my students out. I've shared it with the teachers at work already, and I thought it would be nice to share it with you, my readers - especially those of you who are teachers.
I couldn't figure out how to load it onto here as a PDF, so I am loading it as a jpeg. It should print just as well. You can also use this right on a SmartBoard or Promethean Board, and I think it's pretty adaptable for many grade levels. I use it in 7th and 8th grades for writing full 5-paragraph essays, but it can also be used for writing paragraphs. :)
I couldn't figure out how to load it onto here as a PDF, so I am loading it as a jpeg. It should print just as well. You can also use this right on a SmartBoard or Promethean Board, and I think it's pretty adaptable for many grade levels. I use it in 7th and 8th grades for writing full 5-paragraph essays, but it can also be used for writing paragraphs. :)
Enjoy!
Xoxo,
Jen
Friday, October 14, 2011
Happy Halloween!
Happy Halloween from our house to yours!
I know it's a little early, but Bella and I were eager to share her Halloween pictures with you all! She's going to be a pretty bumblebee. We had a little photoshoot and I have to say she looks adorable. :)
For your viewing pleasure...
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| And that's a wrap, mom. |
Jen
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Roast Pork Loin
A couple Sundays ago, my hubby and I invited his parents over. Whenever we have anyone over, I go into hyperdrive and freak out because I want my food to be perfect. This time was no different.We bought a pork loin and I decided to alter a recipe I had already tried once before. Pork can turn out very dry if it isn't done right, so I am always scared of making it. However, this recipe manages to always turn out perfectly. The last time I made it, I seasoned it right before putting the roast in the over, but this times, I sealed it and marinated for about 4 hours. the result was a juicy, savory, and leftover-worthy pork roast. I hope you will enjoy this meal as much as we did!
Roast Pork Loin
Ingredients
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon rosemary, plus several whole sprigs
juice from 1/2 a lemon
salt & pepper to taste
2 pounds boneless pork loin roast
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup white wine
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Crush garlic with rosemary, lemon, salt, and pepper, making a paste.
3. Pierce meat with a sharp knife in several places (I make pretty deep cuts along the length of the roast) and press the garlic paste into the openings. Rub the meat with the remaining garlic mixture and olive oil.
4. Place pork loin in the oven, turning and basting with pan liquids. About 45 minutes through, pour in the white wine and stir to loosen the bits of food on the bottom. Cook until the pork is no longer pink in the center, about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Serve with pan juices. and garnish with rosemary sprigs.
Enjoy!
Xoxo,
Jen
Roast Pork Loin
Ingredients
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon rosemary, plus several whole sprigs
juice from 1/2 a lemon
salt & pepper to taste
2 pounds boneless pork loin roast
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup white wine
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Crush garlic with rosemary, lemon, salt, and pepper, making a paste.
3. Pierce meat with a sharp knife in several places (I make pretty deep cuts along the length of the roast) and press the garlic paste into the openings. Rub the meat with the remaining garlic mixture and olive oil.
4. Place pork loin in the oven, turning and basting with pan liquids. About 45 minutes through, pour in the white wine and stir to loosen the bits of food on the bottom. Cook until the pork is no longer pink in the center, about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Serve with pan juices. and garnish with rosemary sprigs.
Enjoy!
Xoxo,
Jen
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Back to School?
No recipe today, folks. But I do have an announcement - I'm going back to school! Since I don't have NEARLY enough to do with my time, I decided I'm going back to expand my brain a little more. I've been thinking about school for a while, but was a little reluctant because I hadn't found a program that really interested me or that was convenient for me. I already have my Masters Degree in Special Education, and I KNEW did NOT want to go back for a Doctorate (Sorry Mom, I'm just not THAT ambitious).
I recently discovered a program that is convenient and worth my while. It's an Autism Endorsement program, which adds an additional certification to my teaching license. 4 classes, 1 year, meets once a week. I'm in the process of applying (and struggling to get my 2 former school to provide me with everything I need - so frustrating), and I can actually say I am looking forward to this. Our school's population of children who are diagnosed with Autism has continued to grow, just like in the rest of the world. I think this will be a great thing to have under my belt and will really help me to better cope with all my students. :)
So come January, I will HOPEFULLY be a student once again (and no, I'm NOT a masochist).
Xoxo,
Jen
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Spiced Pumpkin Syrup
So fall is here and I'm excited! A student brought me a Pumpkin Spice Latte last week, and then Annie of Annie's Eats posted a recipe for a DIY Syrup to add to your coffee at home! Cha-Ching! So I decided I had to make it as soon as I had a spare moment. (Ha - that was a joke, get it?) In case you don't live in Miami, this past weekend, the weather was awful. So I spent the weekend at home, doing - you guessed it - nada. So I was itching to get out and do something, and when Monday rolled around, I thought this was perfect. So I flitted over to the grocery store, bought everything I needed, and went to grab the pumpkin (in a can). GASP! They didn't have it. No need to fret - I stopped at another store on my way home from work today and they had it (so I definitely stocked up!).
As a result, I made this deliciousness. I even drank coffee after my dinner (which means I might be up until very late tonight) just so I could taste it. I think this would also be good drizzled over ice cream, in tea, and countless other things. If you find another use for it, definitely comment below - I'd love to hear what uses you have found for it! The recipe makes about half of the bottle that I filled, but I made 2 batches so I could take some to work tomorrow.
And now, without further ado - Spiced Pumpkin Syrup. :)
Spiced Pumpkin Syrup
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups water
1 1/2 cups sugar
4 cinnamon sticks
1 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp ground cloves
3 tbsp pumpkin puree
Directions
Combine the water and sugar in a medium saucepan and heat over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Toss in the cinnamon sticks and whisk in the remaining spices and the pumpkin puree. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, without letting the mixture come to a boil. Remove from the heat and allow to cool for 10-15 minutes. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer and store in your container of choice. Store the container in the refrigerator.
Stir a few tablespoons into coffee or drizzle over dessert of choice.
Enjoy!
Xoxo,
Jen
Recipe from Annie's Eats.
As a result, I made this deliciousness. I even drank coffee after my dinner (which means I might be up until very late tonight) just so I could taste it. I think this would also be good drizzled over ice cream, in tea, and countless other things. If you find another use for it, definitely comment below - I'd love to hear what uses you have found for it! The recipe makes about half of the bottle that I filled, but I made 2 batches so I could take some to work tomorrow.
And now, without further ado - Spiced Pumpkin Syrup. :)
Spiced Pumpkin Syrup
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups water
1 1/2 cups sugar
4 cinnamon sticks
1 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp ground cloves
3 tbsp pumpkin puree
Directions
Combine the water and sugar in a medium saucepan and heat over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Toss in the cinnamon sticks and whisk in the remaining spices and the pumpkin puree. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, without letting the mixture come to a boil. Remove from the heat and allow to cool for 10-15 minutes. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer and store in your container of choice. Store the container in the refrigerator.
Stir a few tablespoons into coffee or drizzle over dessert of choice.
Enjoy!
Xoxo,
Jen
Recipe from Annie's Eats.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Roast Chicken with Shallots
I found this dish over a year ago and I probably make it at least once a month. I honestly have no idea where I got it from - I have adapted it over time to make it my own, subbing out ingredients, cutting out others, adding still others in. It's so easy and it's the kind of dish that makes people think you spent a long time slaving over. It has a super savory flavor and everyone who has tried it has asked me for the recipe. Definitely something to try if you like chicken with some real flavor.
The side dish is Onion Roasted Sweet Potatoes. This is something I make ALL the time. We love sweet potato in my house, so we always have them on hand. While peeling and chopping the sweet potato isn't my favorite part, it always relaxes me. Aside from that, the dish couldn't really be any easier.
Roast Chicken with Shallots & Onion Roasted Sweet Potato
For the chicken:
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1/2 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 tbsp honey
2 large shallots, peeled and minced
4 pieces bone-in chicken (You can use any kind - I have made this recipe with chicken breast, chicken thigh, etc. Just adjust cooking time accordingly)
Coarse salt, freshly ground pepper (for seasoning)
Directions
1. Preheat over to 425 degrees.
2. In a baking dish large enough to hold all the chicken in a single layer, combine the first five ingredients, whisking to combine.
3. Toss the chicken in, coating it with the shallots.
4. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
5. Place the chicken face up on the pan in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20 minutes, until the chicken starts to brown on top. Turn the chicken over and spoon the pan juices and shallots on top.
7. Bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the shallots are caramelized.
8. Remove from the oven, serve, and enjoy!
For the sweet potato:
Ingredients
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1/2" - 1" chunks.
1 packet Lipton Recipe Secret Onion Soup and Dip Mix
2 tbsp olive oil
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
2. In a large bowl, mix all three ingredients, making sure that the sweet potato is well-coated.
3. Place in a single layer in a baking dish.
4. Bake for 20 minutes.
5. Toss the potatoes, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until you can easily spear the potato with a fork.
6. Remove from the oven, serve, and enjoy!
XoXo,
Jen
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Here Comes Baby... (Not Mine!)
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| She really is glowing... I love how pretty pregnant women look. :) |
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| This is my FAVORITE shot of the day. I LOVE it! |
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Xoxo,
Jen
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Bargain Blast: Nordstrom Rack
I asked on FB for some topics that people would be interested in reading, and I got some great responses. The one that fits my blog most aptly would have to be one submitted by my friend and co-worker, Melanie.
"How about (blogging about) places people can get good bargains when trying to stay fashionable in this economy?"
So I decided to do a kind of series on some of the places where I like to shop. I'm going to try and post at least one place per week, with some of the reasons why I love that particular place so much. I am a huge bargain hunter, and I HATE (I mean really DESPISE) paying full price for anything, especially knowing that there are so many places that offer bargains on great pieces. The first Bargain Blast store is....
If you like designer labels, this is the place to go. They always have a great selection, and if you search properly, you can find some major gems. I've come out of there with a Michael Kors purse for less than $100, and I have seen Kate Spade bags for under $150 several times. There are items you wouldn't want to skimp on, and at those times, this is a great place to go. I've tried on Diane VonFurstenberg dresses (didn't purchase because they didn't have my size :/ ), and have actually purchased more than one Calvin Klein dress for under $50 (talk about something you can wear forever). Not to mention they carry a lot of tops for under $20 - at a much better quality than what you might find elsewhere. I've spotted Burberry coats in several sizes, and they almost ALWAYS carry Seven Jeans or True Religion Jeans.
For men, they carry TailorByrd shirts, which my husband loves. They retail for about $110 in Nordstrom stores, but at the Rack, they are about $50 - $60. Can't go wrong for a nice, modern dress shirt. The colors are always nice and bright, and I love seeing my hubby in these very well-made shirts.
Great accessories from Betsey Johnson, watches from several different designers, hair accessories for under $5, and all other kinds of jewelry for really really great prices occupy one corner of the store. And near the register are a couple of stands of beauty supplies, carrying Stila, Smashbox, and Neutrogena products, as well as a few others.
But by far, what has me more than smitten with Nordstrom Rack is their designer shoe department. I have at least 5 pairs of shoes that I have purchased in their regular shoe department (prices range from $40 - $80, which is VERY good). Back to designer section - But back in May, I found a gorgeous pair of gold Jimmy Choo slingback, peep-toe heels. They were $300. So I practiced self-control and left them there. A week later, I was still dreaming of the shoes, and when my hubby went back to buy some jeans, he picked them up for me, and this time, they were 50% off!!!! So they only cost $150. Steep for shoes, but not for Jimmy Choos. After doing some research, I realized that those shoes retailed for $800. Definitely a steal.
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| The Jimmy Choos I got for $150! |
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| Wearing my Jimmys in Philly... The gold clutch was $10 at Bijoux Terner. |
So there you have it - the first Bargain Blast. Nordstrom Rack, a great place for almost anything!
Coming up next time... DSW.
Until next time!
Xoxo,
Jen
Jack of all trades, Master of none?
So it seems as if every week I find something else I enjoy and at which I could become much greater. There are just so many things I enjoy. I have huge dreams. Some I might achieve, some might be a flailing attempt... But I have promised myself that even if it is flailing, I WILL make the attempt.
Teaching is my first love, and what puts the money in the bank account regularly (even if it isn't much). But on my list of things are to be a published author and to expand my photography portfolio. Writing has been a love of mine for a long time. I remember scribbling notes and poems on any scrap of paper I could ever find, and writing short stories on my parents' old desktop. That's where blogging came about. A place to express myself, to make my thoughts heard, and to hone my skills. My hopes are that I can one day write a book and get it published (I've actually already written a children's alphabet book and illustrated it, but no publishing yet).
As for photography, I've always thought of it as "just a hobby." I've taken maternity photos for friends, or friends' children, photographed parties, and as always, at school. But it was never something I made money off of. So imagine my surprise when a friend recommended me for a paying job this past weekend! It was an engagement party, and I absolutely LOVED it. The couple was great, as were their families! I was even booked for other jobs through this party! So I'm excited to have another creative outlet for myself, as well as to help document the fun and important times in people's lives!
I'm not trying to market myself here - I'm seriously just EXTREMELY excited about this new venture! The blog is also great at letting me hone some of my photography skills, so I have definitely been getting plenty of practice.
The whole point of this post is that I want to know how to do a lot of things... not just one. I want to look back at the end of my life and say, "I tried it all. I might not have been the absolute best, but at least I can say I tried." I think that's the way we should all live... try everything you want to try, at least once! You never know what can come from it.
Anyway, here are a couple of shots to enjoy!
Xoxo,
Jen
Teaching is my first love, and what puts the money in the bank account regularly (even if it isn't much). But on my list of things are to be a published author and to expand my photography portfolio. Writing has been a love of mine for a long time. I remember scribbling notes and poems on any scrap of paper I could ever find, and writing short stories on my parents' old desktop. That's where blogging came about. A place to express myself, to make my thoughts heard, and to hone my skills. My hopes are that I can one day write a book and get it published (I've actually already written a children's alphabet book and illustrated it, but no publishing yet).
As for photography, I've always thought of it as "just a hobby." I've taken maternity photos for friends, or friends' children, photographed parties, and as always, at school. But it was never something I made money off of. So imagine my surprise when a friend recommended me for a paying job this past weekend! It was an engagement party, and I absolutely LOVED it. The couple was great, as were their families! I was even booked for other jobs through this party! So I'm excited to have another creative outlet for myself, as well as to help document the fun and important times in people's lives!
I'm not trying to market myself here - I'm seriously just EXTREMELY excited about this new venture! The blog is also great at letting me hone some of my photography skills, so I have definitely been getting plenty of practice.
The whole point of this post is that I want to know how to do a lot of things... not just one. I want to look back at the end of my life and say, "I tried it all. I might not have been the absolute best, but at least I can say I tried." I think that's the way we should all live... try everything you want to try, at least once! You never know what can come from it.
Anyway, here are a couple of shots to enjoy!
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| Lover's Locks on the Ponte Vecchio, Florence, Italy |
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| Water flowing |
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| Two of my favorite girls. :) |
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| Spanish Food. Need I say more? |
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| Gaudi-inspired bull in Barcelona, Spain |
Xoxo,
Jen
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Couscous Salad with Roasted Chicken
Just because I've decided not to focus TOTALLY on food doesn't mean I won't talk about food at all! I have several recipes stored with their corresponding photos and I really do want to share them with you!
Lately I've been on quite a couscous kick. It's so easy to make, you can add more or less whatever you want to it, and it doesn't make you feel like you ate a loaf of Cuban bread when you're done. When I was looking for a simple weeknight meal, I found this recipe. So I hit up my grocery store and picked up a whole rotisserie chicken, chopped it up, and made this delicious meal for dinner. It doesn't require a whole lot of explaining, and it's VERY simple if you pick up the cooked chicken on your way home. Of course, if you want to be a show-off, you can season and roast your own chicken, too. ;) I was not feeling that ambitious on this particular day.
I didn't think Eddie would like it too much, since it is a simple, one-dish meal - no sides or anything. But he loved it! And I hope you will too!
Couscous Salad with Roasted Chicken
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients
1/3 cup uncooked couscous (I used whole wheat)
1 1/2 cups chopped roasted chicken breast
1 cup halved grape tomatoes
1 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
4 green onions, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
1. Prepare couscous according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Fluff couscous with a fork.
2. Combine couscous, chicken, tomatoes, parsley, mint, onions, and garlic in a large bowl. Set aside.
3. Combine lemon juice, olive oil, and salt in a small bowl; stir well with a whisk. Pour dressing over couscous mixture; toss gently.
Recipe adapted from: Cooking Light: Fresh Food Fast Weeknight Meals
Enjoy!
Xoxo,
Jen
Lately I've been on quite a couscous kick. It's so easy to make, you can add more or less whatever you want to it, and it doesn't make you feel like you ate a loaf of Cuban bread when you're done. When I was looking for a simple weeknight meal, I found this recipe. So I hit up my grocery store and picked up a whole rotisserie chicken, chopped it up, and made this delicious meal for dinner. It doesn't require a whole lot of explaining, and it's VERY simple if you pick up the cooked chicken on your way home. Of course, if you want to be a show-off, you can season and roast your own chicken, too. ;) I was not feeling that ambitious on this particular day.
I didn't think Eddie would like it too much, since it is a simple, one-dish meal - no sides or anything. But he loved it! And I hope you will too!
Couscous Salad with Roasted Chicken
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients
1/3 cup uncooked couscous (I used whole wheat)
1 1/2 cups chopped roasted chicken breast
1 cup halved grape tomatoes
1 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
4 green onions, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
1. Prepare couscous according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Fluff couscous with a fork.
2. Combine couscous, chicken, tomatoes, parsley, mint, onions, and garlic in a large bowl. Set aside.
3. Combine lemon juice, olive oil, and salt in a small bowl; stir well with a whisk. Pour dressing over couscous mixture; toss gently.
Recipe adapted from: Cooking Light: Fresh Food Fast Weeknight Meals
Enjoy!
Xoxo,
Jen
Friday, August 12, 2011
Pantsed!
Last weekend I went shopping for back-to-school (Yes, teachers get to do this, too), and I automatically went to my favorite store, New York & Company. I love clothes, but going to clothing stores is sometimes overwhelming for me. I want to look stylish and nice, but I do NOT want to spend $100 on a shirt. This place gives me the clothes I want, at a great price and great quality. And when you find somewhere that the clothes fits, wear it!
I remember being younger and getting mad at my mom for making me buy a sweater in the store when it was Lerner NY. I told her, "That's an old lady store, and I will NOT buy clothes from there. That's dorky." Give me a break, I was in my early teens. How annoying.
Years later, when I started working and actually had to pay for my own clothes, I refused to pay $80 for a pair of cropped pants at Express. I mean, who were they kidding? I also wasn't happy with the fit. So after some mental kicking and screaming, I decided to try New York & Company. Lo and behold, the pants actually fit the way I wanted them too. And ten years later, the clothes didn't seem quite so "old-lady-ish". Their selection was also way more stylish than I remembered.
While I'd love to be that "uber-trendy" girl, my job calls for something a little more low-key, a little more classic. Plus, as I've gotten older, I've realized that not every silhouette looks good on me. So I go with what works - a classic cut and shapes, and I accessorize to make it modern. I wouldn't say I'm the best-dressed person in town, but I also don't think I dress poorly. But I guess I'm not the one to judge that, am I? ;)
Anyway, I went shopping for back to school with a coupon for $70 off my purchase of $150 or more in hand (yes, crazy right?). They also have a huge pant sale going on right now. Buy one pair of pants full price (their pants average $40 - $60), get the other for $10! That means you can buy two pairs of dress pants for under $75. They also have some gorgeous tops now for fall, in pretty colors and patterns. My personal favorite? A teal tie bow blouse - reminiscent of the ones seen in Banana Republic's "Mad Men" Collection. Get the New York & Company version here. I know it will also transition into fall/Miami winter nicely with a blazer over it and a pair of boots.
Another great thing, teachers get 15% off in stores, year round... If you're a teacher, sign up here.
Happy Shopping!
Xoxo,
Jen
I remember being younger and getting mad at my mom for making me buy a sweater in the store when it was Lerner NY. I told her, "That's an old lady store, and I will NOT buy clothes from there. That's dorky." Give me a break, I was in my early teens. How annoying.
Years later, when I started working and actually had to pay for my own clothes, I refused to pay $80 for a pair of cropped pants at Express. I mean, who were they kidding? I also wasn't happy with the fit. So after some mental kicking and screaming, I decided to try New York & Company. Lo and behold, the pants actually fit the way I wanted them too. And ten years later, the clothes didn't seem quite so "old-lady-ish". Their selection was also way more stylish than I remembered.
While I'd love to be that "uber-trendy" girl, my job calls for something a little more low-key, a little more classic. Plus, as I've gotten older, I've realized that not every silhouette looks good on me. So I go with what works - a classic cut and shapes, and I accessorize to make it modern. I wouldn't say I'm the best-dressed person in town, but I also don't think I dress poorly. But I guess I'm not the one to judge that, am I? ;)
Anyway, I went shopping for back to school with a coupon for $70 off my purchase of $150 or more in hand (yes, crazy right?). They also have a huge pant sale going on right now. Buy one pair of pants full price (their pants average $40 - $60), get the other for $10! That means you can buy two pairs of dress pants for under $75. They also have some gorgeous tops now for fall, in pretty colors and patterns. My personal favorite? A teal tie bow blouse - reminiscent of the ones seen in Banana Republic's "Mad Men" Collection. Get the New York & Company version here. I know it will also transition into fall/Miami winter nicely with a blazer over it and a pair of boots.
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| One of the pairs of cropped pants I acquired. |
Another great thing, teachers get 15% off in stores, year round... If you're a teacher, sign up here.
Happy Shopping!
Xoxo,
Jen
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Fall Nail Trend - Going Green
So yes, another post about nails... I couldn't resist blogging about this one.
I was watching the Today Show a few weeks ago, and they were discussing the colors that would be hot for fall. They highlighted a new Chanel nail polish, a limited-edition goldish-green color called Peridot. You can find it here. The following day I picked it up at the mall. While I would not usually spend more than $8 - $10 on a nail polish, I absolutely loved this greenish gold color. I figured that since I don't spend money on a weekly manicure, the $25 wouldn't be a complete travesty (plus, it was my birthday, and I was indulging).
Since then, I have seen it in every single fashion magazine and advertised in several other places. So yesterday I painted my nails with the new color, even though we are still suffering the blazing heat of summer and I have been attracted to all my pretty brights for the last few months. I love the color - I think it so different, so unique, and looks very fresh - a nice change from the usually dark, vampy fall colors (even though I still love those). I did two coats and the color looks gorgeous. For my topcoat, I used this CND Air Dry, which is a Fast Set top coat. My nails were dry in five minutes flat. I picked the nail polish up at Ulta.
One warning - I was looking at several other pictures online (Google images - Search "Chanel Peridot nail color) of women's nails with this color. The ones with short nails - it looked great. On long nails, not so much. It turns a little "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-ish. So file 'em down, unless you want to go for a creepy, witchy look. Just saying.
Till next time...
Xoxo,
Jen
I was watching the Today Show a few weeks ago, and they were discussing the colors that would be hot for fall. They highlighted a new Chanel nail polish, a limited-edition goldish-green color called Peridot. You can find it here. The following day I picked it up at the mall. While I would not usually spend more than $8 - $10 on a nail polish, I absolutely loved this greenish gold color. I figured that since I don't spend money on a weekly manicure, the $25 wouldn't be a complete travesty (plus, it was my birthday, and I was indulging).
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| Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour - Peridot |
Since then, I have seen it in every single fashion magazine and advertised in several other places. So yesterday I painted my nails with the new color, even though we are still suffering the blazing heat of summer and I have been attracted to all my pretty brights for the last few months. I love the color - I think it so different, so unique, and looks very fresh - a nice change from the usually dark, vampy fall colors (even though I still love those). I did two coats and the color looks gorgeous. For my topcoat, I used this CND Air Dry, which is a Fast Set top coat. My nails were dry in five minutes flat. I picked the nail polish up at Ulta.
One warning - I was looking at several other pictures online (Google images - Search "Chanel Peridot nail color) of women's nails with this color. The ones with short nails - it looked great. On long nails, not so much. It turns a little "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-ish. So file 'em down, unless you want to go for a creepy, witchy look. Just saying.
Till next time...
Xoxo,
Jen
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Shellac... Right on Track or Whack?
First off, I know I have been terrible about blogging lately, and I apologize. I really have no excuse for you except for pure laziness. lol However, I do want to say that I will be steering away from food for a while as I haven't been doing too much baking lately. I've also been making very simple meals without recipes for the last several weeks. I do promise that if I make anything fantastic I will definitely share!
So as you might remember, hubby and I went to Europe for 10 days (I will share some pics soon, promise!). Before leaving on the trip, one of my worries was, "What on earth am I going to do to keep my nails looking nice?" If you know me, you know I am obsessive about nail polish, nail colors, and taking care of my nails. You also know that I almost NEVER go get manicures or pedicures, and have taught myself to do my own nails. BUT I was not ready to have to deal with chips, cracks, broken nails, and gross looking cuticles while on vacation in Europe.
So two days before leaving on vacation, I tried Shellac, which claims that it will last 2 weeks. I did some research and found a place that was close to my house, was not charging $50 for a manicure, and that had good reviews on Yelp. The salon I chose carried the CND line of Shellac nail polishes (OPI has their own line, which has a larger color selection). I originally wanted a light shade and had thought about going with a light pink or marshmallow-like color, but they didn't have a large variety of colors. So I went with Tropix, a bright coral color.
So as you might remember, hubby and I went to Europe for 10 days (I will share some pics soon, promise!). Before leaving on the trip, one of my worries was, "What on earth am I going to do to keep my nails looking nice?" If you know me, you know I am obsessive about nail polish, nail colors, and taking care of my nails. You also know that I almost NEVER go get manicures or pedicures, and have taught myself to do my own nails. BUT I was not ready to have to deal with chips, cracks, broken nails, and gross looking cuticles while on vacation in Europe.
So two days before leaving on vacation, I tried Shellac, which claims that it will last 2 weeks. I did some research and found a place that was close to my house, was not charging $50 for a manicure, and that had good reviews on Yelp. The salon I chose carried the CND line of Shellac nail polishes (OPI has their own line, which has a larger color selection). I originally wanted a light shade and had thought about going with a light pink or marshmallow-like color, but they didn't have a large variety of colors. So I went with Tropix, a bright coral color.
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| Moments after getting them done. |
The way it works is they put a base coat on, then stick your nails under a UV lamp. Then they apply a color coat, UV lamp; second color coat, UV lamp; finally a top coat and again under the UV lamp. What amazed me the most is that the SECOND you take your nails out of the UV lamp, they are completely, totally, 100% dry. No smudging while you try to pay, look for your keys, etc. I have to say, I was impressed.
Fast forward one week... my nails were in perfect condition. No chips, no cracks, no smudges. My cuticles were starting to get a little dry, so I just applied a really thick moisturizing cream (I used Mary Kay Extra Emollient Night Cream). The nails polish itself was still super shiny, as if it had been applied that same day.
By day 10, we were heading home. I had become impatient with my growing cuticles and had begun to push them back. You could see a huge amount of regrowth, which didn't bother me as much as the fact that my cuticles were crazily overgrown. On the flights back, I definitely started picking at my right hand, but my left was still intact. Picking the nail polish off didn't hurt (I thought it might), but it definitely tugged at my nails. It also left my nails a little ragged. What I couldn't pick off I soaked with some nail polish remover and battled to get it off (it is recommended by the company to return to a salon for removal).
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| Day 12... after I started picking at them. |
So would I do it again?
Yes, but not regularly. I think it is a wonderful solution for someone going on a trip, or for a bride, or if you have several events going on and need your nails to be perfect because you don't have time to get them done. But I don't think I'd Shellac regularly because it does dry out your nails and cuticles, and the growth towards the end can be a little unsightly. All in all, it was worth it for the trip, but I'll keep my free, weekly, at-home manicures that don't ruin my nails.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
The Many Faces of Bella
Yes, I am doing it - I am totally posting about my dog. This past weekend, my dad was soooo wonderful and gifted me part of a new camera. (Thanks Daddy-O) I, of course, had to play with it as much as possible before my upcoming trip - hence the reason why I took 600 photos in one weekend (Yes, really). Since I have no children, my dog is probably my best subject (my husband no longer poses for me unless it is a worthwhile shot - I must be that annoying, huh?). While being a paparazzi, I noticed that my dog has more expression in her teeny little face than most people can express with their entire 200-lb bodies. If you have a dog, I am sure you have noticed the many faces of your Fido, or Fifi, or Rocky... If so, I want to hear about them! So below are some pictures of Bella (who by the way just turned a year old in June, and who is looking for a man with whom to make some babies (; ), along with what I think her thoughts must be when she makes these faces. :)
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| "Mom, I'm tired. Please, chill with the pics." |
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| "I told you to leave me alone. Now take me to the dentist." (my poor baby has the cutest underbite) |
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| "Look into my puppy dog eyes... keep staring, keep staring... " |
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| "I'm pooped. No literally... right next to you." |
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| "Wanna be my friend?" |
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| "Wait... You're doing what?" |
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| "Come play with me!" |
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| "I'm thinking. About rolling in the grass and a pool full of dog treats." |
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| "Please, dad... drop the big, juicy steak... right there." |
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| "You people..." |
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| "Seriously? Who tortures their kids like this?" |
Haha. Happy Thursday everyone... Enjoy your day!
XoXo,
Jen
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