Kel's Closet

I am going shopping!

2010-08-12T21:20:00.002-05:00

August 12, 2009 I sat at my desk at work. I had just finished paying bills, and found myself, once again, with very little money left in my checking account. I thought what can I cut back on? I needed to pay my mortgage, my car payment, my electricity, phone, cable (which is the bare minimum cable), and internet, I need to eat and then there are the clothes. The clothes…the shoes…the accessories.

Right at that moment, I sent an email to Ben, Erika and Gretchen and proclaimed that I was not going to buy any new clothes, shoes, or accessories for a year! I emailed them to ask for help; I needed others to help keep me accountable if I was ever going to do this and stick to it.

I unsubscribed from all of the advertisement emails I was receiving on almost a daily basis. My
inbox was never empty of new buying opportunities. It was rather cathartic for me to turn them off. It reminded me of cleaning processed foods out of the pantry.

Later that month, having recently seen the movie Julie and Julia, I decided that I, too, had a blog in me. I could write about the adventures of no shopping, with the additional rule of no repeat ensembles. I
threw in a few more rules, realizing I had made very rigid constraints; I had a wedding I was to be in, for which I needed a few items, as well as a new pair of running shoes during the year. I created an internet world full of accountability partners.

I set off on this personal challenge, thinking it was an attempt to get my finances in order. Little did I realize the adventure of personal discovery I was about to embark upon.

My taste in clothing varies; I love bright colors, I love black, I love trendy, I love classic. I was not swayed to dislike a product based on the high price of it; at the same time, a low cost item just meant it wasmeant to be mine. There needn’t be any emotional somersaults aboutwant versus need when the item was inexpensive. It is only $9.99! It must be a sign! I spent $10 and $20 bills as liberally as I would add spinach leaves to a sandwich today. Over time, they add up fast, and do their damage. Quite honestly, I ended up with a lot of $10 and $20 items that got worn once. They then got cast aside as new arrivals took their place.

In time, it became obvious to me that it was not the $10 tshirt or the $20 skirt find that I loved, it was the purchase. It soothed me just as a cookie soothes a crying child.

Let me describe a typical day for me over a year ago. I work in a downtown area, and my company is
housed in different buildings. Meetings could be in any number of locations. In between the buildings is the Mother Ship; a bright, shiny, well merchandised mecca of a department store, loaded with many items available for leaves of spinach, er, $10. Depending on how a meeting may have gone, or how a day was progressing, I might have been lured into the store, the racks of well placed merchandise calling out to calm my perhaps ruffled feathers.

I will just take a look at what is on clearance I would tell myself. Rather similar to the days when I would say I will only have one cookie. Perhaps you already know how this story ends? Several items later, I would stand in line, make my purchase, and head back to my desk, the frustrating meeting I left long gone from my short term memory.

As I started to make these realizations, words I had read at another time came back to me. The article was a study that patients that had undergone weight loss surgery transfer their dependence from food to other vices. I had given up alcohol for 2 years after reading that article. I had transferred my reliance on food for emotional challenges to dependence to shopping! When would I learn!?

The parallels between the year of no shopping and a life of healthy, balanced eating are numerous. I
have learned that when I feel the itch to shop, it is the same feeling I get when I want to eat emotionally. I need to retrace the hour, the day, the week, and see where those feelings might be coming from and address them. If I am upset with someone, I need to talk it out. If I am reacting to something, I can choose to continue to react or deal with it.

We already know that as wonderful as a huge piece of chocolate velvet cake tastes, it is a lot of work to exercise it off, or to forego other choices because of it. It is like buying that fabulous, one of a kind dress, and then realizing I now don’t have the cash for another event in life…the kind of events that always occur!

Balance is how I will now approach my shopping life. I went shopping Wednesday; notice I did not
say buying, just shopping. I was creating my plan, knowing that Ben and I are going shopping and
buying tonight for a Friday night date. I need a new pair of jeans. I decided to try on
several, narrow down my choices, and then have Ben help me with the final selection.

I tried on several fun party dresses and impractical shoes while I was there. As I stared back at my reflection in these colorful dresses, I thought why do I need this? Have I not learned anything? But I havelearned. I have learned that a wonderful colorful dress has its place in my life, just like a piece of chocolate velvet cake. But everyday? Give me the basics, let me meet my clothing, er, nutritional needs, and then maybe spice it up with a piece of dark chocolate. Because a piece of dark chocolate is just as tasty whether I am wearing a bright colored dress, or a classic black number.

I did it! And now I am going shopping!

Send Clothes!

2010-05-13T19:31:00.003-05:00

I am at the end of my closet...look what I am reduced to! Only 9 months in, 3 months left...and I am venturing into my son's closet for his x-large hoodies!

Oh, if only today was April 1!

My team had an outing to the Minnesota Twins yesterday. They won!

Just had to share...this is probably the worst you will ever see me dressed in public.

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Getting the Itch

2010-05-06T15:24:00.005-05:00

I am currently in Arizona for work.

Yeah, right, you say as I am pictured in an evening gown!

No, really, I am attending a conference. My date for the evening was Charlie. Charlie invited me to attend the President's Dinner at this function, and I happily accepted.

I thought I would share what is a rare occassion - an evening gown.

So the itch...

Staying in a resort area means there are some amazing shops. I got here Saturday and happily walked in and out of these stores admiring the latest fashions. I enjoyed my browsing.

Last night, after reading a series of emails that made me say grrr, I headed back out.

I walked into these stores again, but the urge to buy was strong. Quite honestly, were it not for the packed I made with all of you to not buy anything I would have caved. I was in BCBG and there were some beautiful skirts, on sale. A mere $40+ and I would have bought one. "Mere" is sarcastic, as I have learned that enought $40 purchases add up to debt.

As I was in these stores getting quite upset that I could not shop, I decided it best to get out of there and figure out what the difference was between Saturday and this time.

I have been able to "isolate" that the need to buy, or the itch, is the same exact feeling you get when you are craving something, say a cookie. You were not hungry before you saw the cookie, but the thought of what the cookie would taste like, telling yourself you cannot have the cookie, and then walking away from the cookie is identical to the feeling I get when I want to buy something. The root cause for me is clearly the same - I am an emotional eater/shopper.

Not only did my debt drive me to experiment with no purcashes, but the need to make sure I was in tune with my emotions did as well. I identified quite some time ago that I had bought clothes out of boredom, anger, frustration and loneliness. Last night was frustration at a situation over which I had little control.

I called Ben and talked to him about the situation. The issue was not with him; he was just my sounding board. I felt better! I was able to then go to dinner having let go of these frustrating feelings and order a wonderfully healthy dinner and savor every bite.

I just wanted to get these words out. No real great epiphanies here; I just wanted to document my success story for me, and to thank you all here for rallying for me behind the scenes. I mean it sincerely when I said had I not had the commitment with all of you, I would have bought something last night. No doubt.

Thanks for checking in!

xo

Kel

I am on a roll!

2010-04-27T19:54:00.004-05:00

Well, if two days of blogging is a roll, then I am on it!

I may be back, but I also need to get to bed asap! I got up at 3:30 this morning for work!

The pics were taken when I got home from work, so the hair had fallen, the lipstick was all but gone, the dark circles, but my feet still felt good!

I am wearing my new birthday shoes today that I got from Karyn. Seriously they are comfortable!

I practically got dressed in the dark this morning...I had taken the dress out last night, and searched for a sweater by feel. I was happen it all seemed to work.

I asked my sweet Ben to snap a photo of my new bracelets too. The beaded bracelet that is on the bottom above is one of the new ones from Ben. The non-bangles above it are the new piano string bracelets Ben got me too!

I wore my adorable sassy earrings from Gretchen and Erika today. Sorry I did not get a close up!

Ta ta for now!

Good night and thanks for checking in!

Kel

Happy Birthday to Me! (Anna this is for you!)

2010-04-26T20:28:00.005-05:00

Yep, today is my birthday!

I turned 44 today, and from what I understand this is a master number; may it be a master year for me!

It was quite a day, and actually the culmination of a wonderful birthday weekend.

Being a blog about my fashion choices, it is only appropriate that I talk about my fashion gifts I received!

I wore one - actually several - of my gifts to work today!

I got this lovely sweater from Erika and Gretchen. They also gave me adorable earrings. I was torn today - to wear the earrings they gave me or the ones Ben gave me. Sorry ladies - I wore Ben's! I have an ensemble in mind to wear to work tomorrow that I will have to wear the sassy earrings from the ladies to go with another gift I got. I adore this sweater and the amazing shade of orange!

Yes, Ben have me adorable drop earrings, as well as a one of a kind bangle. It has lots of beads and sparklies. He says he had to get one of a kind, like me!

He also gave me these cool stretchy bracelets, that are made from piano string! There are 12 of them, and I can wear them all, wear one, the possibilities are endless!

I also received a pair of shoes from my dear friend Karyn. I wore this shoes last month in a runway show I participated in for Target. I loved them that day, and was so sad that I would not be able to purchase them. Karyn actually purchased them for me and worked through Ben to get them delivered to me for a complete surprise!

There were other surprise gifts that came from all parts of the country, making it quite the birthday indeed.

Gretchen mentioned at dinner last night that her friend Anna has been asking when the heck I was going to get back on the blog. I know it has been over a month! Just wanted to say thanks Anna for getting me back to do some blog writing! I'd like to say I was just waiting for my hair to grow out, but that would be a lie. Just been busy, I guess!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Look what came home with me!

2010-03-20T19:54:00.002-05:00

I love my Ben. Yes, he went to the mall with me. And because of him, look what I came home with!

You see, we have always talked about a vacation in Italy. In September, we are going to make it happen! Details are not ironed out yet, but we are going!

Ben decided I needed this hat. It would go so well with a morning espresso. It would be beautiful with an afternoon glass of wine at a streetside cafe. It would keep me shaded on the beach while I gaze at the Mediterranean.

I did go to Sephora, and I got my hair goop. I also picked up a blue liquid eye liner. Just because.

We went to William Sonoma. I bought chocolate to make cookies tomorrow. Ben's coworkers will be the recipients. I also bought San Marzano tomatoes, of which Creamy Tomato Soup will be the recipient, and eventually I will. Good stuff.

We bought a knife sharpener too. All that chopping requires sharp knives!

I tried on shoes. They were amazing. I talked more about why I have not bought shoes since August 12, 2009. I am going to Italy this year. It is worth it. Really. But, damn, these shoes were cute.

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

I bought something!

2010-03-20T12:48:00.003-05:00

No worries! Just wanted to make you panic - a little!

I bought a new camera last night. I will be going on vacation next week and spending time in Seattle with my boys, and really wanted a new camera to take with me. I am so excited!

This by no means implies that the Art Director has lot his job. I am not good at self-portraits, as evidenced by this picture. My son Alex calls this type of picture a "myspace photo". Everything is rather out of proportion, but I thought this was a fun picture of the Art Director and I!

I am also sharing a shot of the shoes I wore yesterday. These are from the Betseyville line...they are the little sister, less expensive line to the Betsey Johnson brand. Someone at work asked me if they were new...um, no! I got them 2 years ago on a trip to Nordstroms. They called out to me! I remember making the purchase. I did not wear them for about 2 weeks, thinking I would take them back. It was a total emotional purchase. They are not the most comfortable shoes in the world, but darn it, I get compliments when I wear them!

Today's goals are to get laundry done, figure out what I am taking on vacation, and finally make the spinach and lemon orzo soup I talked about last week. (Yes, that was last week, as in the last time that I posted anything on the blog. I know, bad blogger!) I will also be venturing to the mall, and the mecca of cosmetic stores - Sephora. I am out of my favorite hair goop, so it is a must! I will meander in and out of the clothing stores, if only to get inspiration on how to put outfits together.

Spring, like September back to school time, is a time when I really WANT to buy new clothes. It pains me to not do so! Target has a beautiful line out right now called Liberty of London. I encourage you to check it out. It has been blowing out of the stores; it is fun, flirty and fanciful! I tell you that not only because I work at le Target (french pronunciation please) but because the stuff is damned adorable. Don't believe me? Check this out! $29.99 people! I have seen this dress in person, and would have bought it...if only...sigh...

5 more months...I can do it!

Okay, off to the showers as I just got back from a run..and really am just procrastinating at the moment...maybe a snack first though!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Weekend activities!

2010-03-13T18:37:00.002-06:00

Hello All!

Sitting here on a Saturday night. Ben is helping a friend with some video work, so it is me, the couch and the computer. I am actually happy to be doing this. Wish Ben was by my side, but I am quite comfortable waiting for him.

I love that it has been almost 2 years together and I still miss him when he is not with me.

Today we took a nice run. There is still a little nip in the air, but I no longer have to bundle up like a ninja.

While we were out, I spotted this little "wooly bear" caterpillar. I don't know if that is the real name for them, but that is what we called them growing up.

I looked at Ben and said "Spring is Coming!" He was perhaps a little startled, because I said it not in my voice, but the voice I would use to mimic my mother.

I remember fondly the first signs of spring; my mom would go to my Dad, give him a big squeeze and say "Spring is Coming!" in this high pitched, joy-filled voice. He would look at her like she was a bit touched much as Ben looked at me today. I think I inherited her love of the spring season. We are not winter people!

After, I took a quick shower, and we headed to the grocery store. Now, I know I am crazy, but I love my trips to the grocery store, I love that it is my opportunity to find yet another healthy food that I have not tried before.

A recent food I tried, thanks to my friend Lynn of The Country Tart , is Chia seeds. I have seen them on numerous food blogs, and decided to try them myself. I ordered them from th website Lynn has recommended at Shiloh Farms. I also ordered French Lentils, Buckwheat Groats, Quinoa Flakes, Adzuki beans, and they also sent me a free sample of Dried Organic blueberries. The chia seeds were great in oats, as well as in Greek Yogurt with honey and dried blueberries. Delicious!

The quinoa flakes? Sorry to all quinoa lovers out there, but I just don't like it! I have made several attempts with quinoa. I am just not a fan.

Tonight I am looking forward to a treat of Popcorn with browned butter, rosemary and lemon. Here is the recipe. I am going to air pop the popcorn instead of pop on the stove.

Tomorrow's recipes are french lentil bulgur salad, homemade granola, a poached chicken and the ultimate treat food, chocolate brownies. I am trying out this brownie recipe. I will try it and send the rest of them to work with Ben!

I also have been dying to make this soup recipe and I think tomorrow is the day!

As for fashion news, I am in the runway show at work on Tuesday. I cannot say much about it, other than it is going to be high energy and fun! I hope to have at least one iPhone picture to share! Ben is not allowed to be there, so I can't have my photographer with me!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

On the Edge

2010-03-10T19:51:00.003-06:00

There are times like yesterday when you get dressed that you know it all works.

There are times, like today, that you are hoping you are not the what was she thinking spokesperson.

You know you have thought it; you see someone, and in your head you ask what was she thinking?

An outfit that starts cute can go horrible wrong. Perhaps something you thought was cute just doesn't work.

My first issue today was that I was breaking our company dress code. Leggings are not allowed. But, I thought if I wore them more like tights I could get away with it! No one sent me home, so I guess it worked.

The part that scared me in wearing them like tights is that this jacket is clearly a jacket in person. It is definitely not a dress. I didn't want people to ask what was she thinking believing that I had left the house without pants!

Whatever people thought, they kept the thoughts to themselves. Women looked, men did too, but I saw no quizzical looks!

This jacket was my Christmas gift from Ben.

The leggings - I have no idea where or when I got them. I know they are not the pair I own from Target. Those are easily identified by the brand tag. I must have picked these up in a boutique somewhere; the material is amazing. It is thick without being heavy. It is opaque without being thick. Does that make any sense? I didn't think so!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Sometimes you know when you look good...

2010-03-09T20:33:00.003-06:00

And you can tell by the look in your man's eyes :).

I get dressed in the morning, and come downstairs. What I am going to wear is always a surprise to Ben. When he looks at me and pauses, just for a moment, and then says "wow!" I know it is good.

When I put on the shoes I am going to wear, and he says "you know, you are a pretty girl" I know he means it.

He had never seen this dress before! I have had it for almost 3 years. I purchased it on eBay, when I was doing a LOT of eBay purchasing. I was new to it, and it is a little addicting. When I won the bid, I would get so excited!

This dress is a Laundry by Sheli Segal. I really have to agree with Ben. This does look good on me! This is my favorite shape. I love a scoop neck best. I love a figure skimming dress. I love a neutral black dress that I can spice up with a wilder pair of shoes.

Funny that the brand is called Laundry. I literally had forgotten all about it; it was tucked away in the dry cleaning pile! It was cleaned and brought out for you today.

These are Nine West shoes. They are almost 4 years old. I recall seeing a woman at work with these shoes. I went up to this perfect stranger and asked "where did you get those shoes?" She was kind enough to tell me that she had gotten them at Herbergers. I went to Herbergers that night and bought them! They are fun, and actually quite comfortable!

I know you have not been able to vote for a while, but I can't bring it back today! I loved this too much!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

I Loved this Hat!

2010-03-07T19:04:00.002-06:00

But I did not buy it!

Just a quick hello. Yesterday was all about the food. Today I thought I would share some fashion talk!

Ben and I went out to dinner Friday night at a local mall. Dinner and a cocktail, more precisely. :)

I was not ready to head right home, so I dragged walked with Ben from store to store. He is so patient!

I tried in a sexy leopard dress at Cache. No chance of purchasing as that sucker was not going to zip. I really have a wide rib cage area. It makes it hard to fit sometimes!

Then we headed to the Mother ship: JCrew. I am happy to report the JCrew credit card is almost paid off! Not shopping since August has helped!

Ben had me try on this hat. it is honestly the only item I can say I would have left with were I buying. Isn't it cute! It would be great for sitting on a beach somewhere with a cocktail in my hand...

I tried on quite a few things, but nothing wowed me. That is a good thing!

Headed upstairs to make the bed. Today was a good cleaning day!

Have a great night!

Thanks for checking in!

Saturday and I am in lock down!

2010-03-06T12:11:00.003-06:00

I can't leave the house today. I am on call for work, and need to be near my computer if I am needed.

It is a beautiful day and would have been a great day to run. Sigh.

So, when stuck in the house all day, what does one do? Bake and cook of course!

I really am not upset at the prospect of staying in all day. I am unshowered. I am in sweats. I will be staying that way all day. Poor Ben!

I just sent Ben to the grocery store with the list of essentials for my day. So, what's cooking you ask?

I have some northern beans soaking to cook up later. They will be used in lunches for the week.

I will poach a chicken. So easy...rinse a whole chicken. Roughly chop an onion. Peel and chop a couple of carrots. Chop a couple of stalks of celery. It doesn't have to be a perfect dice, just get them all in a pot that you have heated some olive oil. Saute the veggies until translucent. Put your whole chicken in the pot. Cover with cold water. If you have the time, throw in some thyme. (Ha - sorry - could not resist!) I also like a bay leaf or two. No salt, but pepper is good. I like it no sodium.

Cook until done. I say done, because I have never actually timed it. I know when it is done, I can tug on the drumstick and the bone literally slides out!

Let the whole thing cool down. Remove the chicken, then discard the skin and bones and now you have plenty of chicken for the week.

Strain the veggies from the stock, and you now have amazing sodium free chicken stock.

Refrigerate it overnight, and scrape the fat off the top in the morning. You can then freeze it.

For dinner tonight I am making this potato chowder recipe.

151 calories before you add the bacon and cheese garnish! Not bad if you ask me!

And the big task for the day? This chocolate chip cookie recipe. The dough needs to sit for 24-36 hours for the best cookie! It is a little spin off of the New York times Jacque Pepin recipe using brown butter. Oh are my co-workers in trouble come Monday! Ben's too...they had oatmeal raisin and browned butter chocolate chip cookies this week...

I hope your day is productive, and that you can leave the house...

Oh yeah, the picture? Not one of my faves ever taken of me...the exhaustion is taking it's toll...

The sweater is a 4 year old one from Target.

The skirt is a Banana Republic wool pencil skirt.

The shoes Betsey Johnson.

All from Thursday.

I promise, while you have not seen the pictures, there have been no repeats!

Thanks for checking in.

Kel

Ah, exercise. So that's what it feels like?

2010-02-21T16:42:00.002-06:00

I had a great walk yesterday.

Today, we ran. It has been 3 weeks (or more!) since Ben and I had gone out for a run. I vaguely remember a morning treadmill run in there somewhere...it is all so unclear. Kind of like my sinuses for the last 2 weeks.

Hoping not to be too graphic, but I think the best thing for my sinuses was getting out and running today. Lots of tissues used! But, I feel clearer than I have been in weeks!

It helps that the sun was shining and it was 36 degrees.

My body reminded me just what happens when you don't run for a while. I could not do the entire run; I probably did 2.5 miles out of the 4.2. Nonetheless, I burned 600 plus calories. Which came in quite handy, because today, I baked.

Here is the recipe for Browned Butter Chocolate chip cookies.

About 170 calories per cookie. Yeah, totally worth that run!

I had a busy morning; I poached a chicken, and now I have chicken for lunches for the week as well as no sodium chicken stock. I have a pot roast in the crock pot. I made the cookies. I even worked on the book.

I worked on the book last night too!

So, I had better get back to work.

Thanks for checking in; hope your Sunday is treating you well!

Kel

Really?

2010-02-20T11:35:00.002-06:00

I feel like a bear that went into a cave for 2 weeks to hibernate!

I can't believe I have not written on here for almost 2 weeks on Monday. I can't even think what happened during those two weeks. Certainly nothing remarkable.

There have been long hours at work, a head cold that kicked my butt-ocks, and lots of going to bed early. I wish I could tell you it has been a ton of excitement, but alas, it has just been a ton of February.

I think this is just the time of year to bury oneself under the covers and peek out every once in a while, just in case spring has arrived. Nope, not yet, go back under.

Ben had a lot of pictures on his camera, and here are a couple of them that recently made their way to me...

I am wearing a dress in this pic which, obviously, you can't see. However, it is one that has not been worn before - ever! It is an AnnTaylor Loft dress that I purchased off of eBay almost 2 years ago I believe. I had not worn it as I was unsure about one thing...did I look pregnant? Ben assured me I did not...but, hmmm, he did not send me the full body shot...is he trying to tell me something? I don't think so! The dress is very flowy and a-line, but has a tie in the back. There is just something about it that reminded me of a maternity dress I had. I love the color, and it worked well with this necklace.

I love this dress! It is far more appropriate in the spring and summer months, but I needed something that would make me stand out in a crowd that day. I auditioned for a runway show that Target is having at the Spring meeting. I have not heard back yet - keep your fingers crossed!

This dress is almost 3 years old now. I love the colors, I love the "loudness" of it, and it clings in all the right places. These shoes are sky high. I think they are probably my highest heel without a platform. They are from Nine West, and I picked them up at Marshalls two years ago.

Here is my new red stripe! I got my hair cut and colored on Wednesday of this week. I told Sheli is was time to have a little fun, especially since we are growing my hair out. She did a trim, and I asked for a stripe. I decided it was only appropriate to wear the same colors that were in my hair for my work "debut".

I don't think you have seen this dress before on the blog. Those of you that are here from Nutrimirror may recognize this dress as it is the one I wore for my Christmas video. Here was the picture that accompanied that video:

I just love that picture, so I had to share it! Ben obviously softened it up and brought out some drama with the colors, but it is old world glam to me.

I got this dress last summer at Off Saks, shortly before the shopping spree came to an end. I had to make it work appropriate so I added a trusty black cardigan. These are not the shoes I wore that day. The ones I wanted were my simple black pumps, and they were sitting under my desk at work, so these were the stand in....or shoe in! Ha!

Notice - we are back on the front porch! It was not frigid that morning, and I would not be seeing Ben for lunch, so we headed out doors. It was still cold, but he snapped quickly for me!

As for lunch time photos, Ben has gotten a new job with another company. It is a great move for him, but we are both sad that there will be no more lunches together. Photos will be back to the morning and back to the porch!

Off to get this Saturday started. Not too much on the agenda. I am grocery shopping, making a pot of soup (here is the recipe I will be using if you are interested), I will be taking a long walk, and I will be writing. Yes, writing as in the book. Ben was so sweet and cleaned the whole house yesterday, so it left me with no excuses!

I am so looking forward to that walk too. Two weeks without exercise is not a good thing. I have not been this exerciseless in about 4 years. Wow, it is easy to fall out of the exercise habit!

Have a great Saturday all!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Happy Monday all!

2010-02-08T21:19:00.003-06:00

I can say that now that it is over!

We have some amazing weather here right now...so amazing, that it took 2 hours to get to work this morning...18 miles people...sigh...stay positive!

My bladder was not happy with me by the time I got to the office!

Meetings were scheduled, some went short (thank you Patty!) some got cancelled...all in all in ended up being a decent Monday!

Ben and I shared a little of yesterday's Pasta "Fazool" and a wrap over lunch. Followed, of course, by our photo shoot.

Why do I like this spot where we have been taking photos so much? The background? The natural light? Nope and nope. No one can watch and I feel far less self-conscious. Silly, I know.

This dress is about 4 years old. It is from Ann Taylor Loft. I love the color and the easy care fabric. It is short sleeved, so a cardigan was a must.

The shoes are quite old. They are at least 5 years old, and are BCBG girls. I remember the shopping trip when I purchased them at Nordstrom. I remember it because I purchased a lot of shoes that day. I do miss those days sometimes. Now, I think I am getting to the point where I truly appreciate every purchase.

Headed to bed to get a good night's sleep. Please vote below!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Oh I Will Miss the Weekend!

2010-02-07T19:27:00.003-06:00

Hello All!

Just sitting here going through emails from last week, and I found a picture from Friday in Austin. The rain finally cleared, and we were able to enjoy an hour outside before we had to head to the airport.

There was a beautiful river running along side the hotel, and a swing was hanging over the water. Of course I had to get on! My friend Tricia was kind enough to snap this picture!

I had a very relaxing weekend. Yesterday I slept in, ate breakfast and then went back to bed for two hours! I did walk 5.4 miles in the afternoon, then spent some one on one time with the couch. I finally made it to the grocery store at 6. It is wonderfully empty at 6pm on a Saturday!

Today was a cooking day. Yesterday I cooked some black beans for meals throughout the week. Today I cooked Borlotti beans for tomorrow nights Borlotti beans in tomato sauce with polenta. I have made it before and it is so good! I added extra red pepper flakes to the sauce so it is quite spicy! I will make the polenta fresh tomorrow night. I also made a pot of Pasta Fagiole. The recipe is actually called Pasta "Fazool" but I didn't want you guys to think I was unaware that it was spelled wrong! That will be for lunches/dinners this week as well. I had to try some today. Amazing!

Dinner was yet another bean dish; Christmas Lima beans with Pork chops and asian pear relish. It was delicious and extremely filling. The bean mixture also had cabbage in it. It seemed like a very German mean to me. I am back on the couch, and my nose has been itchy and runny for the last hour. I really hope I am not getting a cold. Boo hiss!

Good thing I got a long walk in today too, because if I wake up with a raging cold in the morning, I am not sure if I will be able to convince myself to get up!

Just wanted to say hi!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Making New Friends

2010-02-04T17:16:00.003-06:00

I am in Austin at a work conference. Sorry I have been absent!

This is the closest I can come to a outfit picture, as Ben is not with me. Thanks to my friend Tricia for being my stand in photographer!

I met an on-line friend today for lunch. Her name is Jamie, and she fits right in with her style!

She loves Silpada. I love Silpada. She was carrying the same purse that I also own. She loves big rockin' rings. Me too!

I was to pack pretty lightly for this trip - and not repeat any outfits - by having a couple of black dresses and different jackets/sweaters. You have seen this dress before. Check it out here. Holy crap my hair was short!

The jacket is quite a few years old - at least 3. It was a clearance item from Gap. I like the 3/4 length sleeves.

Okay, I had better get back to paying attention at this conference. I am glad you stopped by. I have missed you!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

I really do love Sundays

2010-01-31T14:24:00.003-06:00

Hello all!

Playing a little catch up on relaxation. I ended up working yesterday, so this is really my one day off this week.

I have for you Friday's photo!

Must have been a JCrew kind of day! I am wearing a Cardigan and tshirt that both came from JCrew early last year.

You can see the energy level on Friday was l-o-w. I had not the energy to put eye liner on in the morning, nor did I have energy to strike a pose! Ben took this across the table during lunch.

I was even too lazy to prepare lunch, so we went out. I knew what I would have - a delicious veggie wrap, so it was a safe choice despite being not made at home.

Hmmm...my hair was quite jacked up too I see. Good thing I spent most of the day at my desk!

Today I am reading food blogs, and headed to the grocery store shortly. Erin introduced me to an amazing food website that I like even better than foodbuzz. Check it out here.

I like the layout better. This website is a little like going grocery shopping. Don't go there on an empty stomach! No one is guaranteeing that everything on there is healthy, but it all looks delicious.

Speaking of empty stomach, I think I need a snack before heading out!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

A Friday Blog about a Thursday outfit

2010-01-29T19:09:00.004-06:00

Hello all!

Just a quick drive by! I wanted to "drop off" my picture from Thursday.

We wanted to take advantage of some of the sunlight in the sky ways. (Sky ways are the "system" in Minneapolis to get you from one building to another without ever having to go outside.)

You have seen this dress before, here it is!

I changed up the ensemble by adding a camisole, tights and different shoes. The hoop earrings are a different pair too!

I am curled up under a blanket in my favorite spot on the couch. I am going to enjoy this relaxation time immensely!

No vote tonight. Ben would never forgive me if I got rid of this dress!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Will You Still Love Me?

2010-01-27T20:08:00.003-06:00

I can't blog every night. I just can't do it right now.

I have told you about work. I started at 8, left at 6, and realized today I need to work this weekend to catch up.

Needless to say, it is a challenge for me to write here every night. I promise I am not breaking any rules. I have not repeated any outfits.

For now, this has to be what I want to do, not what I have to do.

That would take the fun out of it for both of us, wouldn't it?

So, please love me despite only posting every couple of days, okay?

Let's play catch up, shall we?

The photos on top are yesterday, and the Art Director took them after Happy Hour with friends. Wow was that a smooth glass of wine!

I have worn that long sleeve shirt before; it was the day I had the Maude schmatta on. It was an easy "grab" yesterday as it was sitting on top of the folded clothes pile!

The skirt has not been worn before. This is a black wool pencil skirt that I got from Banana Republic over 3 years ago. I cannot tell you that last time I wore it. Here is a confession. It was sitting in the dry cleaning pile - for ages! I used my dryel kit and voila - good as new! Well, pseudo clean I guess!

I wore it with black tights and my shoes my sweet Ben got me in December. A strand of red beads and I was ready for a long day at work and then happy hour! It was goooood.

Today you can start to see the toll of the week I am afraid! I've told you that Ben cuts off my face in the close up shots when my expression is, ah , not something I would approve...you see the necklace shot today? Yep. I love my art director.

The sweater is almost 4 years old. I remember buying it at the Banana Republic outlet right before I started working at Target. You can never have too many red tops when you work for Target!

The pants I have shared with you a couple of times already. One of these days I will have to share the whole suit with you!

My necklace is a piece that I commissioned from my friend Sue. It is a glass pendant. I had the silver collar, and I requested a large pendant with red, black and white. Isn't it great? Her website can be found here.

I am off for 30 minutes of no computer vegetation time! Thanks for putting up with me all!

Thanks for checking in!!

Kel

The Many Colors of Kel

2010-01-25T20:38:00.004-06:00

Ben sent me my Friday picture and today's picture in one email...I was shocked at how different I can look just 3 days later! Ben called in the many colors of Kel. He says I have a lot of them!

Casual Friday led to date night Friday. We went out for a fabulous sushi dinner.

Friday's top was a Marshall's purchase 2 summers ago. My office has been so warm of late, that I took this chance and I did fine. I was quite comfortable! And despite the fact that Friday was only 3 days ago, I cannot remember for the life of me which jeans they were. I could lie; I could say Joe Jeans. But, alas, I cannot lie to you all!

From looking at my picture on Friday you can see the work week took it's toll on me!

I entered today far more refreshed!

I got up at 5am for an early workout. I am trying to fit it in before work, because waiting until after work...well, that is not working! I have been so impressed by my friends on NM getting up early to work out! I was inspired. Last night I set the alarm, and dragged myself out of bed!

I got this dress 3 years ago. It was on a sale rack at Macy's. Again, the designer completely escapes me! If I weren't so beat I would head upstairs and check! I paired it with a 100 inch silver chain worn long and loose!

A rather neutral dress called for spicy hose and shoes. What do ya think?

Please vote, but be gentle. I am exhausted!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

So much writing!

2010-01-21T19:17:00.004-06:00

I have the NM column that I still need to write, so this is a drive by blog tonight! :)

I have not worn this before. Joe at work accused me of that. As similar as it looks to this outfit, it is not the same! Different sweater, different skirt, and tights!

I think the last time you saw this sweater, it was from my Las Vegas pictures. The skirt? I know I have worn it before, and a proper blogger would find it for you, but I am a time constrained blogger! It was a sale purchase at Banana Republic.

The scene today was Caribou coffee. It is a good halfway point for Ben and I to meet for lunch. I was cruising the cards that they have and Ben snapped some shots. (Yes, we totally set up these shots. These were not candids.) I can't lie to you guys!

Off to TGIF with Kel!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Hands off the Skirt!

2010-01-19T21:11:00.005-06:00

Ben says you cannot vote on this skirt.

He really loves this skirt. When I met him for lunch today he had the sweetest (devilish) expression on his face. When I asked him what that was about he said "You look really good. I love that skirt."

This is interesting, to me, at least. Had I been free to purchase new clothes for the last 5 months, I realize that this skirt would have been pushed further and further back in the closet. It might never have made an appearance. If that had happened, I never would have seen that sweet look today.

Maybe this challenge has indeed been a good thing.

That annoying hair is still there today.

This is the second outing for this skirt; you saw it first here.

This may be the third wearing for the sweater. The first wearing you saw? Here!

You have not seen this blouse before. I got this at Ann Taylor about 3 years ago. I love wearing it with these pearls. Lots of repeats today, huh?

Ben made me laugh a lot today. He is so good for my stress level (as in improving it) and so good to me!

On that note, I am going to head off to bed. I have a feeling the early bedtime and the early morning workout (4:45 a.m.!) contributed to my good mood today.

I am going to try for it again tomorrow! I did give blood today, so there is a chance that workout won't happen. We'll see!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

An Early Bedtime for this Gal!

2010-01-18T20:15:00.002-06:00

I have a confession. I have not been sleeping very well. I think I am internalizing some stress.

I thought about writing about that stress tonight and letting it all out.

Instead, I will make an effort to get to bed early so I can get up early and work out in the morning. I have been working late which gets me home late which means if I want dinner and time to unwind I cannot fit in a workout too. Working out is key for me to de-stress. It is especially important when I cannot shop away or eat away the stress! Of course, I had to have a 7:30 meeting scheduled for tomorrow morning, so it will be a 4:30 alarm. Ugh. I need to go lay out my clothes for my workout so that I don't wake poor Ben!

So, with that, I give you this brief outfit description!

I got this blouse on eBay last year. It must be worn with a camisole or you will see more about Kel than I would like you to see!

I paired it with a pair of pants from Ann Taylor. It is part of a suit. I just chose not to cover up my cute blouse with a jacket today!

The pumps...you've seen them. Nothing special here!

The hair is doing okay. Not sure what that piece was doing during today's photo, but it kind of has a mind of it's own lately! I am getting a trim tomorrow. Just a trim!

That's it! Headed off to bed!

Thanks for checking in. Please vote below!

Kel

I made it!

2010-01-15T19:58:00.004-06:00

Time: 8pm Central Time

Location: Couch Corner

Beverage: White Wine

Status: Relaxed

Ok, on to the clothes. I had to wear this sweater. Here is the deal. It was in the Goodwill bag. It still had the tags on it. I bought it from Target 3 years ago. When I was cutting the tags off I told Ben not to worry, I had not bought something new.

Now I can indeed give it to Goodwill. I look like Maude in it. Enough said.

If you just said Who's Maude you are young. I hope you are enjoying your youth! Google Maude Bea Arthur. You will see lots of images where she is wearing these long vests.

Today's entire ensemble, except for the shoes, was Target. The corduroys are also 3 years old, and were rescued from the Goodwill bag. They did not fit. Now they do. I will let you decide if they go back in the bag or not.

The top underneath is just a simple long sleeve tshirt. I needed to stay warm.

I don't love this outfit. That is good. I won't want to wear it again in the next 7 months.

That's right. 7 more months to go. Actually, on January 12th it was seven months to go. Can I make it? Time will tell. I knew I would need to have some outfits like today's to be able to make it. Something not so special. Nothing empowering. Just clothes.

I don't like wearing just clothes!

Thanks for checking in! Tomorrow I hope to be on and share what my cooking plans are for the weekend. I like planning out my day with you. It gets me organized and ready to go!

Kel

p.s. Please vote below. But the sweater is schmatta. It's gone!

p.p.s. Those are not white socks on my feet. That is my skin. I didn't want a panic!

One more day to go...

2010-01-14T21:11:00.005-06:00

Tomorrow is finally Friday. Ahhhh...

Hello Blogworld! Just a quick hello!

We have a repeat dress today! Completely different than the last time, of course. You remember this one, don't you? This is the one you and Ben think is black. I still think it is a shade other than black. Maybe you can use the tights as comparison. They are black! Okay, darned close...you may be right.

Ben and I did not have lunch together today, so we took 15 minutes late this afternoon to meet so I could grab a cup of decaf (yes, I am trying to cut back) and so we could snap these pictures.

I think I am smiling because I was not sitting at my desk. My butt is getting numb I think!

I am looking forward to getting in a couple of good workouts this weekend. You know how it goes; too tired from work to workout when actually the best thing to help you would be a good workout? Yeah, I am there. But this weekend will be a good chance to get out there both days for some distance runs. I have a 10 mile race in 2 months. Yikes!

Okay, that's it for tonight. I guess I will assume that since you liked the dress the last time that you still like it? If you don't, you are just going to have to leave a comment!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

p.s. I like my hair today! Yippee!!

Ah, The Pleasures of Work...

2010-01-12T20:36:00.006-06:00

Good evening Blogworld!

Welcome to Tuesday evening. Is it really only Tuesday?

I think I have mentioned this here before, but when we were kids my dad used to tell us not to wish our lives away. You know what he means. Oh, I wish it was May and it was spring and getting warm...or, Oh I wish it was July and the weather was beautiful and I could ride my bike after work...

I am not wishing for anything big, or jumping ahead months at a time. I just want it to be Friday! I feel like I wake up every day hoping it is Friday. Even when Saturday arrives I am already lamenting. At least on Fridays there is the excitement and anticipation of the weekend.

You all know - I don't have an amazing social life where we meet friends every weekend. We rarely make it to a movie. I just love the peace and quiet of home. I often putter around the house without any music or the television. I busily work in my kitchen chopping, mixing, baking...without any sounds to interupt my tasks.

At work, there is constant noise; if it is not someone in the next cube talking on the phone, then they are chit chatting over the cube walls. To drown it out, I turn on my iPod. Even that annoys me to a certain extent. I really like working in silence. Am I the only one?

Where the heck did all of that rambling come from?

Damn. It is still Tuesday.

So, the outfit!

You have seen this skirt before here. It is indeed a different outfit! Darned close though. Phew!

I paired this with a sweater set I got a Target 2 years ago. This is a cashmere sleeveless sweater with a matching cardigan. I have the same one in grey that I have worn for you all before. Here it is. I warned you that I have a winter "uniform". This is pretty much it today!

Ben and I had another impromptu date. It was a great way to end a Tuesday. Of course, any date with Ben is a great way for me to end a day!

Thanks for checking in! Please vote below!

Kel

Overall, A Good Day!

2010-01-11T20:54:00.003-06:00

Black and Blue but not bruised all over!

I am not typically a fan of black and blue together, but it worked for me today. Despite our balmy temps here today (21 - woo hoo!) I needed tights!

This dress was rescued from the Goodwill bag. It got placed there when I had gained enough weight to make me hate this dress. I was happy today when I retrieved it and I liked how it looked!

I got this dress at Anthropologie about 3 years ago? That is a guess! I like the bright blueness of it, and it has a fun shape to it. It is short enough to feel sassy yet long enough to not feel like my butt is hanging out the back!

I was planning on boots but decided on simple pumps when I got downstairs. My art director helped me make the final decision.

I accessorized with some pins I got from QVC a few years ago. It is like a mommy pin and a baby pin!

Ben and I had lunch today at Caribou Coffee. It was a good halfway point for both of us. Today we had vegetarian chili and chips. Good stuff! Check out the vegetarian chili recipe in this month's Cooking Light.

Caribou's fireplace provided the backdrop for today's pictures. It looks so warm and cozy.

Ben was trying to be stealthy taking my pictures; I get so self-conscious thinking people are looking at us!

Off to watch CSI:Miami. For a police show, it makes me laugh!

Thanks for checking in!

Please vote below!

Kel

Casual Friday and a Date Night

2010-01-09T11:54:00.004-06:00

Thank Goodness yesterday was Friday bringing me to today - Saturday!

Yesterday was a particularly stressful day at work, so I was quite happy when the day ended. At about 2pm I sent Ben a text asking if maybe we should go have pizza, salad and wine for dinner. He liked that offer !

We did have lunch together (missed photo opportunity) and then had the dinner date (missed photo opportunity) and finally got home around 8 and I thought, ugh, I need a photo! The downstairs is a disaster, so we headed upstairs.

My favorite Joe Jeans are not looking like my favorite in this picture. I won't say they MMLF (make me look fat for those of you new to the acronym) but there is something wrong about how they look...you decide, but I am keeping the jeans. Harumph! I am sassy this morning, so watch out.

Sassy is another way of saying that every hormone in my body is screaming for attention and I can go from happy to sad to cranky in a matter of seconds. Sigh.

Check out my new tshirt! My BFF Erika went to England to see her new "uzband" (that is my French pronounciation) and brought me back this adorable tshirt! I laughed when I saw the tag - it is part of the new Miley Cyrus collection. Like that kid needs more money! The tshirt is probably the softest tshirt I have ever felt. I guess it is worth that kid making another buck.

The cardigan is from Target 3 years ago. A girl needs her red sweater when you work at Target!

Our date night was lovely. A couple pieces of veggie pizza, a large glass of malbec and a salad shared by two...plus the best company a girl could ask for!

This has been a lazy morning thus far. I slept in, finally got up and made oats for breakfast, and then sat down and have been cruising food blogs for recipes to try this weekend. Meanwhile, Ben is cleaning like a maniac. He cleaned the kitchen and when I commented he said "I am just getting the palette ready for more paint." He is so good at cleaning up after me, and getting the kitchen ready for cooking weekends. Left up to me, I would have to find places to put grocery bags on the counter. Now we can actually see the counter.

The only plans so far are to go to Trader Joes. In cleaning out the refrigerator and cabinets last weekend I know what I need more of, and what I don't need more of. I do not need more Roast Beef Hash, Green Chiles or Tuscan Balsamic Vinaigrette. Somehow, however, I have no doubt I will end up with another can or two of chiles. Ben is convinced in the event of disaster, people will be hoarding the green chile. We are ready if they do. Need some? Let me know! (I have 14 cans at the moment!)

I also have a smoked trout in the refrigerator...that might have to be dinner for tonight.

Oh, well, off to torture Ben with more of my sassiness. We will take a freezing cold run (it is 8 degrees with wind chill advisory warnings of -35) then I will shower and dress. It will be a shower but no make up Saturday! Okay, maybe a little mascara and carmex for the lips. Have to keep them unchapped, you know!

Hope your day is great! Thanks for checking in!

Kel

My Hair Looks like Hell!

2010-01-07T21:07:00.003-06:00

I read a lot of blogs. I am fairly certain I have never seen that as a post title. I strive for uniqueness, you know.

It is driving me nuts! The hair, that is. 2 more weeks until a trim. Sigh.

I have a TGIF with Kel post to write so I need to make this quick. By the way, if you don't use NM, I made it so you can now go read TGIF without joining the site. Go take a peek at this week's column, won't you?

Today's ensemble came together by accident. I had intended to wear the black turtleneck (from the Gap) and the pants (from Banana Republic) but planned on wearing a long cardigan sweater. I reached for it, but grabbed this coat instead. It was fate.

This coat is from Target and I think it is 2 years old...or is it 3? Sue, you have the same one. How old is it?

I have not worn this coat in a while! It has been so cold here this layer worked out perfectly. This coat is warm enough to wear as a jacket in the late fall, yet is still lightweight enough to wear as a blazer in the winter. It is a brown/white/black tweed. It looks great with jeans. Damn. I should have saved it for tomorrow!

I still hate my hair. How ironic that my column this week talks about being nice to yourself!

Thanks for checking in, if even for a brief moment.

Please vote below!

Kel

Bad Blogger - again!

2010-01-06T18:53:00.006-06:00

When your blog is dependent on you having your picture taken every day and then you and the art director for said blog don't get to have lunch together and your schedules don't allow your picture to be taken for the blog...taking in a deep breath to continue...then you feel really really bad and have to simply come on and say friends I am sorry we don't have a picture!

Forgive me?

I can link you to some of what I did wear today though. Hopefully you will accept these substitutes along with my apologies!

I wore the skirt and the boots from this post.

Phew - that was close...I almost wore that same cardigan today! I ended up with an off white corduroy blazer than I got 2 years ago from H&M. Do you have an H&M near you? I have a couple of them I can choose from. Their sizing is iffy; sometimes I blame their sizing in being European instead of admitting that they really are more geared towards juniors. But that is just my opinion!

I also wore a brown turtleneck, and added a long silver chain.

Since there is very little more for me to talk about - work is work, it is still darn cold, and I am in for the rest of the night....I am going to give you a link to someone else's blog. Why on earth would I do this? She is a new follower to Kel's closet, and when I looked at her profile, and read this post, I said YES! She and I happen to share the same opinion on Uggs. Thank you Jocelyn Garrity for writing this. You saved me the time!

Click here to read her post!

Thank you for your honest votes on yesterday's dress. It will be better in the spring - I promise!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Pardon Our Dust

2010-01-05T19:09:00.003-06:00

I found this construction sign particularly entertaining today! Pardon our dust as we upgrade to serve you!

I feel like a construction zone sometimes! What do they do with a construction zone? They tear up an escalator, clean it out, make it look as good as new. I feel like I need to look as good as new.

One thing - my hair. As predicted, you would be hearing about it. The growing out stage is driving me bonkers. I am considering a color or two added next time I go. I need something to feel as good as new.

Today's dress? Let me tell you, I love this dress, but I do not like it in this picture! When I see a picture that is unflattering, to me, I just cringe! Is that how I looked all day? Were people looking at me the way they did because of looking badly? Ugh. I had a feeling when I wore this dress with the tights there would be a clinging issue. I had no idea it would look like this.

This dress is about 2 years old. It is from Banana Republic. Like I said, I love this dress. Hopefully you will be forgiving, and allow me to keep it until spring. If it looks bad then, out it will go!

The shoes? You know I love these, and these are not open for voting! These were the ones my sweet Ben gave me before Christmas. I love that guy! Not just because he buys shoes, of course!

Okay, I take back what I said. Vote on the dress with your heart. If it needs to go, I can take it. I value your honest feedback. I don't have to always agree with it! I always hope my friends will understand my rather honest feedback at times, and I can't have a double standard when it comes to myself!

Are you all surviving the winter? That is another reason to need a remodel. It s bitterly cold here. The thermometer in the car today said -8 on the way to work. I commented to Ben that once it hits 32 degrees, don't bother to report it any more. Cold is cold. I am going to still bundle up just as much whether it is 32 degrees or -8. It is just plain cold.

How nice would San Diego be right now?

Thanks for checking in all!

Please vote below. Leave a comment too. I like comments.

Kel

Back to a Routine!

2010-01-04T19:42:00.006-06:00

Well. almost.

The photographer forgot his camera today. iPhone to the rescue! Sorry the camera doesn't capture the normal high quality photos you have come to expect!

Where to being after a 2 week blog break?

With the clothes of course!

The black and white jacket was one of my Christmas gifts from Ben. You have seen it before! It is in the video from this post.

The dress underneath is from this post.

My fabulous Betsey Johnson's are from this post.

I think we are getting to the point where you are going to see some repeats more frequently. How do I keep our conversations lively when you already know all of the stories?

I guess I just need to change the subject!

Guess what?

Nope.

Guess again. No, not that.

Better.

Yup, I am going to write a book. Not even about clothes! For those of you that are not here from the Nutrimirror community, here is the announcement that was made last week!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

New NM Authors --- Lynn and Kel in 2010

Earlier this week I announced our first book, “Balanced Days, Balanced Lives”, will be released in March, 2010.

Today it is my pleasure to announce that two NM members have agreed to author books for us in 2010. If everything goes to schedule their books will be released in early 2011.

Lynn Matava (Serving Up a Smile columnist) will write about “loving the foods that love you back”. I’m sure we can expect to learn something about ancient grains; maybe, even, we’ll get a recipe for the “chia bon-bons” she’ll be expecting as a guest in the green room of Kel’s hot TV show “Please, Just Kel Me”.

This brings me to our second author, Kel Beaudoin (TGIF with Kel columnist). With her flair for humor and sound advice Kel will be writing about overcoming poor lifestyle choices to successfully manage lives in balance.

As their publisher, I am excited for them and their opportunity. And, I am hopeful their books will be important and help to advance the NM mission --- improving the health of a nation, one body at a time.

I’m sure (more than once) during this challenging process of book writing, they’ll throw life-lines to the NM family through the Journal Room. And, I’m just as sure they’ll get a ton of support and well-wishes.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lynn Matava is a friend, one that I have yet to meet. We have joked - over emails and internet postings on Nutrimirror, that one day we will meet on Oprah's couch. A girl can dream, right?

Well, we took the dream one step further towards reality with this announcement!

I will continue to post here, but I do hope you will forgive my brevity. I will be doing a lot of writing!

On other fronts, my dog is still sick. She reminds me quite frequently of this, sadly, but I had only asked her to stick around through the holidays. I am looking at everything else as a gift.

Work is picking up right where it left off - busy! I will be going into an intense couple of months; I hope I can keep up this pace. Good thing I get all of my vitamins!

So, to summarize, thank you for your patience through the holidays, and I hope your holidays brought you time with friends and family. I also hope you made a little time for You!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

P.S. Sorry Karyn with the twitchy voting finger - I can't let you vote off a Christmas gift for goodness sake!

A Holiday Break!

2009-12-22T20:56:00.001-06:00

Just wanted to say hello and tell you I am taking a blog break during the holidays!

Happy Holidays to you all!

Kel

One more thing to do before bed...

2009-12-17T22:09:00.003-06:00

*Yawn*

Ben and I decided to go out to dinner after work. You can see Palomino off in the distance. It was a much needed date, and we had a wonderful meal. Flatbread pizza with chicken and a salad to share. Delicious!

I then had to write the NutriMirror column. The whole thing. Normally I get it written a couple of nights before and then do some editing the night before. YIKES!

I just posted that. Now I need to post today's picture and say goodnight!

Here it is! Vote below! And - wow- mixed reviews on the red/black/white dress. Interesting, very interesting!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

On The Couch Early Tonight!

2009-12-16T20:25:00.003-06:00

8:25 pm here. This is the earliest I have sat down all week!

Okay, the week so far :)

Monday: I couldn't wait to wear my new shoes! For as high a heel as they are, they were extremely comfortable. Remember, platforms are actually quite easy to walk in because the "lift" in the front actually reduces the heel height. If the platform is an inch, it reduces the heel height by an inch. That makes these about 4 inches!

I chose a dress that I had gotten last year at J.Crew. When I tell you the dress is cheap, I mean really cheap. I think it was around $20. I am quite fond of the little rosettes on the front. It would be great for an evening out as well.

But, it was work, therefore a cardigan. You all liked it; thanks!

Tuesday: Seems the black and white worked for you!

I got this skirt a year ago at Banana Republic. I love a high waisted skirt. I do not love, however, how this makes me appear "poochy." I am told by someone close to me here, ahem, that I am too hard on myself. Who isn't?

I am not sure I love the skirt. As positive as the votes were, does anyone want a high waisted black and white plaid skirt in size 6?

Now, take note of the hair color yesterday, and the hair color today. Nothing new, but I was finally able to get to my salon for a trim and a color! My goodness you should have seen the grey in my hair!! Seriously, I had about an inch of roots. Scary!

Today: ah, caught up!

This dress was purchased 3 years ago in La Jolla, California at Francesca's. If you recall, I thought they were some trendy downtown boutique. Little did I know it was a chain!

I love the combination of red/black/white so I was immediately drawn to the pattern. It is a shirt dress. The very first time I wore it, I decided it had to be worn with tights or leggings. When I sit down in it, you realize that perhaps too much thigh is exposed to be decent. I did have button issues twice today: thank goodness the only person I flashed was my friend Tricia!

Did I tell you that the Francesca's chain decided to torture me by opening a store at the mall a mere 15 minutes from me? At least before I had to travel 30 minutes either west or east to get to one. Now, they are way too close. They taunt me!

My friend Victoria (Hi Victoria!) was kind enough to refer me to a website she had heard about. Please, go there for me. Buy something amazing! At the very least check out Simply Soles.

Look at these shoes. Pretty enough to make a grown woman cry!

Speaking of pretty shoes, look at these babies. My friend Tricia sent this link to Ben!

Okay, time for me to stop looking at shoes!

If you are a "healthy eater" and are looking for breakfast options, check out this blog won't you?

Corrine understands eating "real food" and talks about it at Keep Your Diet Real.

That's it for tonight folks! I really do appreciate you checking in. If you are interested in that skirt...kelbeaudoin@gmail.com!

Kel

Not Enough Hours in the Day!

2009-12-15T21:27:00.003-06:00

I am going to owe you guys so many stories!

Really, I have a ton of good excuses. Last night I was chatting via gmail with my son. Tonight I was getting my hair cut and colored, and after getting home needed to wrap my sister's Christmas gifts so I can ship them tomorrow.

Those are valid, right?

I am glad you liked yesterday's ensemble...time to vote for today's!

I can't wait for things to slow down just a little!!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

p.s. How do you food bloggers write about your food every day??

Time for bed!

2009-12-14T21:47:00.004-06:00

Details tomorrow!

Please vote!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Ode to Joy!

2009-12-13T15:19:00.012-06:00

Last August after I saw "Julie and Julia" I decided that I wanted a blog, too.

I thought about putting a blog together of my weekly baking. I love to bake, as you all know. I love to feed even more than I love to bake. Ask my unsuspecting co-workers.

I thought about Kel the Baker. I am so glad I did not do that.

Why?

Because there is already Joy the Baker. To even attempt to mimic the magic she creates on her blog would be, well, insulting. Frustrating. Unfulfilling. Kind of like a collapsed souffle.

Thank you Susan for recommending Joy to me!

How appropriate that her name is Joy. Reading her blog makes me joyful. Her baking and cooking makes me joyful. The treats I bring to work are like sharing joy with my co-workers.

Check her out today. Please. I am confident enough to tell you I have a crush on Joy.

Today's baking was her Lemon Poppyseed Muffins. I also made my Chewy Ginger cookies, and was so excited to see that Joy uses the same recipe as I. Yet she found a way to make them better. She rolls them in raw sugar. Pure genius.

Last weekend I made Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich cookies. And the tomato soup...

The week before that it was her apple pie and her sweet potato pie with a no roll crust.

Check them out. Check her out. And you will understand my crush.

So, how do you get the attention of someone like Joy? You make a cupcake just for her.

So, here it is:

The Ode to Joy Cupcake

1/4 cup softened butter

1 cup sugar

2 egg yolks

1 cup flour

1/2 tea baking soda

1/2 cup lowfat buttermilk

1/2 tea vanilla extract

1/2 tea almond extract

1 tbl Grand Marnier

1 tbl orange zest

1/4 mini chocolate chips

3 egg whites

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Combine the softened butter and the sugar. Mix the heck out of it. About 3 minutes in the kitchenaid mixer. Add egg yolks, one at a time.

In a separate bowl, whisk the flour and the baking soda.

Add the flour in three portions, and the buttermilk in two portions, alternating. End with the flour. I don't know why. I have just seen it in a lot of recipes.

Add the almond extract, the vanilla extract, the Grand Marnier, the orange zest. Taste the batter and have an epiphany. Add mini chocolate chips. Except when you have your epiphany, toss the chips in with a little flour. This will keep the chips from settling to the bottom of the cupcake.

Next, if you are like me and only have one bowl for your kitchenaid, curse. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Wash your mixer bowl, dry it and get ready to beat the egg whites.

Beat egg whites on high speed of mixer until stiff peaks form. Fold the egg whites into the batter.

Put your batter into your cupcake pan, which you have already lined with baking cups. I love using an ice cream scoop to do this.

Bake at 350 degrees for 23 minutes. Or so. You know your oven better than I do.

Take them out and leave in pan for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.

Frost with your favorite cream cheese frosting.

I used:

1 tablespoon butter, unsalted, not softened.

1 8 oz package cream cheese, not softened.

1 pound of confectionary sugar.

1 tea vanilla extract

Beat butter and cream cheese until fluffy. Feel free to decorate your Christmas tree while it gets fluffy.

Turn your mixer down to low and gradually add the sugar. Unless, of course, you want to flock your Christmas tree with sugar.

Add the vanilla. Once the sugar is incorporated you can mix the heck out of it.

Once your cupcakes are cooled, frost. Eat. Toast the Joy in your life.

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

A Date Night!

2009-12-11T23:06:00.001-06:00

Something a little different today!

Check out what Ben put together for all of us!

And check out what he bought for me!

Click HERE to watch!

Enjoy!!

The Spirit of Christmas Past

2009-12-10T20:38:00.003-06:00

I have always loved Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carole."

My favorite is the musical starring Albert Finney. I remember being a young girl, I would say around 9 or 10, and stumbling across it on TV. We did not have cable. We did not have a remote. Channel surfing was standing at the TV turning the dial.

No one had better ask what it was like to use a dial on the TV.

Anyways, it is the standard story about the spirits of Christmas' past, present and future visiting ol' Ebenezer Scrooge. I look forward to "finding" it every Christmas season. It is a musical, and the music is magical to me in this film. I cannot even describe the feeling I get watching it. There is one scene where Scrooge is watching his "happy self" with his girlfriend from years past. He sings a song that breaks my heart, but is so beautiful. His words are filled with regret and pain of someone who let the really important things get away from him.

Those of you that are going to read my TGIF on Nutrimirror tomorrow - you will hear more of this as I just decided to edit the entire column with the above memories. Yikes!

Anyways - the Spirit of Christmas past is in today's jacket. This was a gift from my friends Erika and Gretchen 2 years ago. Erika and I would frequent Banana Republic on shopping trips. I tried this jacket on every time we went. She surprised me by going back and buying it for me! It works great with jeans, and I decided to pair it with these pants today from J.Crew.

You have seen the same pair in black on me before. They got mixed reviews. Check them out here. I am sure you all will let me know what you think again! I had purchased the black ones in the store, and later got this pair on-line, at a lower sale price. To me they were worth it.

I wore a plain cami under the jacket. The jacket is quite warm!

Simple pumps and a delicate garnet necklace. The jacket says enough I think.

I like these pictures today! I love my art director!

Off to rewrite my column! Argh!!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

An Outfit for a Snow Day!

2009-12-09T20:21:00.005-06:00

My Dad taught me that in the event of a snow storm:

1. Have enough gas in the car. Check!

2. Have an extra coat in the car. If you get stranded, you may need to keep warm. Check!

3. Wear something that if you have to for any reason leave your car, you have a better chance of "survival". Check? Do khakis give me a better chance of survival?

Well, khaki pants would be better than a skirt, for example.

Yes, it snowed last night. More snow than we got back in October. Enough snow to cause everyone that got on the roads today to panic.

I got up early; you never know how bad the roads are really going to be. To save time, I skipped shaving the legs. You know it is getting back when they are no longer prickly! Note to self - shave legs tomorrow no matter what you are wearing!

I thought about going really easy with red and khaki. But I was not in the mood for red. I wanted pink!

Today's ensemble is all about J.Crew!

I got the khakis 2 years ago online. When you work for Target you can never have too many pairs of khakis! I like that these are not like Dockers. I hate Dockers. They are so, how do I say it, masculine? I also do not like pleated, tapered ankle khakis. They are everywhere! These are a nice straight long leg. I actually ordered these in tall. They must be worn with a heel!

(And, just for the record, I wore my sketchers in, so in the event that I was forced to abandon the car...)

The sweater was purchased last Christmas; 30% off final sale. Love those!

The blouse underneath is a nice 3/4 sleeve button down oxford. I didn't need the sweater to cover the oxford because of gaping buttons. It fits perfectly. J.Crew actually recognizes that women have breasts and that they may actually need the buttons to not gape.

So there you have it. J.Crew on a winter day!

I just had a realization. When I think about my dad's lesson about always being prepared...I know where I get "it" from. What is "it?"

"It" is the ability to think that life is ruled by Murphy's law. Here is how this works.

Ben: Maybe we can go running outside.

Me: If we run outside I may fall and break my leg. If I break my leg that is at least 6 weeks of no exercise. Why chance it just for one run? We can go to the gym?

No, not just an excuse to not run. Really, I was willing to go to the gym.

That above example was only a two step leap. I have a talent of painting a very vivid scenario. My kids are far too familiar with it. It is along the lines of "it is all fun and games until someone loses an eye." I can paint a scenario about how acting wildly playing a video game, for example, could lead to the video console getting knocked over, which will then hit the table, which will cause the magazine to knock over the glass. When you bend over to pick up the fallen glass, you accidentally hit yourself in the eye with the video remote.

It is not a gift, but at least now I know where I got it from!

Haircut rescheduled for next week; counting down!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Life is Good

2009-12-08T20:15:00.003-06:00

I had every intention of Ben taking my picture today. Really. We knew we could not meet for lunch, but would fit it in at another time. Or so we thought.

I had every intention of getting my hair cut and colored today. Really. However, Mother Nature had her own plan. Snow. Neither Ben nor I have an issue with driving in the snow; we do have an issue when the other cars decide to be out on the road. Traffic. Lots of it. I knew we would never make it to my appointment on time. My sweet Sheli called me to reschedule for next week.

I had every intention of making a quick healthy dinner. Really. We ended up waiting out some of the traffic by having sushi.

Life is good.

Now we are home, I am enjoying amazing sipping chocolate from Trader Joes. If you don't have a Trader Joes, petition for one. It would be worth a neighborhod campaign for a Trader Joes just for the sipping chocolate. Don't get me started on their other items. 3 words. Fab.U.Lous.!

I am in my favorite spot on the couch, computer in my lap, cup o' chocolate by my side, a man I love by my feet. (He is sitting on the couch, not on the floor by my feet!)

Yes, indeed, Life is good.

The rest of the night will be reading a cooking magazine, checking out my favorite blogs, cruising and torturing myself on Etsy, and looking for new recipes in Foodbuzz.com.

Bailey will get to play in the snow later; it is one of her favorite activities. She is currently enjoying a carrot.

Life is good all the way around.

My outfit was cute today. A red plaid short jacket, a black pencil skirt, black tights and pumps. A reindeer pin. I won't wear it again, I promise.

Enjoy your evening. I promise to enjoy mine.

Thanks for checking in.

Kel

Getting Back into the Groove

2009-12-07T20:07:00.003-06:00

How quickly you can change your routine!

Taking care of the dog last week, camera issues, and stress took over; I did not have the desire to sit in the corner of my couch as I am doing right now and look at my computer screen.

I did try, but the words would not come. I guess, in reality, the entertaining words would not come. I find my blog to be something I like to do when I am in a good mood. Talking about my clothes does fascinate me; I also know how shallow that makes me sound!

I hope what many of you have come to know that it is not the clothing itself that I like talking about, but the feelings I recall when I think back to the purchase. What was going on in my life at the time, and perhaps in my own mind; I am realizing how different I am inside than I was during the time the purchase was made.

While I may disappear at times, know that I am just working through emotions and keeping you guys out of it. To a certain extent, writing about what I am feeling would probably help. If you can put up with it, I might just have an emotional rant or two :). I promise - I will never talk about finances (hell, you already know I can't buy new clothes), religion or politics. I don't do that with the people sitting next to me, why would I do that to you!

Thanks for your patience!

Today's ensemble is highlighted by a couple of new items!

The beautiful pashmina was brought back from India by my friend Taruna. I needed a little bright in my day today, and this fit the bill! I am not sure if you can see that there is a pattern on it, and the slightest variation in shading throughout.

I kept it wrapped today with a pin that I got as a Christmas gift years ago. Can you see the shiny little Christmas tree on my shoulder?

The pants are part of a suit I got at Ann Taylor 4 years ago. This was one of my "go to" suits in my traveling days. It works with a lower heel, as I wore on my days that I had to scamper through the airport, and it also works with a higher heel. I used to leave home on a Tuesday and get home Friday evening. I would wear a suit and pack a suit; I had 3 changes of shirts, maybe one change of shoes, all my toiletries and accessories in a carry on. If you ever need someone to pack for you, call me! I became an expert!

Speaking of shoes! One of the benefits of having a BFF that has the same shoe size as you? When she buys a pair, and they end up hurting her feet, guess who gets to be the recipient! Yee ha! Thanks Miss E!! A lovely little kitten heeled black faux lizard pump. They were very comfy! I do find, however, that I walk funny when wearing flats or kitten heels. What is up with that? Of course, maybe I walk funny all the time!

So, that is it for today's outfit.

I did my usually cooking and baking yesterday. I made an amazing cookie from Joy the Baker. Check out her blog - they are the chocolate mint "oreos. If you love tomato soup, you need to check out the one for creamy tomato soup on her site too. It was work, not a lot of work mind you, but well worth it! I also made a spicy peanut butter cookie that simply rocked and had no flour in it! You can find that recipe here.

Thanks again for your patince, and as always, thanks for checking in! Voting is below! Btw - I like the pieces, and but not the ensemble, so I am changing up the vote a little!

Kel

Bad Blogger!

2009-12-04T20:03:00.003-06:00

This has been a crazy week as most of you know.

Besides the dog, work has been insane. Ben and I have not been able to meet for lunch as a result, so he has not gotten the midday photos. After work? I do not feel like smiling!

I just wanted to let you know I am doing okay, even though I have not been writing.

I will be back this weekend!

Love to you all!

A Quick Post

2009-12-01T19:38:00.002-06:00

I can't write about my clothes tonight.

My dog is sick. I took her to the vet because the symptoms were scary. They are far too graphic to share.

The Vet confirmed that she has internal bleeding. It could be a clotting disorder, which could be caused by a tumor. Poor thing still acts like a puppy. She does not act sick. But I am afraid I will have to make a decision as soon as tomorrow.

Please keep her in your thoughts, okay?

It's Beginning to Look at Lot Like...

2009-11-30T19:27:00.003-06:00

Okay, I won't spend the next 26 days using Christmas Carols as blog titles! I promise!

I have worn this skirt before. Standing in my closet this morning, I thought "I can't wear that again." Who says? This is not the same ensemble!! Go look, I will wait.

Different tights, a sweater set and different accessories. Ta da!

You can go back to read the skirt story.

The sweater set is 2 years old. It is from Target, and the Isaac Mizrahi for Target line. I miss Isaac, even if I am not buying clothes. I have this same sweater set in black. It is cashmere, and cost a fraction of what it would have cost at a major department store or one of my trendier retailers. Sorry for the Target ad here, but seriously! I love Cashmere, but I do not love the price. I hate when someone advertises cashmere at a great price, and then it is a lightweight piece of nothingness. I love cashmere from JCrew; I have only been able to fondle it in the store. This has weight to it. Thus my love for it! My point? Wait, do I have one? Yes I do. You do not always have to shop at Banana Republic, JCrew, etc. You CAN find high quality elsewhere.

My tights are from Heartbreakers. I liked the funky pattern on them. I hesitated to wear them today because the last time I wore them they hurt. Yes, tights that hurt. It was the shoes I wore them with. I have no issues with the boots. Okay, not true. I did have an issue at one point today when apparently after a trip to the ladies room I did not pull them up correctly. They pinched me!

As you can see, the Christmas decorations are not up yet completely at work. These are in the City Center lobby. I just liked the dark green color as a background to my ensemble.

A pie update from yesterday? Delicious! Bake it, you will not be disappointed.

I am giving the people the power to vote again!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Out with the Old; In with the New!

2009-11-29T17:47:00.005-06:00

Out with the old Asics Running Shoes; In with the new Asics Running Shoes!

It is with a sense of sadness that I bid a fond farewell to my old running shoes. We have been through a lot together!

They got me through a lot of training.

They carried me across the finish line after my first 5k back in May.

They were with me when I walked 60 miles in the Breast Cancer 3Day.

They were with me every step of the Milk Run 5k.

They were there for the scantily clad James Page Blubber Run.

They even patiently obeyed when I took them out for a cold, rainy 10k in October.

In total, there were 4 5ks and 1 10k, plus the 60 miles...and all of that training!

The average shoe last approx. 500 miles. Between exercise, training, biking, mine last about 6 months or so. I may have underestimated; I may need another pair before August, since I will be training for 10 miles this year. We will see! My right hip and lower back are usually the best indicators for me when it is time to get a new pair. I was feeling the need about a month ago, but wanted to stretch it out until I had completed the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving. Race done, Women's Foot Locker coupon in the mail - it was time!

Not being one that likes to break in new shoes, I was more than happy to get the same model I had last time, just in pink instead of blue! The salesperson was trying to tell me that they are now better than my last pair because blah blah blah. They lost me when I saw the color!

Sorry these pictures are not better of the shoes. I took them with the iPhone as the Art Director was not home at the time!

You can see I did some Christmas damage as well today. Except for a few minor items, I am happy to say I got my shopping done this weekend! Between Friday's shopping online (Oh, Etsy how I love thee) and a trip to the almost EMPTY mall today, I can almost say "Done and Dusted!"

Despite the joy from today's running shoe purchase, I did have a very sad moment. I went into J.Crew to hit the sale racks for a gift or two. After I had gathered what I went in for, I let myself dream. There were some amazing things! I can see that they are very similar to items I have purchased in the past. I love the Jackie Cardigans at JCrew and they have newer colors this year. I love the Pencil Skirts at JCrew. I love their Embellished T-shirts. Sigh. I went online to try and find the amazing pink cardigan with black polka dots that almost brought me to tears. I can't even find it on-line. That I will take as a good sign!

I finished my shopping and got the heck out of there! I did not even cave for a fancy coffee drink at Caribou!

Instead, I came home and had my lunch. A turkey wrap with cheddar cheese and spinach; and I had my dessert that was going to be for dinner! Sweet potato pie!

Speaking of pie, check out this baby!

It is a recipe from Joy the Baker. I had every intention of baking this and taking it to Gretchen's house for her daughter Kaylee. It took longer to make than expected; note to self to calculate such things ahead of time! Besides the time, there is also the issue of not looking perfect. I am afraid of pie dough! I have made apple pie before. Correction. I have made the fillings for apple pie before, but I have never made a homemade pie crust before. Me and the Pillsbury dough boy were tight, so to speak.

This is the result. I will make Kaylee a different one, next weekend perhaps?

I hope your weekend was a long relaxing one. I am not ready for Monday, but when am I ever?

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

A Restful Saturday

2009-11-28T21:28:00.003-06:00

Hello All!

I woke up this morning with not a plan for the day. It was fabulous! A very lazy morning today; reading some blogs, doing some recipe searching and then deciding to go to the grocery store. I made my list.

I did not shower yesterday; I know, ewww! I took a nice hot shower and then had to decide what to wear on this day. I wanted to be really casual. I put on my bra and panties. A cute matching set! No pictures of course!

I then put on the shirt that I wanted to wear, and grabbed a pair of comfy khakis.

Uh Oh. VPL. You know, visible panty lines! Time for a change of pants! Back into the closet, I grabbed a pair of corduroys. That resulted in a whole different problem, the newly coined VMT. Visible Muffin Top! Chaos ensued. A change of pants to these jeans, that you all told me I had to get hemmed. Oh, well, they will forgive me I thought. A black tank top, a cardigan- yuck. Then I saw the purple peeking out. Ah, perfect. Comfort, casual, and yes darn it I will have to wear a boot with a heel to get away with the pants. Oh well.

The top buried beneath my green pea coat is a purple sweatshirt that I got from JCrew in the fall of 2008. It has long sleeves, and a nice soft cotton sweatshirt material. I have another one just like it in grey.

As I said, you have seen the jeans before; they are a pair of Joe Jeans that has a higher waist band. I guess I was feeling too muffin toppy today!

The boots, the coat. Done and ready for the store.

I am one of those insane people that LOVES putzing at the grocery store. I get a coffee and take my time, walking the perimeter, and then heading into the aisles for only what is on my list. Ben and I grabbed one of those smaller carts as this was to be a relatively light week. By the time I was done, Ben looked like the Grinch trying to balance all of the stolen gifts on his sleigh! You know the scene...

It was the good deal on paper towels, I swear! Okay, a few too many bags of chocolate chips, but you never know when you are going to need some!

On the way home, I reminded the art director that we needed pictures for today. He pulled the car over and selected this spot. These were fun pics for me!

After we got home, we grabbed lunch and headed out for a 16 mile bike ride. Oh, if we only had a picture of that outfit! Bike shorts, long pants over the bike shorts, a long underwear shirt, a long sleeved tshirt over that, and then a hooded sweatshirt on that. I had a knit cap that covers my neck and ears - kind of like the kind a masked bank robber wears, without the ring around the eyes. It was 44 degrees, but sunny, so we had to take advantage of it!

As soon as we got home, I started cooking!

Here is what I made today. I am very proud of myself! I made homemade gnocchi!

It was delicious! For the recipe, click here. Easy, a little labor intensive, but so worth it!

I dressed them with a sauce I made from butter, spinach and sausage. With a little bit of the pasta water and some heavy cream. Good comfort food! I am so glad I burned off 600 calories on the ride!

I also made my very first sweet potato pie. Please. Click here. It is a recipe from Joy the Baker. I am not ashamed to admit I have a girl crush on Joy. I love her site! Make the pie. You will love it! I made the crust too. So delicious! Ben and I shared a piece, after being so full from dinner! There is plenty left, if you want to come over for some!

I also made up a batch of my favorite chocolate chip cookies. See, I needed the chips! I took a tip from Joy. After making the cookie dough, scoop out the cookies just like you would if you were to bake them, but line them up on the cookie sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, you can bag them and have ready to pop in the oven cookie dough! Brilliant! I, of course, had to bake some too!

So, that was my restful Saturday. I hope your day was great!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Santa's Helper Has Been Busy!

2009-11-27T19:08:00.005-06:00

This is actually a continuation of my Thanksgiving Day!

I used the Santa's Helper reference because of my ensemble yesterday; I certainly have been busy today helping Santa, however!

Yesterday the confidence was apparently through the roof!

I started with a long turtleneck from Michael Stars. I have had this for 3 years or so. Like the sweater on Monday, it is one of those tops that I need to pair with something tight on the bottom; it results in a rather exposed silhouette!

I wore it atop a pair of leggings I got at Ann Taylor. When did leggings start to make an appearance again? 3 years ago as well? When I first started to see them in the stores, I did not buy any. I used my friend Sherri's line:"I took full advantage of them in the 80's and I do not need to wear them again." I promptly went out and saw this pair! They are a very heavy weight. They are not like a heavy pair of tights. They do not get sheer as they stretch. These are good for sucking in what needs to be sucked in! I decided what better way to stay on my eating plan for the day than to wear something tight!

I accessorized with my favorite black belt and boots, and simple cz studs.

Ben and I went over Gretchen's house for Thanksgiving dinner. Here I am with Gretchen (on the left) and Erika. Dinner was fantastic! There was turkey that was really good! Moist and very flavorful. There were more side dishes than you could possibly eat in two meals, let alone one! Sweet potato casserole, 2 kinds of stuffing, tomato pie (it was heavenly!), spinach salad with craisins, apples and walnuts with a white balsamic vinaigrette (I brought that), pumpkin biscuits with orange butter (mine too), green bean casserole, corn souffle and mashed potatoes. It was quite the feast! We finished it all of with an amazing pumpkin pie (it had a gingersnap crust) and chocolate mousse cake (me), as well as espresso or tea.

I can't believe I even needed breakfast this morning!

I am not a Black Friday shopper. For those few items I do need at the store, I will find an evening when others are eating dinner. Hopefully I can run in and get out as quickly as possible.

Remember one of the items I was going to let myself buy when I first started this? Check out the rules on the first blog. It was a pair of running shoes. It is time! I got my current ones last March. Running shoes generally have a 500 mile limit. I can tell I have reached that limit by how my right hip feels. I received a coupon from Lady Foot Locker, and it expires Sunday. It is a really good deal; $15 off of a $75 purchase or $25 off a $100 purchase. I may have to fight the darned crowds on Sunday. I don't mind the parking. I just park as far away as possible and enjoy the walk. Fortunately, Lady Footlocker is right next to the entrance. I can be in and out in no time!

While I am not a Black Friday shopper, I am an online shopper. I was busy today taking care bizzness! I can't say what I purchased, but I got a lot of my shopping DONE! Yay! I stayed in my bath robe until 2:30! Because it was a sunny day, we headed out for a 5.4 mile walk. We even did a little running, but that was just because it was chilly and we needed to warm up!

I came home and promptly got back on the computer. I guess it was no shower no make up Friday!

I hope your day was great, I hope you had the day off, and that you got lots crossed off of your list too!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

p.s. I am being bad, but no vote today either!

A Wednesday picture posted on Thursday!

2009-11-26T18:51:00.005-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Sorry I did not post last night! Ben and I decided at the last minute that we were not in the mood to make dinner, so it was an impromptu date for sushi. I love love love sushi!

Once we got home, I had lots of baking to do, plus I wanted to get to bed at a decent hour because we were running a 5k this morning.

So, before I get to today's festivities...

Yesterday's ensemble!

I love this jacket! I got this jacket last winter from J.Crew. It was probably the brightest color they offered. I did not hesitate when I saw this hanging in the store. It is a velvet and fun!

In the picture it looks a lot more orange than it is in reality. It is more of a deep melon shade; not pumpkin orange. It has a little pink to it even.

I paired it with my Hudson boot cut jeans and a gray tank top. The tank has a subtle shimmer to it. It is from my friends at J.Crew as well!

The shoes are Naughty Monkeys. You last saw them here. My Art director was good enough to get a close up shot of them for you!

On my shoulder is a pin I had to have! I got it last year when I was holiday shopping. You know, the shopping trip you make and end up finding more things you would like for yourself instead of the people you were supposed to be shopping for? I love all of the different colors in it. Whether they are in fashion or not, I do love a bit of bling on the shoulder of a jacket!

This morning was an early start for Ben and I. We ran in the Turkey Trot in Downtown Minneapolis. It was a cold way to start the day! I was so happy we did it though. There were over 15000 participants! Seems a lot of people wanted to "Earn the Bird" today. That's the saying on the back of our tshirts. Ben finished in 24:20 and I finished in 28:14. That was 5 seconds behind my personal best. I was pleased with the results; I am never there to race anyone other than myself! I did 4 5ks this year, and that was my second best.

I do have pictures of today's ensemble, but at the moment they are sitting in Ben's camera, and he is napping. Shhhhh - I don't want to wake him!

I will continue the Thanksgiving story later, okay?

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

BTW - sorry, I love this stuff too much to let you vote!

I really could get into this!

2009-11-24T20:04:00.004-06:00

Every time we have a casual week, I think this would be great everyday! But if we were able to dress casually every day, someone is inevitably going to ruin it. I look at the ensembles at work, holding my breath. Who will be the first to cross over the line? Who will be the first person to dress too casually and make the "powers-that-be" say No More Casual Week! I hope that doesn't happen any time soon! I certainly hope that I am not the person causing such a reaction.

As someone I would call one of the more mature (age-wise) I hope I have the sensibility to know the line and to not cross it.

That is a long way of saying - I wore a tank top under this shirt today today to keep the girls covered!

Such freedom! Such a relief to not pull, tug, shift and fidget all day!

I have had this shirt for 3 years, and have worn it once; the one wearing resulted in my own personal struggles. No one sent me home. So, what did I do as a result of that one outing? I did not wear it.

I used to have a rule; if it has not been worn for 6 months, it goes. I used to have to do that because my "purging" rate was far slower than the new clothes rate. Sadly, I had quite a few items that left the closet because of this rule. I have thought back with regret to a few of those items.

This past weekend I was doing laundry, and went into the guest room closet. Yes, Kel's closet is actually a few closets. The one in the master bedroom, the guest room closet, and the shoes are in the coat closet downstairs. I was hanging a dress in the closet when it fell to the floor. I bent down to pick it up, and in my little eye I spied a garbage bag. I dragged the bag out, knowing full well that this was a Goodwill bag that never made it to goodwill. What treasures might lie within?

I took out this top, along with several others. I washed them, I refolded them, and I added them back into the rotation. Kel needs to make it until August without a repeat for goodness sake!

Honestly, most of what came out of this bag was perfect for weekend wear; long sleeves tshirts that I got from Target. But there were a few items that can go to work again. I hope you agree!

As for the top, it is a deep V, 3/4 sleeve mock wrap top. I know with the white on white it is hard to see the details. Plus we had to take pictures at home after work. No good props here!

The jeans are my favorite pair of Joe Jeans. I wish I knew why they were my favorite. What is it about them that I love so much? They make me walk a little sassier and taller.

Well, the taller could also be because of the Naughty Monkeys. Click the name to see the story. C'mon - you know you want to!

The earrings are from my friend Sue's handywork. You can see more at enchanteddesignsbySue.com.

Thanks for checking in. I am off to go read my new favorite food blog:

Joy the Baker

Amazing baking, amazing story telling, and I am accumulating a list of "must makes"!

Please vote below!

Kel

It is Casual Week!

2009-11-23T20:11:00.003-06:00

You read that right!

Casual Week!

In honor of the holiday, my company announced it was casual day every day this week, as well as Dec. 20-31 (or something like that!).

The fear in reading a memo like that is - did I misread it? Did it really say casual like Fridays? What will happen if I go to work and I am the only person in jeans? I can't buy a new outfit!

Always have a back up plan!

Make sure your friend Erika is also wearing jeans. Take someone else down with you!

The cute signage in the picture today is courtesy of Starbucks. It says "I wish Grown Ups could remember being Kids." I think that is a great motto to take us through the rest of the week!

Todays long sweater is a 3 year old purchase from Anthropologie. It is soft and fuzzy, and this has only been it's third or fourth outing. It is one of those sweaters that really can't be worn that often. It is just way to recognizable. Plus, I have to be rather confident when I wear it. it does not leave a lot to the imagination! It has to be worn with skinny jeans and a girl is not ready to wear skinny jeans and a sweater like this all the time. Well, not this girl!

The jeans- you have seen them...Hudson skinny jeans

Yes, these black pumps again! As I was examining my shoes today I think my first purchase will be new black pumps. These have seen better days!

Now, for the important stuff. Yesterday's food!

The creme de la creme for the day was the Neiman Marcus cookies. If you love cookies, make them.

The Little Debbie Creme pies...I thought I may have had a disaster on my hands. The cookie part spreads really thin. I used too large a cookie scoop, and could have made them half the size that I made them. They are huge, and they will be taken to work tomorrow. My hands were full! I did share one yesterday and they are an exceptional choice for discretionary calories!

We had the Lentil Stew for lunch today and it was good. By the time you are done with the recipe, a serving is LOADED with sodium. It comes from the vegetable stock, the Worcestershire Sauce, the tomato paste and the dijon mustard. I am exactly at 100% for my sodium intake today from this lunch of 61% sodium. If you think I am foreign and do not understand that I track my food intake, check out Nutrimirror!

The chili is tomorrow's lunch. I am hoping it gets tastier from sitting in the fridge for a few days. The taste I had yesterday was meh.

The Sausage, Spinach and Provolone Pizza was fantastic. Somehow, I managed to only eat one piece. Seeing the 288 calories a piece was okay, but seeing all of the calories, sodium and saturated fat in 2 pieces made me think twice! We will have leftovers for dinner tomorrow night, and I will have a salad on the side.

Thanks for putting up with all of my food talk!

Vote on the outfit below.

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

I love Sundays

2009-11-22T12:35:00.003-06:00

I feel like I have neglected to mention in the past just how much I love Sundays. I think I love Sundays because I turn from Fashion Blogger to Food Blogger. I often have no shower no make up Sundays; today I will have to shower because I had no shower no make up Saturday!

I can't really call myself a true food blogger. I don't have amazing pictures of every meal I ate today. There are some terrific blogs out there. Some of my favorites?

Click on the names to go to them...

My Daily Nosh

Carrots'N'Cake

Kath Eats Real Food

and, last but not least...

The Country Tart

I also love love love

Foodbuzz

Foodbuzz is really a collection of all things food! Once you learn how to navigate their site, you can get a ton of amazing recipes! I am not saying all of the recipes are balanced, but when worked into a balanced life you CAN have your cake and eat it too!

At the moment I am making this chili that I got on Foodbuzz. I am substituting ground turkey for the beef and veggie stock for the beef stock. Why? Um, just because? Also, I actually cooked my own kidney beans instead of using canned. That was to control the sodium. I am using less ground turkey, increasing the kidney beans and cutting out the salt altogether. That can be added later if needed. If this is any good, I can say it is my recipe because of the alterations. :) After I brown the turkey, the whole thing is going in the crock pot. This is not for tonight's dinner. Some will get eaten during the week for a lunch and a dinner, and some will get frozen.

Thick and Hearty Chili

After the chili is assembled, I will head out for a walk. Not too cold, and no rain? Take advantage of it while I still can!

The cooking will continue this afternoon with this Lentil Soup Recipe.

As with the chili, we will have some during the week and freeze some for later.

Tonight's dinner will be this pizza. I have been dying to make this!

Sausage, Spinach and Provolone Pizza

And the day is not truly complete if I do not make some sweet treats for my unsuspecting coworkers!

The Neiman Marcus Cookie

AND

Oatmeal Creme Pies

Those sound so wrong - I HAVE to make them!

Chili is in the crock pot! I am out for a walk! Catch ya later, and I will give you a review of the foods soon!

Kel

Happy Saturday!

2009-11-21T10:01:00.002-06:00

I am refreshed and rejuvinated after a good night's sleep! What a week I had!

Besides Len Druskin trying to kill me, work was on HIGH and kept me staring at a computer screen for too many hours!

So, let me talk about yesterday's outfit before I get completely distracted.

It was Casual Friday and I got the take out another pair of jeans you have not seen. This may have been the last pair! I will have to go through the blog and see!

I got these at the Gap 3 years ago. I remember going mall walking on a Saturday morning. It was a snowy day here in MN, probably in June.

Just checking to see if you are awake yet! No, not June, probably more like January. I am thinking January because these jeans were an after holiday sale purchase.

Anyways, I had gotten to the mall later than I would have liked for mall walking. I liked to get there before the shoppers actually arrived. It is nice to be in there and be able to walk quickly and not maneuver around people who could care less about burning calories. They are there to shop and don't care if you are there to walk. They should not care!

After walking, I decided to hit some sales. Any of you that have shopped at the Gap know that they have had a rough few years. They are trying to make a resurgence back into the fashion world. I think these jeans were purchased at their lowest point, and I had made the purchase ot of pity! I say that now because in looking at them in this picture? I don't think I like them!

They are a skinny jean, and there is no give in these suckers. I don't think there is any spandex at all. I could not wear them once last year with 15 more pounds on me than I have now. The muffin was over the top a year ago! It was not the greatest yesterday either...thus the top I ended up selecting.

Originally, I had more of a straight tunic on. I kept turning around to see the rear view, and all I could see was the muffin. I changed into this more "billowy" top to attempt to hide it. I am not sure if I hid it or simply ended up looking w-i-d-e-r.

This top is from Michael Stars Shine collection. The material has the slightest shimmer to it. I love the neckline; I think a deep V really is my favorite. Must be because I love my collar bones. I purchased this top, and a purple one just like it, at an Anthropologie clearance sale 2 years ago. The purple one has since been discarded due to a hole appearing somehow right in the front. It got stabbed by something somewhere along the way and was not repairable. I love the color of this one.

I picked a bigger bolder earring than I have been wearing of late. I guess I was feeling a little feisty yesterday!

I rocked the Naught Monkeys again. Lots of compliments from strangers on these shoes yesterday. I love complimenting strangers on their clothes; I think I get more joy in complimenting them than when they compliment me! Compliments are interesting. I have learned the difference when complimenting someone in saying "What a pretty blouse" vs "That blouse looks great on you." The first compliment may get you the age of the garment, the purchase location, etc. The second compliment tends to make the person pause, and say "Thank You."

So, on that note, I think it is time to get this day officially started! Not sure what we will be doing today, but I know I need to get ready for a run!

Thanks for checking in. Please vote below!

Kel

I am doing a reverse of last Friday :)

2009-11-20T19:48:00.001-06:00

Here is the picture! I will talk about it tomorrow.

I am beat!!

Have a great night!

Kel

Len Druskin is Trying to Kill Me!

2009-11-19T20:17:00.002-06:00

A new store.

Within a 2 minute walk from my current work location.

For weeks I have been walking past the windows, covered with paper. The store name was revealed about 2 weeks ago. Len Druskin. NO!

Len Druskin is a clothing store that started in MN. They have some regular high end stores. The one that just opened is one I would call "an outlet". Click on Ken Druskin to see the stores and their typical clothing lines. They are far "too Kel"! I had 3 people email me today to stay away from the store!

Too late. I did not make any purchases, but I had already walked by. The store was opening at 11 a.m. today. Around 12:30 they were packed! Ben and I sashayed over there after lunch. On the way passed the front new, the new clothes smell came wafting out at us. Oh, how I wish this blog was scratch and sniff. Sad pouty face here. Seriously.

On to my same sad OLD clothes!

Well, not too old :).

The blouse today was purchased a year ago or so from J.Crew. It is a light dove grey. I had every intention of wearing a different blouse, and a different skirt for that matter. It was a typical put on skirt, put on blouse, don't like blouse, then realize it is really the skirt that is the problem, seek out new skirt, put on the new skirt, realize it is just a tad too big and that you should give it to your friend Tricia because it would be adorable on her, put on this skirt and say OK!

This has been only the second outing for this blouse; Ben does not ever recall seeing it before. He said I looked sweet today.

The skirt is at least 2 years old and is from Ann Taylor Loft. I remember seeing it in the window one morning as I "mall walked". I kept seeing it lap after lap. After my walk I went home took a shower and headed back to the mall to get it!

So, I don't think Len Druskin is really trying to kill me. A little torture perhaps!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

A Promise Fulfilled!

2009-11-18T18:59:00.003-06:00

See - I wouldn't let you guys down!

Work has been crazy! Left to decide on writing last night or getting a foot rub, well , you know that foot rub had to win!

Above is yesterday's outfit!

Yes, pants, and yes Joe, that means I did not shave my legs! I work with Joe (HI JOE!) and asked if he now looks at me on a day when I am wearing pants or tights and if he wonders if I shaved my legs that day. He wasn't wondering, but I am sure he will from now on!

The morning yesterday was far too much like Monday morning. The alarm went off - several times apparently! I was so tired that I guess I kept hitting the snooze while sleeping. I woke up and it was 6:20. No good! I jumped in the shower immediately. My typical morning routine is get up at 5:55, go downstairs, turn on the coffee maker (which I fill the night before), add soy milk and water to the pats (which I fill the pot the night before) and get my snacks and lunch in the bag to take to work. I then sit with my oats and cruise on over to Nutrimirror to log my food and see who has checked in. All of that putzing takes me about 35 minutes. I was already down 20 minutes in my morning putzing, so off to the shower I went!

I was happy to be ready with enough time to make some toast with almond butter and banana and a drizzle of honey. Tasty!

Wait - this is not a food blog? Oh, the clothes!

For your approval above, a pair of pants that I purchased from Banana Republic this summer. They were on sale - yeah! They just came home from the dry cleaners. It is always good to have those clothes ready to go on a hit and run morning!

The top had to be easy; remember, I was short on time. I chose a cami and a cardigan. You habe seen them both before. Don't make me go look!

As I was getting ready, I decided the outfit needed a little spicing up. Grey and black - SO boring sometimes! I added this brooch that was given to me 15 years ago (I think) by my friend Kim for being in her wedding. Sorry there is not a closer shot of it. It is sparkly, primarily in light blue stones with an aurora borealis (sp?) hue to them. I have not worn it for ages!

Black pumps. Does not get easier!

Ben took me out for dinner and drinks last night after work, as we did not get to have lunch together due to my schedule. The pictures were taken in the parking garage. I thought this sign would make a great addition to the picture. That "snow drop area" is about 6 stories high! Yes, we get snow IN the parking garage!

Here is today's ensemble!

Hey Joe - I am wearing tights. Yup, you guessed it!

The skirt is a corduroy skirt that I got about 3 years ago from Ann Taylor. Sale racks. A beautiful thing!

The sweater is from J.Crew - I know, you are shocked, aren't you? It was an online purchase last year. It is a combination of cashmere and wool. It is quite soft! I like the mustardy shade - it went quite well with the coloring in Starbucks today! I did put a tank underneath, to keep myself, and the deep V from getting overexposed!

For the life of me I cannot remember where I got these earrings! I hate that!

I had every intention of wearing boots today. When I came downstairs, Ben suggested these shoes. They are from the line "Not Rated". This brand is the "daughter" company of Naughty Monkeys. I ordered them from Endless. If you have a shoe issue, don't click and go! Don't say I did not warn you! I love(d) Endless; they have free overnight shipping on most styles!

What attracted me most to this shoe was the name of the style; it is called "Miss Daisy". You have heard me refer to Ben and I driving to work together as "Driving Miss Daisy". When I discovered these shoes, it just seemed like a sign that I had to get them!

They have a much rounder toe than I normally wear. I think they worked today. I hope you think so too!

To make this fair, today's vote is on today's outfit only. I can tell you, I do not have many pants so it would kill me if you voted yesterday's off, and a cami and cardigan are just too much of a basic to let them go!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

p.s. I am curious for your thoughts on how I have been styling my hair!

Choices and Decisions

2009-11-17T20:16:00.003-06:00

Write in the blog or get undivided attention from Ben?

Good night folks!

See ya tomorrow!

Kel

(I promise - 2 pictures tomorrow, k?)

Blah Blah Monday Monday!

2009-11-16T20:31:00.002-06:00

Sing along with me people "Blah Blah Monday Monday..." to the tune of the Mamas and the Papas of course!

I don 't think I got to enjoy enough baking yesterday. I did not get enough feet up on the couch have Ben rub them time yesterday. It was a "the alarm can't be going off already" Monday morning!

4 snoozes, or 36 minutes later, I finally dragged my butt-ocks out of bed. I only plan for 3 snoozes. Damn, already 9 minutes behind! Fortunately I did not take too long to figure out what to wear.

I love getting clothes back from the Dry cleaners. Skirts that have been cast aside in a basket for far too long, and then left unattended at the dry cleaners for too long as well, arrive home giving additional options once again.

I love this skirt. I am not, however, loving the fact that the shirt I chose is bunched up under said skirt! Grumble grumble...

I got this skirt at Anthropologie in the winter of 2004. Yes, it is almost 5 years old. I love the color, I love the ruffles, and I love how it is long enough to cover the tops of my boots, swinging to and fro' as I walk. I remember finding this skirt. I was shopping with my friend Sherri (Hi Sherri!!) and I held it up and thought "Oooh this is beautiful!" My size was not on the rack so I took what was there and held my breath. This was the ultimate in "vanity size gotta have this because you won't believe what size I got" purchases. I paid far too much money, but it was the first time I fit into the big "0". I know it was vanity sizing, because there are many women much smaller than me...the women that they had to add 00 to the sizing for. People - how can someone be sized less than nothing? Can we not go back to normal sizing where people do not have to buy clothes that have two zeroes? Regardless, it got me to purchase this skirt!

I always pair it with black, simply because that is the easiest way to go. I was a little at a loss this morning, as I could not find the black top I wanted. I grabbed this one and made due. It is incredibly soft, but I am sad to say that is about the only nice thing I can say about it at this point! I will keep it, if only to wear around the house. Everytime I walked into the ladies room today I just said "ugh".

The belt and the boots are repeats!

Ben got a nice shot of my "goth" fingernails. I not only got a pedicure on Saturday but I decided to get a manicure too. I love a good manicure; I do not love chipping said manicure within 1 day of getting it done. Anyone have any secrets to maintaining a good manicure? The only one I can think of is to stay off the computer and no typing! Hah! That is like asking me to not talk!

Pictures today were taken in Butler Square. I met Ben closer to his office today for lunch. We shared a bowl of posole. Posole is basically a pork/hominy soup with spices of black pepper, garlic, cayenne (lots) and a little clove in a beef broth. I ended up using a different recipe than the one I shared Saturday after Ben said "that recipe is not posole". As always, lunch was good but the company was better!

This office building is very nice. The inside is open all the way up. I am not sure how many floors it has, but the walls of the offices surrounding the inside are all glass. For those working in them, I imagine it can be like working in a fish bowl. From the outside, however, it is pretty cool!

I am going to work on being in a better mood for you all tomorrow :)

Have a great night and thanks for checking in, and checking out the ensemble! Remember to vote below!

Kel

Ha Karyn! This was not a Repeat!

2009-11-15T11:04:00.003-06:00

So, here is the picture I promised...this is what I wore on Friday!

I first must bitch, er vent, about the poofiness of my hair.

"Does it really look like that, or is is the camera angle?" I asked Ben.

"Yes" he said.

"Yes, to which one?"

"Um...". He was pleading the 5th I think!

Ugh. I need to try and style it so that it does not look like this!

Friday we had another winter coat to share. I finally picked up my dry cleaning on Thursday and was excited to get this green pea coat back. I purchased this 4 years ago at the Banana Republic outlet in Gurnee, Illinois. I lived way to close to the outlets in Gurnee! I love this coat, and it has more than paid for itself.

The pants are a black corduroy that I bought in Jacksonville, Florida at a boutique. I visited it whilst on a business trip. It was within walking distance of my hotel in a cute little area. They are the brand "AG". I have to be very careful when I wear these pants. They are quite low-rise, and things tend to bubble over, or muffin over, I should say. I had a different top on with these until the last minute when I changed.

The blouse is from J.Crew. I purchased it last year. I like the pink and the pattern, and the fact that it does not gape at the boobs! Well, it did accidentally come unbuttoned at lunch, and I am fairly certain that the patrons at Baja got a free show! Nothing Janet Jackson-ish, but enough to make me say "oops!"

I hope your weekend is going well so far. I got my grocery shopping done yesterday, and made some wheat germ corn muffins to go with dinner last night, as well as a batch of magic bars. I added an ingredient to the magic bars, attempting to make a salty/sweet combination...the layers were: graham crackers, condensed milk, crushed pretzel sticks (my addition), coconut, semisweet chocolate chips, butterscotch chips and pecans. Ben said they are tasty, but did not say the pretzels made a noticeable difference. I will let you know after I try one!

Today I AM going to make the posole! Damn it!

I am making chicken broth at the moment, as I also want to make a chicken pot pie today.

A cookie may be on the agenda for today as well!

Thanks for checking in! Please vote below!

Kel

Currently experiencing technical difficulties!

2009-11-14T10:16:00.002-06:00

Sorry I do not have Friday pics posted. Ben sent them to me, but on my work email, and I can't download attachments from my work email at home, blah blah blah!

Today is quite a dreary day in Minnesota. To perk me up a bit, I am going to go get a pedicure. A pedicure can solve a lot of problems, don't ya think? Actually, I am needing a pedicure. It is not even a question of pretty toes for open toed shoes anymore. Running can be hard on the toe nails, and I like to keep them short. And yes, the foot rub and scrub that come with it are nice too. Okay fine, I am too lazy to do it myself!

I am going to head to the grocery store after that. My plan today is to make posole. Ben is from New Mexico, and has talked a lot about this traditional holiday fare. I am going to give it a try today using this recipe.

I am sure some baking will get done this weekend as well. I have two pie pumpkins I bought last weekend that need to get cooked. Now that I have made my own pumpkin puree, I feel so Martha Stewart. Truth be known, I want the seeds, and it really does taste better than the canned stuff!

Any ideas on what I should bake?

I will get the Friday pics up this weekend! I promise!

Hope you all have some planned relaxation in your day today! See ya!

Kel

Doing Much Better, Thanks for Asking!

2009-11-12T20:51:00.003-06:00

I took control over the situation that caused me such grief yesterday. Thanks for your kind words!

On to today!

A repeat item! Not just one, but two!

You have seen this blouse before on a Casual Friday. For the story, click here.

The shoes are a repeat as well! Here is when you saw them last!

Now, remember my rules: I cannot repeat an ensemble. Individual pieces can certainly make a reappearance.

These pants are from J.Crew last winter. They are a wool pant, but fully lined so nothing itchy is going on! I have the same pair in beige; I had purchased the black ones in the store. Later, when the beige went on sale online, I scooped them up! They could probably be taken in a couple of inches; they are supposed to sit a little higher on the waist, which would make them just a little shorter. I have to be careful what shoes I wear with these pants. If I rock one of my platform shoes I look too much like Herman Munster. Not a good look!

The earrings are from...nope, can't remember. I loved the antique romantic look to them. They were purchased ...nope, can't remember that either :). I can tell you, however, when they were worn the first time - today! Yes, I guess I just never had the right outfit to pair them with. Today they just felt right.

Did you all notice I snuck a haircut in on you? I got it trimmed Tuesday evening. I announced it to my hairdresser - we are officially growing it out! Can't be sure where it will end, but not too long. I usually get it to shoulder length, and then decide to chop it all off!

Thanks for checking in! Please vote below.

Thanks again for helping me get my juju back!

Kel

The Phoenix Rises From the Ashes

2009-11-11T21:06:00.002-06:00

Friends - I am dealing with some significant personal issues today. Not my health, not my sweet Ben, not any drama in NM land. I cannot go into details, as, well, this is the internet.

Suffice it to say: when these pictures were taken today, I loved the symbolism of the Phoenix flying over my shoulder. The legend of this mythical creature said that only one Phoenix lived at a time; at the end of it's lifetime, the Phoenix would build it's nest, and then set it on fire. After 3 days a birth, or rather rebirth, of the Phoenix occurs, as it rises from the ashes.

I have often felt like a Phoenix rising from the ashes. I was given a second chance and rose out of the flames. I am dealing with issues today because someone is grabbing on to the wing of this Phoenix and pulling me back into the flames.

Perhaps too mysterious a post, but it is all I can do to stay together at this moment. I did not want to miss a post, and I greatly appreciate you stopping by today, even if I am not able to share a witty story about where my clothes came from.

Thanks friends.

Kel

Ever have one of those days?

2009-11-10T21:13:00.003-06:00

I get to vote this one out of the closet!

It is cute, huh? I got it at Banana Republic a year ago. A year. I have had many items I have shared with your far older than a year...so, what is the problem? As I was sitting down after a trip to the rest room, I was flattening the bottom under my butt...you know, the move you make so that your dress is not all bunched up as you sit down? I felt it. A hole. Not a rip on a seam, not the hem coming down...nope, a hole. About the size of a dime. Now, without too much detail as to my undergarments today, let me say I hope my ass was not exposed to all of Minneapolis today! Erika and Ben, both forced to look at my ass as I walked 6 feet in front of them, assured me you could not see it.

This all had to happen on top of the fact that this was the second dress I put on this morning. The first one? As I was washing my hands to get some makeup off of them, the soap dispenser must have been clogged; it sprayed all over my dress. Seriously? This led to the quick change.

I put the dress on and grabbed the green belt out of my drawer. I have had the belt for several years. I like it because it is fuzzy. You can't see that detail in the picture, but it is!

In the year of tights, I am still going without some days. Hey, a good leg shaving cannot be wasted on tights!

Black pumps, earrings Karyn loves, outfit done and dusted.

I do love a black dress! Just not one with a hole in the ass!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Old Habits Die Hard

2009-11-09T19:41:00.003-06:00

Hello all! Happy Monday!

Did I sound sincere? Did I make it at least sound like I was happy to have Monday arrive?

No?

I didn't think so!

A poor night of sleep and the morning seemed to arrive far too quickly. From the moment I got up to the moment I walked out the door, I felt like I was in slow motion...one of those mornings when you feel like you are rushing, but when you look at the clock, it seems like it is moving faster too?

I went for an easy dress today as a result. (Well, actually I went for a different dress that was hanging to dry in the guest bathroom but it was not dry.) &^$#!!

In my opinion, this dress did not photograph as cute as it really is! I got this dress last year at QVC. You recall, I have told you that I stopped purchasing clothing there long before my shopping hiatus, as it was hit/miss with the sizing. I liked the dress the moment I put it on. It is a swing dress; it fits well in the shoulders and trapezes from there! It is a short sleeve, thus the cardigan. A cardigan, a pair of tights and boots and it becomes a fall outfit!

The black cardigan is one you have not seen before; I know you haven't because I discovered it in the deep dark corner of the abyss I call my closet. It is a wool sweater I got at Banana Republic a couple of years ago.

Ben and I headed outside for our pictures today. It was a lovely afternoon and we could not resist it. I laughed when I saw what Ben had put together. Any time my head gets cut off in a picture, that means I could not have been making a very nice face! It was quite breezy, as you can see from the pic on the right, when my hair was having an Alfalfa moment. (If you are too young to know who Alfalfa is, it would take far too long for me to explain it. Google "Our Gang Alfalfa" and you will understand.)

So, the old habits? In somewhat of a funk today from the lack of sleep, I headed to Target. I had necessities to purchase; dishwasher detergent and a lint remover. I went out of my way to walk through Off Saks! At first, I told myself I would just look at the clothes for style ideas. Instead, I made my way over to the shoes. I did my usual routine of looking, touching and drooling. I even went so far as to try on a pair of Betsey Johnson pumps. I tried to take a picture with my iPhone but it came out fuzzy, most likely because my hands were shaking at the thought of NOT buying them! They were amazing; a black platform pump where one half was patent leather and the other was suede. $129 and 25% off. Such a short time ago they would have come home with me, curing whatever ailed me at the moment.

I realized something. I can't (or won't) eat decadent treats so I make them for my co-workers. I cannot purchase so I still shop. I am seeking out comfort; I still have some emotional issues I need to address apparently! I put some thoughts into an email and sent it to some friends and they helped me see that I did not need a new pair of shoes, or a pumpkin whoopie pie to make me feel better. Getting the words out did. By the way, for the pumpkin whoopie pie recipe just click here. I used one LESS stick of butter in the recipe than the filling called for, and substituted some whole wheat flour in there too. The bite I had yesterday was fantastic!

I hope that was not too much for a blog that is supposed to be about clothes!

As for this past weekend, I had put links to some recipes...the chili - AMAZING! The pea soup was fantastic, and I did not even need to add the cream at the end, saving a few calories. The lemon burst cookies were delicious and easy, and I also decided to make a pumpkin beer quickbread, the recipe which can be found here. Simply fantastic! But I was glad that Ben and I had ridden our bikes both Saturday and Sunday! It was too good!

The laundry got done... the bathrooms? Not so much!

Thanks for checking in. I feel better just by talking to all of you! Please vote below!

Kel

Pole Dancing, Anyone?

2009-11-06T19:35:00.004-06:00

No, I am not back in Las Vegas!

Ben and I met up with our friend Paul for lunch today. Hi Paul! He is one of the nicest people you will ever meet in your life! We will have lunch again soon!

Paul got to be a witness to the photo shoot today. This was taken on one of the famous "skyways" in downtown Minneapolis. The city is full of these skyways that connect one building to the next. It is about survival in the winter! Picture the "habitrails" that connect one section of a hamster cage to another section. It is exactly how the skyway system here works!

I guess I was in a particularly playful mood when these pictures were taken. I decided to grab the pole and take a swing! (There was no alcohol involved in lunch today - check my logs!)

The top today is a long sleeve tshirt from J.Crew that Ben bought for me this past Christmas. The v-neck is lined with layers of chiffon. As least that is what I think it is! It is a very comfortable T! I decided on wearing it today by literally reaching blindly into one of the piles at the top of the closet and seeing what I pulled out. Justagirl asked about my closet at one point - it is really a chaotic mess! I like the salmon pink shade. It reminds me of a carnation.

The jeans you have seen on a previous Friday. They are my straight leg Hudsons that I got at OffSaks. I needed the balance of a skinny jean with the top.

The shoes? These are my maryjane skechers. This is how I get from the parking garage to the office on most days. I had packed a pair of heels, but was so comfortable in today's ensemble, that I decided to take full advantage of Casual Friday and be, well, casual!

The earrings are from the collection of jewelry I have from my friend Sue. You can click on her name and it will take you to her website! It has been really hard not buying some of her most recent designs. Seriously. You have to know I am committed to this if I am willing to not purchase some of Sue's designs! I almost caved before Erika's wedding on this pair. They are beautiful!

Any plans this weekend? There are things I know I need to do:

1. Pick a winner of a tshirt on Nutrimirror for the Friday post.

2. I need to do laundry. Badly

3. 2 good workouts. We may even ride the bikes tomorrow!

4. Clean the bathrooms. I was inspired by Blazin's NM post to get it done this weekend.

Things I want to do this weekend:

1. Make a pot of chili. Check out the recipe here. I will be adding beans to it!

2. Make a batch of split pea soup. Check out the recipe here.

3. Give these lemon burst cookies a try.

4. Try my sister's Italian Cream Wedding Cake recipe that I finally got from her.

I am happy that I can do laundry and bake/cook at the same time! It is called multi-tasking!

Enjoy your weekend, doing whatever it is you choose to do!

Thanks for checking in! Vote on the ensemble below!

Kel

Who Can Turn The World On With Her Smile?

2009-11-05T20:19:00.003-06:00

Today was officially "Lazy Thursday"!

I don't often participate in lazy Thursday, but today I decided to take advantage of it.

What, exactly, is lazy Thursday, you ask?

I have mentioned before, I think, that I work for Target. The "uniform" at Target is red and khaki. Go to your local Target store, and you can recognize all Target team members by their red and khaki. Part of the Target Headquarters dress code is that red and khaki are acceptable any day. So, at any time, you can be in a meeting with men or women is suits and you can wear khaki pants and a red tshirt. Somehow, Thursdays are days when it seems everyone decides to wear red and khaki. I decided to join the fun today!

The top is from, well, Target! I got it 2 years ago, and is from the Merona line. I have the same shirt in black, and another one in black and white stripes. Hey, it was a good price! Why not buy more than one?

The skirt is yet another Target purchase, and I think this is also about 2 years old. It is from the now discontinued Isaac Mizrahi for Target line. I think this is only the second time I have worn it!

Because the outfit itself was a little, ah, boring, I decided to spice it up with the shoes. I wore my Naughty Monkeys. You have seen these before, but on a Casual Friday with jeans. Remember this?

I accessorized with a heavy link silver necklace.

Karyn had mentioned recently that she wanted a picture in front of Mary and Rhoda's house from the Mary Tyler Moore Show. Until we find that house, hopefully this statue of Mary will be a nice substitute! She is standing in Downtown Minneapolis. The placement of the statue, from what I understand, is that this is where she stood in the opening credits when she tossed her hat into the air. Cool, huh?

Thanks for checking in. While I would love to turn this over to a vote, I need to keep all my red and khaki pieces!

Kel

Treats, anyone?

2009-11-04T20:26:00.004-06:00

How fabulous is this sign? I am really enjoying these on-location shoots!

This was in City Center in Downtown Minneapolis. This is the lobby of the building in which I have been spending most of my work time of late. After our lunch today, we set off of on adventure to find today's location. Was I ever excited! This sign is perfect! It was love at first sight! And, it will go perfectly with this week's TGIF post on nutrimirror.

On to the ensemble!

The blouse was actually a purchase this summer! It may have been one of the last ones I made, as a matter of fact. I got it from Banana Republic. What is it about button down shirts? I love how they look when you are standing; everything is good, nothing is gaping, then BLAM you sit down at work and there is your belly hanging out for everyone to see! Okay, it was not that bad. I think had I worn it with a less padded bra, I might have been okay. It made me fidget! The good thing was that the only thing staring at my gaping blouse today was my computer screen!

The skirt is a 3 year old purchase from Ann Taylor. So much of what I purchased in the last 3 years was done on lunch hours! I remember heading over to Ann Taylor and picking this up on sale. I got a few other one's that same day. When I shop it is like Lays potato chips; you can't buy just one! The skirt is blue/black; hopefully you are able to see it in the picture. I can't tell you if it is blue flecks on black, or black flecks on blue. I just know I like it, especially the flouncy little hem.

I really am not fond of wearing the shame pair of shoes 2 days in a row, but the basic black pump works!

I grabbed the belt on the way downstairs this morning. I am not sure if it worked or not, but I knew I need something just could not figure out what. Any suggestions?

I have been having hair issues of late; you are going to hear a lot about my hair, most likely in the form of whining! I am officially growing it out! I must say I was influenced by being accused of dressing in drag in Las Vegas. I am not going for long, flowing locks. My hair is far too thin for that!

Off to go frost a cake! I made a pumpkin pound cake and I am frosting it with Cinnamon Brown Sugar Buttercream. Want the recipe? Check it out here!

Thanks for checking in! Have a great night!

Kel

ColdStone, Anyone?

2009-11-03T20:36:00.003-06:00

Ben and I set off for the car this afternoon; our picture location for today was yet to be established.

I could smell the cookies from Mrs. Fields baking as we approached this part of the skyway. The aroma was mouthwatering! I was tempted to stop and stare at the cookies, but was distracted by the ColdStone Creamery sign in the distance.

I do love ColdStone; we got an ice cream cake for my youngest son's birthday this past July. When you plan for it in your day, it is delicious!

Enough about ice cream! I am drooling here! On to the clothes!

Had I gotten ice cream it would have been birthday cake ice cream with graham crackers and strawberries...oh, sorry, I was lost in fantasy!

You would have thought with today's ensemble I would have chosen pistachios to be included! That is the color of today's cardigan choice. This cardigan was purchased at J.Crew after the Christmas holiday this last year. Honestly, if you need new clothes, keep an eye out after the holidays for a sale at J.Crew. Go straight for the sale racks. 30% off of the sale price can get you a sweater like this for $19.99. I am not kidding! I love the "bling" on the buttons. It is just enough sparkle!

The skirt is from Macy's 3 years ago. It is some brand, which escapes me at the moment; I guess the brand had little impact on me! It was another sale purchase, and another time that I was a sucker because the size was smaller than I would normally wear. Vanity sizing; it is the enemy of those trying to save money! It is a fine corduroy. I could not wear it a year ago as well, there was too much junk in the trunk! Junk being the operative word!

A t-shirt cami from the Gap outlet completes the look.

No boots or tights today; yup, I shaved my legs! I went with my simple black Steve Madden pumps.

I wore marcasite line earrings that are about 4 years old. I cannot remember when I wore them last. Honestly, I do have a good memory! It has been that long since I wore them last!

I like my outfit today; I hope you feel the same!

Thanks for checking in! Hmmm, I think I have some mint chocolate chip in the freezer...

Kel

Accessorized by Starbucks!

2009-11-02T19:13:00.003-06:00

Technically speaking I bought a new accessory today! A cup of Starbucks!

Ben and I met at Starbucks for lunch today. We pondered the various locations where we could take today's pictures and we decided that the entry way would do just fine! It is chilly out there!

I started the morning with pants, and after 2 shirt changes, I knew the shirt was not the problem - it was the pants! I felt like they were just too tight and did nothing for my butt! I cannot be sure if this is a permanent decision or not; time will tell!

Left with not many minutes to get ready, I knew it had to be tights (read that as no, I did not shave my legs!). Skirt and top? Dress? The dresses are first in my closet, after the suits, so I went ran through them. I came up with this dress. Ben had never seen it, so it has been at least 18 months since I have worn it. I think it is actually longer than that.

I got this from QVC over 3 years ago. It is the slinky fabric. I do like the no wrinkle, slinkiness of the fabric. This dress is very shapeless without a belt. No matter your size, if you had this dress, it would need a belt.

I opted for this silver belt that I got at Target 2 years ago. The belt purchase was a result of leaving the house without one that day, and deciding I was tired of pulling my pants up!

The boots? You have seen them before!

The Starbucks? A tall Pikes Place with a tablespoon of half n half!

Lunch? Homemade pea soup with homemade wheat bread, and a chocolate chip cookie.

Any questions?

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!

2009-11-01T10:05:00.005-06:00

Halloween - a day for orange, of course!

I started the day off with pumpkin oats - of course!

Ben and I had a great run this morning, and gave me a ton of energy. That was a good thing as I had a nice long list of errands and things to complete.

Since it was Halloween, I grabbed my orange sweater. I got this at Anthropologie 3 years ago. I usually pair it with a tank underneath, but I decided that since it was a Saturday, I would be a little more daring! The sweater is actually a little more "melon" than it is orange, but the bagger guy at Trader Joe's said it would count, especially since I was too lame to wear a costumer. Yes, that is what he told me! It was all in good fun, and not insulting in the least!

I paired it with a pair of jeans from J.Crew. I have had these for 2 years, and I believe I got them when they were on clearance. I have mentioned before how much I love J.Crew; however, now that I no longer receive their emails dangling free shipping or 20% off with a $150 purchase, I am much better off! I am certain that many of the J.Crew items I have today were because I needed "just one more thing" to take me over the limit to qualify me for whatever it was they were offering. Clever bastards! I fell for it time and time again.

Anyways, these jeans are actually a very light weight denim, and are designed to "slouch", which is a great choice for a Saturday. Comfort is needed when reaching on the bottom shelf at Trader Joe's for the last bag of Organic Blue Corn Chips, or when one is headed to Costco for toilet paper!

I am wearing my brown boots; I thought about wearing my sh*tkickers today, but, I have a blister on the back of my right foot! I wear heels all the time, and can escape without injury. I have shoes that I wear to and from the office. I have a pair of really cute black sketchers from last year. Problem is they tore up my heel n Friday! The 15 minute walk to the office resulted in blister! I did not want to aggravate it, so I went with the boots. (How can shoes designed for comfort injure me?)

I am wearing my orange ring today. I got this in Las Vegas 4 years ago at Landau. I reach for it whenever I am wearing orange, melon, rust, or anything with predominantly fall colors.

The little silver bracelet? I never take that off. I got it last Christmas from my oldest son. It was a complete surprise for me, given to me after the actual holiday. The only time it came off is when the clasp broke; Ben fixed it for me so that I could put it back on the next day. It is faux everything; silvertone and crystals. I had to laugh when Ben and I went to Tiffany's to browse when we were in Vegas. The sales woman said "Oh, you have the diamonds by the yard bracelet. It is beautiful!" Thank You , I said, and walked to the next case.

Hope you Halloween was grand!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

A Casual Lunch on A Casual Friday!

2009-10-31T11:05:00.004-05:00

Ben and I met for lunch again. I never told you all that he got a new job and is working downtown again. (He was working downtown when we first met, and daily lunches became part of our daily ritual.) Today was a nice surprise in that I did not think we would get to have lunch together. I ate my sunflower seed butter sandwich and he had a sub from Jimmy Johns. A piece of Dove chocolate for dessert and we were both happy! I think it was the company rather than the food!

I was a bit concerned getting ready for work today. Concerned is not the right word; anxious perhaps. I was looking through my jeans and it went something like this:

Nope, these are the ones that need to be hemmed.

I just wore these last week.

They will tear me to shreds if I wear these.

This pair? Hmmm, it has been a while since I even put these on.

This is how I ended up with today's denim selection for Casual Friday.

These jeans are from a line called Y ?, translating to Why Question. I purchased these at the boutique Goodthings 3 years ago. I did not go in there that day to purchase any jeans, knowing that I really do have enough. I was trying on a shirt, and needed a pair of jeans just to see how they would look. I put these on and knew I could not leave them in the store. They are a skinny jean that are loaded with spandex. The part that I like best is that they are not a low riding, hip huggin' pair that falls below my undesirable poochy parts nor are they mom jeans that come up to my breasts. As Goldilocks said "They are just right!" I almost choked when she totaled my purchase at the store that day. This brand is shamefully expensive, which would explain why I only have one pair.

The T-shirt is of my beloved Audrey Hepburn. One can only hope to be as beautiful as Audrey. This T came from Target last year; this next statement is not to drum up business for Target, but is because it is ridiculous to pay a lot of money for t-shirts these days. Go to Target. Check out their selection of Graphic tees! The quality is quite good! The image on this t-shirt is of Holly Golightly staring into the Tiffany's window, her nonfat danish purchase in the bag with her cup of coffee as well. I love that the T-shirt has it's own "bling"; Holly is wearing a big rhinestone necklace that becomes a 3D element on the t-shirt.

I wore it with a blazer today. I was torn as to a cardigan or a blazer. After looking at this pic, I think I made the wrong choice! This is a velvet blazer that I got at Old Navy 4 years ago. It has rhinestone buttons of it's own that I thought would be a nice match for the T-shirt. Unfortunately, it is hitting me at a spot that is making me look quite wide in the waist. Never a good thing for someone that struggles to keep her hip-to-waist ratio below a 0.8 anyways!

The shoes? I wanted to keep it simple, and the fact that my pants would not fit over any boots!

I hope you all had a great Friday. Mine was spectacular as the day ended with Ben and I having dinner at our beloved tequila bar Barrio.

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

It had to be done!

2009-10-29T21:05:00.003-05:00

I have been waiting and waiting to wear this dress! I could not postpone it any longer!

I love this dress! I know you will see it again this fall/winter. Today I wore it like I like it best; boots, and a big necklace. It will be interesting, well, at least to me, how I end up accessorizing it next time to be able to wear it again.

I got this dress 2 years ago from the Victoria's Secret Catalogue. I have not purchased a lot of clothes from there; bathing suits and lingerie, yes! I am certain if you go on-line that they still have this dress. It is probably on clearance for $59 just like it has been for the past 2 years! It comes in quite a few colors, and I had been tempted in the past to buy a red one, but decided one is enough. You can't improve on basic black. The long line is slimming, at least I hope it is!

I rocked it with my favorite platform patent leather boots.

The pendant I am wearing is a birthday gift I got 2 years ago from my friends Erika and Gretchen. They got it at the Swatch store - yes the watch people. I love it! It came on a black cord, and I love how it stands out against black.

I kept the earrings small today; bolder ones kept getting caught in the turtleneck.

Today's picture was taken in the City Center Building in Downtown Minneapolis. Ben and I met for lunch at Starbucks today; I packed a salad and half an acorn squash. We did make a purchase of water just so we did not feel guilty sitting at one of their tables. This bank of escalators in outside of Starbucks. The "grass" behind me is actually plastic! I liked my architectural back drop today. I liked my lunch date and photographer better!

Off to finish up TGIF with Kel. Check it out tomorrow on Nutrimirror!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

p.s. Remember to vote below!

No, I did not have an interview!

2009-10-28T20:03:00.005-05:00

I had the question asked of me a couple of times today: "Do you have an interview or something today?"

No, I just did not have time to think about what to wear.

Ben had to be at work early, and since we were commuting together today...you get the picture.

I tried one other dress on, and as I headed into the closet, I said "I think it is time to break out a suit". I had many suit options from a different time in my life; I chose this one since it has been literally 3+ years since I have worn it!

I got this suit at Ann Taylor 5 years ago. I don't often wear jackets such as this; I prefer a jacket with a more open color. This Peter Pan color is cute, and I like that there is a band of satiny "ribbon" around the waist. It was an easy choice. I literally gave one second of thought to the shirt I would wear underneath, and chose a slate blue Michael Stars tee. You can't even see it here! I did end up with a hot flash or two today, so I was able to take my jacket off and not be overexposed!

For the shoes, I intended on wearing a pair of plain black pumps, but the whole thing was far too interviewish! I chose to jazz it up a little bit with my Naught Monkeys.

We took these pictures after work today and unfortunately I had not reapplied my lip gloss :(. Didn't even think of it until we were looking at the pictures. Ugh.

We took today's pictures in a cute little park in the Northeast section of Minneapolis, the St. Anthony Main neighborhood. I am really enjoying these photo shoots on location! I was tired of my porch!

Not a lot to say tonight; I think it was that early morning wake up, and then staring at a computer screen for 10 hours today at work. I am a sleepy girl!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

La la la la la!

2009-10-27T20:40:00.005-05:00

That is me singing...

That is me singing as I completely ignore the votes on my skirt from yesterday. 17/23 votes to get rid of it? It is interesting to me that I most often agree with the voting. I have found that I tend to sway the vote by talking one way or the other; in this case I came right out and said I love it, yet this many votes against it.

I guess my reason for ignoring it is that I don't know why you feel it should go. Does it make me look ridiculous? Do you not like Chinese Jars? Is it the paneling? I am not going to spend a lot of time thinking about it, but it is hanging in the closet awaiting it's next wearing...

la la la la la! (Honestly, when I say I want your feedback, I mean it! )

On to today!

Today's ensemble started with a different sweater and this skirt; I was not happy with the way the sweater sat around my bloated belly (about one more day of it) so I chose a cardigan and cami instead.

I think you are seeing what I call my winter uniform clearly in action today!

Cardigan

Cami

Skirt

Boots

I am happy that I have many options between the cardigan/cami/skirt to keep me going for a while. Hopefully enough!

Today's skirt is a purchase from Ann Taylor Loft 2 years ago. When I bought it, I also bought a brown cardigan which at the moment is no where to be found! I like that the plaid has many colors for me to build an outfit from; tan/brown/maroon all go nicely with it.

The cardigan is from J.Crew last winter. I was on a major J.Crew cardigan tear last winter! I love the ribbons/bows around the neckline. J.Crew is a great place for the "everyday" cardigan, but I especially love the ones with the little embellishments.

All was paired nicely with my brown boots. Well, at least I think it was until I hear otherwise!

Today's picture was an on the town photo. This was actually in the parking garage! In the distance behind me, you can see what is the new home of the Minnesota Twins, called Target Field. I laughed wickedly when the Twins were in playoff games and it was snowing outside; the current stadium is inside a dome. The team and fans apparently wanted a new stadium, and this one does not have a dome. First game of next season could be really cold!

That is it for tonight...early bedtime for this gal!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Workin' At the Carwash Yeah!

2009-10-26T20:07:00.004-05:00

Sorry, bad 70's flashback with that song!

But I had to! My skirt today is of the carwash style, in that is has panels that swish back and forth.

I had a different skirt on this morning, and as I started to head downstairs, one last glance in the mirror told me I needed to change. I am b l o a t e d and the other skirt was only emphasizing it.

I got this skirt at Catwalk 4 years ago. When I made the purchase, I was still working at my last company, and having to wear suits everyday. It was a total impulse purchase, but I love this skirt. It has Chinese bottles on it, and I like to think they were herbals or from ancient Chinese pharmacy. I love the swishing of the panels, and Ben was kind enough to capture the skirt spinning in action as I scuffed up the bottom of my new boots.

What did she say?

Yes, they are new. Well, rather this is their maiden voyage. However, they are actually 2 years old!

Here is the sad story. I purchased these at DSW 2 seasons ago. They were fine when I tried them on in the store. The first time I attempted to wear them, one of the zippers got stuck! I had to wrestle it off of my leg, and tossed them in the closet in disgust, I had every intention of taking them back to DSW, but you know what happens with the best laid plans!

I planned on wearing my other black boots today, but when I went into the closet, I spied these. I asked Ben if he wouldn't mind fighting the zipper. As I was asking, I was playing with the zipper and got it unstuck! I was almost in big trouble, however, when I put them on this morning. Instead of the zipper getting stuck in a part of the boot, it caught my tights! After a significant amount of time, the zipper went up; I was not taking them off at that point!

The sweater is a cropped black cardigan that I wore over my Banana Republic cami.

I really am enjoying finding different jewelry to wear. These earrings were free; they came along with an eBay purchase I made last year. How nice!

I hope you let me keep the skirt because I love this one! The vote below!

Now, I promised 1frugalqueen my bread recipe from yesterday. (Click her name to check out her awesome blog!)

The bread is from The Eat-Clean Diet Cookbook by Tosca Reno. It is really easy and delicious!! I made the whole batch yesterday so I could freeze some of the bread, but you may want to cut in half as it makes 4 large loaves!

Schommer's Whole-Grain Bread

5 1/2 cups water

1/4 cup organic honey

1/2 cup canola oil

1 tablespoon Sea Salt

3 tablespoons yeast

11-12 cups whole grain flour

(for the record, the recipe also calls for 1/4 tea ascorbic acid. I don't know why it is needed; I have made this bread several times without it! Also, I only used about 10 cups flour yesterday.)

1. Combine all ingredients except whole grain flour. Let stand until the yeast is dissolved and starting to rise.

2. Coat your hands with oil to prevent the dough from sticking to your hands. Add flour 4 cups at a time and knead for 10 minutes. (I mixed all of this in my Kitchenaid stand mixture with the dough hook. Easy!)

3. Shape into loaves or buns and place into pans. Let rise until double in size.

4. Bake at 325 degrees for 30-35 minutes until golden on top.

5. Remove from oven and turn onto cooking racks immediately.

I enjoyed this so much this morning for breakfast! Toasted with sunflower seed butter with sliced banana. Divine!!

Enjoy!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Happy to be Home!

2009-10-25T19:34:00.004-05:00

I have been spending a great deal of time adjusting after vacation...getting back into the swing of things, so to speak.

I can't believe it is Sunday and I am just now getting to share with you my Friday casual outfit!

The jeans are a pair of Joe Jeans; this style is called cigarette. They are a skinny jean but because of the amount of spandex there is a ton of s-t-r-e-t-c-h. They are quite comfy :). They are 3 years old, and I purchased them, I think from Anthropoligie. The camisole is 4 years old and was purchased at a boutique in Illinois. I can't remember the name of it. I went there once and picked up a few items. Guess it was not too memorable!

The sweater is from Banana Republic I picked it up 2 years ago. It came in beige or grey. I actually spent about 20 minutes trying to decide which color to get! I am happy with the beige!

The belt is from Silpada. I love the big silver buckle!

No picture of my Saturday outfit as it is still sitting in Ben's camera!

As much as I love a vacation away to some warm sunny place, where you can indulge in delicious restaurant cooked meals and some sightseeing, the older I get the more I realize I am happiest at home.

Yesterday we had friends over to the house for dinner. Ben cleaned; I cooked. As a result, Sunday housekeeping was done a day early. We slept in late this morning; we had a breakfast different for us. If you can have breakfast for dinner, why not dinner for breakfast? Well, at least around here, Roast beef hash and poached eggs is dinner. The hash is from Trader Joe's. If you see it, buy it. Do not hesitate!

I enjoyed cooking yesterday, and chose to do some more today. Here is what I cooked/baked... 17 Bean and Barley Soup (the Trader Joe's mix, Homemade Applesauce from Clean Eating Cookbook, Wheat Bread from the Clean Eating Cookbook, Calavasitas con Maez ala Sylvia, Pumpkin Scones and an Upside Down Gingerbread Pear Tart. Most of the scones and the cake will be going to work tomorrow :).

The kitchen is now clean, and I am sitting in the corner of my couch where I seem to be happiest of late. Dorothy said it best when she said "There is no place like home." Especially when home smells as good as mine does right now!

Pumpkin Scones with Leftover Fat Ass Frosting :) Only 198 calories (without the FAF of course!)

17 Bean and Barley Soup from Trader Joe's

Upside Gingerbread Pear Cake

Nothing like the smell of fresh baked bread!

Thanks for checking in!

Votes will resume tomorrow!

Kel

The Vegas Weekend Continues!

2009-10-22T21:10:00.005-05:00

But before we get to that...today!

I had a wonderful night's sleep, but you would never know it from the looks of me today! I feel far better than I look! I think my coffee just had yet to kick in!

There are some days where I can walk into the closet, see a dress, and know I want to wear it. Fortunately today was one of those days! My only concern was - will it zip? It did, and I was happy!

I got this jumper November 2007 when my friend Sherri was here. It was tried on by another friend we were with, and I was delighted when she didn't like it! It is hard to see but it is red and grey houndstooth (I think). I have worn it with a red turtleneck, but figured Carrie would not like that. Just kidding Carrie! The red turtleneck, once located, was too wrinkled to wear. I decided on the red sweater instead. Honestly, I think the red sweater is too bright for the dress. I tried on a black cardigan too; this was the lesser of two evils! The dress is rather form fitting, as you can see. Despite it's length, or lack of length, I was comfortable in it, probably because of the tights.

I went with some textured tights, thinking I would wear boots. I went into the closet for the boots, and the Banana Republic pumps spoke to me. The look on Ben's face was all I needed to know I made the right choice.

All for your approval/appraisal below! I look forward to it. I really missed you guys!

Monday in Vegas was a typical "vacation day". We slept in, well, as best we could since we still woke up at 6am every day. After yet another buffet breakfast, we headed out for a great 90 minute walk. I do enjoy walking on the Vegas strip; the people watching is fantastic! The weather was grand! After our walk we headed back to the hotel for more time by the pool.

We had an early date at 5 to meet up with SylviaAnn (those of you from NM know who that is!). I took my time getting ready; I chose to wear one of the dresses I bought since we had dinner plans for 8pm, and, well, I had no choice!!

Sorry I don't have a full dress shot for you. This is a Betsey Johnson dress that has spaghetti straps, but the wind made it a little impossible to wonder about without a sweater. I got the dress last year on eBay. It is a nice stretchy dress, yet it is also very clingy. I was happy that it fit in all of the right places!

I am sad to say I do not have a picture of the ensemble I wore on Tuesday. I promise it was not a repeat. I did wear the same jeans that I was wearing Saturday but with a different tshirt.

Since there are no Tuesday pics I will leave you with one more wedding photo!

This picture is our friend Jennifer, Erika, me, and another friend Stephanie. Erika and I work with Jennifer now; we both worked with Stephanie in the past. I am going to start charging people that steal my pose! (You can click to make the picture biger; I have to figure out this resizing thing because they come out too big for the blog!)

I hope you all enjoyed the wedding pictures!

Don't forget to vote on today's ensemble! Off to write the NM TGIF with Kel!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Thank You for Your Patience!

2009-10-21T20:28:00.006-05:00

Wow! You would think in this day and age that there would not be a place on this Earth where the internet/wi-fi is not free. There may have been free wi-fi somewhere in Vegas, but not where I was staying!

Let's get today out of the way...boring blue top, black slacks from Banana Republic, Stuart Weitzman pumps, and a silver Robert Lee Morris necklace.

My handbag is from Radley; it was time to change over from the Spring/Summer bag to the Fall/Winter.

Okay, let's move on, shall we?

Friday night was the bachelorette party. You all kindly voted, and it was a 2:1 vote for the red dress. Here it was on Friday night!

I will not wear this dress again. As a matter of fact, I purposefully left it in the hotel room in Vegas! Here is the deal; it was so over the top that people thought I was really trying to look, well, hot. As we made our way to the party, it was just Ben and I. The comments were outrageous. By the end of the night, I had overheard no less than 3 people ask each other if I was a man. It was not the best moment for my self esteem, but I share everything with you all!

Saturday was a fun day. There was a run on the strip as we detoxed from the previous evenings festivities. I sat by the pool for a short while, soaking in some much needed sun. I headed up to the room to get ready for an evening out with my Ben. Then it started...I tried on everything I had brought with me! That is what I do not like about traveling; you are forced into whatever you packed. There was a time I would have run out and bought something new. Could not do that, so I made the best of it! This was the result...

The large bag is fabulous for traveling, and for carrying an extra pair of shoes!

Sunday was the big day! I have included some pictures of the bride and groom for you to enjoy, as well as the bride and me.

Tomorrow I will be back with Monday and Tuesday ensembles...for now, this girl is tired from a long day back at work!

Thanks for checking in, and my deepest apologies on leaving you all hanging!

Kel

16 Nay 5 Yay

2009-10-15T20:09:00.004-05:00

Well, that would be 6 yay, because Ben liked it too. Liked what? The purple dress from yesterday!

I had that dress in my closet for over a year. Yesterday was the first time I wore it! I am so happy you gave me your opinion. The overwhelming opinion told me what I felt - there is just something off about it. carrieredhead may be right that it is the shape. I told Ben I was a large block of purple wood! Erin - my goal was to channel the 60's, so I am glad that I at least got that part down! I definitely stood out in a crowd yesterday!

Today? I blended in for sure!

I knew I wanted to wear pants (as in no leg shaving occurred today). My original thought was a different sweater, but it was too fussy for me. My goal was simplicity.

The pants are from a suit I bought at Ann Taylor 4 years ago. As I mentioned to my friends on Nutrimirror today, they fit better now than they did back then. I have a little more junk in the trunk, so to speak. It was all of the bicycling this summer! They have a faint gray stripe in various widths running through them.

The sweater is one you have seen before. I wore it a few weeks ago on a casual Friday. Today I chose to pair it with a black tank top.

My shoes are a repeat as well. They were last paired with a LBD and a turtleneck.

The accessories today? Channeling, hopefully, Jackie O, I went with a strand of multi-color Honora pearls. I love this necklace. I don't wear it often enough! When I am thinking "classic" I think pearls. I like that the grey/gray pearl stands out with this sweater.

I am showing you #2 fall into winter coat today. It was doing that thing outside where it is not raining, but it is white and flaky...yes, still trying to ignore it...I got this jacket during an after season sale at Banana Republic last Christmas. It is my dress up puffy coat. Hopefully I do not look like George Costanza from Seinfeld, or worse, the Michelin man!

Today was my Friday as I am on vacation tomorrow! It makes me kind of sad to miss a casual Friday.

No it doesn't!

The next few days will be full of all sorts of clothes, both day and night!

Thanks again for your thoughts on yesterday's dress, and I look forward to your thoughts on today. Please vote below!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

I want your opinion!

2009-10-14T20:42:00.002-05:00

I am not going to say a lot about today's outfit. You can see it is a purple dress. I am wearing it with my favorite boots. I am wearing a necklace as a belt, and some simple earrings that I dug out of an old jewelry box.

Why the different approach today? I want you to give me feedback without any influence from me. No story about the dress, and no words telling you how I feel about this dress.

I am going to have a very simple vote too. You either like it or you don't. I would love your comments either way. Please know that I am someone that provides honest feedback and I appreciate the same from others. I know those of you that have given feedback have always been honest; I am just saying others should not be concerned about giving feedback. I can take it!

I did not get up and workout this morning. I did, however, go for a run after work. Ben and I changed some plans around for tonight so that we could be home after work and we could work out together. After looking in the mirror, I thought it would be entertaining for you to see what a mess I am when I dress to go running!

It was 42 degrees when we were headed out. Mittens and a hat were a must! It was sprinkling as we headed out, and I almost backed out. Yeah, like that was going to happen!

It always takes me about 2 miles to warm up; the last 2 felt much better than the first! We have a 4.2 mile path we like to take. Ben let me choose whether we would only do 3.1 (5k) but I decided as long as we were out, we might as well keep going.

On the way home, we had a deer run across the trail about 100 yards ahead of us. When we looked up the little hill, there was a beautiful buck silhoutted by the sky behind it. It really was amazing to see this beautiful creature about 25 yards away from us, standing as still as possible. I wish we had a picture of that to share!

That is all of the conversation in me today!

Here is the Ginger Chewy recipe I promised you!

The recipe is adapted from big fat cookies by Elinor Klivans. I have not met a cookie in there that I don't like!

2 and 1/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

2 teas baking soda

1/4 tea salt

1 tea ground cinnamon

1 tea ground ginger

1/2 tea cloves

3/4 cup (1 and 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temp

1 cup packed light brown sugar

1 large egg

1/4 cup molasses

about 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Position rack in the middle of the oven. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Sift the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves into a medium bowl and set aside. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the butter and brown sugar until smoothly blended, about 1 minute. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed during mizing. Add the egg and molasses and mix until blended and an even light brown color, about 1 minute. On low speed, add the flour mixture, mixing just to incorporate it.

Spread the granulated sugar on a large piece of wax or parchment paper. Roll dough between the palms of your hands into a ball. (I actually like to use a small ice cream scoop, and then drop it in the sugar, rolling to coat with sugar.) Place on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

Bake until the tops feel firm , but they are still soft in the senter and there are several large cracks on top, about 14 minutes. (This was the baking time given for a 2 inch size ball; if you wish to make smaller, reduce your cooking time.) Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then use a wide metal spatula to transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

The cookies can be stored in a tightly covered container at room temperature for up to 4 days. (Bring them to work; they won't last more than 4 hours!)

The original recipe says it makes 14 cookies - those are BIG cookies. I made 26 cookies, and they were about 131 calories each. I like them better the day after I make them. Oh, now I am going to dream about them.

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

An Impromptu Date

2009-10-13T18:42:00.004-05:00

This morning I had to be at work earlier than usual. As a result, we decided to wait until after the work day was done to take today's pictures.

Ben drove Miss Daisy (me) to work today and picked me up this afternoon. I have a hair appointment scheduled, so we agreed upon an early pick up time so we could get in a run before the appointment.

I expected Ben to take my pictures as I approached the car. He waved me over, and said "Let's go up ahead where we can get out of traffic and take some pictures." Fine with me. A police man parked not too far away would have probably agreed to that too!

As we were headed out of downtown I wondered where we should go for our photo shoot. I thought about the Nicollet Island Inn, which would give us great views of the Mississippi River and the city. Then I said "We could go to Pracnas and get Bloody Mary's and then take pictures." The light of a great idea beamed in Ben's eyes. Neither one of us was too excited for a run apparently! He thought it was a great idea, and to Pracnas we went.

Pracnas has amazing Bloody Mary's! They are served with a giant pickle. I let Ben have the pickle because I knew my sodium would be shot to hell, after having had lunch out with coworkers. We shared a quesadilla and some hand holding, as well as some work talk.

We took some pictures inside as well as out. I love the variety today! I hope you do too!

The indoors - the setting was the bar of Pracnas. It has been around forever; the dark wood is lovely. Almost as nice as the cocktails!

My dress today is two years old, and was purchased at a boutique in Downtown White Bear Lake called Good Things. The Black and White Houndstooth dress came from there. I saw this same dress later at Macy's. This dress is very feminine and flirty to me; I always feeling like twirling like a little girl in it! I abstained from that in Prachnas, however, as I had already stumbled into a chair and made a small scene as it was! I paired today's dress with the open toed Stuart Weitzman patent leather pumps. A heel is starting to go on these and I making an annoying clicking sound with every other step! They are worth repairing, especially when you can't buy a replacement!

We headed outdoors, and got some nice shots of the city behind me. You can see the Mississippi (you know I am singing the song to spell it everytime I write it, don't you?) . There is one of the many bridges that get you from one part of Minneapolis to the downtown area. Ben and I recently ran a 5k race in this same area. I had a difficult time walking today on the brick paved streets!

Since the temps were in the 30's today, I caved and finally wore a coat. I love this particular coat; it works well as I transition into the colder months. That's right. It gets c-o-l-d-e-r. Ugh.

I got this coat 4+ years ago at Anthropologie. I love love love Anthropologie. The first one I ever ventured into was in Connecticut on a vacation. I looked online and found one close to me in Illinois (where I was living at the time). Knowing that they have notoriously great sales after the holidays, I went in to my local Anthropologie. I saw a beautiful woman wearing a beautiful coat. I complimented her on it, and she said "I got it here, and I think I saw one." She came back not 30 seconds later with this coat in her hands. On sale, no less! It was love at first sight. I love the ruffle at the bottom and the colors. Hopefully you like it too, because this one is simply not going anywhere!

I had Ben provide a close up of my Radley wallet (or purse as they call it in England). The scottie dog is their symbol; he dances across my wallet, playing in the flowers. Love it!

Today's accessories were pretty simple; an old silver rope chain that I cannot recall how long I have had it or when the last time I wore it was, and my cz stud earrings.

It is late here, and I must head off to bed soon; a missed workout tonight means I should really get up in the morning and go to the gym. I promise to post the ginger chewies recipe this week!

Please vote below!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Let It Snow?

2009-10-12T20:05:00.002-05:00

More...see it in the pictures...ignore it and maybe it will go away...

Of late, I spend my time in the shower mentally putting together outfits so that the "getting ready" for the day goes quicker. Besides - there is the shave/no shave question. Damn it. Today was a wasted shave! Not really :) It did not take several wardrobe changes today however. I saw the blazer and built the ensemble from there!

The blazer was purchased at Target 3 years ago, and was from their Isaac Mizrahi for Target line. I was fortunate to meet Isaac one year. We had a National Sales Meeting and there he sat with his bandana around his head and flip flops. I could barely talk. You would think I was meeting...I can't think of anyone famous...I am just as speechless at the memory as I was when I met him! I am standing funny in this pic - the blazer does fit!

I paired it with a skirt from Ann Taylor Loft that I got in December 2004. I love this skirt, and I have worn it many times since then. You may see it paired again with a pink cardigan or perhaps an ivory sweater. I love it with tights and boots so that it what I had to do!

The boots are finally a full boot shot. These have been peeking out underneath jeans in a couple of recent photos. Love them. Worn for 10 hours an not a peep from the toes!

I asked Ben to take some close shots on some of my jewelry. I have not spent much time talking about my ring obsession!

My right hand ring for today is from Betsey Johnson. I purchased this before Christmas 2007. Erika and I were out shopping; we saw this at Macy's and I had to try it on! Erika left to take a phone call, and in the amount of time she was gone I had purchased it. Little did I know she was thinking about buying it as my Christmas gift. I blew that one! It is big, bold and has a leopard pattern on it. I love it!

The necklace is a herringbone that, again, I bought many many years ago. I think I have worn it once before! I like it because it has a rose tone pattern of roses on the matte silver. The other side is high polished silver. You guys are making me use a little time and selection in my jewelry armoire! It is actually quite fun taking out items I have not worn in ages!

Please vote on the items below!

By the way, the votes for yesterday were that majority of you would try a ginger chewy cookie. Great choice! 131 calories :) If anyone wants the recipe, just leave me a comment. If there are enough comments I will post it for all of you!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Robe, Sweats, Cords, Sweats, Robe

2009-10-11T19:22:00.003-05:00

That about sums up my day!

Have a good night!

No, I won't do that! It is still 2 hours before bedtime, so I will talk a little more!

I started today by sleeping in...it was one of those days where nothing was planned; I woke up at 8 with every intention of getting up. I rolled over and before I knew it, it was 9:45!

A couple of lazy hours in my robe; reading journals and blogs, planning dinner. I dressed into my sweats and Ben and I took a leisurely walk. It was warmer than yesterday but there was still a nip in the air. The leaves are falling off of the trees before they have even had a chance to change color; I am not ready for winter.

After we got home , it was time for lunch and a shower. We were only running an errand to one store; I declared a no make up or hair dryer Sunday!

Now, I am not one that worries about running into others I know while I am not wearing make-up. I was a tad bit hesitant, however, to "bare" it all here. But, what the heck, we all look better with make-up. I figure it won't hurt to share me au naturale. No, not naked; even though it feels that way!

My sweater is quite old, purchased 4 years ago at Catwalk. I found it cute and cozy. I think it has been a couple of years since I have worn it. I have a nondescript cami underneath.

The cords are from JCrew. I ordered them online in the winter of 2007. I could not fit into them when they first arrived at the house. That was when I was in denial that I was starting to gain a few pounds back, and was still ordering my old size. I like them; I don't love them.

The shoes? For lack of a better term, these are shi* kickers! I throw them on when I need to run a quick errand. Hey, I showered at least. I never promised you heels every day!

The pictures were taken outside of Buon Giorno which is a lovely little Italian Bistro/store. We went to purchase the best Italian sausage and marinara sauce. Ben made a great sauce tonight for dinner!

I spent the afternoon preparing some items I can pack for lunch that are not salad. I made a butternut squash soup, and roasted some butternut squash, acorn squash and sweet potatoes. I tossed that with some lentils for lunch tomorrow. Can't wait to see the nutritional stats on that baby!

Just an update on yesterday's activities...I did bake all day, but ran to the store...after a shower, and yes, I did change out of the robe! A long sleeved tshirt and a pair of jeans was thrown on, with the aforementioned shi*kickers. It was a quick trip and I was home in sweats baking the night away. I ended up with Ginger Chewies - fabulous. Sweet potato cake that I tasted today - delicious. And the best Golden Grand Marnier Cake! It is all headed to the office tomorrow where it will no doubt be appreciated and devoured!

It was a lovely relaxing weekend. Hope yours was a good one!

Check out the poll below; of course it isn't clothes related!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

As Good As It Gets

2009-10-10T10:13:00.003-05:00

A Good Morning to You!

A little fun here today...today is going to be no make up Saturday. I will take a walk, I will take a shower, then most likely get right back into my robe. Why? Baby, it's cold outside!

Look at my sweet Ben's photos of the snow. Yes, snow. I had mentioned the possibility of flurries the other day. It is cold ( 25 degrees ) and the snow may stick around for a little while.

A cold day like this presents a challenge for walking outdoors. However, I am up for the challenge. Well, maybe once I get dressed, put on my warm workout clothes, gloves, hat and puffy jacket I will be ready for the challenge. I would love to take a picture of that for you if only because it is rather entertaining to see how I can take time and effort most days, and how truly hysterical I look when headed out for a cold day walk. I can't do that as my photographer will be headed out shortly, and I am in no rush to get out of my warm robe!

I am dressed in a lovely heathered gray bathrobe that I got 5 years ago at Target. It is my winter robe. I busted it out this week finally. The cute white robe I wore all spring and summer has been washed and out away until next - June?

I am in front of the stove, which apparently could use a good cleaning - and am making the morning oats. A day like this makes me want to bake in a bad way! I have already taken out 2 cookbooks; one has delicious recipes for giant cookies, and the other is actual a novel called Eat Cake. Eat Cake is a delicious novel written by Jeanne Ray. It is a tale of a woman that loves to bake to relieve stress, and turns out doing it to support her family. It is a wonderful quick read, and I highly recommend it. In the back of the book are recipes; I have always wanted to make one, and today might just be that day! I will happily bake this weekend and arrive at work on Monday with arms full of goodies for my coworkers! I think I will make chewy ginger cookies (they are divine) and a Golden Grand Marnier cake.

I may get cute tomorrow and have a picture to share; we will see!

As for now, I am leaving a vote up for yesterday's plaid outfit!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Mad About Plaid

2009-10-09T20:27:00.004-05:00

Hooty Hoot! It is Casual Friday!

I hope you all are as excited as I am to see the end of this week. It has been a long one!

Let's get right to the clothes, shall we?

The star of today - this plaid jacket. It is from the brand Lily. I don't think I ever realized what "brand" it is; despite the fact that I make brand references often, I am not, well, a brand whore. I do know that when I like a brand, I tend to look for more of it. I will look for more Lily next year!

This jacket was purchased on November 2004. I mentioned the business trip to San Diego in Monday's post. On that trip, I had to fly out on a Saturday for expense reasons. It saved the company money, but not me! I had a full day to myself in La Jolla, and I spent it helping the local businesses! I needed to purchase an extra carry on bag to go home! Wow, how times have changed. This jacket is from Nordstrom. It has held up beautifully! It took 3.5 years for this jacket to work its real magic however. This was the jacket I was wearing the very first time I met Ben. I walked up and introduced myself to him as he was new to the project I was working on. I don't think he said much; I thought he was shy. He explained later that he was speechless! It took another month and then he finally spoke; remember, nice shoes!

The jeans are not the jeans I was wearing last Friday! They are, however, Joe Jeans. Yes, they are really long too. They are a much darker wash. I like the way they, um, how do I say this? Well, they make my butt look good! Truth of the matter is, my butt is not my favorite asset! How many women like their butt?? But, (hah), these jeans do work a little magic of their own.

You can see that I paired them with my brown boots, and the heel is high. Okay, fine, I will get them hemmed!

After looking at my pics from yesterday, I felt like I could have worn a necklace. I was not going to make the same mistake today! I wore my chain from Ben and a pair of smoky quartz lever backs.

I felt good in this outfit today. Hopefully, you all will like it as much as I did!

I am not sure what is on the agenda for the weekend; I am going to keep it low key. Next weekend in Vegas will be exciting enough for two weekends!

Please leave a comment or vote below on today's ensemble!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Ga Ga for Go Go

2009-10-08T19:29:00.004-05:00

When I walked down stairs this morning, Ben told me it looked like I was channeling the 60's. I guess my boots do look like go go boots!

I "went in deep" today! Both tights and boots! What the heck - flurries are in the forecast for this weekend here in Minnesota so why not dress for it? In Las Vegas it was in the 80's...I have officially begun the countdown, as I am heading there on the 16th! That is when I will be rocking the red bridesmaid dress! If you recall, the red dress is for the bachelorette party; you will see the real dress I am wearing after the wedding. Here are the shoes for it!

I decided to continue with the skirt/jacket trend that I started yesterday, but chose a skirt that shows quite a bit more leg! This skirt is from J.Crew and I purchased it this past winter. You will be seeing a lot of J.Crew in the upcoming months. I was like a mad woman there last year! The economy being what it was the sales there were insane last year. 30% off of the clearance price certainly worked for me! I am not sure if you can see in the picture that this has a faint gray plaid pattern on it.

Everyday this week I have been walking passed Brooks Brothers. In their windows they are showing a lot of purple. As a result, I guess I decided purple was in this year! Is it? I have not been reading my fashion magazines...avoiding the temptation I guess! This jacket is a couple of years old; I purchased it at Nordstrom. Sigh...there was a time in my life where all of my clothes were from Nordstrom. Oh my, how times have changed! I normally like to dress up a jacket like this with a little bling; perhaps a nice big rhinestone pin. Today I was running a little behind, so I was sans pin. That is okay; when I break out this jacket again, that will make it look new!

The tank top is Gap, the tights are from Target!

Ben and I went shopping tonight; this time it was for him! He purchased a new suit for Erika's wedding. He looks very handsome in it! They had a deal - purchase something today and get a coupon for next Wednesday for 40% off one item. If anyone has had their eye on something expensive at BR, this would be a smart time to go get that coupon! They let Ben purchase the whole suit tonight; on Wednesday he needs to come back with the jacket and the coupon and he will get the discount. That is good Customer Service in my book!

How sad that one of the clerks at BR recognized me and said nice to see you again. I am hoping he says that to everyone. Their sales racks were loaded, and I was tempted to look. Part of me was quite sad, however. I really do miss finding something adorable, bringing it home, deciding what accessories to wear with it...how many days until 8/12/10?

Off to finish TGIF with Kel... please leave a comment or vote below!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

Can You at least Crack a Smile?

2009-10-07T20:14:00.005-05:00

Something has got to give! I have been a cranky girl lately! I have been extra tired in the mornings, despite a 10pm bedtime and sleeping in later than I should. It has been so difficult to get out of bed! Even the fact that there was no rain in the forecast wasn't changing my attitude. Poor Ben. We headed outside for the "photo shoot". It was still a little chilly but at least there was some sunshine. We had taken a few picture when Ben looks at me and says "Can you at least crack a smile?" He got me to laugh!

I got an even bigger laugh when he sent me the picture this morning. He cut out my scowling face and made those into the detail shots! Now that is a good art director. Thank you sweetie!

If only he could cut out the wrinkles!

This morning there were 4 wardrobe changes...yes, 4. As I told Ben when I finally got downstairs, I just didn't feel good in any of the outfits. If I repeatedly do this I will never make it to August! I know the items I rejected today will make an appearance eventually - they will have to - but today they just made me feel blah. I decided safe was better than blah.

I ventured into the fall/winter skirts. I pulled this one out; it has always been a favorite of mine. It appears gray/grey, but it is actually one of those teeny tiny checked black with white. There is probably some name for it, but I am drawing a blank at the moment. The turtleneck choice was more a sign than a choice. As I was rummaging through the stack of tops at the top of my closet, this one fell to the ground. I looked, held it up and said "you will do". The tights? Maiden voyage of the season!

The skirt is 2 years old from Banana Republic. It was one of those fall in love/have to have it skirts. It is very versatile. You will no doubt see it again this year! I love to wear it with boots, but decided not to go in deep with tights and boots. It is only October for goodness sake!

The turtleneck is from the clearance rack at the Gap 2 years ago. Carrie - every time I put on a turtleneck now I think "Carrie isn't going to like this!". I like the cap sleeves. I knew, however, that a jacket or cardigan would be a must.

The jacket? It is from Target, and I believe I got it 3 years ago. I am embarrassed to say this; I have worn it once. That is what happens when you grab something trendy and don't think about how you will wear it; you just know you want it. I was happy to see similar jackets as I strolled through the Target store this morning...I will get to that in a minute!

Accessories for today? This necklace is old - even older than yesterday's dress! It is at least 13 years old. Wow! It is a herringbone - which I don't even know if they make anymore! I love the thickness, the shine and that it is bright silver on one side and then it has a pebbled/textured side with a silver and gold pattern. A small pair of white gold hoops completes the look.

Another reason that I chose shoes instead of boots today was that I was afraid that I would be a tad too intimidating if I had too much leather on today!

So, my trip to Target to buy conditioner today resulted in an item that got away. My friend Erika and I were walking through when we saw this jacket in pink...oooh, look at the green...oh, no, look at this one. It is plaid with purples and grays...I had to do it. I had to put it on and have Erika take my picture. I love this type of jacket. It can "act" like a blazer, but it would be adorable with jeans! I hung it back up, and said goodbye to it. It was $40. That brings our total for items I have not bought to...drum roll please...$318. Wow - $318 can buy a plane ticket. I will have to start thinking like that to keep me going!

Okay, Ben had to work tonight, and he is going to be home shortly, so I 'd better wrap this up.

Please vote on the outfit for today all the way at the bottom of the page!

Thanks for checking in!

Kel

p.s. My art director just told me that you all can click on the pictures! You can then get a much better shot of all of the details! I had no idea!