Frugal Fashion Friday: Wearing Patterns?

Remember when clashing wasn't cool?

Now mixing and matching patterns is all the rage!  Want to mix patterns and prints without looking like a clown?  Follow these tips:

• Stay within the same color family.
• Mix a large, bold print with a smaller subdued print.
• Don't wear prints head to toe.
• Make sure to wear a fitted piece (if you wear everything baggy or flowy you'll look like a curtain).
• Pull it together with a neutral piece (spring jacket, belt, neutral pants or denim, etc.)
• Use patterns in your accessories (do this if big pattern pieces--like shirts--scare you).
• On a personal note, I don't dig mixing animal prints.  Other than that, I'm kind of a fan of mixing stripes with polka dots (or flowers), flowers with plaid, etc.

Stripes and Flowers (gosh, it's hard to tell but the dress has a striped bodice and floral skirt)

Day Dresses by Charlotte Russe
Pumps by Forever 21

Polka Dot and Plaid

Skinny Denim by Old Navy
Hobos by Forever 21

Big and Bold--Soft and Subdued Florals

Distressed Denim by LOFT
Flats by Forever 21

Floral and Animal Print

Cardigans by Forever 21
Clutches by Charlotte Russe

Here's one of my pattern mixers! Same pink/brown family--one bold pattern, one more subdued.

I love this top!

So what's your vote?  Mixing prints and patterns: A trend to embrace or a trendy disgrace?

Things I love--Suspense

I love getting good news (now there's an original thought! haha!).

I recently got some good news and I can't wait to share it with you.

But not today.  Because I also love suspense.

M. Knight Shyamalan movies are some of my favorites because of how beautifully they build suspense.  They aren't scary and yet the purposeful withholding of certain information and the illusion of alternative endings promotes a delicious tension and anxiety.  Waiting is so hard and so rewarding.

So you'll have to wait to find out what my big news is.  How long do you have to wait?  A few days?  Six weeks?  Who knows?!?!

Did I win a free blog design?  Am I moving?  Throw out your ideas--I'd love to see what you mind is entertaining!

(If you are one of the few who knows what the good news is, I encourage you NOT to tell but do try to mislead my loyal readers by dropping some very plausible hypotheses of what is to come ... In this line I guess you could let the cat out of the bag because no one would likely believe you anyway ...).

What I Think About--Jennifer Knapp and Cannibal Christians

If you haven’t already heard then it is upon me to tell you that Jennifer Knapp is a lesbian.  And Christians everywhere are boycotting her.

I just recently finished reading the Bible in 90 Days—more on that in another blog—and as I rummaged through my notes I was surprised to see scribbled down Galatians 5:15, “If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.”

Is this a warning against becoming cannibal Christians?


What do I mean by that?  Cannibal Christians, a group I unfortunately have been a part of at one time or another, use their words and actions to bring death—not life—to others.  Condemnation, judgment, criticism, disapproval, blame—these are the spoiled fruit of a cannibal Christian.  Phelps and the Westboro church with their “God Hates Fags” signs are famous cannibal Christians.  Lay-cannibals are in our own churches--perhaps in our own homes.

Is it surprising to you that many people view Christians as hypocritical, judgmental, insensitive, too political, homophobic, and boring?  Does it surprise you that these opinions are formed based on EXPERIENCE with Christians?  How did Jesus’ teachings go from “love one another” to where we are today?  What are the consequences of misrepresenting Jesus? 

When I think of cannibal Christians I think of Jesus and the adulterous woman.  John 8:3 says the teachers of law and Pharisees brought before Jesus a woman caught in the act of adultery—a sinner. 

Stop. 

Where is the man?  This is an important question.  Mosaic law required both men and women who committed adultery to be stoned (Lev. 20:10, Deut. 22:22).  So why is just the woman being exposed?  Is her lawless act of adultery more despicable to God than the man’s? 

Don’t we still do this?  Don’t we elevate one sin above another?  Homosexuals be damned but gossips—not so bad?  Isn’t all sin, sin (James 2:10)?

While the teachers and Pharisees speak to Jesus, he writes in the sand and then says those words that forever highlight our need to be compassionate and merciful towards others—“If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” (John 8:7)

Jesus ends this encounter with the adulterous woman by saying, “Neither do I condemn you.  Go now and leave your life of sin.” (John 8:11).

Where am I going with all this?  I have a point.  I promise.

As Christians when we deal with others, especially those outside of the Church, we can be judgmental and critical.  In fact, many of us use Jesus’ words “go and sin no more” as our battle cry as we condemn sinners to hell with our proverbial bullhorns.  Is it wrong to challenge one another to lead pure lives?  NO!  A thousand times NO!

However, did we forget the first part of His sentence?  Neither do I condemn you.  Neither do I condemn you. Perhaps if Christians followed the first part of the sentence, the second might more readily apply.  If we lovingly and compassionately dealt with those without Christ, if neither did we condemn them, then maybe, just maybe, they’d come to know Christ and begin to address the sin in their lives. 

When it comes to homosexuality, asexuality, transexuality, intersexuality, etc., I believe Christians are facing a huge showdown with their theology.  Do we really believe that Christ came for the sick?  For the sinners?  Do we really believe that he died for the least of these?  That he died for us while we were his sinning enemies?  And if we believe that for us, do we believe it for others?  Did he die for them and their sins too?  Does “God hate fags” or did he die for them?  Are there any sins so deep and so dark and so icky that the blood of Jesus cannot wash and redeem them?

From where I stand, the answer is no.  Jesus is big enough and His love can cover a multitude of sins.

But how will people ever know that Jesus died for them if cannibal Christians, with all their judgments and hypocrisies and “holier than thou-ness” keep people from seeking Him?  How will people know that He is good, and loving, and merciful, and gracious and willing to forgive 

IF     

        WE      

                  DON’T       

                                    SHOW        

                                                       THEM?

As a Christian woman I am challenging all of you to remember what Paul wrote.  “What business is it of mine to judge those outside of the church?  Are you not to judge those inside? (1 Cor. 5:12).  It is time to put our faith where our theological mouths are. 

Your feelings on homosexuality need not be dismissed—your judgments of homosexuals must be.  Do not condemn homosexuals.  Love them.  Let Christ love them through you and He’ll take care of the rest.  Our role is not to judge when others sin.  That is God’s role.  Our role is to be forgiving and compassionate--to love as He loved us.

Finally, Jennifer Knapp.  Boycott if you think it will help her.  Boycott if you think it will show the world God’s mercy. Boycott if you think it will keep another Christian from stumbling.

But know this, I won’t boycott Knapp.  I don’t listen to her music anyway but I’ll pray for her as she fights the Christians who would rather devour her than love her where she is for who she is as she seeks to be the woman God made her to be (all the while trusting that He is working in and through her).

Is Knapp doing something that is against biblical standards?  Yes.  Do I do something every, stinking day that is against biblical standards?  Yes. (Galatians 5 has a great but not inexhaustible list of sins including: hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissention, factions, envy …). 

Will we allow Knapp to be the symbolic adulterous woman who will be stoned while the judgmental, merciless, gossiping Church, symbolic of the adulterous man gets off Scott free? 

Call sin, sin.  Don’t be afraid of that.  But when you do it, do it in front of a mirror and point to the plank in your own eye.  And then praise Jesus that He died for all sinners.  For you.  For me.  And then spread grace and mercy as willingly as He did.

Go, spread life and not death. 

And that’s what I think about Jennifer Knapp and cannibal Christians.

Tuesday's Too Clean Tip--Cleaning Exterior Windows

In general I really enjoy cleaning but some chores are a thorn in my side.  I don't love laundry, vacuuming, or cleaning windows.  It's not that any of them are hard, it just that they are tedious and irritating to me.

I'm not a great window cleaner but I'm working on getting better.  Here are some window cleaning tips.

1. Clean your windows on an over-cast day (too much sun will make the window cleaner dry too quickly.  I'm sure you can guess why you shouldn't do this in the rain).
2. Clean around the window.  Use a paint brush to dust away excess dirt, cobwebs, and grime.  On inside windows, use the vacuum. (if you don't do this, you'll make mud on your window.  Sort of the opposite of clean!)
3. Spray the window with a hose or wipe it down with a cloth and water from a bucket to get off the initial ickiness.
4. Now, get a squeegie (like the kind at a gas station), a clean dry cloth, a wash cloth, and a bucket of cool, clean water (add a couple of tablespoons of white vinegar if you choose).
5. Wash the window.  Using a pattern (up to down or side to side), squeegie of the water.  After each stroke, dry the squeegie blade.
6. Dry the window with newspaper *I'd wear rubber gloves for this or you'll get newspaper ink all over your hands.*.
7. If you clean the inside and outside windows on the same day, use the same pattern (up and down for outside, side to side on the inside).  That will help you know which side the streaks are on (if there are any).

Well, I'd wish you happy window cleaning but there is nothing happy about it.  So, good luck!

My New 'Do!

I'm totally NOT one of those women who is married to my hair.  I've experimented ... a lot (with hair, that is).  I've been known to chop of 13 inches of blond hair and end up with a nearly black bob.  Once I even dyed a portion of my hair construction cone orange (it was for my high school graduation.  My mom didn't find it funny).

Anyhow, whenever spring is nearing I itch for a new 'do.  This most likely stems from the fact that I do not like heat and my fine, uber thick hair is an incredible insulator. Ick.

I've got this great stylist Erin and she's totally game for hair do experiments (probably because by now she knows I won't melt down into a teary-eyed puddle of mush if a quarter inch of hair is cut off).  I went to visit Erin bright and early Saturday morning.  I looked like this:

Okay, honestly don't be too critical.  My friend Beth and I went to a late showing of Letters To Juliet (you'll be glad you saw it but won't want to own it) and I was up at 5:30ish.

Two hours later I left the trendy salon looking like this:

Super blond--super short (for me!).

And everyone knows the true test of a good hair do is whether or not you can style it yourself the next day.  

I totally nailed it!  P.S. My sister made me a necklace, earrings, and bracelet in the brown/black theme.  I'm wearing the earrings.  How awesome is that?!?!

So, a pretty bold move but I'm absolutely in love with my hair style.  It took less than a dime-sized amount of shampoo to wash it and I can blow it dry in under three minutes.  Ahhhhhhhh!

What about you?  Any summer 'do plans?  Something you'd love to do but don't have the guts to try?

What's Cooking 5/17-5/23

And on the dinner menu this week:

Monday--Spiced Chicken and CousCous salad
Tuesday--Pepper steak and rice
Wednesday--Soy-Glazed Halibut with wild rice and steamed veggies
Thursday--Country roast with potatoes and carrots
Friday--Grilled Steaks and home fries
Saturday--Out to dinner--guest in town  **Happy Birthday Paxton!**
Sunday--BBQ for Cousin Luke's Graduation!

Need a recipe not attached to a link?  E-mail me at whereisthemeinmommy@gmail.com

Days of Play--Side Walk Chalk

There is nothing like a bucket of chalk and a sidewalk that can unleash my inner child.  Grab a bucket of chalk and go wild on your driveway or sidewalk.  Teach your child to play hop-scotch or tic-tac-toe.  Draw your imaginary friend (you know you still have one).  Draw your house.

Beautify your world, one sidewalk square at a time.

(Let you kids help).

If you really want to get into it, make your own chalk!

Spy School #8--Casino Royal (great date night in)

Challenge your husband to an evening of cards and intrigue.

A week prior to his challenge, slip your husband the challenge with a new deck of cards.

The Challenge:
Gambling, Tuxedos and Bond--James Bond. If you accept this challenge your card skills will be put to the test and mankind's most precious commodity will be wagered.  If you are prepared to take this challenge, meet me _____date and time______.  Dress Vegas style.

Before the Date:
Learn how to play Texas Hold 'Em.  Google the rules, watch the video, etc.  You might want to have your hot date do the same.

On Spy School Date Night:

• Set the scene--Put up a card table in your room or somewhere private in the house.  Use your imagination to make the space as "gambling" themed as possible.  Consider black and white linens, dim lighting, candles, jazz. 
• Prepare some tapas and drinks (iced tea, wine).
• Have a deck of 52 cards.
• Have something to use for gambling chips/tokens (you can get chips or use pennies, sea shells, etc.).
• Get dressed to kill (even if you are staying in, consider a dress or low cut shirt.)

Forget money, play with tokens/chips that represent a minute of your time (each start with 60 tokens representing one hour of your time). At the end of the evening, each person adds up the number of chips they have and they can use those minutes of your time for whatever they want.  So, if you have 15 of your husband's chips, you get fifteen minutes of his time to use for a foot rub, dishes, laundry, etc.

Need some Texas Hold 'Em tips? Check out this video!


You and your hubby take turns dealing and placing blind bets.

If you need more information or rules on how to play Texas Hold 'Em, click here.

Here are some card hands:

• Straight flush (the best straight flush hand: A-K-Q-J-T, all of the same suit)
• Four-of-a-kind (the best four-of-a-kind hand: A-A-A-A-K)
• Full house (the best full house hand: A-A-A-K-K)
• Flush (all cards of the same suit, the best flush hand: any Ace-high flush)
• Straight (the best straight hand: A-K-Q-J-T)
• Three-of-a-kind (the best three-of-a-kind hand: A-A-A-K-Q)
• Two-pair (the best two-pair hand: A-A-K-K-Q)
• One-pair (the best one-pair hand: A-A-K-Q-J)
• No-pair (the best high hand: A-K-Q-J-9)

If you've never played poker, take your time and just try it out.  Have fun.  


If you want to make your evening **really** spicy, bet clothing instead of minutes.


For our Casino Royal night, we had virgin margartinits (margarita mix with ginger ale in martini glasses) and tapas.  Our tapas menu included: 

• baked brie with green apples and crackers
• Rosemary bread with provolone and prosciutto (you only need 3 oz max of meat)
• Lemon-pepper asparagus
• Spicy-salted shrimp skewers (only use 1 tsp. of salt)
• cantaloupe, black berries, and green grapes
• marinated olives with feta cheese chunks 

One of our Tapas plates.  Mmmmmm!

Our simple decorations--cards, candles, and poker chips.

Vegas gear?

Go Glam

Evening Dresses by Forever 21

Pumps by Forever 21

Or rocker

Distressed Denim by LOFT
Wedges by Old Navy

Things I love--A Good Cause!

Doctors thought Matt and I would have a hard time having kids.  Boy were they wrong.  Two weeks with no birth control and Wham-o ... bun in the oven (should I gross you out by telling you we got pregnant while on vacation with my parents?  I mean, they weren't in the room or anything--actually, they weren't even on the same floor in the hotel but still, it's a bit weird to think about).

Since we didn't think we would have our own biological children we were naturally thrilled.  And then came the question "Are you having a boy or a girl?"  To which I would smile and reply, "I'm having a baby."  Shocked O shaped mouths would reply, "You aren't going to find out?  I couldn't stand not knowing!"  (I always wanted to reply but never did, "Trust me, it is possible to NOT find out gender. People have NOT known the gender of their children prior to delivery for thousands of years. You could stand it if you chose to.").  Anyhow, this exchange always ended with this statement, "As long as baby is healthy."

And do you know what my reply was, "Even if baby isn't healthy."

Shocking.  I know.

Society puts such a huge pressure on what is "normal" and the hierarchy of health but that wasn't me.  I wanted a baby.  Whatever gender, whatever health--I wanted a baby.  Whatever baby God gave me, I wanted it.  Badly.  

Sure I wanted my baby to be healthy, who doesn't want that?  But I was counting on God more than good health.  

Just because we are given healthy babies at birth doesn't mean they will always be healthy. So rather than limiting myself, rather than thinking, "God just give me a healthy baby" I surrounded myself with thoughts of "God, be enough because if you are enough for me, you'll make me enough for my baby" and "Give me the courage to love regardless of what's coming my way (I meant the teenage years more than health--I think)" and "Help me to love You and trust You first ... always."

So far both of my children are very healthy.  And I praise God for their health.  I'm also realistic.  All it takes is one bad illness, one bad wreck and everything changes--everything but God.  That's why I'm counting on Him--first--always.

For one family here in blogland, that change just recently (as in May 5th) happened when they learned their 16 month old daughter, lovingly referred to as Monkey, has cancer.  Even if you've never experienced this crisis, you can certainly imagine what this family is going through (do you shudder when you think of such things happening to your children?).  They wanted healthy babies.  They had healthy babies.  Now they have an unhealthy baby.  

If you have healthy kids, show this family some love.  

1. Go to their blog and leave them comments and prayers of hope and encouragement (and be kind about the F-Bombs.  Remember, they are scared and stressed to the max).  
2. If you have a blog, grab a "Pray for Monkey" button and put it on your blog.
3. If you blog, blog about this!  See the links below for more info.  Spread the (W)ord.  
4. If you are blessed financially, click the link below and donate to help offset the financial costs.  
5. Pray for this baby, her family, and the doctors who will treat her.  
6. Most importantly, praise God because He is good.  He is good when things are good.  He is good when things are bad.  He is bigger than this illness.  He is worthy of our praise---even when we don't understand.  

I love a good cause.  Get on board!

Click on monkey to donate...please help!

For more information, please check out these links:


The Dose of Reality
Things I Can't Say

What I Think About--RSVP

With wedding and graduation season upon us, I feel the need to talk about the art of the RSVP.


RSVP is commonly found on wedding, birthday, and other celebratory invitations.  However, if you've ever thrown a party--or known someone who has--you've probably heard the host or hostess bemoaning the lack of RSVPs for the event.


Perhaps not RSVPing is an indication at the growing rudeness in our nation (I've already complained about ingratitude and the lack of thank you cards).  Perhaps people simply don't understand what RSVP means.  In the spirit of giving people the benefit of the doubt, here is what RSVP means and what you should do about it.


The initials RSVP come from a French term "répondez s'il vous plaît" which basically means "please respond."  


If you receive an invitation requesting an RSVP, it clearly indicates that the host/ess desires a firm head count as to who is coming to the party.  Unless the invitation says "RSVP regrets only" then you should respond regardless of whether you plan on attending or not.  


Not responding to an RSVP request puts extra burden on the host (and causes countless other problems--how much food to order?  How many chairs to set up?  How many favors to have?).


Now for a sad story.  


A few weeks ago (on April 13) I did a tribute to my nephew on his 10th birthday.  In true etiquette fashion, my sister dutifully sent out invitations to her son's party.  NO ONE, not one single person responded to the RSVP.  Knowing that not responding to RSVPs is a growing epidemic, my sister thought little of it (though she was terribly irritated).  Come the birthday boy's big party day, not one child showed up.  Can you imagine this?  Being 10 and having NO ONE come to your party?  There was my sister with her crying son, a huge cake, an expensive pool rental, tons of food and toys for party favors and no guests.  Shame on the parents who didn't RSVP.  Now I know what you're thinking--she should have called to check in--but really, she did her part.  The parents of the invited children should have RSVPed "NO" if they couldn't make it. That way, my sister could have been prepared to deal with the hurt feelings of a disappointed little boy.


This season when you get those wedding invitations or graduation invites, do the polite thing and let the host know whether or not you will attend the event.


If you can't go, RSVP NO.
If you can go, RSVP YES.
If you aren't sure, call the host and explain the situation and see what she would like to do about your "maybe."


What I think about RSVPs is we all need to be more polite and respond when we are invited to an event. 

Featured Blog on Improbable Housewife

FYI--Jessica, the Improbable Housewife, has Where is the ME in Mommy? as her featured blog today!  Thank you for the honor Jessica!  Head on over and check it out!

Oh, and thank you PINK MOSS for my award.  I love Project: In my Daughter's Eyes.  Have you checked it out yet?!?!

Paxton's 1st Birthday

Pax turns one this month and I'm pretty emotional about it.  On the one hand I'm dying to get away with Matt for a children-free weekend.  On the other hand, it is so sad to let go of those baby days.  *sigh*

When I was pregnant with Pax my MIL informed me that May is a hard time to have babies because of the wedding/graduation season (Gee, I wish I'd consulted her before hand.  ha ha!  I love my MIL!).  Know what? She's kinda right.

Pax's first birthday is a case-in-point.  He turns one on Saturday May 22nd. Perfect, right?  Wrong-o!  That Saturday Dirk, a friend from Germany/Barcelona, is flying in for a visit.  Between preparing for his visit, getting to the airport, going out to eat, showing off our town, etc., there is really no time to host a birthday party for Pax.

Sunday then?  Nope.  Cousin Luke graduates on May 23rd and we'll go to his celebratory BBQ.  Monday-Friday?  Nope. No one could make a party during the weekday due to work obligations.  So, Pax's party will be held a week and a day later (so my sister and her family can come).

Here's where you come in.  Shower me with your advice.  Should I do something small on his actual birthday (perhaps a small family party)?  Should I pretend it isn't his birthday until his actual party (since he'll be none the wiser)?  What do you think?

P.S.  His party is "space" themed and we're doing a time capsule for him.  If anyone out there in blogland has something they'd like thrown in there, please contact me via e-mail and I'll send my address! (Wouldn't it be fun to send a post-card or something from where ever you are???).

Tuesday's Too Clean Tip--Dusting the small stuff

It's pretty easy to dust the big stuff but how do you get into the tiny nooks and crannies of stereo speakers and key boards?

Try a soft bristled paint brush--it'll work wonders on your phone, small cracks, and the crannies you can't get with your dusting cloth.

Now here's a big question:

Do you vacuum before or after you dust and why?

How to wear a Country Shirt

Plaid, floral, and denim button down shirts are hot this summer.  If you are a WY country gal like me, then you know these tops as "country shirts."

How can you style them?  Pair these tops with khaki bermudas and strappy wedges, dressy shorts and heels, or denim boyfriend cut-offs and ballet flats.

Shorts by Gap
Sunglasses by Forever 21

Button Front Tops by Forever 21
Totes by Forever 21

Shorts by Forever 21
Sandals by Mossimo

The country shirt is incredibly versatile. Dress it up. Dress it down. Add a scarf or necklace. Layer it up.

Do you have a country shirt?  How do you style it?

What cookin' at my house this week? 5/10-5/16

Happy Mother's Day to anyone crazy enough to check my blog on Mother's Day!

Monday--Spicy honey chicken, rice and grilled asparagus
Tuesday--Red lasagna with salad and bread
Wednesday--Indian-spiced chicken gyros
Thursday--Chili-lime rubbed steak wraps
Friday--Penne and tomatoes
Saturday--Omelets and salad
Sunday--Pizza soup

You Are My Sunshine

Deb at Just Short of Crazy just gave me the You are My Sunshine Award!  I think because I gave her desk organization advice.  Maybe not.

Anyway, in keep with blog award rules, here are 12 Blogs I love:

1. Chapters of Me
2. The Munchkin and Little Miss
3. Naptime Notes
4. The Improbable Housewife
5. Mommy's Camera
6. $5 Dinners
7. The (Un)Experienced Mom
8. Knock-Off Wood
9. Hello.  My name is Mommy.
10. Everyday Mom Ideas
11. A Beautiful Place
12. Things I Can't Say

Days of Play--Snooger Noodles

A few weeks ago M.E. and I decided to make cookies to take to our neighbors.  Chocolate chip cookies were on the menu but alas, no chocolate chips could be found.  Ergo, Snooker Doodles (which M.E. called "Snooger Noodles")!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of soft butter 
• 1 1/2 c. of sugar
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 t. vanilla extract
• 2 3/4 c. flour
• 2 t. cream of tartar
• 1 t. baking soda
• For the topping: 2 T sugar and 2 t. cinnamon

Directions:

1.  Wash your hands.

2.  Beat eggs.  Mix butter, 1 1/2 c. of sugar and eggs together in a large bowl.  

3.  Combine flour, cream of tartar, and baking soda into a mixing bowl.

4.  Slowly add flour mixture to butter mixture and blend until no flour is left on the bottom of the bowl.

5.  Mix remaining sugar and cinnamon to sprinkle on top of cookies.

6.  Roll dough into balls and toss in cinnamon/sugar.  Place on an ungreased cookie sheet.

7.  Bake at 400 degrees for 8-10 minutes or until cookies are puffy and golden on the edges.

8.  Cool on a wire rack.  Try to save some for the neighbors!

Black and Brown--Trendy Warm Weather Looks

So I did a little mix-n-match black and brown and a reader pointed out that most outfits were wintery.  We can't have that!  Check out these fun looks (FYI--these are "dressed down" because that's the way I roll!).

Date Night

Cardigans by Forever 21
Platforms by Forever 21

Bumming Around the House

Shorts by Gap
Sandals by Forever 21

Trendy Church Lady

Longsleeve Tops by Old Navy
Sandals by Charlotte Russe

Errand Running

Cardigans by Forever 21
Flats by Forever 21

Fashion Forward Mama

Longsleeve Tops by Forever 21
Totes by Forever 21

Frugal Fashion Friday: Wearing Black and Brown

There are many fashion rules that should be disregarded:

• No white after Labor Day (in case you haven't noticed white pants are hot!)
• Bags and shoes have to match (no, they should go but they don't have to match)
• You can't wear black and brown together (oh really?)

A few weeks ago I talked about wearing colors and posted a photo of an outfit and an anonymous reader asked if I was wearing black shoes.  In fact I was wearing dark chocolate brown shoes but that's besides the point.  The point is, the reader assumed black and brown can never be worn together.  In fact some fashion gurus might die at the mention though most of it have done it before (those khaki pants you wear with your black t-shirt proves it. Khaki is a brown tone!)

The truth is you CAN mix your browns and blacks. Just keep a few pointers in mind:

Find hues that compliment each other. If you choose chocolate brown and black, keep it at that.  Don't mix chocolate with camel with black or it might look a bit confusing.

Notice that one shade rich brown suit paired with black accessories.  FYI, I'd never wear that hat.

Mix the colors throughout the outfit.  If you wear black head to toe and then toss on a brown scarf it might "appear" to others as a mistake.  Correct this by having a brown bag, belt, or shoes to go with the scarf.

Leave it to the celebs to pull of this look.  I'm sorry but how great is Anne Hathaway's get up?

Consider accessories that pull your browns and blacks together.  Never underestimate the power of an accessory to pull together a whole outfit.  Animal print (minimal) is a great way to pull together brown and black.

 Um, yes please!

Finally, remember trends ebb and flow in the river of public opinion.  Personal style is all your own.  So if you want to rock brown and black, I encourage you to move in your own way! 

5 invisible cool points for anyone who starts singing the song I alluded to there!

Black and brown--have I made a convert of you?

Things I Love--Seeing Your Hard Work!

A few weeks ago my friend Jenn contacted me about her entertainment center.  Here's what she had to say:

This is how it looks after 5 days of both of us working and no one having taken the effort to put anything away. Well - I have seen it worse, but not much. Though, honestly, it rarely looks much better, either.

A photo Jenn sent me of her entertainment center.

Anyhow, Jenn requested my help organizing.  The kids and I loaded up and went to her house.  We left two hours later and you know what it looked like?  Pretty much the same.  Instead of working we just talked (because visiting with friends in more important than organizing).  To be fair we did discuss some ideas, including minimizing the DVD collection as advised here.

Jenn took some of the ideas, bins and dvd organization, and put them into action.  Without further ado, here is the AMAZING result of Jenn's hard work:

Not only did she do that, but look at this.  Jenn has a retro-room divider that her husband and kids use for "stuff" storage and it is driving her nuts.

She made some temporary dividers out of paper but has plans on replacing the paper with starched linen.  Did I mention Jenn weaves her own clothing and ribbon? 

Awesome work, Jenn. Keep up the good work!

What I Think About--Advice Someone Should Have Told Me

I’m pretty sure that everyone has issues with themselves.  I even wrote about it in my post about keeping it real.  Anyhow, I was on THINGS I CAN’T SAY and Shell wrote a letter to her twelve-year-old self-explaining what she wishes someone would have told her.  I love this idea and decided to give it a shot!  I later discovered this was an idea that Pink Moss created and she is turning the whole idea into a blog (and maybe a book).

Here’s my take.

Dear Reagan (age 12),

Put down the book.  I know you can hear me.  I know you can multi-task.  I know you love to read.  Put down the book and listen.  I want your full attention (and get used to hearing this because your future husband will say it. A LOT).

Listen to me.  For once, don’t learn by disaster! 

Never, I repeat NEVER let Randean do your hair for school picture day.  If you do she will make you look like a horned dinosaur.  And mom is going to make you wear a multi-colored cardigan with a cheerleading bear on it.  This combination will result in a hideous school picture of epic proportions.  If the photo disaster happens, resolutely refuse to get photo re-takes and let the picture be a living reminder about how cruelly you were treated.  Will you be totally embarrassed about the awful photo?  Sure.  Will you giggle on the inside when you tell the person looking at the photo about how awful your sister was to you?  Yep.

Do not use Lip Smackers chapstick.  Your freshman year your lips will suddenly become allergic to the acid in it and you will end up looking like the Joker.  And then you’ll have to walk around putting Aquaphore on your lips and people will joke that it is KY Jelly.  Don’t use Carmex or Blistex either.  Find a natural water based chapstick and go with it.

Wear your glasses and do your eye exercises.  Keep the glasses-free dream alive.  One day you won’t need corrective lenses (because they’ll be an eye surgery for you).  P.S.  Get the eye surgery no matter what Kathy Griffith thinks.

You’re gonna buy some black slouchy knee high boots in Canada.  Keep them.  In fact, keep the silver sandals you bought for prom too.  The trend is coming back and you’ll wish you still had them.

You are not athletic or a team player.  It’s cool.  I mean kids at school will think you are a total loser because of your general lack of athletic know-how but one day you’ll totally rock at rock climbing and road biking and running.  So you can’t play volleyball—there are worse things in life.  Maybe not at 12 but at 30+ish, you won’t give a dang whether or not you were on the team. 

What the kids at school think about you doesn’t matter.  I know it feels like it does now but it doesn’t.  Long after you graduate when you’ve forgotten them and they’ve forgotten you, you will still be in contact with your closest friends.  Those relationships matter; cultivate them. 

And by the way, you’ll be smokin’ hot for your 10 year reunion and so will your hubby.  (In fact, hubby will have been on the “must date list” for one former schoolmate.  He never gave her the time of day.  She’ll pretend she doesn’t recognize him at the reunion but you’ll know the truth.  And it’s kinda worth it—though there’s no use being spiteful.)

Be in a school play.  You’re gonna be awful but do it.   Sometimes you have to learn who you are not in order to become who you are. You are not a good actress but at least you’ll know that from experience.

Do not go to prom.

Be prepared for Cubby to die.  Don’t force her to live in pain longer than necessary to ease your own hurt feelings.  The cat you get after Cubby is going to be a royal pain in the rear.  She’ll bite your friends, torture and terrify Ami and will be hated by your husband.  Get her anyway.

When you turn 16 do NOT give your drunk friends a ride in dad’s green truck. They’ll puke everywhere and you’ll have to clean it up.  Dad will never let you forget it.

Skip going to see a Goofy Movie. If you don’t skip the movie, get a motel room to avoid driving in bad weather.  Do NOT let Bethy ride in the back of the car. Have your parents drive you to wrestling state.   I'll be honest, you’re gonna be in at least ten car accidents.  Be prepared and wear your seatbelt.

Now really listen to me here.  The summer of 1996 will be a blast but when you break up with the guy
you are dating—stay broken up.  If you don’t stay broken up then please, I beg you, on July 4^th get into the suburban with your dad and don’t look back.  DO YOU UNDERSTAND THE WORDS THAT ARE COMING OUT OF MY MOUTH?  Get. Into. The. Suburban!

Wear sunscreen. In about 10 years a song is going to come out and it will make you laugh at the irony of this advice but heed it anyway. When you are 30 and don't have crow's feet and your skin looks 20, you'll be glad you listened. 

Mom and dad do not have a secret stash of college money anywhere.  Study hard because you’re gonna need scholarships.  And when that teacher tells you that you aren’t “college material” fill out applications by yourself.  One day you will get your Ed. D. and you should consider inviting said teacher to your graduation.  Maybe not.

Mom is going to get really sick.  There is evidence of her disease now that you aren’t recognizing (like how it takes her 4 hours to give you a 15 minute lecture).  Don’t do or say anything to her that you’ll regret.  One day your relationship with her will change and you’ll wish you were better to her. Take my advice and be good now.

You’ll have to work jobs where you serve your peers (and handle raw chicken—ewww!).  You’ll live in a trailer and drive junky cars.  This builds your character and humility.  One day you’ll appreciate the experience of not being handed everything.

You hate Randean but this will not always be the case.  Mend bridges now.  It’s worth it, I promise.  Don’t be too ticked about her pink mustang.  It blows up.

You will be involved in a massive food fight.  Roll with it.  It will be one of your fondest memories.

Have fun in college but do not compulsively honk car horns at Megan’s house or bad things will happen.  Be Dave’s designated driver when he goes to a party at the end of the fall semester.  And when the guy wearing a cross comes up to you, be your charming self.  He’s God’s provision for you.  Treat him as such.

Your marriage will not be perfect.  Your husband will say and do stupid things.  You will be hurtful.  You will feel like roommates---you will feel like enemies.  You will blame him for things that aren’t his fault.  He will make you apologize.  Listen to him.  Follow him.  Lovingly submit to him.  You’ll never be more grateful if you follow this advice.

It’s gonna be hard to love a few of your in-laws.  Love them anyway.  They may never like or love you.  Love them anyway.

Be there for Kim because she’s gonna need it.  She’ll be there for you.  Again and again and again.

Don’t let Josh take Griffon for the night.

The move to Cheyenne will be worth it.  Linda will not be a good neighbor but be a good neighbor to her--even when you don’t want to be--even after she’s done being your neighbor.

The doctors are wrong.  You will have children.  When you are in your twenties you’ll have a dream that you have four babies and you will.  Only two will live.  Your relationship with God will sustain you—even through this.

Don’t be afraid to fail.  Apply for school and jobs and volunteer.  Do not be afraid to fail.

Look in the mirror.  You look awkward and gawky and greasy.  Everyone feels that way at this age. You will grow into your nose. You might not ever like it, but you’ll grow into it. Remember that you are the daughter of the King and the King delights in your beauty (and so will your husband).  There are some photos of you in your early 20s that you’re going to want to keep. Trust me, the Cat in the Hat photos will go a long way.

Finally, most importantly, find and know and follow Jesus at any and all costs.  That’s really all that matters.  Love Him and let Him love others through you.

Get into the suburban,

Reagan (30ish)

I can't tell you how therapeutic writing this mock letter was!

Want to know what I think?  I think you should do this.  If you blog, post it and send me a link.  If you don't blog, e-mail me a copy at whereisthemeinmommy@gmail.com and tell me whether or not I can publish it.

I'd really love it if you would send your own letters to Pink Moss and participate in her project.  For more information, click here.

I'm so excited to see your response to this!

(P.S.  If I had a scanner I'd share photos of my hideous 6th grade school photo and the cake fight.  Probably not the Cat in the Hat photos ... well, maybe ...).

Tuesday's Too Clean Tip--Get Dressed!

I know this is going to sound nutty but there actually is a lot of research that links motivation with appearance.  People who feel better about they way they look on the outside tend to do get more done.  I can personally attest to this.

Very rarely I will have a day in "mom uniform"--yoga pants, slipper socks, random long-sleeve T-shirt with toothpaste drip on the front and Pax snot on the arm and hair in a ponytail.  Sounds hot.  Am I comfy? You bet.  Do I ever get anything done on these days?  Nope.

I've found that when I get up and get ready--head to toe--I'm always ready to tackle the day.  So if you have a day coming up where you need to clean and cook, and run errands, and make calls and take treats to your kid's class and and and ... get up and get dressed.

Head to toe.

(Hopefully you realize that by posting this I just became enemy #1 to velour jumpsuit wearers and feminists world wide.  This is the sacrifice I'm willing to make for my loyal blog-buddies!)

Breast to Sippy--Weaning Advice Needed

Hello moms!

Paxton is almost 1 and I need some weaning advice.

He has been breastfed since day #1.  He absolutely refuses any type of bottle (even with breast milk).  He will not, not, not do any sort of formula (we've tried all kinds and he spits it out immediately and starts screaming).  I can "tell" that my production is not enough for him and I'm wanting to supplement/wean him around his oneish birthday.  M.E. pretty much did this herself with no problems.  Pax won't be that easy. Ergo, I NEED HELP!

If you have experience, advice, or commiseration, please share.

If you aren't following already, you can click the FOLLOW button and become a follower (that way when you leave comments I know who you are and I can contact you--no spam!).

By the way, did you know you can join my BlogFrog community and share your responses with other moms and me?  If you'd like to join and post discussion questions or share responses, it is free!  Look on the right hand side of my page.  Click on the "Join my community" link and get into the discussion.

Not interested?  Please leave your advice in a comment.

And as always, thank you for being in this with me!

Days of Play--Tunnels and Bridges

I just love random ideas I can throw together in the name of fun.  I'm posting this one because whenever we drive and there is a bridge or walkway or anything overhead, M.E. yells, "DUCK!" In small amounts it is too funny.  In large amounts it's totally irritating!

How to play:

Show your child photos of bridges and tunnels.  Talk about what they are used for, how they are different, where you've seen them, etc.

Now make your body a bridge and let your child climb over you.
Make your body a tunnel and let your child crawl through.
Repeat using chairs, blankets, ropes, etc.

What's Cooking 5/3-5/9

First of all, a super duper HAPPY BIRTHDAY shout out to my mom!

Wow.  With a trip to my sister's, Matt traveling, and some surprise company, my meal plan is all messed up.  The good news is that most of the meals are frozen so there was no food going to waste.

Sorry most of these are "repeats" but that happens!

Monday--honey lime chicken with cilantro rice
Tuesday--beef enchiladas in red sauce
Wednesday--White lasagna with salad and homemade crusty bread
Thursday--Dijon pork loin and steamed red potatoes
Friday--Spicy grilled salmon and veggies
Saturday--Best Marinade Ever steaks and spicy home fries
Sunday--BBQ ribs with dad's secret sauce