Baby it's (kinda sorta) cold outside

Mama mia, it's finally sorta chilly. I had to scamper to my car this morning on my way to the gym. Yes, you read that right, I went to the gym this AM. Pre work.

Now, I hate to break it to all you work-out enthusiasts who believe that pre dawn runs are just heavenly and you're just all ready to go and kick butt all day. Yeah, I have a newflash for you: you are all liars! Currently, all I want to do is go home, curl up with my puppies and drink some hot chocolate (because, after all, it is chilly).

But no. Instead, I am at work, in my cold office, with sore legs, drinking a smoothie. For breakfast. And I still feel fat.

But, on the upside, I can now go home after a quick trip to the tailors. And a ton of money later. Oh, and a trip to le Target for adapter/converter/transformer nonsense. Then I'll go home.

Random Wednesday weirdness:

1. I wore new twill khaki pants, pink ruffle tee shirt, gray fitted jacket, and nar a compliment. I was saddened. I thought I looked fabulous. Maybe it was the hair. It was a bit disheveled.

2. When I called my hairstylist yesterday to book an appointment for the hair sector of The Plan, and I told her that "I want to go a darker strawberry blonde-brown, kind of like Jenna Fischer's color". To which there was a loooong pause... followed by "Ok... Well...Um, why don't you bring in some pictures so that I can get an idea of what you're thinking."

It is evident that my hairstylist is unaware of who Jenna Fischer is, and therefor is not a watcher of The Office. I may have to reconsider who my hair goes to.

Even in my pre-The Office watching days (I know! ::hangs head in shame::--it was only for a short while, don't judge me!), I thought Jenna was a-dore-able. So, I'm a little traumatized by that. Let's hope the pictures will get it right! Yikes!

OK, I'm going to go scour my office for some hot chocolate and a blankie. It's nap time as far as I'm concerned.

Have a lovely day!

xoxo

SP

Like a Tootsie Roll

Yep, that's me-- a Midgee (like the little Tootsie Rolls! derrr) sized grown up. This poses many a problemo:

1. When you buy a "cropped" jacket, it ends up you know, hitting on your hips, thus, eliminating the cropped-ness. Annoying.

2. Pants need hemmed. All the time. I can't ever buy a pair of pants, throw them in the wash and wear them. Oh no, new clothes most often involve a trip to the tailors. Even dresses. Because they hit at the ankles and not the knees. Did clothing designers forget about us little ladies?

3. Trying to figure out how to look like a grown up, and not your kid sister playing dress up. It's a real feat, believe me. I think I've got it figured out with the low ponytail and extensive eye makeup. Either that, or I look like a classy hooker, or, you're Great Aunt Mildred after the lipo. Who knew?

4. Everything becomes low cut. Which would be nice, but, I ain't got nothin' to fill out the tops with to start! My, my, my!

But, it's all OK because Halloween is the one time a year that those little midgee Tootsie Rolls are in high demand. Everyone loves those puppies in their sack after a night of trick-or-treating (myself included). So, cheers to the fellow Midgees out there! Just remember, dynamite comes in a small package (my dad used to tell me that to make me feel better about my non existent height).

P.S. I ran 4.9 miles last night--woo whoo! I won't tell you how long it took, because, that will defeat the coolness, but, let's just say I was one tuckered out lady when I got home. I pretty much laid on the sofa in pain. But! 4.9 is good! And, did I mention my new goal is a half marathon? When did I become so crazy? According to my training, I have to run 6 miles on Saturday. Can I get some good vibes coming my way Saturday morning? That would be great. And, I went to yoga today. But, I am currently de-yoga-ing by eating a baggie of fruit snacks that I hijacked from the student interview suite. And to think I was just going in there for crackers...

Anyways, it was raining here, which was fabulous--hope it's fabulous wherever you are.

xoxox

SP

Royally Fitting: SP in London

In the very near future Her Shabbyness will depart from terminal D and hop herself a flight to London's Heathrow Airport. After which she will get through customs nicely and take a proper British taxi cab (because she looked at the underground lines--and she'd have to walk a few blocks to the hotel. With luggage. Notsomuch) and arrive at lovely hotel in lovely Greenpark and sleep off jetlag.

Then what will she do? I don't know!

Please, fill in the blanks for what SP should do on a lovely Sunday afternoon/evening in London. Apart of course from stalking Kate Middleton--that's already on the agenda from 5:43 PM.

And, since SP will be in meetings Monday afternoon and Tuesday mid-morning-ish, what else shall she do? Where is a good place to eat in the Greenpark/Mayfair area (because, it's SP, we know she needs her food).

And, of course--what to wear!! It will be late October. Of course she'll have her suits for her meetings, but, what would Kate Middleton wear?

OK, now go! Answers away! I know some of you commenters have been to London, so, help, help a blogette out.

Oh, and, feel free to join her in London. Wouldn't it be just marvelous?? Europafox, if only you were closer to London!

Have a fabulous and glamorous and divine day my dears!
xoxo
SP

PS. Thank you for your sweet comments yesterday. I had a big batch of oatmeal cookies (because the oatmeal negates the sugar) and felt better. The freak out has ended. For now.

Musings & Monday

Good morning!! Hope everyone had a fantastic weekend! I know a whole mess of Longhorns sure did (sorry OU fans, we can't help it--Texas is just better).

Welcome to Monday....

1. Did I not tell you that Pei Wei would be dinner on Friday? Well, it was. Of course. Because the thought of cooking was just "ehh". And I knew I had a long weekend a head of me.

2. You know that cute shirt I got a Target? The white one? Well, naturally, they had a red one that I may or may not have picked up last week which I may or may not have worn on Friday. Because a cute outfit really helps the day go that much better! --seriously. I felt very smiley in my cute outfit. Is that weird?

3. Spent the good part of Saturday morning (post run, I might add) making jewelry--I'll have to post the pictures--I was actually successful!

4. Saturday afternoon and evening = worked.

5. Here's what the next few weekends look like: Oct 18: church activity from 4:30-10PM (seriously). Oct 25: Leave for London. Nov 1: Husband will be gone--I will hopefully be getting hair done(?). Nov 8: Recovering from awful wisdom teeth removal... Can a girl not get a moment to herself?? I'm exhausted just thinking about all of it!

6. Dude, seriously, freaking the heck out about London. I haven't been overseas in like, oh, um, 11 years! Do I need an adaptor? How will I plug in flat iron, cell phone and computer? Seriously, freaking out. Did I mention I'm solo on this? For real. Customs. Alone. Heathrow. Alone. You have GOT to be kidding me. Seriously though, any advice? Anyone have an adaptor I could use? Oh, and, I need to make sure my cell phone can call internationally. Sure.

7. Deep breaths. Calm...

8. Did I mention I'm hosting Thanksgiving this year? Yeah...

9. But! It will all be OK. I think. I hope.

10. The days are ticking away and The Plan is not going as swimmingly as I would have hoped for... Stress... Work... No desire to run... Halloween candy... Ya know, they all are kinda ruining it. Bastards!

11. And, today is Fall Break... but, I'm a work. I'm sure this is some sort of crime. I'd really like to start a task force to look into this whole only several holidays a year nonsense. Anyone want to join??

12. Can you tell I'm a little panicky today? There's just so much to do!

13. Really hoping I can make it through the next month... A lot going on...

14. Pam better be on this weeks episode of The Office. Or else.

15. Should I even attempt The Meal Plan this week? Cause I'm thinkin' no.

16. But, it's getting closer to Christmas, and that just makes it all better, right? Right?!

OK lovelies, I must go find myself a nice big piece of chocolate to calm my nerves (calories, what calories? My franticness negates any calories, duh!). Thank you for joining us in this episode of "SP Freaks Out. A lot." Hopefully, it won't happen again. For a while at least.

Have a fabulous Monday!
xoxox
SP

In Case You Miseed It

**Spoiler Alert**

"Roy. She was engaged to Roy."

Hilarious with a capital 'H'--it would have been all caps, but, it needed some Pam, Jan and Toby action. Seriously--where was Jan?!

Can't wait till next week!

PS. Just so you know, next week is "The Baby Shower". I can't even imagine.

Oh, and I'm going to by the bead shop on the way home today. Maybe I'll figure out how to make jewelry after all (note: I am not creative. This will be a study in watching Miss Writer attempt something remotely artsy. It will be hilarious.)

Thursday is the new Friday

If you're a student maybe... For the rest of us, it's based purely on the Thursday night TV lineup.

One of my favorite quotes from The Office:

"It was a crime of passion, Jan. Not a disgruntled employee. Everyone here is extremely gruntled.”

Can't wait to see what happens tonight!!

Are we gonna get a glimpse of Pam's ring? Is Micheal going to get any smoother with Holly? What about Andy's dream wedding?

There's just so much!

(ignore the fact that SP is constantly referring to The Office. Some people have very little going on in their lives. SP is some of those people.)

Attempts at overachieving

Recently, I got this little idea into my little mind that having a nice dinner every night and actually taking the time to eat would be a fantastic idea! After all, we have a dining room and a breakfast nook--both have yet to see a meal. Well, unless you count when we have friends over. Anyways. Yes, it is a rarity for us to have a nice sit down meal--usually because we're juggling pets, homework, work, writing, cleaning--the whole "grown up" nonsense.

So, Miss SP Homemaker went to the grocery store last week with a mission: buy food for meals next week. Not just a list of food items, but, a list to make meals.

Here is what the meal plan looked like:

Monday: Oven pizza because I would be in class
Tuesday: Baked salmon with roasted cauliflower
Wednesday: Black bean burgers
Thursday: Stuffed roasted red peppers
Friday: Penne with wilted spinach, ricotta and garlic.

Ya know how it's gone this week?

Monday: Pizza (check one! --I didn't go to class, but, since I had a headache, the hubs was able to handle the pizza)
Tuesday: Black bean burgers because the hubs was leaving la casa at 7, so, it had to be fast.
Wednesday: Spaghetti. Because I was out the door at 6:30.
Thursday: Do you really think I'm going to make roasted red peppers tonight? Yeah...
Friday: Only time will tell. Friday will probably end up being a call to Pei Wei. I'm just sayin'.

Clearly, my attempts at being Happy Homemaker are not panning out.... yet.

But, The Office is one tonight, so, big collective "wa whoo!"

Wish me luck. I may have to cook tonight after all.

PS. Official 100th post, y'all!

Why watching Troy on AMC is bascially the same thing as going to l'italiano

Eric Bana + Brad Pitt + Orlando Bloom + The Iliad in movie form = Fantastic way to spend an evening.

So, The Iliad is Greek mythology, but, you know, Greece and Italy are like Mediterranean Second Cousins, so, it's the same thing. Right? I knew you'd see it my way.

Now, if only my Professor did....

Note: I had a splitting headache that started at 5PM and I was in no real condition to go to class. Like a good little student I e-mailed the professor and asked to go to his office hours. I haven't done that in forever. Am I a nerd? When did I become a nerd?

I'll be in his office hours on Friday. Because he has office hours today. But, I didn't study last night, like I told myself I would.

Instead, I managed to burn my arm on my oven, somehow do more online shopping, and watch The Office on TBS.

I was very busy.

Where would I have found the time to study anyway?

(Also, I forgot to wear earrings today and it's bugging the bejeezes out of me!)

Way More Things Than You Ever Cared to Know about SP--oh yeah, and a Winner!!

1. How do you like Texas so far?: Love it. Not such a fan of the summers, but, am getting used to it.

2.Are you intending to stay here permanently, or will you eventually head back to our fair home state?: I love our good ol’ Golden State, but, it’s so expensive and especially where I am from, there is not a lot of work—it makes better sense for us to be here. But, we may not be in Texas forever. We both like Colorado, so, we’ll see…

3. When are you guys gonna start making some cute babies?: I don’t know when we’re going to have kids. The hubs is still in school and my job doesn’t pay enough to support a family, but, hopefully soon! All my friends are having sweet babies and I want my babies to be their BFFs! (which means, A, you cannot move until you have the baby)

4. What is your favorite Guilty Pleasure?: oohhh, guilty pleasure… hmm… I sneak candy. So my husband doesn’t think I’m so weak. I sneak it in the middle of the night when I get up to feed/let animals out. Other than that, definitely chocolate in my PJs watching a chick flick.

5. What is your Favorite place to be Kissed by your Husband? I like my forehead because it makes me feel dainty.

6. Are you ticklish?: I am very ticklish. Terribly!

7. What is your biggest pet peeve?: I don’t know that I have a biggest pet peeve, but, when guys don’t hold doors open when they see you right behind them, really annoys me! Did their mothers just not teach them any manners??

8. Have you ever been arrested?: Nope, never been arrested.

9. Okay-I'd like to know which Office episode last season-was your all time favorite?: From last season I’d say it’s a tie between “Money” and “The Dinner Party”. If you aren’t a fan of The Office, just watch those two episodes and you will be converted. Of all time, I’d have to say probably “The Injury”. (also, my favorite episode of Friends is "The One With All The Cheesecakes", just, fyi)

10. Can you name the top three things that are important in your life?: The top three important things in my life would have to be my faith, my family and having some creative outlet.

11.Do you feel that you are doing a good job centering your life around these top three things?: No, I am doing a terrible job! I don’t get to see my family as often as I’d like, and I don’t think I tell them enough how much I love them, because, I do—so much! And, I’m not the best housewife, my poor husband! I want so much to be that Dinner on the Table, Happy Smiley person, but, when I get home, I’m exhausted and don’t have the energy to be a good wife and a good MomPup/MomCat. And I don’t spend nearly enough time writing, reading or creating… But, I’m trying to be more balanced. The Plan is actually helping me.

12. Who is your favorite Aunt???: My favorite aunt is obviously my Aunt Suzi, of course! You can check out her photography blog on my sidebar. No, but, really, she is. She’s been there for me and my family through our darkest hours. She is my uncles wife and when he died, she and my mom I think became even closer. I consider her new family my family and her kids and I share a very special bond. She’s the best.

13. What made you decide to start a blog?: I decided to start a blog because earlier this year I was away for several months in court, and we came up with the book and yada yada and as inside jokes, BFF L and I would text things like “That is so Melanie” and then we decided to create a Pen Name for me (since my real name ain’t glam!), to which evolved this persona of what I want my life to be and of what I imagine it being once my book is published. The blog was a way for me to live that life right now, and attempt to be fabulous, and witty and funny. Plus, you’ll all want to buy my book, right??

14. What are your biggest worries in life?: I’m petrified of my house burning down. Always have been. Even more so now because I have my mom’s stuff in my house and holy moly if I ever lost that, I would die. I know people say “it’s just stuff”, but, it’s so not. And, anything happening to my pups or kid cat, or anything happening to me or the hubs because I don’t know who would take care of the pets!

15. Are you doing (at this point in your life) what you always wanted to do?: Yes and no. I’m happy at my job. I like my industry, but, I want to be a writer and a mom. I’m not there yet, but, hopefully, getting closer.

16. If I were to only pick 3 makeup items what would they be? Ditto that Mrs. Preppy! Concealer, mascara and bronzer. I’m pasty.

17. What is your favorite type of red wine, under $15?: I don’t drink, so, I won’t be of much help—but, growing up in wine country, working in a winery and having a stepdad who was a wino and a half, I might offer some assistance. From my biased and once worked there mind—Beringer and Meridian are supposed to be good and I don’t think all too pricey. Also, Wild Horse is from my hometown. Also, I don’t know if you can get it out here, but, from what I understand Tobin James makes a very nice California Champagne. Also, Beringer, Meridian and Wild Horse can all be found at Tom Thumb.

18. Is learning Italian hard?: Not as hard as I thought, but, I’m not good with memorizing things. I’m sure it will get harder!

19. What is your favorite Italian word you've learned so far?: Hmm, that’s a good one! I think probably the names of the cities in Italian. I just love the pronunciation of it, too.

20. Who was your first kiss? (and explain the wheres and hows): First kiss was first boyfriend when I was 16 and it was the day after I got my cast off and we had a pool party with all my friends. I honestly don’t remember much about it, other than being wildly embarrassed!

21. Who was your worst kiss? (and details, please): Ooh, worst kiss… Hmm… I haven’t really kissed all too many guys, but, I’d have to say, this guy who was just a friend (and, um, not so cute) just planted one on me in high school and it was not OK. I mean, seriously, guys, don’t just go kissin’ on girls! We might not be interested. It was tres embarrassing and tres awful.

22.What was your most embarrassing moment?: Hmm… I do a lot of embarrassing things. I fall a lot. I fell up the marble stairs of the main building on my college campus in high heels and it freaking hurt. I mean BAM and I was all bruised and of course, marble stairs are loud and so, of course, everyone turned to look and there was me, flat on my bum. In a suit. Trying to look profesh. And, bright red. Lovely….. Or the time I did a presentation with my shirt unbuttoned on the bottom near my bellybutton. It was a nice shot for everyone, I’m sure. How I couldn’t feel a draft is beyond me.

23. What made you decide to go into Political Science as a Major? And did you love your program?: I grew up in a very politically inclined family and I always wanted to go into politics (yeah, that worked out). Plus, it was kind of a compromise with my dad. I was a Corporate Communications major too… I loved the program! I loved it! I loved the people, I loved the professors, I just loved it. It was so much fun.

24. Where is your most favorite place that you have lived? [this can include presently]: Ooohhh… Well, I love my city that I’m currently in to death, but, I did love when I lived with my dad for a year and he lived right near the beach. That was fantastic.

25. What is your "theme" song and why?: This is soooo un Shabby Princess, but, Hillbilly Deluxe by Brooks and Dunn. Because I grew up in the country and it pretty much defines my hometown. Plus, it’s on my running mix and it really energizes me for whatever reason.

26. What made you decide to be a "Diet-now-Healthy Diva?": Because I am trying to lose the chub. And, I realize that I need to take time to work out and start healthy habits now, when I’m young.

27. What is your favorite thing about yourself?: I have no idea. I don’t feel like I really excel at anything… But, I like to think that I am caring and I do nice things for people. I like that.

28.What is the most expensive item of clothing you own?: My J. Crew riding boots.


29. Where did you get your sense of style?: I’m a very split personality dresser, I will say. I’m either a basic Jackie O look, J. Crew preppy or Anthropoligie bright. Although, currently, I am mostly boring suits. From my mom for sure. She wasn’t afraid to wear bright colors and be fun, but, at the same time, she knew that there was nothing classier than a black dress and pearls.

30. What bag/purse/clutch are you currently carrying/wearing?: Currently, it’s all about my Coach bag (sorry legallyblondemel!). The hubs got it for me for our anniversary because I’d been admiring my friend C’s bag for ages. He saved up and bought it. I love it.

31. What is one beauty product that you cannot live without?: Concealer. Lots of sun damage and I have some wrinkles because I squint.

32. What is your favorite beauty brand?: Ohh, that’s a toughy! Probably Trish McEvoy, but, after the tres rude treatment I received at their counter last week, I might be changing my mind.

33. What is your favorite store? Target. It has everything.

34. What is your favorite clothing brand?: Probably Gap. Because I know their sizes on me best. Or Kersh.

35. How old are your furbabies?: The fuzziest one is 10, we got her 3 years ago on my birthday right after we got married. I wanted a dog and we couldn’t have a puppy in our apartment, so, hubs got me her and it’s been heaven ever since! The non-fuzzy one is 3 and we adopted him 2 years ago because we were moving into a house and wanted another pooch. Plus, the hubs wanted a “man dog”. He’s actually the biggest wuss ever! We also have a 17 year old cat who I’ve had forever. She’s my baby.

36. What kind of music is on your ipod?: Country, jazz, musicals, pop.


37. What is your favorite dessert?: Anything chocolate, molten chocolate, chocolate…

38. How did you meet your hubby?: We met at work, but, I kind of think his mom and my BFF were in on it. My BFF and I worked together and her mom is BFF with hubs’ Grandma. I think there was some plotting involved.


39. How did he propose?: He’ll be so mad at me for this! We still fight about this! Well, I was very young and living at home with no real income, so, we thought we might want to give parental unit a heads up. Parental unit wigged the heck out. I thought I was going to get kicked out or disowned or something. It was awful. It was the worst thing ever. I mean, literally, my dad and I didn’t speak for weeks. So, anyways, after we told my dad that we were going to get married (this wasn’t really an “asking permission” thing because we knew the answer would be no) and after my dad went off for HOURS we went back into the living room to watch TV and he handed me the ring and said “do ya wanna get married?”. He thought it was cute. I beg to differ.

40. How long will it take to get to your 500th post?: Probably a couple of years, right??

41. If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be & why?: I wish I could just be more content with ME. I’m always comparing myself to others and that is baaaad.

42. If you could eat one thing (without gaining a single pound) for the rest of your life, what would it be?: Potatoes or pasta.

43. What is your beauty routine at night?: Wash face, eye make up remover, apply concentrated wrinkle cream to forehead and eyes, and face cream all over. Plus, brush, floss and mouthwash.

44. Would you ever get botox ?: Sure! But, I wouldn’t want to be those ladies that are overly botoxed. Maybe around my eyes or something.

45. How often do you get your hair done?: I get a trim every 5-8 weeks (usually) and my hair colored every couple months—although, this year, I did stretch it to 6 months! I am not proud.


46. Do you get manis/pedis and how often?: Pedis, probably once a month and I usually only get a manicure if I’ve got an event or something. But, I probably should get manicures more often because my own nail painting job looks like crap!


47. Are you really a lady and not an old man using a females picture just to chat with other ladies online?: Ha, well, I don’t know how to prove this to you, but, I think it’s pretty evident that I’m a lady—my page is pretty girly!


48. How many children do you want?: I really want twins—so, 2, or 4. Lovely A has told me that I can’t have 3 because that equals a middle child. But, I’m petrified of pregnancy and childbirth, which is why twins would be ideal.

49. When will your book be published? (I really want to buy it): Thanks! Gosh, years probably. Sorry kids.


50. If you had to give Sarah Palin a makeover, where would you start - hair or glasses?: I actually think Sarah Palin is really cute, and I love her initials: SP. I’d have to go with the hair (I occasionally wear glasses). What does it look like all the way down? I’m dying to know! Or a regular old ponytail!

51. Does the state feel different since Ike?: I live so far north of where Ike hit that I can’t really say. I can say that we are looking out for one another and that there is a sense of care and concern, but, I’m pretty far removed from it, so, I’m not the best resource.

52. Aren't you a little heart broken that Jim&Pam are engaged because we all want Jim for ourselves?: (this made me laugh out loud) Yes! I mean, I’m all happy and all, blah, blah, but, come on now, Jim Halpert is a doll!

53. Are you sorry you didn't try to learn Italian at an earlier age?: Yes, I am. I wish I studied it in college, or younger.

54. Are Texas people friendly?: Overall, I’d say “Heck yes, lil lady!”, but, it also depends on where you are. There are pockets of snobbery--but, that's true for every state.

55. Have you been to the Alamo?: You betcha! Love it. I get a little teary about it. Also, the hubs’ ancestors were part of the crew in Gonzalez, so, it’s personal for us as well.

56. What makes you smile?: My family, my friends, my pets (!), inside jokes, things that are pink, things that are chocolate, sleep, blueberry muffins (yum!), cozy blankets, little kids, babies.

57. How hot is it in Texas?: Depends on what part of the state I suppose. Where I live it doesn’t get all that hot, but, it is humid. Although, I know everyone from Houston will tell me that my town is not humid. It was actually hotter in California than where I am now. It’s just a humid heat. Although, this year wasn’t that bad at all I didn’t think. Or, am I just getting used to it?

58. Do you have a secret beauty tip?: I don’t know if it’s a secret, but, I LOVE Bare Minerals Mineral Veil to dust on top of my foundation. Oily skin looks so un glam and I am an oil slick, so, I dust that all over and it keeps me oil free all day. But, not cakey. It’s pretty genius.

59. What is the perfect gift for you to give to a loved one? Ohh, good one! I like to give homemade things—not necessarily things I make because I am not crafty, but, I like to give someone something that’s personal like that.

60. What is the most profound thing you have ever read?: Holy guacamole! I don’t know….

61. What is your favorite color?: Pink. But, my house would tell you it was green.

62. Where on earth did you get that adorable Houndstooth Coat in your picture?!??: Gap.

63. How hard was it overall to learn Italian: Well, I’m still learning! I can’t really speak in full sentences even, so, yeah… If you have any foreign language history, it definitely makes it easier. Pronunciation is tough---letters and such are just sooo different than you would assume. Like “Chi” is pronounced “key”. Here’s me trying to say “chee”. But, it’s fun. Learn it!

64. What is something you enjoy more than anything?: Sleeping… kidding… writing.


65. What is your favorite outdoor activity? Running, playing with the dogs, laying by the pool.

66. What was your favorite Halloween Candy when you were a kid, and what is it now?: It was
probably um, hmm… tootsie rolls. Now, Autumn Mix.


67. what do you miss most about home?: The restaurants!! All the quaint little cafes and of course the little local shops. There aren’t boutiques here.

68. what was your favorite place to eat there?: A little restaurant called Panolivo or Café Vio.


69. what do you love most about tx?: Cost of living. Seriously.


70. what is your favorite place to eat here?: hmmm… Burger House, Kuby’s (I love the Kuby’s!), Breadwinners.
71. Where is the coolest place you've ever been (besides tx of course)? Ireland.

72. do you have a publisher/ are you almost done with the book?: Heck no and heck no. I’m sooo not far along, it’s sad! I thought I would be by now, but, work and whatnot just takes up all my time! If the book was all I did, I’m sure I would be done by now and you all would be picking it up at Barnes and Noble. One day, one day!

73. What's your favorite Halloween candy?: Autumn mix.

74. What inspires you to write?: The hilariously unreal crap that has been my life over the last few years—it cannot be made up! Also, things that make me laugh and smile. Real life things.

75. What is your favorite holiday, and how do you celebrate it? 4th of July. Hands down. (I know, I’m a rebel). Usually, fireworks with our family, but, since we’re so far away, we have a ton of people over for a California style BBQ and pool party. It’s great.

76. My Question is how cool does it get during the winter in Texas? Does it every really cool down?: So many Texas questions! Cold. Well, cold for a California girl. And it got COLD where we lived. In Texas, there is nothing separating us from the Canadian jet stream than well, the High 5. It snows here at least once a year. I remember going to my December graduation and it was so cold that we couldn’t take pictures. We were of course all in down jackets and still freezing.

77. Just when is it ok to wear a tiara?: Oh always! Personally, I recommend this one for housework such as vacuuming and dishes. You shouldn't wear it to the grocery store however, you don't want to make the other women jealous.

78. If you could throw anything out of your man's closet what would it be and why?: Hmm… He has these damn blue camo basketball shorts. They need to die.

79. Do you think Andy and Angela will ever get married on the Office?: Oh my gosh! They could have a Jim & Pam / Andy & Angela double wedding!!! Kidding. I don’t know—I still think that Angela and Dwight need to get back together--I mean, come on! They were hilariously perfect. "Is there a key for Jane Doe?" --love it! And, Pam & Jim need to get together in real life.

80 . Have you ever been in Turkey?: Nope, but, I’d love to go.

81. I've never looked good in mascara. is there a secret to it?: I don’t think so, but, I do think it depends on your skin tone. If you have fair hair and skin, black mascara would look awful. Use brown in that case.


82. What is your favorite season?: Spring or summer.

83. What are your aspirations in life?: To be a writer, have book(s) published and you know, made into a movie, of course. To be a mother. Become a better wife. Become more creative. Create a loving home for friends and family. Travel. Learn Italian. Live in Italy. Write some more.

84. Is your husband your soulmate?: You betcha.

85. Long or short courtship?: Short. Started dating in late July, married in June.

86. How old are you? You look like a teenager.: (um, you just totally made my MONTH—greatest compliment ever!). I’m 23 (I know, I’m a young’un). 24 in a month kids, start shoppin’.

87.What is your book about?: Semi-Fictionalized memoirs of the crazy-ness that has been my life the last four years. Losing my mom, etc. My friends and family are in it, and we've found laughter in recoutning the events of the last four years. You just have to laugh.


88. My question is... what is your favorite recipe? Ohh, that’s a good one! I love making soups. Foodnetwork.com, search under Giada de Laurentiis for “ribollita”. Very tasty.

89. Have you been to Tuscany, and, if so, what did you think?: Not yet. My family went for 3 weeks a few years ago, but, I was in summer school and working, so, I couldn't go.

90. I am sitting amidst a house full of boxes with a U-Haul in the front yard. Though it's a bit late to ask ;) what are your best moving tips?: Oh no! I hope you’re getting packed up safely. We just moved earlier this year—label everything!! And, of course, take with you, personally, the things you care about most. Boys are destined to drop things.

91. What is your morning routine? : Hit snooze about 15 times, finally drag self to shower, let dogs out, eat breakfast, hair, makeup, iron clothes, run frantically out the door…. But, if you mean my skin care: wash face, Aveeno anti wrinkle serum, sunscreen, makeup. Good times.

92. Where do you go to refresh your spirit?: To sleep. Seriously.

93. When you created your blog, how did you get people to start reading and responding?: I blog surfed friends of friends of friends blogs and just started there. And entered swaps and stuff like that to meet new people. And lookie how many people commented on the giveaway post—wow!

94.What kind of jewelry do you most want to make?: I’m a sucker for beaded things, and medal work. My stepmom’s BFF is a jewelry maker extraordinaire who owns her own shop. Since I can’t always buy from her, I want to make my own stuff. But I lack that kind of creativity.


95. How much sleep do you normally get?: Not enough.

96. Is a shoe really the love of your life?: Heck yes. If they weren’t $300 and I wasn’t married, you bet I’d be down at City Hall with those bad boys ready to sign the papers.

97. Which is the worst trend ever?: Grunge. Grunge is pretty nasty.

98. What is your honest opinion of Texas? (I live in Central Texas & hate it, but places like Austin, Dallas, San Antonio, etc. I LOVE!): I love it. Although, I can say, I’m not the biggest fan of the panhandle. No offense!

99. Have you ever been to London?: I have been--ages ago. You’ll have to give me pointers on where to go this time around!

100. What is your favorite food?: Italian.

101. What is your fave pair of shoes?: Currently, my basic pointy toe brown pumps. Boring, I know, but, they are super comfy, and, make me tall! All my others are out of commission because the heel caps are worn off! But, those pink ones on my sidebar… Ohh, I love…

102. What do you prefer, jeans or dressed up?: I like a combination if possible—nice jeans and a cute top—I also love to wear skirts and dresses. I always feel frumpy and ugly in not fitted jeans and baggy shirts…. But, I do love the jeans and tee combo!

103. Do you get your hair dyed and is so, what is the color?: Heck yes I do. And, I color it blonde.

104. Do you plan on learning any other languages? : Hopefully. I’d like to learn Spanish because it’s practical. But also, Swedish. Because, no one I know speaks Swedish, so, automatically, I become “the girl who speaks Swedish”. And that’s pretty cool.

105. How do you keep mascara from clumping?: Little teeny brushes. And good mascara. This stuff doesn’t clump, gals!

106. What do you envision for yourself five years down the road?: On a book tour. With several little ones in tow. And a fabulous closet of shoes. (oh, and casting for the movie of course)


107. What is your favorite fashion magazine?: You know, I’m not really a fashion magazine kinda gal. I will pick up the occasional Vogue or Bazaar, but, it’s purely based on the cover. I’m more of a Southern Living, Rachael Ray, Gourmet magazine type.

108. Should parents be punished for allowing their children to become clinically obese? please explain your reasons: So not qualified to answer this! I think they should be responsible, yes, but, punished, I don’t know. You can’t totally stop anyone from doing anything—even eating, so, I don’t feel that a parent should be punished if their kids are sneaking Ding Dongs on the school bus. (please don’t send hate mail guys, I told you, not qualified to answer)

109. I'm 26 and breaking out all the time, I really didn't have acne in my teens so this is embarassing! What can I use thats REALLY effective?: I use good old Johnson and Johnson Clean & Clear products, they work for me.

110. If your house were on fire, what one thing would you go back in to get (aside from people and pets): Ohh, hmm… Probably my “mom box”.

111. What would Mr. SP say you'd go back in for?: He’d probably say my jewelry.

112. What is/was your favorite book?: The Great Gatsby.

113. What is your favorite movie?: I don’t think I could chose just one! But, it would be a multiple tie between Gone With the Wind, Casablanca, The Great Race, What About Bob and The Sound of Music.

114. What blogs are your inspirations?: That’s a good one!! I don’t know that I have any… I do love Nie Nie Dialogues and can’t wait until that lovely lady is out of the hospital and bloggin’ again.

115. do you ever get the "I do not feel like blogging" blues?: Eh, sometimes. It’s more “I’m not witty today and people are going to think I’m lame, so, what do I blog about”. Then I pull from YouTube and post The Office quotes.

116. How do you feel about posting your 100th post? Are you excited? And will you be posting more often to get to 200?: Kind of excited I guess. Maybe I should order myself a cake! I don’t know that I’ll be posting “more often” to get to 200. I’ll just keep posting as things come up that I want to share.

117. Do you favor a particular perfume?: Heck yes, Coco Chanel.

118. Have you seen Fredericksburg or Luckenbach yet?: No, I sure haven’t—yet!

119. What are the best anti-aging products (without spending alot of money): I had no idea I was the makeup/skin care guru. ::takes bow::. Well, I guess whatever I use is working because someone thought I was a teenager! Hallejiah! I use Oil of Olay and Nuetrogena products. I’ve also had success with Philosophy products, which you can get at Sephora. But, for drugstore brands, Oil of Olay has a really wide range of items and features. Also, I do like Aveeno for their serums.

120. How did you come up with the name of Shabby Princess?: Well, let me tell you first off that I didn’t know anything about the scrapbooking site, so, I felt like kind of an idiot after I saw “Shabby Princess” links on my friends blogs and thought they were linked to me!!!—they weren’t. It was lame. The Shabby Princess is kind of a joke between me and my friends who motivated me to write the book. The character is a Princess in Training if you will, so, that became our motto—that, we are Princesses—but, honestly, we do it such a silly joking way—in no way to be pretentious or snobby—I promise. That’s why I thought The Shabby Princess was perfect. Because, it’s not perfect. It’s someone who’s a klutz and silly and real.

WOW! Sorry if I didn't answer everyone's questions--please do not take it personally! There were so many and I really appreciate everyone commenteding and coming out of blog hiding. I really, really apprecaite it. Please keep commenting, I loved all the questions--you guys are funny! And, remember, my birthday is coming up, so, there will be another giveaway next month, don't get discouraged if you don't win.

The Winner Is... (drum roll please..........)

The Mrs. Preppy!!!! Who asked "If I were to only pick one (ok - maybe 2) makeup items, mascara would definately be it. That and lip gloss and under eye concealer. Ok, well make that 3. What would your 3 be?"

Congratulations, Mrs. Preppy! E-mail me your contact info and this lovely package will be on it's way to you.

Thanks again to everyone who participated. I can't wait for the next giveaway! I hope to get to know you all better.

xoxo

SP

Musings & Monday

"I'm always thinking ahead. Like a carpenter. Who builds stairs." -Andy Bernard

1. It was raining this morning. It's not raining now. All I want to do is go home and snuggle with my pups. They don't care.
2. So, lazy weekend= no gym + conference + blueberry bread + longing for cookies (but we didn't have butter. I know, I know) + somehow managed to get the guest room quasi set up = fabulous.
3. Did I mention there will be a temple in Rome?! And I was giddy with glee.
4. Did I mention that my fam is coming out for Thanksgiving and they I'm wildly freaking the heck out?
5. I planned out our meals for the entire week. On the calendar. I usually just plan them in my mind, but no, this time, it's on the calendar. Which makes it official.
6. I'm slowly becoming a better housewife--even though I'm only home and functioning a few hours a day--which are mostly taken up with e-mail, watching mindless TV and the occasional evening nap on the sofa.
7. I am wearing my new le Target shirt today. Complete with chunky turquoise necklace, brown sweater and brown shoes. Its actually cuter than I had envisioned. Blue shoes would be better. I'm also going to need a red sweater, and a black one. I can see this becoming a slippery slope.
8. Very similar to my makeup spree from a few weeks ago and what happens when I'm bored on Friday night--I online shop. Don't we all??
9. And we're supposed to be saving. I blame my lack luster wardrobe.
10. And the fact that I'm trying to conform to The Plan--and have realized that dressing certain ways helps us to feel certain ways. Happy colors and snappy outfit? Feeling fabulous, thankyouverymuch.
11. I have l'italiano tonight--hopefully, more than 6 people will show up and I won't be forced to do assignments on my own. Again.
12. Can it hurry up and be 7:35 PM already? I just want to go home!! (mainly because it's clean! And that excites me. Oh, and the husband and pets and all. Duh.)
13. Have you looked for jewelry on Etsy lately? It's dangerous. So much great stuff. And, I'm a total sucker for handmade ditties.
14. I somehow managed to go through a lot of soda over the weekend. I think I must be drinking the stuff in my sleep. Not good.
15. I'm drinking some right now. But, I am, in fact, awake.
16. Please tell me The Office is on this week. Because seriously, last week, not cool.
17. Don't forget, the giveaway winner will be announced tomorrow!

Alright lovelies, I better get'.

xoxo

SP

By the Numbers

1: Number of times I went to yoga this week
2: Number of times I've walked into Michael's, not found what I wanted and left (I want to start making jewelry, why the heck doesn't Michael's have good stuff?!)
3: Number of times I've worked out this week (I've been sleepy)
4: Number of times dog and or cat work me up last night
5: Number of episodes of The Office I have watched in that last 48 hours
6: Number of random magazines I've been sifting through this morning (Southern Living, Rachael Ray, Real Simple x 2)
7: Days in the week
8: Number of times the dogs have gone running for the front window and attempted to break out this morning (I've been counting). Seriously, there's been lots of "Stop! There is nothing out there!"s this morning. And, it's still early.
67: The number of comments on the Giveaway post as of right now (ah!!!)

And finally, the biggest number...

$122: amount I spent online shopping for new clothes last night (we're trying this whole "new clothes, new make up, working out = new outlook on life" thing. So far, so good. Kind of not helping me with my budget, but, good). And, I should mention, I don't really spend a lot of money on clothes, so, holy guacamole!!!--but, according to everyone I know, my black suits are getting a little boring...

What is a girl to do?

**Update**: questions/comments will be turned off at 5 PM Central Time tomorrow (Sunday), but, the winner will still be announced on Tuesday. I had no idea there would be so many questions!

Fabulous Friday Target Finds

First of all, holy guacamole--I mention mascara and people come out of the woodwork! And, I love it! I love all these comments (/questions)--it's so fun!(that said, one time lurkers, please keep commenting, I'd love to get to know you all better!).

Last night, I promptly ditched le workplace at a reasonable hour and decided to pop into my beloved le Target in efforts to find a new pair of my favorite heels which are now falling apart. Lovely, I know. I didn't find new heels, but, I did find super cute little jacket and super cute white button down.... Of course, both will be making a little trip to the tailors this weekend, because some people (ahem) are just better off shopping in the kids section ("Sometimes, the clothes at GapKids are just too flashy, so, I'm forced to shop in the American Girls store and buy clothing for large Colonial dolls").

How cute is this jacket?

I'm thinking it will become my Holiday staple.

Anyone who knows me knows I love nothing more than a crisp white shirt of any variety. This will be in the everyday rotation, I'm sure.

(this picture does not do it justice) I'm picturing it with a big chunky bright necklace (red, yellow or blue!) and some snappy colored shoes with jeans.... Now, I just need said chunky necklace(s) and snappy shoes and we'll be set.

So yes, yes, I admit it, I'm a Target clothes buyer. I can't help it. It's a weakness.

Have a Fabulous Friday and, in case you haven't entered, don't forget about the giveaway!

xoxo
SP