Getting a hang of this...

I'm figuring out that what I intended to do with this blog may not be as interesting (or as fun to do) as I thought.  I'm reworking my idea of what to really do on here--maybe post more crafts, activities, and cooking, less shopping.  Considering no one really reads this at this point, I do think a bit of reconstruction will go unnoticed.  

So, I was thinking about what I really like, and figured that's what I should write about in my free time... not just clothes I find on sale (and I do apologize for that).  

My list begins:

1. Music and Music Festivals.  Though I may not be into the most hipster-ish of jams, I do like a good beat and appreciate what is upcoming and unique.  I really want to do public relations or marketing for some group that works with music festivals, so a blab of my findings and thoughts on that may be as self-serving as it is interesting to readers.
2. Crafts.  I like to learn how to make different things--cards, jewelry, headbands, knick-knacks, patty-wacks, whatever.  I'll work on posting what I'm learning and maybe even tutorials like I've seen many other people do, as well.  
3. Shopping.  Look, I know I should be steering away from this, but it's still a problem, I mean passion, of mine.  It does subsequently leads me to my next interest...
4. Thriftiness!  No, I don't mean thrift store finds; I mean easy ways to save money.  I have very little sense of money, but very big financial goals.  I can't ever find my Citizens of Humanity jeans at Goodwill, but there are some places where I should learn to skimp.  As I am still weening off of my parents, this aspect of my life is a growing process, yet a fun (and maybe even educational) journey it shall be.  
5. Cooking and Baking.  For a while, I got really obsessed with cupcakes.  I made them all the damn time, and really never tried to make anything else.  I have all the cupcake equipment and books and liners and boxes that one could imagine.  I got a bit obsessive until this past semester when I got a little more explorative.  Considering I did have to feed myself while living away from home for the first time, I got pretty down with the basics.  What I've found about myself is that I hate going exactly by directions, I love the "eye-ball" measurements, and I like to be a little bit creative.  We'll see how this next semester goes.  
6. Daycares?  I just got a job working twenty hours a week at a daycare.  Don't expect me not to talk about it; kids are too cute not to.

This list is definitely a developing one, as are these thoughts of mine.  Oh, and the formatting of this blog should improve... once I figure all that out.  :/  Oh, and I just ordered a cheap little digital camera, so I can post pictures of my explorations.  woohooo!

Merry Christmas.

:)

Yes, Please.

This little calendar from Urban Outfitters has made my afternoon.  lol

$13.99

Outfit's with a Budget in Mind: Holiday Party Edition

Today, I've spent my time looking for websites with great deals.  Who doesn't like that?
Here are a few steals that I've found today that make up a very elegant and tasteful holiday outfit.  :) 

Online at Freepeople.com, I found these gorgeous leaf earrings that would add a little glitz to any outfit, formal or casual, and at a very affordable price.

Original $18.00

Now $9.95

Moving on to the basics; in the sale section at Anthropologie, I found this beautiful denim skirt that could be dressed up or down, as well.  It would go perfect with a skinny belt, but can stand on it's own without one, too.  The reason I love this high-waisted skirt so much is because of the tiny flare at the bottom.  I always look for that bell shape in both dresses and skirts because, for some reason, I've found that it seems to be a bit more flattering on my body shape.  For the most part, I think this looks good on all body shapes because it seems to elongate one's legs.

Original $88

Now $49.50

One my favorite, 6pm.com, I found this elegant BCBGeneration shirt that could be worn on it's own with jeans or tucked into high-waisted skirts.  The pocket and the sleeves add enough detail that it can stand by itself with no necklace easily enough.

Original $58

Now $29.50

Saving my favorite part for last, I found these beautiful Spring shoes on Zappos.  They received really good reviews and come at a great price.  I love this color because you can where it with jeans and really ANY color.  It's a fantastic neutral.  The soft pointed toe of this shoe is truly perfect with any outfit this time of the year.

Originally $49.99

Now $25

Adding different tights, belts, jackets, or sweaters to this outfit would allow you to wear this many different times with a totally different looks.  Have fun and enjoy the holiday season.  :)

Dishes Are My Thing

I'm certain that my obsession (or problem) with dinnerware is an inherited trait.  My mother also loves dishes, and by that, I mean she gets brand new dishes every six months or so.  Want some great, gently-used dishes?  Come to one of our garage sales.  My mom is a huge fan of Pottery Barn dishes, so for her birthday she got these beauties which go great in combination with her festive Christmas plates.

$40-$159

Personally, I could decorate my apartment with anything from Anthropologie.  I love the shabby-chic style and the coziness I always feel in their stores (and I'm also ecstatic that one just opened up in Little Rock).  I love the attention to detail in their products, and really, just the frill.  I long to set my table with these lovely dishes:

$30 for set

$118 for set of six

And my favorite three tiered stand...

$158

I recently stumbled upon theclaystudio.org which is based in Philadelphia and features ceramic art and dishes.  They have artist's work for sale which is all made by hand.  While everything is gorgeous, I am a huge fan of these bowls by Pete Scherzer:

$40 each

and this mug from Meredith Host:

$40

Christmas Shopping in the Heights

Finals are over for me, and I'm ready to get into the spirit of the season.
With Christmas around the corner and a few parties in the near future, I hit the streets to look for some good gifts, and I do believe that I have finally finished up my Christmas shopping.

Box Turtle is where I had the most the luck today, and also happens to be one of my favorite stores in Little Rock.  It is located in a beautiful three story house off of Kavanaugh in the Hillcrest area near the heavenly Damgoode Pies (which does happen to have the best pizza in Little Rock).  You walk in Box Turtle to the clean smell of organic candles and the fresh sight of sunshine lighting up beautiful kitchen ware.  On the first floor, you can find amazing (and occasionally hilarious) gifts, fun home decor, and unique jewelry.  The top floor has women's clothing from local and independent designers like Korto Momolu, previously on Project Runway.  If you make your way down to the basement (and I suggest that you do), you will find an incredible toy shop with unique toys, children's gifts, and retro candy.  As an adult, I still have a blast in this part of the shop.  And as a matter of fact, I found my white elephant gift in that area today.  Yes, this is chocolate milk mixer.  Fancy, eh?

$14

Another store I stopped by was the lovely Tulips, an adorable shop a little ways farther down Kavanaugh in the Heights and decorated in fresh, girly shades of pink--a princess's dream.  This store features trendy women's and baby clothing from brands like Juicy, Tulle, and my favorite, Citizen of Humanity.  I ended up finding an adorable, one-shoulder dress for 50% off (not a gift, I admit).  It had a little tear in a seam so I got an additional 10% off.  My total ended up being about $40 so I was thrilled.  I'll add a picture once I get that sewed up.  Until then, here's a picture of an adorable Juicy bag that I wouldn't be surprised if I stumbled upon at this little boutique.

$398.00

Objectives and a Few Things I Found Today

I'm planning on writing a guidebook over shopping in my area.
First, I figured I should get some thoughts out that may go in my book.
I'll add interesting websites that I find, and will review shopping areas, stores, and unique restaurants in my area.  Feel free to comment and give suggestions.

While doing some online Christmas shopping, I found two feel good websites from which to buy beautiful scarves and jewelry.  And like most people enjoy this time of year... a site for some good deals.  

GreenSewn is a company that recycles (or as they say, upcycles) old saris to make beautiful and affordable scarves and wraps.  All of their products are unique and are made with gorgeous colors.  I am definitely wanting to order this lime and lavender wrap to use as a scarf with my new grey petticoat.

$65.00

Sheyna has simple, yet elegant jewelry.  I love the soft gold and silver jewelry.  Sheyna also gives you the option to customize your own jewelry.  This option would really add a personal touch to a great gift.  I love the gentle beauty of these 'Citrine Sun Flower Gold Earings."

$97.60

Less unique, but seemingly important this time of year is 6pm.com that features designer brands for substantial percentages off.  And yes, I do think I will get this Luck Brand bag for 59% off.

Original $189.00 

Now $76.55