Friday July 31, 2009

I had a horrible night last night. I'm not sure why. I didn't go to the gym last night because I felt totally wiped out from the heat and a migraine. We went to Costco instead. I got up and decided to read Harry Potter when I couldn't sleep. I started falling asleep where I was reading on the living room couch, so I decided just to stay there and sleep. The cats were crazy last night and kept waking me up- inside and outside, in the bedroom and in the living room. I guess that's why we usually keep the cats out or the bedroom door closed. By the time that The Rusty Knight's alarm went off at 4:30 am, I was done trying to sleep anyway. I'm sure that I will take a nap later.

Speaking of cats- my female cat must have gotten into a nasty fight. I don't remember ever hearing or seeing her fight, but she has a wound on her head and is missing a back claw. I only noticed the claw because I was cutting her nails. She had jumped up to sit on me, and she was hurting me with her long nails as she "kneaded". It didn't seem too bad of a wound, so maybe the claw will just grow back.

Wonder Teen has been growing again. I had to pry a pair of jeans off of him that was so tight he could hardly breathe. They were a 28 inch waist, so I know that he's grown. I'm thinking that I may want to get him the next length and waist size up in jeans, just to have around. That would be a 31x34, since the 30 inch waist doesn't seem to come in a 34 length. Luckily, the jeans that he grew out of fit his sister. The length will have to be taken up, but she is happy- she wanted skinny jeans.

We're going out to dinner with another couple tonight (exciting!), so I wanted to look nice. Here's what I decided on:

Sofft Ballet Flats- $25 on sale at 6pm.com

Knit Wrap Skirt- $10 at Target
AE Beaded Halter Top- $6 at Susie's Deals

Denim Jacket- $25 on sale at Target

Watch- $15 on sale at Sears

Gold Layered Chain Necklace- $12 at Forever 21

GRAND TOTAL= $93

My boots just came! Boy, they are linty and a little dirty, but they are cute. They seem to fit pretty well.

Thursday July 30, 2009

I just got off the phone with Princess Stomping Foot's GI Specialist. Her biopsy was fine, although he did mention something about lymph nodes? Anyway, he wants her to start on Prevacid, and take it for three months for her acid reflux. I was wondering about that, so I'm glad that he called.

I went to my class at the gym last night, and I added a second riser to my step. I really love that class. Tonight is Yoga and Zumba, and I enjoy those, too. I baked some blackberry scones last night. They came out ok, but now I have a better idea of what to do for next time. I was thinking that fresh strawberries would be good in scones, too.

It's park day, and the weather has cooled off enough that it should be nice. It's not even supposed to get up to 100 today. Here's what I am wearing:

Madden Girl Gladiators- $18 at Famous Footwear BOGO sale

Polka Dot Knit Dress- $18 on clearance at Target

Blue Cami- $5 on sale at Old Navy

Medallion Necklace- $10 at Cost Plus

Watch- $15 on sale at Sears

Grand Total- $66

I finally went and brought two bags of clothes to Goodwill yesterday. Of course, I already have a new bag started, and I need to go through some books. It seems like "purging" is an on-going process for me. It always feels good to get rid of stuff, though.

Wednesday July 29, 2009

I'm such an enabler. I saw a coupon online for my friend's favorite purse store, so I sent it to her. She said she and her hubby were going on a date to the outlet mall the next day (that's my kind of date- wish my The Rusty Knight liked to shop!). So I sent her more coupons and reminded her to bring the other ones that I had pointed out in the Sunday paper. LOL I hope they find some good deals. I'm going grocery shopping today, I'll have to see how far I get on the money that I have left for the week.

I read a blog called The Size 10 Chronicles, and she was talking about how her idea of what she wants her body to look like is different than the Average Bear, but that she's ok with it. She is training to become a competitive fitness model, so her ideal body is different than most women's ideals. I think that's very good to have our own independent ideas about what we want. (Obviously, my ideas about education and lifestyle are not particularly "mainstream".) Then I saw this blog post with a picture of Madonna's grotesque arms. Half of me wants to believe that there is some photo shopping or tricks of the camera going on here, but even still her arms have been getting out of control for some time (in my opinion). Where do you draw the line between fitness and destruction? I guess that's a personal decision that everyone on a fitness journey has to make for themselves. Some of the things that are touted as being "Healthy" just sound unhealthy to me; bodybuilding, for example. Then there is also the aesthetic issue. I would like my body to be lean and have some muscle definition, but not so much that I become vein-y. To me, that look is unappealing. It also takes above and beyond a normal fitness level to achieve and maintain. My goal is a healthy lifestyle that does not get in the way of my Life.

Are you having fun watching the fall looks trickle into the shops and planning what to wear when it cools down? I am. I'm doing a lot of watching prices and trying things on, but not a whole lot of buying. I have a couple of key pieces that I want for fall left, and then I am laying low until winter wear comes out. Because of the steady rate of weight loss, I almost always have something that I am shrinking out of. Back in February I bought a couple of pair of draw string shorts and some bra cami's on sale at Old Navy for summer sleepwear. I'm still wearing them, but the straps on the cami's are disintegrating and the shorts are looking ridiculously large. I picked up a cheapie nightie at a discount store the other day ($5- but it just barely covers my butt!), so I am on the lookout for a couple more cheap nighties (maybe at Kohl's- I saw some for $8 on their website, so with an extra 20% off they would be cheap enough), and some new workout pants. Exercise wear is so expensive, and they like to put weird colored stripes in the strangest places. How about a pair of solid pants in dark brown or gray, rather than black? And how about them costing less than my monthly gym membership? I guess I'm just too picky. I think that I will be needing undies soon, too. See? It's always something.

Today I am wearing:

Clarks Unstructured Mary Janes- $35 on sale at 6pm.com

Denim Clamdiggers- $15 at Lands End online overstocks

White Tank- $3 at outlet store

BR Top- $6 at Susie's Deals

Wooden Bead Necklace- $5 at Payless Shoes BOGO sale

Watch- $15 on sale at Sears

GRAND TOTAL= $79

Tuesday July 28, 2009

I have not been getting to the gym as much as I would like lately. Last night, I was determined to go. The class was the one that I really dislike, but I thought that I would just go and do it and get some cardio in. Well, I had a migraine and the upset stomach that goes along with it. I thought I would be ok, and I really wanted to work out. I should have just waited a bit and then gone and did an easy treadmill workout instead. Now, I remember why I hate that class- the teacher yells into the mic so that you can't understand what she's saying, she puts on music and then tells you *not* to move to the music- and doesn't even keep a steady beat, and she does lots of jumping around that makes me feel like I have to pee like a racehorse even on a day when my stomach is not upset. So, I went and did 20 minutes, and then I left. There were only about 8 people in the class- no wonder! Ironically, I went to the pharmacy for refills on my migraine meds yesterday, and instead of waiting for them to be ready I said I'd just come back and pick them up. Que sera sera- as Doris Day put it.


I'm trying to get back to more frugal grocery shopping again. I was doing well for a while, and then life got in the way. So I went through all my coupons, and we picked up a few things at CVS. I spent around $30, but according to my receipt- I also saved around $30. I earned about $4 back for next time. I got money back on toothpaste, notebooks for free, and BOGO on the mascara that I like (Neutrogena Healthy Lashes Waterproof). Stocking up when things are on sale and I have a coupon is all part of the plan.We will see what the grocery ads bring. I feel like we have lots of food in the house still, so that's good.


Here's what I am wearing today:



Madden Girl Gladiator Sandals- $18 at Famous Footwear BOGO sale


Denim clamdiggers- $15 at Lands End online overstocks


Flower Embellished Tanks- $4 on clearance at Target


White Vest- $10 on clearance at ATL


Gold Hoop Earrings- $8 on clearance at Target


Watch- $15 on sale at Sears




GRAND TOTAL= $70



Speaking of stocking up when things are on sale, Kohl's is having a giant sale this weekend. I don't know about you, but I'm planning on going. You get an extra 20% off your purchase (you may need the coupon for that), and you earn $10 Kohl's Bucks for every $50 you spend. I have my eye on some new workout gear and fall shirts. Last night at the gym, my pants kept falling down. I think that means it's time for a smaller pair. I'm planning on being at the store right when the sale starts for "Early Bird Hours", but if they don't have what I want I may order online.

Monday July 27, 2009

The Mouse is back. After a week with no signs of it, I thought that it had eaten the bait we put out and it was gone. Last night, I saw the cats watching the cabinet it had been getting into, and I knew. This morning I found this nibbled avocado. I'm not sure what I am going to do, but I am going to do something about this sucker. Avocado's are $1 each- and I am not spending a dollar a day to feed this thing.

I came across this picture of me about a year ago, and I wanted to do a side by side comparison. It's hard to believe that was just a year ago. (49 pounds ago, as of yesterday)

Weird

I decided that I wanted to knit a vest. I started on it, but I already need to rip back and fix a mistake. I'm just kind of winging it, so I'm not sure how it will turn out. It's nice to have a project to work on, though. Of course. The Rusty Knight keeps telling me that I need to be reading. He wanted to go see the new Harry Potter movie this weekend, but I told him that I wanted to finish re-reading the books (and re-watching the other movies) before we go. I am halfway through book 4, and this movie is for book 6. Now, every time he walks by me he yells at me to "Go read!" LOL

Here is a picture of me in the $10 jacket that I found. It has really nice lines for such a cheap jacket.

Here's what I am wearing today- nothing new or special, but cool in the heat.

Bronze Gladiator Wedge heeled sandals - $30 on sale at The Avenue

Denim Clamdiggers- $15 at Lands End online overstocks

Band Bottom tank top- $15 at Target

Watch- $15 on sale at Sears

Glad Bangle Bracelets- $10 at Torrid

GRAND TOTAL- $85

Sunday July 26, 2009

Yesterday, The Rusty Knight took Wonder Teen to therapy group. Princess Stomping Foot was not feeling well. She has been having a stuffy/runny nose, but she woke up just not feeling good. She said that her throat hurt a bit, and she was coughing a lot. I think that it was the french toast we had for dinner the night before. I started cooking it- in a mostly dry, iron skillet and made with egg whites and soy milk so it would be nice and light. When Rusty got home, he took over and added lots of butter and oil. Bless him for helping, because my feet were aching by that point in time; but he needs a reminder about keeping oil/fat/spices low for Her Ladyship.


I'm still obsessed with fall, and I'm finding some great deals on some key pieces. I found a faux leather jacket at Ross for $10 yesterday. I needed a mid weight jacket, so now I can check that off my list. Next, is a new coat (the one from last year is just way too big). I found a great pair of suede slouch boots in wide width on Overstock. Flat suede boots for every day wear is a great staple for me- my feet will be warm, these should be big enough for an insole, and since they are short I don't have to worry about my large calves. Rusty is killing me with his views about these things. He keeps reminding me that these may only fit me one season. That is true (although it may not be- I am still going to be wearing the trench and puffer coat from last year), but it doesn't mean that I am not going to buy a new coat for winter. I am cold all the time, and it's worse with the weight loss. I'm not going to freeze all winter because he doesn't want to shell out $40 for a new coat.

I found a yoga mat at another discount store yesterday, so I picked that up. I have been wanting one for class. They have mats there that you can use, but they are well worn and heavily sweated on. This one is nice because it has a fuzzy, no slip surface, and an attached hook and loop closure. They also had some ankle weights- I should have grabbed those, too. I'm trying to work more "exercise" into my daily life, even if I can't get to the gym. Yesterday, I got on the elliptical trainer for 20 minutes. I also put my hand weights by my chair in the living room, and when we were watching TV I did some simple arm exercises. When I was laying down and reading Harry Potter, I worked my legs. If I can remember to do these sorts of things, I think it will make a difference.

Saturday July 25, 2009

Now that I have said my piece about Facebook, I can get to regular blogging ;)

Since the last couple of weeks has been so crazy, I am trying to get back to some semblance of normalcy. I went to Yoga and Zumba classes at the gym on Thursday, and we went grocery shopping Friday. I gave myself a strict budget, so I am trying to get creative. (Mama B- I am making more meat pies to freeze!) You would think that with an unrestricted diet, it would be easier to cook dinners; but I can't even remember what I used to cook anymore.

I had noticed that one of the thrift stores near us was having a half off sale Friday, so we stopped in to look on the way to the store. We got a big bag of paperbacks (some for all three of us) for under $2. I'm glad that we stopped. Yesterday we stopped at a new frozen yogurt shop on the way home from the park. That was a fun treat (and I had a coupon!) They have a bunch of different flavors of frozen yogurt- some are fat free, some are tart, some are fruit sorbet's. Wonder Teen and I chose cake batter flavor, and Princess Stomping Foot chose Oreo cookie. Then, you can put on the toppings that you want. They had two different topping bars; one was all candies, nuts, cereals and dry stuff, and the other was fruits and things like cookie dough balls that need to be kept cool. They also had a bunch of syrups to drizzle on. I think we will be going back there on occasion- it's just so much fun!

Here's my outfit from Friday- even the cat was impressed to see me in something different!

Madden Girl Gladiator sandals- $18 at Famous Footwear Sale

BCBG Generation dress- $27 at Ross

Purple Cami- $5 on sale at Old Navy

Watch- $15 on sale at Sears

Shell Necklace- $5 at Farmer's Market

GRAND TOTAL= $70

I woke up this morning having a strange dream (Steph- you can appreciate this!). I had to go back to High School for some reason, and I bumped into one of my English teachers. He looked really different- actually, he looked a bit like Monet in his later years, and we didn't recognize each other at first. Anyway, I googled Mr. Gordon after I got up, but I couldn't find anything, so I guess the dream didn't really mean anything. It's weird because I haven't thought about him for years. If you're out there Mr. Gordon- I hope you're well!

Friday July 24, 2009

Social Networking
I've been thinking a lot about that lately. Many of the moms at my park day have joined Facebook, and so there is always a flurry of posting/discussing posts/sending stuff at the park. I am one of the few people who has not joined Facebook, and I have no intention to. I am a huge fan of the Internet, in general. It's a quick and easy way to find answers, shop, and connect with people. But I also think that it has it's downfalls. There are a lot of people out there who use the Internet for bad- scamming people, spreading viruses, and just wasting time. Over the years, I have spent time in many different Internet social networking sites. I have come to the conclusion that for me, those interactive sites can lead to no good. The online activity gives me a false sense of involvement with another person, it takes up time that I don't have to waist, and it interferes with my relationships. I guess that at heart, I'm a nerd. I can't break myself away from the computer when I find something fun, and I can't distinguish between cyber friendships and real friendships, so I fore go the latter for the former. I have a difficult enough time with relationships, so I don't need any help messing them up.

When my friends at the park first got into texting, I didn't even have a cell phone. I felt really left out, but I tried to convince myself that it was no big deal. Then I got a cell phone, and I joined the texting craze. I used it all the time for a while, and now I hardly ever do anymore. I could probably get rid of the texting on my phone and not really miss it, although I do like it. I think that it's just another case of Keeping Up With the Joneses, and that this fascination with Facebook will fade over time. I hope so, because it's rather annoying feeling like the one kid who didn't go to the party. I have to remind myself what my priorities are, and that these things do not come without paying a price in one way or another. So, no- I'm not anti-Facebook, but I'm still not going to join (and please stop asking me to!).

Wednesday July 22, 2009

The last week or so has been terrible. I've let all of my healthy eating habits go, haven't gone to the gym, and have been binging due to stress. I blame it on the heat- it makes my brain go gooey. I packed on several pounds this week, and now it is time to get serious again. I feel like I learn so much from these experiences, though. We've been eating out a lot (because Princess Stomping Foot can), and I have learned a lot about food choices at restaurants. TGI Friday's is my new favorite restaurant (too bad there isn't one by my house). Their menu has all of the calorie values on it- including the drinks, and they have a delicious, filling meal for 480 calories which is also low in fat. It's called Dragonfire Chicken, and it's something that I would have ordered just because it was yummy. We ate at Chevy's last week, and I didn't discover the nutritional info on the table until after I had ordered, and I made a big mistake. I told the kids that we aren't going there again. I'm going to start asking at restaurants, because it's just too hard to try and figure out.

I think that if I really focus this week, I can drop the weight that I've added, and pick my habits right back up. I need to start my new gym schedule since Her Ladyship starts back to dance next week. It will be kind of nice to get into a regular schedule again. Everything has been so out of whack lately, and going back to dance will be grounding.

Last night, I had to just get out of the house for a bit. I went to our new Forever 21 store in the mall. They had sweaters from last winter on clearance, and I found three. I think they will be really good for fall/winter. They are lightweight, and cotton with a little cashmere or angora. I chose three different styles and three different colors: a teal blue wide neck tunic, a burnt orange deep v neck, and a dark purple 3/4 length sleeve turtleneck. I also got a layered gold chain necklace. They have really adorable accessories. I'm already thinking about outfits for my sweaters in my head. The burnt orange one would go nicely with my wool pants and ankle boots, but I need a shirt to layer under it. The tunic length sweater will go well with my skinny jeans and flats, and the turtleneck will go nicely under my tweed blazer with bootcut jeans (which are on my list for fall) and ankle boots. Now we just need the fall weather. That will be along in about 4 months.

Tuesday July 21, 2009

Well, today was Princess Stomping Foot's test day. It's only mid afternoon, but I already feel exhausted. Everything went fine- her test results were all normal (the bloodwork results were already in), and she is feeling ok now. The doctor noticed a larger than normal opening at the top of her stomach, and some inflammation- pointing to acid reflux. So, we are just going to watch her diet and see what aggravates it for now. I'm just glad the test is over.

It's still hot today (not as bad as it's been, though). I knew the hospital would be cool, and I wanted to be comfortable so here is what I wore:

Madden Girl Gladiator Sandals- $18 at Famous Footwear Sale

Denim Clamdiggers- $15 at Lands End Overstock online

Purple Cami- $5 on sale at Old Navy

Short Sleeved Hoodie- $12 on sale at NY & Co

Leather Flower pin- $4 at Claire's

GRAND TOTAL= $64

Monday July 20, 2009

Today is "prep" day for Princess Stomping Foot's procedure. We went and got the stuff last night, and I was surprised how much it is. She is going to be sloshing around from drinking all that. Poor baby, today is not going to be fun.

This whole week has not been real fun. I just want it to be over. I feel like everything is on hold until we get these test results. We've been indulging Her Ladyship and eating crap, and the weather has been so hot. It's finally supposed to cool off a bit, and I am so thankful.

Saturday July 18, 2009

So......it's 118 degrees in the sun right now.
Miserable- that's the only way to describe this weather. I broke down and bought some Gatorade mix, because I just feel like I can't get enough water in this heat. I may go to the mall, just to enjoy some A/C- even though we just spent an hour at Super Target. My feet are blistered from getting sweaty and slipping in my shoes yesterday, and I have two huge festering bug bites as well. Today is just not a fun day.

Friday July 17, 2009

So, I did pull out my fall clothes and take a look through them. I am not in too bad of shape for fall, I guess. My denim jacket and leggings with dresses got me through the spring, and fall will be similar. Most of those things will still fit pretty well, and I also have a light trench and puffer coat that are still very wearable. My corduroy trench from last year is now way too big, so I will have to keep an eye out for an everyday coat. This tunic dress would be a great transitional piece, and I could see it styled several ways: as shown, with leggings and denim jacket and flats, or with skinny jeans a belt and ankle boots over a t-neck. Those are the types of pieces that I am looking for- versatility wise. I'd love to pick up a denim pencil skirt and a pair of checked pants if I can find just what I want at the price point I'm looking, but I would live without those, too (until next spring, anyway).

We're in the middle of our first real heat wave this summer. Although I can still feel the affects of it; I can honestly say that my weight loss has allowed me to deal with the heat significantly better. Of course, the heat has driven the ants into the house. We found a trail in our bedroom, and have been seeing scouts in other spots in the house for some time. I hate ants! We're getting water bugs in the cats outside water bowl, and of course there's still The Mouse. I feel like we're fighting a losing battle against the critters.

Today is supposed to be another hot one, and luckily we have an excuse to go Down the Hill. Princess Stomping Foot has her blood tests today at the hospital , so I promised the kids that we would have lunch out and take a walk around the mall. At least that will keep us out of the heat for a while. Tomorrow is supposed to be just as hot, and we will be Down the Hill yet again. I may make up some excuse to stay down there after therapy, since it's about 10 degrees cooler.

Today I am wearing:

Bronze Sofft Flats- $25 at 6pm.com

Denim Clamdiggers- $15 at Lands End

Band Bottom Tank- $15 at Target

White Vest- $10 on sale at Ann Taylor Loft

Paper Fedora- $7 on sale at Target

Gold Bangles- $10 at Torrid

Watch- $15 on sale at Sears

GRAND TOTAL= $92

Thursday July 16, 2009

My ankle boots came yesterday, and they are perfect! I'm so glad to have that "out of the way". Now, my feet will be warm and dry all winter long. I'll have to pull out my fall stuff and see what I need to really fill in the gaps. At least planning for fall lets me have some fun with clothes. I am starting to get bored of wearing the same couple of sleeveless dresses over and over.

It's park day today, and it's supposed to be a hot one again. It's all about sunscreen, shade and water on these days. I'm sure the kids will still have a good time. I'm re-wearing a previous outfit:

Madden Girl Gladiator Sandals- $18 at Famous Footwear sale

Cotton Dress- $7 on clearance at Target

Wooden Bead Necklace- $5 at Payless Shoes BOGO sale

Watch- $15 on sale at Sears

GRAND TOTAL= $45

Wednesday July 15, 2009

This week is really running away from me. Is it really Wednesday already? Yesterday, The Rusty Knight called up in the afternoon and said that he was tired (he had worked really late and then gone in really early) and was coming home. He had plans to go to bed early. He wasn't kidding- he fell asleep around 7pm, and slept the night through. I hope that he's feeling better today. The kids and I watched the first Harry Potter Movie. They wanted to watch them all in a marathon, but I told them that we can't watch each on until I finish the book. I just finished book 2, so maybe we will watch that one tonight.

This morning, the kids had dentist appointments for cleanings. Wonder Teen was fine, but Princess Stomping Foot has to go back in a month to have the dentist look at her molars. I hate dealing with the dentist. It's so never ending and thankless. Between the three of us, it seems like someone is always having to go. We got done at the dentist, came home for a pit stop and headed to the grocery store.

Our "friend" The Mouse is eating us out of house and home. The Rusty Knight's performance on this issue has been less than stellar. When we first discovered The Mouse, he pulled all of the food out of the cabinet that it was haunting and put it on the kitchen counter (as if I had any counter space to loose). He set a trap, and just left it- never changing the bait or location. He finally just pulled the trap out and said that he was going to do something else, but never did. Meanwhile, The Mouse has now discovered the food on the counter top, and is eating away merrily. Since I just bought a bunch of food, I am determined not to have it eaten by The Mouse. I had the kids clean out the cooler, and I am going to put the food in there. Hopefully, The Rusty Knight will be up to setting some kind of trap or poison out tonight.

I didn't get a picture, but I am wearing my giraffe print dress sans leggings.

Bronze Gladiator Wedge Sandals- $30 on sale at The Avenue

Giraffe Print Dress- $15 at Ross

Bead Necklace- $10 at Cost Plus

Watch- $15 on sale at Sears

GRAND TOTAL= $65

It's another hot one here, and my brain is going a little slow.

Tuesday July 14, 2009

My weight stayed the same this week, and with all of the crap that we've been eating it's all I could really hope for.

Yesterday, I took the kids to the beach. They had a really good time fishing for kelp and playing in the waves. Being a former local, I know of a place where you can park for free- but we couldn't find a spot and still had to pay for parking. We also had to put up with a dead seal carcass on the beach. The lifeguards were completely unconcerned and never took care of it, even with all of the complaints. It didn't stop the kids from making friends and building a huge kelp pile, and I got quite a bit of book 2 of Harry Potter read. I'm trying to reread the series before we see the new movie. We all got our share of sun- Princess Stomping Foot had burned herself to a crisp a few days before by playing in the neighbors pool without sunscreen, but I kept her pretty well covered and I don't think that it got worse yesterday. I always miss one spot or another, and got a bit red on certain toes (I even sunscreen my feet), and at my hairline. Poor Wonder Teen got really burnt. I made the mistake of letting him do his own sunscreen, and I never reapplied for him because he was never out of the water long enough to dry off. Luckily, I had brought the aloe vera gel with us and I applied that for him before dinner. I had him take a really hot bath last night (hot baths or showers really take the sting out of a sunburn for some reason), and applied more aloe. He's still red in spots today, but nowhere near as bad as I thought it was going to be. The Rusty Knight is talking about taking a day off of work to go back to the beach, but we'll see. It's not very close for us. We are all beat still, and have a ton of laundry to catch up on.

I am starting to think about fall clothes, and my lack of them. I bought one pair of lined wool pants at the end of last winter, and they will probably be fine with some alterations. I have my Converse, but those are the only shoes that cover my whole foot, and I have a couple of fall tops that I saved or bought on clearance. I have been watching the prices on ankle boots, because I wanted a pair of those. They make more sense than a full boot since they don't fit over my calf, and can be worn with both my pants or jeans. So, I spotted a pair of leather mid heeled ankle boots on Overstock the other day, and I snatched them up. There was only one pair left- in the size/color that I wanted. Including the shipping, they were only $40. I hope they fit- then I can be done with the search. The should be here tomorrow. I also scored some sale items at Old Navy yesterday. I found a decent coupon online, so we swung by a store on the way to the beach. I picked up a sweat hoodie and pants for $8 each, two more cami's for the gym and fall layering for $5 each, and a pair of skinny jeans that are just a tad snug, but have lots of stretch (which means by fall they will be perfect) for $16. I'm actually trying not to shop, but when I see something that I know I am going to buy anyway, for a price that is better than any other I've found- it kind of makes sense to just buy it. So, I'm feeling a little more prepared for colder weather, anyway.

Today is hot- my homepage says it's 102 right now. My sleeveless cotton dresses are in heavy rotation. Here's an older pic of the same outfit that I am wearing today:

Born Concept Sandals- $25 at Famous Footwear sale

Floral Knit Cotton Dress- $18 on sale at Kohl's

Blue Bead Necklace- $8 on sale at Kohl's

Ctoss Body Bag- $18 at Payless Shoes

GRAND TOTAL= $69

Saturday July 11, 2009

Night At the Museum was cute, and I love the fact that we have a $1 movie theater here now. I'm sure that we will see more movies at the theater- we don't mind waiting for most things. They are playing Monsters Vs. Aliens, so we will probably see that one soon. We had a perfectly ordinary morning and afternoon, and then the Wonder Teen sprouted horns and turned into a demon. The Rusty Knight looked at me and said "Congratulations- you have a teenager". I hope this behavior is due to lack of sleep and rare- I can't take that every day.

Here's what I am wearing:

Madden Girl Gladiator Sandals- $18 at Famous Footwear Sale

Cotton Sack Dress (finally got the sleeves off)- $7 on Clearance at Target

Wooden Bead Necklace- $5 at Payless Shoes BOGO Sale

Watch- $15 on sale at Sears

GRAND TOTAL= $45

Here is the evolution of this dress:

Belt and sleeves No belt and sleeves beltless and sleeveless

Friday July 10, 2009

I'm re-reading the Harry Potter books, because the new movie is coming out soon. I finished book one last night. It's funny all of the things that you missed before when you re-read those. Every time I read them again I find things that I didn't remember before. I'd better hurry up if I want to finish before we see the movie. We may go to a movie today- Night at the Museum 2 is at the dollar theater now.

Next week is getting busier and busier for us. Wednesday the kids have dentist appointments, Thursday is park of course, and Friday we have to do blood work for Princess Stomping Foot at the hospital. Now, we are considering going to the beach on Tuesday. It would be fun, but I haven't decided yet.

Last night, we went to our favorite Italian restaurant. The service was *terrible*, but the food was good. I am getting a lot better at ordering healthier in restaurants. We ordered our favorite fried green bean appetizer, but I only ate 4 pieces, I got my salad with dressing on the side, and my Chicken Marsala with double veggies, rather than pasta. By the time we ate, I was so hungry that I ate it all rather than saving half for lunch like I planned. It wasn't a large meal, though- a chicken breast and vegetables.

The Rusty Knight told me this morning that he needs to stay home on Saturdays for the next month and a half. He has too much work to do, and deadlines are looming. I'm not thrilled with having to take the kids to therapy group alone, but I'm sure that he's not thrilled with being overloaded at work either. A couple of weeks ago at group, we were asked how our relationship stays so solid. We are the only couple there that really gets along well. I think that a big part of it for me is just realizing that we have a common goal, and that we have to work together to get there. It sounds kind of silly and simplistic, but it works.

I re-watched High Fidelity the other night (ok, I actually watched it twice), and I think that it may be my favorite John Cusack movie. Now I want a Marie De Salle T-shirt, but I think that I would have to make it. I did find Championship Vinyl tees on Cafe Press. Those are pretty cool, too.

Here's what I am wearing today:

Sofft Flats- $25 on sale at 6pm.com

Denim Clamdiggers- $15 at Lands End's Overstock

Gray Tank- $5 on sale at Old Navy

Striped BR Tank- $6 at Susie's Deals

Pearl Necklace- $18 on sale at Kohl's

Watch- $15 on sale at Sears

GRAND TOTAL= $84

Thursday July 9, 2009

I was finally able to get back to the gym last night. I took a class that I have been wanting to try, and I really liked it. They use weights, and do a lot of balance work to improve your core. I thought that I would really be sore this morning, but I'm not at all. I guess that if I get up early and go to the gym before The Rusty Knight leaves for work on weekdays, I could just go to classes on the nights that Princess Stomping Foot doesn't have dance, and also Sunday morning since that's my favorite Yoga class. That would leave me with this weight class, two Yoga classes and the option for staying after yoga for cardio. That's a decent schedule. Now I just have to get over my fear of "The Machines".

The weather has cooled off a little bit (I actually turned the ceiling fans off last night), and it should be a lovely day at the park.

Here's what I am wearing:

Madden Girl Gladiator Sandals- $18 at Famous Footwear Sale

Knit Skirt- $10 at Target

Banded Bottom Tank- $15 at Target

Gold Bangle Bracelets- $10 at Torrid

Watch- $15 on sale at Sears

GRAND TOTAL= $63

Wednesday July 8, 2009

Can you feel it? There's a hint if fall in the air. OK, not really in the "air"- but in the retailing. Fall merchandise is just around the corner, and you can see it if you look closely. I'm kind of excited. I'll need fall and winter clothes/shoes, so it gives me an excuse to shop. The items that I am really looking for are knee and ankle boots, sweaters/sweater dresses, new jeans and wool pants. I may need a new coat, too, but I'm hoping to make due with the ones that I have from last year. I'm going to invest in some wool tights or really good long johns as well. It's all about keeping warm for me. I am glad that I have picked up a few fall tops, though. I have a feeling that with the long, cool spring we had; summer might be short. Of course, it might just go the other way and we will end up with a long, hot summer and no fall at all. You just never know. Either way, I am dreaming of tartans, tweeds and leathers right now.

Here's what I am wearing today:

Peep Toe Flats- $13 at Famous Footwear Sale

Lands End Denim Clamdiggers (hemmed from jeans)- $15 at online outlet

Floral Tunic (finally got around to altering the neck/sleeves on this)- $6 from Ross

White Vest- $10 on sale at Ann Taylor Loft

Fuscia Gerber Daisy clip/pin- $2.50 at Claire's

watch- $15 on sale at Sears

GRAND TOTAL= $61.50

Tuesday July 7, 2009

I am down a pound this week (bringing my current loss up to 48 pounds now), and considering that I haven't been to the gym in two weeks, that is not bad. I'm going back to the gym tonight. I also have to figure out what I am going to do in August when dd's new dance schedule starts. I can work evening classes in, but if another gym had a better morning option I may switch.

Princess Stomping Foot is back on a full diet as of today, and I think we will go to the grocery store and let her pick out some food. She's already got a list in her head of things that she wants to eat- donuts, pancakes, mac n cheese, ice cream.... That would make her sick, even if it wasn't food allergies! She had some gluten for breakfast, and she is already grumpy. *sigh* It's going to be a long couple of weeks.

Here's what I am wearing today:

Madden Girl Gladiator Sandals- $18 at Famous Footwear sale

Lands End Clamdiggers- $15 at online outlet

Threadless Tee- $5 on sale

ATL Vest- $10 on sale

Wooden Bead Necklace- $5 at Payless Shoes BOGO sale

GRAND TOTAL= $53

I'm lovin' the graphic tee with a vest over it look, and longer necklaces- three new items for me!

Monday July 6, 2009

It's a new week, and I am ready for it! I haven't coughed anything up yet today, so I can safely say that I am pretty much recovered at this point. Finally! Just in time for Princess Stomping Foot to get sick. We have been easing her back into a "regular" diet since Thursday. First we added dairy, then soy yesterday. She will be back on gluten tomorrow. She's already not feeling so great, but no GI issues yet.

I managed to get three of my alterations projects completed this weekend, and a fourth is halfway done. I am pleased with the finished results so far, and I think that I can finish the last dress pretty quickly. I still have a pair of jeans to cut off and hem up, too- plus some of The Rusty Knight's things. I guess that I still have a good sized pile since I inherited Rusty's projects, but at least I am making headway.

This week should be pretty quiet for us- we have a dance class tonight and then just park day on Thursday. I'm getting out some new schoolwork to help keep the kids busy, and I bought them a new video yesterday.

I'm wearing one of my completed alteration projects today: (the shoulder drop/armholes on this dress had gotten too big, so I just brought the shoulder seam up, and then I tried belting it on the front rather than the back)

Madden Girl Gladiator Sandals- $18 at Famous Footwear BOGO Sale

Cotton Knit Dress- $7.50 on clearance and a coupon at Old Navy

Medallion Necklace- $10 at Cost Plus

Watch- $15 on sale at Sears

GRAND TOTAL= $50.50

Sunday July 5, 2009

I'm working on some alterations today. Hopefully, this will expand my wardrobe a little bit. We're really into the heat of summer, now, and it's all about cotton, sleeveless and short. I am wearing shorter dresses and skirts than I ever remember wearing as an adult. I'm still not fully comfortable with the look, but I have let that requirement slide. Loose is also a good thing for summer, and I am not as self conscious in a short loose dress as I am in a short more fitted one. I'm re-wearing an outfit that I wore last week:

Born Concept Sandals- $25 at Famous Footwear Sale

Cotton Print Dress- $18 on sale at Kohl's

Blue Beaded Necklace- $8 on sale at Kohl's

Cross Body Bag- $18 at Payless Shoes

GRAND TOTAL= $79

The Rusty Knight took the kids next door to watch the fireworks last night. I stayed home and comforted the dog. I was really tired, and fell asleep almost as soon as the big fireworks show was over. I'm feeling a lot better, finally. There's still an edge hanging on, but it's pretty slight. I imagine that within a week, I will be completely back to normal.

Saturday July 4, 2009

Happy Birthday, America!

By the way- how did we get to July, already?!

The Rusty Knight and I had a great time on our date last night. The movie (Public Enemies) was good enough that it didn't feel like 2 1/2 hours, we got some yummy (and fairly healthy) food, and had a chance to actually sit and have a conversation together. I have a few more times scheduled for the sitter to come before dance starts again, but I haven't told Rusty yet. I think we will just go out to eat for those. We were watching all of the press coverage about Palin stepping down. I'm trying to figure that one out- just like everyone else. We saw a preview for a movie that looked funny- Couples Retreat. I have to remember to add that to my Netflix list.

We're spending a pretty quiet weekend. I'm finally starting to feel better. I may even go to the gym tomorrow. Of course, I keep saying that, and then not going! I do feel like I have finally rounded the bend and am getting better, though. That's a good thing.

Here's what I am wearing today:

Madden Girl Gladiator Sandals- $18 at Famous Footwear Sale

Denim Clamdiggers- $14 from Lands End online outlet

Pink Tank- $8 at Target

Banana Republic dropped waist tank- $6 at Susie's Deals

Flower Pin- $2.50 at Claire's

GRAND TOTAL= $48.50

Friday July 3, 2009

The talent show at the park went off really well yesterday. The kids had so much fun showing off their talent, and we parents enjoyed watching it just as much. It was very low key, and something that we could probably do a couple of times a year- since some of the kids were already talking about what they want to do next time.

The Rusty Knight is off work today, so I booked the sitter to come this afternoon. We're going to see Public Enemies and have some dinner. It should be nice, even though I am still not feeling really well.

Here's what I am wearing:

Madden Girl Gladiators- $18 at Famous Footwear BOGO sale

INC Wide Leg Jeans- $21 on sale at Macy's

Threadless Tee- $5 on sale

Ann Taylor Loft Vest- $10 on sale

Beaded Necklace- $5 at Payless Shoes BOGO sale

Cross Body Bag- $18 at Payless Soes

GRAND TOTAL= $77

Thursday July 2, 2009

Kohl's is killing me this week! Tuesday, we were there for the Kohl's cash sale. They had Wonder Teen's jeans on sale, and if you spent $50, you got a coupon for $10. He needed longer jeans anyway, so it was a win-win. Yesterday, we went back and got him another pair of jeans (still on sale for the cheapest price I have found) and a tee shirt, and used the Kohl's cash. Today I got an email coupon for an extra 20% off an order of $75 or more, plus free shipping. Now, the jeans are still on sale- and he does need a couple more pair. I'm thinking about ordering them. It's such a good deal. I have a hard time plunking out all the money at once, but I know that eventually I will buy that many.

We're supposed to have a talent show at the park today, but there are also supposed to be thunder showers. We'll see how that plays out, I guess.

Here's what I am wearing:

Madden Girl Gladiators- $18 at Famous Footwear BOGO sale

Lends End Clamdiggers- $14 at online outlet

American Eagle Halter top- $6 at Susie's Deals

Leather Flower Clip- $5 at Claire's

GRAND TOTAL=$43

It's already in the 80's, and it's not yet 10am. It's going to be a hot one today! I don't think we will stay at the park too long- even if we don't get those showers.