Get Lit Book Review: THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER

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I've heard about The Perks of Being A Wallflower for quite a long time. In the fall of 2004, during my freshman year of college, my roommate said that it was one of her favorite books. This wasn't the first time I heard someone rave about the book. The title intrigued me and I knew that I would someday get around to reading it. When film producers announced that the movie for The Perks of Being A Wallflower would film in Pittsburgh this year, I wanted to get my hands on it before the movie was released in theaters. After doing a bit of research, I was reminded that the book is actually set in Pittsburgh as the author grew up in one of the suburbs. I was really excited to see what all the hype was about and maybe even recognize a few of the scenery locations in the book.

I ordered Perks from Amazon.com. When it arrived, I quickly began reading. It's not a long book and it's a rather quick read. I read a little before bed each night and finished in about 10 days. You could read this on a plane ride or in an afternoon if you wanted to. What I liked the most is the style in which Perks is written. I am the type of person who likes to read nonfiction. Even though Perks is fiction, I was able to picture the characters vividly in my imagination and let the scenes play out as if it truly happened. This was easy to do because I recognized the imagery that Stephen Chbosky painted in my head. There is one particular part in the book that I loved the most because it describes something that anyone who is from Pittsburgh or even visited, can relate to on pgs. 91-92:

There’s something about that tunnel that leads to downtown. It’s glorious at night. Just glorious. You start on one side of the mountain, and it’s dark, and the radio is loud. As you enter the tunnel, the wind gets sucked away, and you squint from the lights overhead. When you adjust to the lights, you can see the other side in the distance just as the sound of the radio fades because the waves just can’t reach. Then, you’re in the middle of the tunnel, and everything becomes a calm dream. As you see the opening get closer, you just can’t get there fast enough. And finally, just when you think you’ll never get there, you see the opening right in front of you. And the radio comes back even louder than you remember it. And the wind is waiting. And you fly out of the tunnel onto the bridge. And there it is. The city. A million lights and buildings and everything seems as exciting as the first time you saw it. It really is a grand entrance.

The Perks of Being A Wallflower does a good job at describing the coming of age tale of its loveable protagonist, Charlie and his eclectic group of friends. I enjoyed the references to music and literature. The one complaint I had about this book is that the characters are crying on virtually every other page. I am one of the most sensitive people you could meet but even I don't cry as often as the teenagers do in this book. I don't think I've ever met a 15-year-old boy who cries like Chbosky's Charlie does. The ending leaves something to be desired but it is still a great debut novel. It's worth the read for anyone in their teens, 20s or just young at heart. It's a sweet story and I look forward to the screen adaptation.




Now Playing: "Asleep" by The Smiths
(Often mentioned in the book)

Word of the Week: INVIDIOUS

INVIDIOUS adj.

From the Latin for "full of envy".

DEFINITIONS:
Tending to rouse ill will, unpopularity, animosity, or resentment.
Envious.
Unfairly or offensively discriminating or prejudice.
Undesirable, unpleasant, unfavorable.

Synonyms: jealous, envious, green-eyed

EXAMPLE:
After winning the race, her competitors were left with invidious feelings from their defeat.


First Known Use: 1606

Nail Polish of the Moment: Lollipop by Essie

Image Courtesy Google Images

Since it's Memorial Day weekend, I wanted to do a red polish. Rather than sticking to a traditional red, I went for one of my favorite nail polishes, Lollipop by Essie. This is actually the color that Olivia Palermo is notorious for wearing. It's a red/orange and really pops against my fair skin. It's creamy and perfect. I love it for all year 'round. It also works as a great pedicure color.


Color: 5/5
Packaging: 5/5
Application: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Value: 5/5

Would I Repurchase: Yes! Again & Again!

Final Verdict: A+
(25/25 or 100%)



Now Playing: "Rhythm Is a Dancer" by Snap! (1992ish)

Flashback Friday!

The early 90s. Such a special time in my life. I was in elementary school and remember these songs vividly. The internet wasn't around (for me, atleast) and I listened to the radio quite a bit. Here is a favorite for Memorial Day weekend! I loved Color Me Badd. My sister's 27th is tomorrow and I have a 4 day weekend. I'll be taking some time off from blogging but I'll be back soon!

I Wanna Sex You Up by Color Me Badd LIVE (1991)
This performance made me smile ear to ear and laugh 'til there were tears in my eyes! The outfits, the dance moves, the hair. Classic :)

Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries: ENGAGED!

Reality star, Kim Kardashian and her NBA beau, Kris Humphries are engaged. The 26-year-old New Jersey Nets player proposed with a 20.5 carat, Lorraine Schwartz engagement ring valued at $2 million dollars. Kris popped the question at Kim's house with the help of red rose petals spelling out "Will You Marry Me?" Wow! It's nice to see people in love. It seems like every day I have a new friend or acquaintance announcing their engagement on facebook. But I don't think any of the girls I know are getting rocks like this one. I wouldn't exactly throw it out of my jewelry box but there is something to be said for having something understated (Duchess Catherine for example). This isn't my style of ring but I'm sure Kim thinks that bigger is better! To each his own! Congratulations to the couple- I'll be sure to watch when their "newlyweds" style reality show hits E! (you know it's only a matter of time)!

Everything We Do, We Do It Big!

Congratulations to Hines Ward and Steeler Nation for securing the huge win on Dancing With the Stars! I'm not a big fan of the show but I definitely tuned in last night. Even though we didn't take home the Lombardi this year, it was nice to see Steeler Nation come together to bring the Mirror Ball to the 'Burgh! Hines is a fantastic dancer and his partner is phenomenal but it just goes to show the power of the black & gold! Pittsburgh really is the City of Champions and I'm once again so proud of my hometown!

Bon Iver Performs on Jimmy Fallon

Word of the Week: PARAMOUR

Paramour noun

Definition: an illicit lover, boyfriend or beau

Synonyms: admirer, concubine, courter, courtesan, doxy, escort, fiancé, steady, sweetheart

Example: My paramour made me laugh and taught me about life in ways I never thought possible.

Origin: Middle English, Anglo-French

First Known Useage: 1400





Now Playing: "Beach Baby" by Bon Iver

The Many Uses of Vodka!

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Did you know that the old bottle of Vodka in your cabinet is good for more than just mixed drinks and martinis? Vodka is pure alcohol (duh) and can be used as a cleaning solvent and for a number of other things around the house. Instead of using a finer bottle, your best bet is to pick up a cheap brand from the liquor store and buy it in bulk. Vodka works wonders at cleaning everything from glass to clothing garments. Here is a list of how I non-traditionally use vodka:

1. Lens Cleaner
I'm legally blind, so I use vodka as an eyeglasses cleaner. It also works for sunglasses! Lens cleaner solution can get pretty expensive but vodka does the trick for a fraction of the cost!

2. Deodorant
Joan Rivers swears by this trick. She claims that if you put vodka under your arms, you'll never experience foul oder again. She also recommends dousing fancy garments that can't be cleaned in the washer/dryer with a potion of water and vodka. This is apparently an old theatre trick. Vodka also removes the smell of cigarettes from clothing.

3. Preventing Rust from Razors
The alcohol content in vodka makes it ideal for keeping razors in pristine condition. If you're looking to extend the shelf life of your favorite set of blades, soak them in vodka for a few minutes and allow to dry.

4. Slushy Ice Packs
I'm always amazed that vodka doesn't freeze. But if you mix it with a portion of water and throw it in the freezer, it creates the perfect concauction for when you need an ice pack.

5. Stainless Steel Cleaner
If you have stainless steel appliances or fixtures, vodka makes for an excellent cleaning solvent. It's safer than most of the products on the market that contain a variety of chemicals and it works just as well if not better at removing stains.

6. Removing Bandages
If you hate the feeling of ripping a bandage from your skin, douse the area with vodka prior to tugging. Vodka will disolve the adhesive on your bandage, thus making the removal pain free.

7. Removing Bumper Stickers
As mentioned in the tip above, vodka disolves glue and other forms of adhesive. If you have a bumper sticker that doesn't want to come off your car or a label that's on one of your things, vodka will do the trick at removing things smoothly.

8. Relieving Foot Odor
If your toes and feet are less than fresh, try soaking them in a tub of vodka. This promises to relieve some of the stench.

9. Jewelry Cleaner
Engagement ring looking a bit dull? Your favorite earrings not catching the light like they used to? Allow me to introduce you to a jewelry cleaner that won't break the bank. Let your gems soak in vodka for a few minutes or douse an old toothbrush in the solution to hand scrub your pieces- voila! Good as new.

10. As An Astringent
Vodka can be used to tighten pores by applying after you cleanse your skin. I have very sensitive skin, so I skip this tip, but I've heard that it works great for some people!


There are many other remedies that I've read about online but these are just a few to consider! I hope you are able to use some of these tips to save money and avoid harsh, unwanted chemicals in your home :)






Now Playing: "For the Summer" by Ray LaMontagne

Nail Polish of the Moment: Capri by Essie

2 coats of Essie Capri with OPI Base Coat and Top Coat

I saw Essie's Capri nail polish on one of my new favorite blogs, Could I Have That. The color looked like the perfect coral shade for spring & summer. I ordered it from Amazon but was disappointed when I received it in the mail. It looks practically orange in the bottle and on my nails. I already have a couple orange bottles and was hoping Capri was more of a pink/red coral. The formula is nice and was easy to work with but the color leaves a lot to be desired. I'll probably redo my nails in a few days.

Color: 3/5
Packaging Quality: 5/5
Application: 5/5
Style: 3/5
Value: 3/5

Final Verdict: 19/25
(76% or C)

Would I repurchase: No



Now Playing: "Surprise, Surprise" by Brett Dennen

Flashback Friday!

"The Heart of the Matter" by Don Henley. I love listening to this song. It's so catchy and fun to sing along to. It's a bit cheesy (standard for the time that it was released- 1990) but I still think it's pretty. I also love the cover by India Arie (2006) that was featured in the Sex and the City movie! Enjoy both versions! If the "Rapture" happens tomorrow (5/21/2011), it's been real.

Chic & Thrifty

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Actress Zoe Saldana was spotted in April sporting this casual & trendy ensemble. Zoe is absolutely beautiful and could make a burlap sack look good. But if you're trying to reacreate Zoe's outfit, there are plenty of affordable options out there. This is a very accessible look! Chic doesn't not have to cost thousands of dollars. The pieces I put together totaled under $130 bucks- that's less than Zoe's sunglasses alone. In case you are wondering, here is what Miss Saldana is wearing:

AG Adriano Goldschmeid Top & Jeans
Ray-Ban Aviator Sunglasses
Brian Atwood Shoes
Miu Miu Crossbody Bag




Now Playing: "Blue Skies Again" by Jessica Lea Mayfield

Album Review: Torches by Foster the People

I feel like I've been listening to Pumped Up Kicks by Foster the People for years. I don't recall where, when or how I first heard it. It wasn't on the local radio station (it seems like the indie one in my area is just now picking up on it). But regardless, Foster The People is a band that everyone is buzzing about. Their debut album, Torches, is a nice first effort.

Like the rest of the cult, I love Pumped Up Kicks. But other tracks that I enjoyed on this album include Helena Beat, Houdini, and Miss You.

The album will be a nice listen for the summer but it's a bit repetitive. It feels familiar in an excellent way at times but also in a cliche form at others. It's love it or leave it. I'm curious to see Foster the People live when they roll through Pittsburgh on August 8th.

Final Verdict:

NEW RULE: SURVEY SAYS

NEW RULE: Stop asking me to fill out your company's quality assurance survey when I'm online shopping during work hours. I'm not interested in the chance to win a $10 gift card off my next purchase of $100 or more. I'm paying you to send me what I'm too lazy to drive to the mall to get. Your job is to not ask any questions.

Word of the Week: CURMUDGEON

At my job we have a new intern who shares the same name as my sister (Natalie). Since Natalie the intern is the editor of her college paper, I asked her for some word of the week suggestions. While reviewing one of the articles she wrote, I came across the word CURMUDGEON. I don't recall ever seeing this word before (I'm sure I'm not alone). Thanks for the vocabulary lesson, Natalie!

CURMUDGEON kər-ˈmə-jən
n. An ill-tempered person full of resentment and stubborn notions. Often an old man.

Synonyms:
grouch, complainer, bellyacher, crab, whiner

Example:
Old man McCain was quite the curmudgeon around the neighborhood. He never let the kids play in his yard.

First Known Use: 1568



Now Playing: "Roses & Wine" by Diego Garcia

Trending: Cannes Film Festival

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Navy and nude were two of the most popular colors trending at the 64th annual Cannes International Film Festival in Cannes, France. Neutral shades have been very popular this spring and I expect them to carry through into the fall. Many of the top magazines are reporting that red will be a big color for fall/winter '11 but I expect to see plenty of deep, navy and midnight blues in the mix as well. I think all four women looked beautiful!

Actress Gaia Bermani Amaral attends a Calvin Klein party

Actress Angelina Jolie in Salvatore Ferragamo at the Kung Fu Panda 2 Premiere

Model Karolina Kurkova in Armani Prive at the festival's Opening Cermony

Actress Rachel McAdams in Monique Lhuillier at the Sleeping Beauty premiere



Now Playing: "Fans" by Kings of Leon

Chic & Thrifty!

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Former reality TV star, author and fashion designer, Whitney Port, is known for her eclectic sense of style. She is pictured above attending a fall/winter 2011 fashion show. I really like this look with the exception of the shoes. I think the silver sandals were an interesting choice but it's not exactly something I would pick out. Nevertheless, I think Whitney pulled off this look very nicely. She is wearing Muubaa leather pants, a 3.1 Phillip Lim gray t-shirt, Jimmy Choo sandals, Mawi London necklace and a blazer from her own line, Whitney Eve. I estimate the cost of these items to be around $3,000. Gasp- that's a fraction of what I make in a year! But have no fear, you can always be chic and thrifty!

Even though it's late Spring in my part of the world, I believe it's never too early to start thinking about what to wear for the upcoming fall/winter season. It's also a good time to get great deals from the "leftovers" from the previous one. Where I live, what was in style in 2010 will generally still be going strong the following year- just a bit more accessible. The thought of purchasing an entire new wardrobe each year is enough to make my skin crawl. Do people actually live like that?

I was able to find a fabulous blazer at 50% off on Sears.com (yes, Sears has some decent Sunday bests) as well as some nice alternatives to Whitney's look from places like Urban Outfitters, Target, Forever 21 and Aldo. With a bit of patience and some luck, you too can find similar pieces (probably for even less than $200). So let your hair flow loose, stick to neutral makeup and you could pass for Whitney Port's doppelganger! Your wallet will thank you!




Now Playing: "Hang You From the Heavens" by The Dead Weather

Get Lit! New to the Bookshelf:

CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE... still working on how to get my images to show up true to size on blogger!
I finally have decided on a name for my book club- Get Lit! When I was at work (of all places), looking up book fairs for a client, I read about one that called itself Get Lit. I wish I would have come up with this on my own but I did think it was too cute to pass up. For the record, that type of entertainment isn't my style but aliterative plays on words definitely is on par with my sense of humor. Here are some books that I recently purchased.

The Myteries of Pittsburgh by Michael Chabon.
Because I am enjoying The Perks of Being a Wallflower which is also set in my hometown, I was excited to see this at the thrift store. I haven't watched the movie that they made but it might be nice to watch when I'm finished with the book. I may review this book for one of my vlogs on my YouTube channel but for now, it's atleast on my reading list.

Lies That Chelsea Handler Told Me by Chelsea Handler's "Various Victims".
This book I was the first in line to preorder. I'm a huge fan of anything Chelsea Handler (well, minus that horrific reality TV show that one of her companies produced) and have been for a pretty long time. I have read Heather McDonald's book You'll Never Blue Ball In This Town Again and really loved it. I like a lot of the regulars on Chelsea Lately (many of whom had a part in writing this book), so I know I will love it. When I'm done reading The Perks of Being a Wallflower, I can't wait to get started. I'll probably finish this in a couple days! Expect a full review in June!

The Five People You Meet In Heaven by Mitch Albom.
I picked this up at the thrift store for a couple dollars. I heard it was a nice and easy read from many people and I just love the title. I am a fan of Mitch Albom's Tuesdays With Morrie, so I'm sure this one will not disappoint. I'll likely get around to reading it in the fall and will do a full review here on my blog and YouTube channel.

The Courage to be Rich by Suze Orman.
I am such a fan of Suze Orman! I think she is briliant and such a warm person. I enjoy her show so I know I will really take a lot from this book. I got it at the thrift store for a couple dollars- it's one of her older books but when it comes to money, good advice tends to age pretty well. Since I live at home and don't have any bills, I'm trying to save a lot of the money I earn. Hopefully this book will inspire me!

Audtion by Barbara Walters.
Growing up, I had my heart set on being a journalist. Barbara Walters is the quintessential woman to look up to in this regard. She may not be everyone's favorite person in the world but she has lived an incredible life. I thought this book might be nice to read at a glacial pace (it's pretty thick). I'm sure Barbara's life stories and advice will be beneficial to me even though my hopes and dreams are a bit removed from one-man-banding in the field.




Now Playing: "Truth" by Alexander

Nail Polish of the Moment: Stranger Tides by OPI

Photo courtesy Google Images

OPI's Pirates of the Caribbean collection recently hit stores. There were a couple colors that I was interested in but one that I had to have. That polish was Stranger Tides- a beautiful, creme, sage green. The color of this polish instantly drew me in. I love sage green. I always want to call it mint green (maybe that's not totally off). I use this particular color to decorate with very often. To have it in a nail polish made me very excited. I have a couple colors that remind me of Stranger Tides but none that are exactly similar or even close. If you're looking for a light, pastel green hue for spring or summer, Stranger Tides is one to consider. I've wanted OPI to release this exact color for ages. I'm very happy with it and will definitely be repurchasing when I run out (hopefully it will make the permanent collection)! The application was pretty easy and only required 2 coats to achieve full opacity but I did 3 for safe measures. I highly recommend this one!


Color: 5/5
Packaging Quality: 5/5
Application: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Value: 4.5/5

Final Verdict: A+
(24.5/25 or 98%)


Now Playing: "What Is Love" by Haddaway

Makeup Challenge: Teal, Lime Green & White

Over on MakeUpGeek's site, she is hosting another makeup contest. This time, we were asked to create a look using the colors teal, lime green and white. Here is what I came up with! (The products I used are listed below the pictures!)




Products Used:

Too Faced Shadow Insurance
MAC Painterly Paint Pot
MAC Plumage Eyeshadow on Lid (Teal)
MAC Wedge Eyeshadow in Crease (Light Brown)
MAC Vanilla Eyeshadow for Highlight (White)
MAC Retro-Speck Eyeshadow for Inner Corner (Sparkling White)
Wet N Wild ColorIcon Eyeliner in Turquoise (Lower Lashline Base)
BH Cosmetics 88 Cool Shimmer Eye Palette Lime Greens (Lower Lash Line)
Maybelline Ultra Liner in Black (Liquid Eyeliner, Top Lashes)
Maybelline Falsies Mascara


Now Playing: "Two Step" by Dave Matthews Band

Style Spotlight: Hilary Rhoda

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You might recognize Hilary Rhoda's beautiful face from various magazine or TV ad campaigns for Estee Lauder, or perhaps you've seen her flawless physique in the SI Swimsuit edition. The 24-year-old super model calls Chevy Chase, Maryland home, but these days, she can be found on catwalks all over the world.

I personally adore Hilary's look- from her dark locks (those brows!) and icy blue eyes to her captivating bone structure. She is stunning. Another thing to admire in Ms. Rhoda is her incredible figure. She is svelte yet still retains womanly curves. In a world full of skeletal models, Hilary is healthy and fit. She is easily one of the most recognized and successful models of our day. Being constantly surrounded by high fashion, it's no surprise that Hilary's personal style is impeccable!

Flashback Friday!

Taking it back to 1972... "Listen to the Music" by The Doobie Brothers! Even though this song came out before I was born, it still gets a lot of play on the radio. "Listen to the Music" reminds me of summer afternoons. It always puts me in a relaxing mood.

Nail Polish of the Moment: Borrowed & Blue by Essie

Photo Courtesy Google Images

Essie's Spring 2011 Wedding Collection includes the perfect pale blue. I didn't have any powder, baby blues in my nail polish collection and have been looking for the ideal bottle. Borrowed & Blue fits the bill. It's easy to work with and is fully opaque in just 2 coats. Borrowed & Blue reminds me of what a baby boy's royal nursery may have looked like during the French Revolution. "Let them eat cake!" (FYI Marie Antionette never said this).

Color: 5/5
Packaging Quality: 5/5
Application: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Value: 4.5/5

Final Verdict: A+
(24.5/25 or 98%)


Now Playing: "Hearing Damage" Thom Yorke

Word of the Week: CAITIFF

CAITIFF \ˈkā-təf\

noun/adjective
n. A mean, fearful, cowardly person; a wretch.
adj. Cowardly
adj. Despicable

Example (adj.): The slumlord was a very caitiff type of person- always neglecting to fix things around the apartment complex and fleeing when seen by tennants.

Origin: Middle English
First Known Useage: 1250-1300

Eye Candy!

One of the girls I work with, Nicole, was so sweet to get me a Hello Kitty chocolate marshmallow over the weekend. She knows I love Hello Kitty but I didn't even have to tell her that I loved this type of candy! Delicious! This was the perfect Monday pick-me-up! Since Nicole is a graphic designer, I made this little art collage (a la Andy Warhol) of the Hello Kitty candy she gave me! Thanks, Nicole! :)

Style Spotlight: Olivia Palermo

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When it comes to style, few women do it better than Olivia Palermo. The 25-year-old New Yorker always gets it right. Whether she's taking her dog for a stroll in the city, shopping with her handsome beau, or walking the redcarpet, Olivia is one to watch. She's a beautiful girl but her exquisite style only increases her it factor.

Olivia is known for her effortless mixing of high-end, classic, staples like Hermes Birkin bags with trendy pieces from places like Top Shop, H&M and Target. Here are some affordable ways to access Olivia's look:

Statement Necklaces
Black Opaque Tights
Loose, Romantic Blouses
Oversized, leather bags
Clutches
Wayfarer style sunglasses
Ballet Flats
Military Inspired Jackets
Shorts in various materials- silk, leather, wool, denim
Flouncy Dresses
Neutral ensembles


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Happy Mother's Day!

Since today is Mother's day, I wanted to share a few things about my mom, Mary. My mom is a Taurus and I'm an Aquarius- lets just say that we've had our disagreements over the years. But my mom is still one of the closest people to me in my life. I admire her generosity, sacrifices and warmth. She is a caretaker and has instilled in me many of her own wonderful traits. Because of my mom, I have a love for shih-tzus and animals of all kinds (cats, birds, deer, you name it). She taught me how to tie my shoes and find a great deal. Some of the things I love to do with my mom is shop for antiques and as we say "thrift". I also like to play Scrabble with her, take walks and watch Steeler games. I get my fair skin, Irish roots, creativity, motherly instincts and compassion from my mom. I love her very much!

Here are a few things about my mom:

My mom is the youngest of 3. She says she wasn't an accident but a surprise.

She doesn't drive! Growing up, we took the bus around Pittsburgh.

She is the least envious or jealous person I know. I have never seen her be materialistic or greedy.

She isn't clingy. Like me, she enjoys time to herself. She always taught me to never chase boys and let them come to you. lol!

My mom had me in her late 30s. We have a bit of a generational gap. She doesn't use the computer and barely knows how to navigate the remote control.

My mom loves to play the lottery and gamble. I like to think that when I win things, my luck is from her.

My mom likes to write poetry and always sends letters, cards and thank you notes. I get my creativity, writing ability, vocabulary and manners from her!

I still call her Mommy!




Now Playing: "There is So Much More" by Brett Dennen

S/S 2011 Trend Report!

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Chic & Thrifty!

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On a spring shopping trip in Malibu, the always stylish, Kourtney Kardashian wore this casual yet chic ensemble. On Kourtney's blog, she spilled her sartorial secrets:

"I’m wearing Paige jeans, Diabless tank, black sweater by Feel the Piece, a bag by Stella & Jamie and shoes by Koolaburra."

While Kourtney looks amazing, I estimate her outfit to be about $1,500. That might be pocket change for the reality TV star, but for most girls on a budget, it's out of reach. Here are some thrify alternatives that I found that are not only cost-effective but stylish!

Throw your hair in a sleek pony, put on your favorite gold bangles, apply a bold red lipstick and you'll look like a star!

Lux Living: RHOBH's Lisa Vanderpump's Estate

I absolutely love Lisa Vanderpump from the Real Housewive's of Beverly Hills. She has an incredible sense of humor and an adorable dog. She also shares my taste for feminine, classic, decor and architecture. In case you're wondering, Lisa and her husband have worked very hard to achieve such a fabulous lifestyle. The couple owns a number of high-end restaurants. Take a look at their unbelievable $29 million dollar home in Beverly Hills! This is one of the most beautiful homes I've ever seen. So inspiring!










You can watch a "Cribs" style tour (via Bravo) of this incredibile palace by clicking here. Some stills from the house tour:

Flashback Friday: THE TWIST!

Taking it back to the good old days, here's Chubby Checker's (really?) "The Twist" (1960). I just love this song!

According to Billboard Magazine, "The Twist" held the honor of being the number-one song on its "Hot 100 50th Anniversary" list of "The Billboard: All-Time Hot 100 Top Songs" in the first 50 years of the Hot 100 chart.

The song is ranked number 451 on the Rolling Stone magazine's list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

Handwritten

I think our handwriting says a lot about us. I've always taken pride in my handwriting. Unfortunately, over the years, my writing has gone a bit down hill because I type so often. I've answers numerous "memes" or survey/questionnaires, but I thought it would be fun to do a handwritten one. I see this done in magazines like Cosmo and on other blogs. I'd love to see others' but here is mine (you may need click the image to enlarge):





SIDENOTE: I researched what our doodling says about us. I tend to draw signatures, boxes, faces, hearts, stars and flowers. Here's what it means....

Stars:The doodler's ambitious character is reveled, a strong desire to achieve success. It could be professional success or the personal front.

Hearts:Clearly an expression that reveals the feelings in heart. Joyous heart is usually expressed by way of string of hearts soaring high up into the air. An arrow piercing the heart with drops of blood expresses the sorrowful feelings of the doodler.

Flowers: Gentle as flowers, the doodler is keen on fostering social relationships and strike amicable friendship.

Dimensional objects: Probers, intellectuals and those with a logical mind usually doodle with 3 D objects.

Eyes: Doodlers who doodle big eyes arerevealing their outgoing personality and those who doodle small eyes like to keep to oneself. Closed eyes convey a strict 'no' to look within and laughing eyes reveal the joy and happiness within.

Nail Polish of the Moment: SAN TAN-TONIO by OPI

3 coats (OPI base coat and top coat also applied) of SAN TAN-TONIO. In true life, it's actually lighter.

I picked this up from OPI's Texas Collection. It's the perfect nude/tan shade to go with all of the spring 2011 trends. It can easily be taken into fall as well. I love that this polish makes my nails look polished but it still feels natural! I hope it becomes part of the permanent collection because I think it's one of my favorites. Despite nudes being popular, I don't think I've seen a quality dupe. OPI would be wise to keep this one.


Color: 5/5
Packaging Quality: 5/5
Application: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Value: 4/5

Final Verdict: A+
(24/25 or 96%)



Now Playing: "Tell Yer Mama" by Norah Jones

Word of the Week: MACABRE

In an effort to expand my vocabulary, I'm going to feature a word of the week! I'll try my best to use this word in speech and in writing to ensure that I soak it in.

The word for May 2nd-8th is:

MACABRE adj.


Definition:
-having death as a subject
-comprising or including a personalized representation of death
-dwelling on the gruesome
-tending to produce horror in a beholder

Examples of MACABRE:
1. a macabre story of murder and madness
2. Police discovered a macabre scene inside the house.

Origin of MACABRE: French
First Known Use: 1889