It's That Special Time of Year

It's the last day before Winter Break!

(Oh yes people, some lovely person thought it would be beneficial to have students still in school on December 22 and to cut teachers' usual ten school days off to just eight- knowing that if teachers don't get their full ten days off they go a little insane, forget how to teach, and tend to write long, drawn-out run-on sentences!)

Alas, my special day is here, and I am much looking forward to some much needed R&R. Merry Christmas!

The Daybed Hunt

We need a daybed. We also need a new couch, but we're daybed hunting as of right now. Our guests have no where to sleep, and hotel bills are getting expensive.

I grew up on a daybed. Sister and I shared a room with matching pink daybeds covered in hearts. They were awesome. I have found plenty I love on Pinterest, but no good sources. Here are some of my favorites...

Courtesy of Good Life of Design

Courtesy of House Beautiful

Courtesy of Country Living

Of course, my favorite of favorites is this one...

And I found the source! It's Jennifer Delonge's Henry Daybed. And, if you are looking for a last-minute Christmas gift for me in the $2,000-$2,500 price range, please click here. Thanks!

American Ballet's 'The Nutcracker'

I love the ballet. I loved taking ballet lessons when I was in elementary and middle school, and I love to watch it.

It was very much on my to-do list to see The Nutcracker this year, but as usual, life happened, and I missed my chance. That is why I have been swooning over the costumes from the American Ballet's production.

Photos courtesy of fashionista.com

What a fabulous costume director! Makes me even more excited for Christmas!

Motivation Monday

Four More Days of School.

I can do this.

The "I Love You" Cup

DISCLAIMER: First of all, I really like McDonald's. Like, a lot. And I eat it more than I should. I know this. Just thought I would get that off my chest.

I was eating at McDonald's a few weeks ago (okay, it was Monday), and I saw that I could get a Classic Coke glass with the purchase of a combo. I happily ordered a combo (because all of Husband's and my cups are from a hodge-podge of restaurants) only to be disappointed that it had to be a large combo- so no cup :(

Fast forward to more recently. Husband came home with McDonald's. (I know, I eat it a lot.) And there Southern Style chicken sandwich (people, it is amazing) was a Classic Coke glass.

Like I said previously, this holiday season has been a little different for me. My usual long Christmas list has stumped me. And at that very moment, all I wanted was my Classic Coke glass and the joy of knowing that he really does listen. It is going to be a very Merry Christmas. Happy Friday :)

Rant/ Rave

Rant- I reached a breaking point yesterday. I realized I had given a student his "Times Three" test 63 times. He has yet to pass. That's right- same test- twenty questions- three minutes- 63 times. Help. Me.

Rave- On a happier note, I found this idea on Pinterest and had to share.

Photo courtesy of Funky Bear Decor

Mason Jar + Picture + Olive Oil

I love this as a gift idea!

Kate Winslet Glamour Cover Look for Less

I have loved Kate Winslet since I saw her in Titanic in fifth grade. Lately, she has been looking better than ever and made the cover of Glamour Paris.

Photos courtesy of Glamour Paris

But it was this outfit that I knew I had to copy.

1. Sequined Dolman Short Sleeve Sweater- Forever21- $22.80

2. Style&co. Belt, Wide Patent Mix Media Belt- Macy's- $19.98

3. City Knit Luxe Pencil Skirt with Grosgrain Trim- NY&Co.- $18.47

Total: $61.25

I Will Take a Set

I DIED when I saw these...

Trunks Full of Taste Salt and Pepper Shakers- $12.00

Finding elephants in unexpected places fills my heart full of joy. Finding two together, I melt. I like to think of this as Husband and me as we watch the National Championship game. Roll Tide!

(Who am I kidding. I will be a nervous wreck yelling at the television set.)

Hello Monday

After a weekend being sick in bed (yuck), I am ready for Monday.

Yeah right.

I was able to address all those Christmas cards I ordered though. (Only to find out I was about four short. It's cool- I got cut-throat.)

However, my shopping is not complete, nor have I even considered good gifts/presents. (I asked Husband for couch.) I mean, is this really me speaking?! I have not thought of what I want for Christmas?!

Let's just enjoy that you're wedding (or future wedding) was not (or will not be) this weird.

From Green Wedding Shoes

 Happy Monday!

Happy (Belated) Birthday Emma!!

Yesterday was my sister's birthday. Emma and I have a seven and a half year age difference between us. (You can call me "Surprise!") It is probably not many middle school kids' dreams to share a bedroom with their five year old sister, but we did! And survived! (This included delightful comments from me, such as, "Don't worry that Mom won't let you buy that skimpy swimsuit, Mom can make you one!")

(Emma (left) and me. I mean how many sisters do you know that can give you a side braided ponytail....Complete with double ribbons?)

Emma and I are very different. She is a planner and is super organized. She is probably was of the strongest and most confident women I know. Given the opportunity, she could seriously run a small country. She works, is a wife, mom, blogger, and somehow keeps her house (frightening) clean in that "oh, go ahead and photograph me for a magazine way."

I have always looked up to Emma. Our weddings were three months apart, and I was amazed how she planned a perfect wedding while working a full-time job. (I was finishing my last semester of college/ a job-less summer and still needed LOTS of help!)

So HAPPY (DAY LATE) BIRTHDAY EMMA! I love you!

Love,
Your Bratty Younger Sister

PS- Mom will still make you a swimsuit, I asked.

Look for Less- Quilted Boots

While looking through some of my favorite gossip sites (sad, I know), I fell in love with these outfit Reese Witherspoon wore out while antique shopping. Almost everyone adores Reese's laid-back, California style, and I too can really appreciate a more casual ensemble. (Getting on the floor with first graders while in a straight skirt can pose a problem.)

Photo courtesy of Celebrity-Gossip

But what really had me, were her flat, quilted boots.

I found these similar Sperry Top-Sider "Hingham" Rain Boots at Bloomingdale's. I think they are precious and perfect for dreary rainy/snowy weather. Best part, the are under $100. Hello Christmas List!

Deal of the Day

20% off party dresses at Piperline.com! Just use the code DRESS. Perfect for upcoming holiday parties! Hurry though, discount ends tomorrow, 12/7/11.

My favorite? This adorable Michael Kors dress.

\

Speaking of percents- I have had a fun time teaching my fifth graders percents. They have calculated all my Christmas savings. 

One student had to calculate 10% of $14.50. When he saw that my savings were only $1.45, he informed me I should ask for 20% off instead.

See kids, that is why you should stay in school.

Exhausted.

Photo courtsey of Bippity Boppity Boo

Lately, I have been exhausted. tired. defeated. I had planned to do so much this weekend. I was going to organize the kitchen, dust the downstairs (a must with dogs), and put up Christmas decorations.

Guess what I got done? Nothing.

And that is okay. If I don't get my Christmas decorations up, I will live. If there is a cup lid in the bowl/plate cabinet, the world will not end.

This weekend feed my soul in a different way. I soaked up the time. I spent quiet time with myself, with Husband, and with some of my best friends (includinglying on the floor while 15 people behind us try to watch the SEC Championship and eating vegan birthday cake.)

So while this weekend didn't go quite as planned, it was a wonderful, well-spent weekend.

Oh, but I do plan to get caught up on my life.

Suri's Burn Book

Hey, it's Friday. You worked hard all week, especially considering it is the week after Thanksgiving. You gave all you could give and now it is time for a laugh.

Suri's Burn Book

People, this maybe the funniest thing I have ever read. Introduced to me by my pal Susannah (who typically can get me hooked on anything that wastes my time), Suri's Burn Book reminds me that the cattiness in girls doesn't start in middle school. No, no, leave it to a five-year old.

Some of my favorites? (All pictures and quotes courtesy of Suri's Burn Book)

"Tom really wants us to start pairs-skating competitively. I told him not until his triple toe loop improves and only if our team name can be The Princess and the Pea."

(In regards to the William/Kate/Baby Rumors)"I’ve been trying to prepare myself for this pregnancy, but I fear I’ll never be ready. Thank goodness I had this panic room built."

"I swear, I was just holding this for a friend."

Don't you want to read more!? Of course you do!

I should feel proud. You are going to get NOTHING done at work today.

Excuse My Random Thoughts

1. Guess what happens when you work at a school that serves almost 1,000 students and you have ONE copy machine that has been broken since before Thanksgiving?

2. Pretty sure someone from the E! networked knocked Kourtney up again to get the bad press off Kim.

Photo courtesy of USMagazine

This family has really started to annoy me.

3. I have been watching clips from the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. Depressed.

4. It is cold. I need this coat. I wonder where I can find it? (Darn Pinterest and your lack of credit!)

Thank you for letting me be a little random.

Ummm....

Had a post.

Somehow deleted it.

How did that happen? 

Will be back tomorrow. Happy Hump Day.

Furbish

As we move toward the holiday season, nothing thrills me more than to find a new designer or store to share with the ones I love.

So as I sit with three weeks worth of papers to grade, I am falling in love with Furbish Studio- owned and operated by Jamie Meares in Raleigh, NC. You can read her entire story here, but the "I have five minutes until my next meeting" version goes that Jamie had just been let go from her job (ugh, the worst) so decided to take a leap of faith and do what she always wanted- open a shop that reflected her amazing personality (ah, the best.)

So after I fell in love with her/seriously considered making a weekend trip to Raleigh, I saw the "SHOP" button. OMG people. Her stuff is amazing!

Christmas List? Yes, please.

Aspen Earrings in Emerald- $18.00

Elephant Safari Earrings in Green- $25.00

(You know my feelings on elephants)

Zig Zag Zippered Pouch- $14.00

Pink and Green Zig Zag Coasters- $18.00

Pink Pagoda Thank You Notes- $10.00

There really is so much more cute stuff! Which is your favorite??

I'm Back and Motivation Monday

After 16 hours in a car...

I am back. And it was completely worth it! I had a wonderful Thanksgiving- splitting the long weekend between St. George Island and our hometown of Prattville, AL.

As the story goes though, I need a vacation from my vacation and really cannot believe I have to go teach children today. However, I saw this and found it perfect for Motivation Monday.

Story. Of. My. Life.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Today is my last day at school before Thanksgiving Break. I will be taking a break from the blog, but promise to return on Monday. As I said last week, I have so many blessing to be thankful for, but these are the top of the top.

1. My Faith- I feel that this year completely changed my perception on religion and having a relationship with God. I never knew there was a problem, until I experienced the solution. And for that, I am very thankful.

2. Husband- Amazing does not begin to describe him. He has been there for the ups and downs and kept a smile the whole way. Sometimes I feel so undeserving of how wonderful he truly is.

3. Family- How lucky I am so have a healthy, loving family! My daily phone call to my mom, no matter how long or short, brings a smile to me. Besides my biological family, my "in-law" family is just as fantastic. I am so thankful to see all of them during this week.

4. Friends- Never did I think in moving to Atlanta I would meet so many amazing people I call friends. My own special "Atlanta Family." A great friend is someone who you cannot remember life without them and that is what I have found. Both these friends, and friends far away, I am thankful to have you.

5. Job- In this economy, nobody should take their job for granted. I feel so blessed to have worked at this school for four years. I work with teachers and children I love- so I give thanks.

6- And finally, Rammer Jammer :)

Gossip Girl 100th Episode

The cast of Gossip Girl came out to celebrate the 100th Episode (ahh the Royal Wedding!) I will be honest, I had never seen a Gossip Girl Episode until this year. Now I am completely obsessed. The fashion both on screen, as well as the actresses off camera has me enamored. The fashion at the party was definitely up to par.

 Leighton Meester in Balmain

Blake Lively in Marchesa

Photos courtesy of the Huffington Post

Good News/Bad News

Good News: It is Friday!!! I have a stress-free, no-fuss weekend ahead of me.

Bad News: We are the only county who has to work Monday and Tuesday of next week.

Then I look at this picture and am suddenly a little happier to spend two extra days with my kids :)

From Bippity Boppity Boo

Amazing.

Blessings

Photo courtesy of Bippity Boppity Boo

With Thanksgiving a week away, I am realizing the blessings that have been given to me. I usually am complaining about "Why can't it be this way?" and "That's Not Fair." Today I realize how lucky I am to have so many blessings that it is hard to keep track.
I read an interesting statement the other day: "What if you woke up tomorrow with only the things you were thankful for today?"

Makes you think...and give thanks.

Bring On The Seafoam

Same Color Three Times?

Why Not?

How do you feel about layering the same color?

Deal of the Day: J. Crew

J. Crew is having the annual fall sale, but what am I trilled with?

Oxford Scout Chinos

And if you are vertically challenged like me, they are $19.99. Average height, it will cost you $29.99. 

(I don't feel bad. For once, being short pays off.)

Wonderful Weekend

I took Friday off to get my teeth cleaned. I didn't get the "Hooray No Cavities" award. I got the "You Have No Cavities That We Are Worrying About Right Now" Award. Um, hooray?

Late Friday afternoon, Husband and I left for Townsend, TN for one of our favorite places, Dancing Bear Lodge. Husband's parents give us this trip for Christmas, and we look forward to it all year. However...

I forgot the camera. Typical.

It was quite a wonderful weekend though! Now...hello Monday...ugh.

DIY? You Obviously Haven't Met Me

There is a reason that DIY looks similar to the word die... because that is what it makes me want to do.

I have been amazed at all the DIY pins on Pinterest lately. Do people really make this stuff? And even more importantly, does it look like what it was supposed to?
Let's take a look at some of these projects...

Sure, I have an old barrel lying around that I have been meaning on turning into a bookcase

No Daughter, you don't need to go buy a new dress, we will just cut up one of Mom's old sweaters

This one would be noooo problem

Because the hooks they sell at any store just won't cut it

You know what I want to do? Put magnet tape on the back of a map, cut out 50 states, and have people judge me for being a nerd

My favorite? You can make the above skirt with one seam. Beautiful skirt...but yeah right.

(I think there are a lot of people on Pinterest that really need to get started on these DIY albums.)

Dreaming

Last night Husband asked me where I wanted to go for dinner...

I don't think he was expecting my response :)

Sigh, One Day

You Can Own Jenna Lyons' Home!

For Just $3,750,000!

Yes, the lovely president and creative director of J. Crew is selling her posh Brooklyn Townhouse. True to form, her townhouse is just as spectacular as her collections. See for yourself.

Photos courtesy of Sotheby's

See more pics and get all the details here.

Thanks Laura K. for the exciting news!!