Index of Thoughts

Friday, June 29, 2012

Apricot Extravaganza is almost here

Even with the drought & the horrible wildfires in Colorado right now, the apricot trees are in full swing!  The branches are so full they look like they are going to break from the weight.  Within the next two weeks will be the time to pick & preserve.  So I thought that I would do a little research to prepare myself.  And I thought that I would share my findings with you all.


I recently learned that apricot trees are mass producers every four years.  So this won't happen again until 2016.  Apricot Trees are such a great addition to your landscaping.  You can train them to espalier (refer back to my posting to learn about the age old technique).  Or if you have room let it grow in a nice roomy spot.  They tend to be low sprawlers kinda like an octopus!  I actually heard about an apricot tree outside of Grand Junction, CO that is the most photographed tree - it is an apricot tree & it is called the octopus.  I am still trying to locate this tree!!  If any of you do know - contact me.  I will update this post as soon as I find it :)

Ways to preserve apricots:

Freeze
Dry
Can
Fresh

I prefer to Can them because I don't have the freezer space and drying them can be difficult to get them just right!  Here are some of the recipes that I am going to try.  Any of these are easy to google.  I will post the ones that I end up using.  I am really intrigued with the Vinegar one because you actually let it ferment using honey.  I will post the recipe that I found for that because it was kinda difficult to locate on the internet.

Apricot Butter
Apricot Jam
Apricot Conserves
Apricot Preserves
Apricot Puree
Canned Apricots
Apricot Vinegar
Apricot Chutney
Apricot Juice
Apricot Mustard
Apricot Wine




Etruria Apricot Vinegar sells for $19.99 at chefshop.com

Now you can make your own for practically nothing!!

Apricot Vinegar (any fruit can be used)

  1. Chop up your fruit to help ferment quicker but don't puree.
  2. Include trimmings and peels.  Even bruised or overripe fruit is ok.
  3. Make Sugar Water: 1/4 c Honey to 1 quart water
  4. Fill Mason jar halfway with fruit.
  5. Cover with Sugar water to fill the jar.  Cover jar with some fabric so it can vent. Keep out of the sun.
  6. After about a week when liquid darkens, strain out fruit.
  7. Ferment vinegar for 3-4 weeks, stirring periodically.
  8. Enjoy.  Bottle it & keep in the pantry.





Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Saving on Groceries got a lot Easier


This is just an FYI for all of you grocery shoppers who didn't know this!

You can go online to City Market or Safeway and log in with your value card number.  You can shop the weekly deals and create a shopping list based on the sale items.  Then you can have your list on your phone (if you have a smartphone), email it or print it out.  Plus you can shop all the coupons online and have them add it to your value card!

The new deals start every Wed. morning so I am making my shopping list right now!!  I have been saving so much money doing this.  It also helps me not buy impulse things - sticking to the food items on the list saves you big $$.  And remember to keep in mind the seasonal produce that you can pick for free.  Right now apricots are almost in season plus every Saturday morning is the Montrose Farmer's Market so I like to get a few things there to.

I love hearing the grand total of savings after I am rung up every week!  One time I had saved $86.  Incredible!!

Love to hear any of your super saver tips.

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

No Spend Challenge

My fellow blogging friend, Leah from www.mommyinthemountains.com told me about this money challenge that she heard about.  You aren't supposed to spend any non-essential money for 30 days! I told my husband about it & he was eager to get on board!  What a great thing to teach your kids plus it helps you realize how much you really spend on things that aren't needed.  In addition to those things, you get an added bonus of doing things that are free and way more fun!  I love to use San Juan Parent's site to find out all the free activities going on in this area that you can do with your kids.

We found this neat little park that is across from the airport in Montrose, CO right by Gordon Composites on Air Park Way.  There are picnic tables, a little pond that the kids can cool off in, and a 5 minute walk to the river.  Go check it out!  I think some people call it the Rock Quarry??

The first week is easy breezy but the second week was a bit tougher.  We wanted to order a pizza so bad!!  By the end of the third week we splurged at a downtown festival, Montrose's Main in Motion.  But we had a great time listening to wonderful music with some tasty beverages :)  So, we didn't make it quite thirty days but I am proud that we did make it 3 weeks during the busiest month of summer!!

I did a little research on it and most people choose to do the challenge during Sept or Oct.  We might give it a go again during those months.  It will be a lot of easier since the kids are in school, and you start to switch into winter hibernation.

 I invite all of you to give it a try & see what you learn!  Can't wait to hear all of your thoughts.

Friday, June 22, 2012

Traveling Light for Her

Traveling Light for Her 
Summer Vacation

Traveling Light for Her

Traveling Light for Her by krista-allmond-montalvo featuring oasis dresses

These are my picks for traveling light for your summer vacations.  With the price of check-in luggage more people are trying to pack it all in the carry on.  Choose easy to mix & match options that are versatile and light-weight.  Wear your bulkiest items on the plane as well as your hat.  Choose accessories that can change your outfit from day time to night time.

Dress - I love this dress.  I got it at Black House White Market.  It is slinky & sexy.
$100 - shopping.aol.com

Oasis dress - I like this maxi because it is great for day & night.  I like the halter detail because then you don't need much to accessorize it.
$66 - asos.com

Slouchy sweater - This crochet sweater can double for a cover up or pull over a tank for an easy beach wear.  It is also good for those cool night beach walks.
$98 - sundancecatalog.com

Scoop neck top - This is a fun tank with a stripe pattern that just goes with everything.
18 CAD - eluxe.ca

Michael Stars boyfriend tank - I like the shine on this tank which allows to wear it as is or as a cami.
$40 - michaelstars.com

Skinny leg jeans - White jeans just say Beach to me.  I like the crop cut for summer.
$60 - gap.com

Red Engine shorts - You have to have some boyfriend jean shorts too!!
$128 - garnethill.com

Michael Stars Side Slit Linen Shorts - Linen and summer just go together. The red gives you a pop of color in suitcase,
$88 - shoplastyle.com

J Crew slimming swimwear - I love this one piece that is easy to wear & very classy.  The plunging V neck is so very sexy too.
$90 - jcrew.com

J Crew j crew swimwear - This is a cute two piece that still has great coverage & style.
$52 - jcrew.com

GAP capri - I love these black cigarette pants.  Very versatile!
$50 - gap.com

Sandals - I like these metallic thongs because you can wear them to the beach or even with your black slinky dress at night.
$88 - garnethill.com

Scarve - Great scarf to use as a shawl or necklace.  The purple gives you the fun color blocking with the oranges & reds too.
$18 - kohls.com

BKE belt - This is a great neutral belt that can help you change up your outfits.
$30 - buckle.com

Gucci acetate sunglasses - I love the Jackie O look.
£210 - net-a-porter.com

Melissa Odabash floppy sun hat - Gotta have a hat too!  A fedora is also a great choice.
£16 - debenhams.com

TOMS Shoes Classic Canvas Red Slip-on Shoes Men 11 - The red Toms are also an easy wear.  I would also consider my laceless Converse too.
$44 - toms.com

Women's apparel, accessories, and footwear from J. Jill - I love this linen chambray tunic.  You can use it as a coverup or slip on your white jeans for another outfit.  
$30 - jjill.com

1x1 Slub 3/4 Sleeve Wide Neck Dolman Top - I love this soft dolman tee.  It's lightweight and will feel so good on your skin after those days in the sun.  You can color block it with the red shorts too.
$69 - michaelstars.com




Don't forget your bags!  Use a Marmie Hobo bag as a carry on purse & it makes the perfect beach bag.  Make sure you also get a Marmie oversized clutch to use as an accessory pouch for traveling then as your night time bag!


For accessories, I love the Stella & Lily Metallic Hoop Earrings.  They go with everything and look great day or night.  I also love the Beaded necklaces from we bead connected.  They have that earthy feel and go with all outfits.  Plus they are so versatile.  You can wear them long or loop them up to make a short necklace or loop them up as a bracelet.


I also choose a nude wedge heel for the versatility to go with every outfit & it allows you to dress things up a bit.


The sheer top above is great beach choice also because it is lightweight and can be dressed up or down.  I like this natural color but they are available on lots of colors.  With this color palette I would choose a pink one.

SheShe Boutique in Montrose, CO has a lot of these items available.  SHOP LOCAL!!  Stay tuned for more Traveling Light posts throughout the summer.  I will be compiling traveling light collections for kids and babies.  Plus my husband, Andy will be guest posting a collection for the Men!!

Thursday, June 21, 2012

Good Anxiety?

I don't know about you guys but I just hate the feeling of anxiety.  At first you don't really realize that anxiety is what you are experiencing.  It just seems to be masked by other emotions first.  But then you have a little time to reflect and recognize it as anxiety.  Everyone has different symptoms of anxiety but they usually are associated with some kind of fear.  Fear of the past, the present or the future.

When I am feeling anxious, my body gets so out of whack.  I will wake up with a sore jaw from night grinding - ugghhhh.  I typically have to make an appointment to be adjusted by my chiropractor (Dr. Mandy Areman at San Juan Chiropractic 970-240-8400) who is Ahhhmazing, btw.  I also get the feeling of needing to escape by going on a vacation to the beach or getting up into mountains - just needing to go some place that will help me balance my energy.  Another feeling is not having control over a situation.  There isn't anything that you can do lots of time which can cause me anxiety.  You just have to ride it out.  Sleeping can also be difficult because you just can't turn off your mind.


So, everyone experiences anxiety from time to time.  The difference is whether it's 'bad' or 'good' anxiety.  I think it's natural to have feelings of anxiety about certain situations in life.  It's a natural coping mechanism that helps you survive.  It's being able to discern between the two & get yourself out of that mood when it starts to turn bad.  I think that people can very easily get addicted to the feeling of anxiety - to the fear of life.  When you have to pop that many Xanax to get thru the day, then anxiety has the reins in your life.

Recognize that anxiety can be an experience that is just preparing yourself for something.  I think that most people can recognize what bad anxiety is esp. when it can swallow you up.  But here are some examples of good anxiety:

Relocating or Moving
Job Interview
Public Speaking
Extreme Sports
Travelling

I think you do have to feel the fear and then choose to move forward with the attitude that when one door closes then another one is opened.  I have learned that every feeling/emotion is a CHOICE.  You can choose to be happy.  So please choose it!  You are not a victim.

I also love this quote by the Dalai Lama, "If you can do something about it, why worry; If you can't do anything about it, why worry."

For me, once I recognize the anxiety that I have even when it is good anxiety, I must let go of the fear and shed the feeling of anxiety.  I just can't stand that feeling on me.  Here is what I do:

  1. Remember my favorite quotes & sayings.
  2. Balance my body with my mind i.e. chiropractor, massage, reiki
  3. Balance my energy going someplace like a mountain top
  4. Surround myself with people who lift me higher & inspire me
  5. Get more sleep
  6. Remember that tomorrow is a new day to start afresh

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Colorado Day Tripping with Kids

Most vacations these days with the little ladies are day trips.  It just takes so much effort to pack up all the stuff that you need for an overnighter for kids esp. babies.  So, day trips just make it so much easier & enjoyable.

Go to www.sanjuanparent.com

They have the most complete & up to date information for activities and day trips to take in this area with kids!


Here are a few of our favorites!!

Boating on Ridgway Reservoir

Ouray Hotsprings

Silverjack Reservoir


Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Kids' Pinterest Day Camp


I started a little day camp series this summer with my little ladies every Tuesday afternoon.  I thought that it would be a fun way to make some money, have a scheduled activity with my kids and have a GREAT time!  Today will mark my 3rd one.  I have been having a blast doing it.

So, I try out all those fun activities and ideas with the kids that see you on pinterest.  Some work great and some don't work out like the photo says!  Follow my pinterest board labeled kid stuff for the original links & ideas.  Here are some of the ones that we have done so far:



1st Week:



We made chore cards - awesome!
Jellyfish in a bottle - this was a little difficult for the kids to do.  This one is cool but you have to pretty much do the whole craft for them even the older kids.
Ladybug snacks - a huge hit and the kids could easily do themselves.
Angry Bird Yard Game - Also a huge hit & the kids played for ever & loved building up the walls.


2nd Week:


We made frozen yogurt dots on parchment paper using ziploc bags with the corner cut just like icing a cake.  The kids could squeeze out there own dots.


This was sooo much fun too.  We put about a cup of vinegar in a water bottle and filled the balloon up with about 2 Tablespoons of baking soda.  Then carefully put the balloon over the bottle mouth being careful not to spill in the baking soda.  Then the kids lifted the balloon up to let the baking soda fall into the vinegar.  The gases created blew up the balloons.  Look at that face!!  haha


This one was great from pinterest.  You just put a bar of ivory soap in the microwave and watch it grow!  Then, the kids can play & mold the foam.  The texture feels like shaving cream.



This one was a flop!  It definitely did not look like this picture.  But it was still fun to do.



The kids played in this for an hour and a half.  I just put out garden stakes & twine.  It created this great obstacle course of laser beams!  We still have it set up in our backyard.

Can't wait to do all the fun ones today!!  Glow in the dark jello, slime, water obstacle course on the fence, tooth powder, butterfly sandwiches.  Stay tuned for the results!!





Friday, June 15, 2012

Favorite {Friend} Fridays

As I was sitting here wondering what my favorite things were today, I kept thinking about all the amazing friends & people that I have in my life.  SO, I decided to dedicate my favorite fridays to my favorite people!

I adore the people in my life.  I love the quote by Oprah that says "Surround yourself with people who lift you higher."  So thankful for all of you who do!  Each one of you represents these characteristics in my life.....

50 adjectives that describe the angels in my life

  1. authentic
  2. fun
  3. honest
  4. determined
  5. compassionate
  6. forgiving
  7. inspirational
  8. understanding 
  9. open
  10. easy (not in the naughty way..haha)
  11. devoted
  12. loving
  13. gracious
  14. spontaneous
  15. nurturing
  16. hilarious
  17. intelligent
  18. strong
  19. generous
  20. loyal
  21. supportive
  22. romantic
  23. confident
  24. helpful
  25. cute
  26. engaging
  27. patient
  28. naughty ;)
  29. stylish
  30. sweet
  31. secure
  32. fascinating
  33. sincere
  34. happy
  35. radiant
  36. motivating
  37. silly
  38. wonderful
  39. great cook
  40. crafty
  41. adventurous
  42. reliable
  43. quirky
  44. knowledgable
  45. affectionate
  46. fearless
  47. joyful
  48. carefree
  49. amazing
  50. And Just AWESOME!


I love you all!  That's why I "Surround" myself with all of you - my angels!

In no particular order-
Andy, my kids, all my family, Mehana, Kendra, Kate C., Laura N., Laura J. Cindy, Lori, Allyson, Scott, Rain, Juliet, Lacy, Josie, Joy, Sara C., Ali, Sara A., Becky, Kerri, Kate T., Mandy, Jeana, Leah, Paula, Kris, Aimee, Carri, Kimberly, CC, Stormy, Rebecca, Caroline, Malinda and so many more of you.

Thursday, June 14, 2012

DIY Laundry Detergent

I am a subscriber to a Small Footprint Family blog and I just love all of her info & ideas on a sustainable lifestyle.  Recently she posted about ways to save energy and $$ at home.  One idea was making your own laundry detergent.  It's so easy & sooooo very affordable.  I gave it a try and used it yesterday.  I am pleased to say that it worked great!  I even threw in some dirty baby clothes and they came out soft and clean.

I also made my own toothpaste and dishwasher detergent that day too.  But, the toothpaste - I like but the kids don't like it so I want to work on the recipe to see if I can get them to use it.  I really like the toothpaste though.  I will post my results when I have them.  The dishwasher detergent recipes were all so different from many sites.  The one that I chose did not wash my dishes at all but left a greasy, cloudy film on them.  So, again I will work on that recipe too before posting.  Stay tuned!!

Here is the link to recipe & all the great info about commercial laundry detergent from small footprint family.

http://www.smallfootprintfamily.com/homemade-laundry-detergent/



Homemade Laundry Detergent Powder

Makes about 200 loads

Ingredients

4 cups Borax
4 cups Washing soda
2 cups Baking soda
4 cups grated bar soap (2-4 bars) (Choose a non-toxic, real bar soap—not a “beauty bar” like Dove or a clear glycerine soap. I used Dr. Bronner's Lavender soap. Omit for cloth diapers.)


Cut the bar soap into large chunks with a knife.
Grate the soap chunks with a fine cheese grater or throw the chunks into the food processor and blend into as fine of a powder as you can make. Let dust settle before opening processor, so as not to inhale it.
In a large plastic tub or bucket, mix the Borax, washing soda, and baking soda together. Wear a dusk mask or bandana to avoid breathing in the powder while you mix. You will need to let the dust settle a few times before continuing to stir. If you can seal the container, you can shake it vigorously to mix with no dust.
Stir in the grated/powdered bar soap.
Store in a covered, airtight container.
If your powder has trouble completely dissolving, try mixing it in a little hot water before adding to the laundry.
Use 1-2 Tablespoons per load. (Adjust for your machine.)

** Update:  It is Dec. 11, 2012 and I am making my second batch of detergent.  I really liked it and it cleaned dirty kid clothes good as well as my subcontractor husband's nasty carhartts.  And it lasted this long with a family of 5.

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Why is the Summer Busier?

I don't know about you guys but I am more busy now during the summer than I was during the school year.  Why is that?  I have less commitments and less available time!

I guess my schedule is more full with catering during the summer, then there are swim lessons every day, a napping baby, festivals to go to, festivals to put together, BBQ's, plus so many birthdays!  Plus the weather is so much nicer so everyone wants to get together now.  There are soooo many fun things to do but sometimes it seems like I don't get to do all the things that I want to do.  And all the things that I want to do meaning - NOTHING!

Do you guys ever feel like that?  Like you should be doing all these fun scheduled things but what you really want to do is just lock yourself in your house for several days & turn the phone off & read or write or bake a cake.  I think a great vacation for that would be a little cabin out of cellphone range that is stocked with everything that I need.  Camping is great but with a baby & little kids it can be so much work.  Although, Andy does do most of it :) I am thankful for that!

Maybe we should go camping this weekend in a cabin that is all ready for us!  If I put it out there then it  will happen.  I am a firm believer in the power of the universe!  Let's think even bigger - how about a villa that is kid & baby ready for us with a cook.  Yes, I do like the sound of that.  A boat would also be nice!

Now, my mind is shifting into the thoughts that maybe I feel this way because I haven't made enough time for ME.  So, I think before the villa that I should us that manicure gift certificate & a walk with my girlfriend to start.  Or having someone watch the girls so I can read my book for several hours.  I think that I will arrange for both.

I like this quote below!  It also reminds me of this little video my girlfriend, Leah (fellow blogger mommyinthemountains.com) sent to me.  If it's not a HELL YEAH, then make it a NO!

Friday, June 8, 2012

Favorite {Blog} Fridays

Let me share with all of you some of my favorite blogs that inspire me daily!  I hope that they do the same for you too.

Cup of JO - ADORE!!

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Which pineapple & mango should I buy??

Hmmm......Which one will taste the best?  Do you know which one to choose?  

Here is how to pick the best pineapple:  Can you see the ones that have an orange hue?  Those are the ones that have ripened.  Be careful to check on the bottom for mold though that means it is getting over the hill.  Avoid pineapple with brown leaves too.  You can also smell the sweetness of a ripe pineapple.




Here's how to pick the best mango: I have found that you have to get the ones that are already soft to the touch at the grocery store.  Otherwise, they never really seem to ripen at home.  Also, make sure that the skin is not wrinkly because that means it is going bad.


One little trick to ripen fruit faster is by using ethylene gas!  Ethylene gas is what triggers a fruit to ripen.  Some fruits produce it naturally like apples & pears.  So, put your fruit in a paper bag with an apple and fold down to speed up the ripening process.



Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Girlfriends in the Kitchen - Potstickers & Satays

 I think everyone LOVES potstickers & satays but who ever makes the time to do them at home?  So, the girls and I decided to give it a go.  We did chicken satays and veggie potstickers.

Veggie Potstickers:


3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 leek, cleaned and thinly sliced
1 clove garlic, pressed
1 head Napa cabbage, finely shredded
1 bunch cilantro
1 cup diced mushrooms
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
2 teaspoons soy sauce
1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
1 medium carrot, grated on finest holes of a box grater

24 wonton wrappers

Combine everything in the wok and fry in the oil on HIGH heat!  When it gets softened, then start making your pot stickers with the wonton wrappers.  You will need a little bowl of water to seal the edges.  Here's a little demo of how to wrap them.  Wrap them up in a parchment lined tray.




Then you must cook them as follows because I have tried different ways, and they end up getting ripped apart.  Also, I found that throwing them in the freezer after preparation keeps them together.  Some of the girlfriends who transported theirs home, the wonton wrappers melted away & tore from the heat in the car.  So freezing them before they left would have helped with that.  

Heat 2 Tbs oil in your pan that has a good fitting lid with it.  Place the potstickers in the pan once the oil is hot.  Lightly brown the bottoms while shaking the pan to prevent sticking.  Then add 1/2 c water to the pan and immediately put the lid on to steam them.  Cook for a couple of minutes or until they are translucent.  Serve them with the dipping sauce.

Dipping Sauce:

1/4 cup light soy sauce 
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar 
1/2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated 
1 teaspoon sugar 
1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil 
1/2 lemon, zested 
1 teaspoon chopped cilantro 


Just combine all the ingredients.


Chicken Satay:

skewers soaked in water (this prevents scorching on the grill)
1 lb. chicken breasts cut into thin strips
1 c. soy sauce 
2 T. sesame oil 
3 chopped garlic cloves
2 T. grated fresh ginger
2 T. sugar 
3 sprigs chopped scallions 

Combine marinating ingredients and add chicken strips.  Marinate as long as you can.  Then Skewer the chicken onto the sticks.  Cook and then grill.  Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.  I made a peanut sauce.  

Peanut Sauce:

1 cup smooth peanut butter
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 teaspoons red chili paste, such as sambal
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
2 limes, juiced
1/2 cup hot water
1/4 cup chopped peanuts, for garnish

Combine all the ingredients in the food processor & serve.





Friday, June 1, 2012

The Classic Staples in Your Closet


  • Black Tank

Michael Stars Shine Tank or Plain
Available at SheShe Boutique in Montrose, CO.  Pollux also has tanks in lots of colors.
  • White Tee
I love my Deep V neck from American Apparel.  Also SheShe has a great white tee from Three Dots.
  • Black shirt (long & short sleeve)
JJill has some great black tees.
  • White Oxford
Classic Cotton Blouse
SheShe carries this classy line of oxfords called Foxcroft.  They are wrinkle resistant, non-iron which is Awesome.  They have it in white or grey!
  • Chambray Oxford
You can find one of these just about anywhere!
  • Sweater
Cashmere V-neck sweater
I LOVE all of my sweaters from Jcrew.  They just last forever.  I like a wool blend but you can never go wrong with cashmere.  It is the perfect weight for all seasons.  Here is an example of a great universal one.  I like the V necks too they look great over a tee, plain with a necklace or an oxford under it.  They come in all colors too!
  • Cardigan
There are so many types of cardigans out there but I would recommend one like this one from Banana Republic for a universal cardigan.  The grey works well for any season & the cable knit is classy for all styles.
  • Black Dress
One must always have a little black dress.  Wrap dresses are great on all figures & with my fave Vneck feature.  Here is one from the Gap that would work for lots of shapes!
  • Pencil Skirt or A-line Skirt (depending on body shape)
I like this chevron stripe skirt from Old Navy.  The design would be very flattering, it doesn't cost much and you can throw on some leggings in the winter.  Old Navy has some ruche ones too in lots of colors.  Also, SheShe has a great Shimmery Purple Pencil skirt from Samuel Dong that you can dress up or down.
  • Jeans
SheShe has TONS of fabulous designer jeans that are made for a woman's figure.  I am loving my hot pink ones that I got from there.  They have Jag, Miss Me & Not Your Daughters.  And I am also a fan the boyfriend Levi jeans too.
  • Black Pants



















I love my cigarette pants from the Gap.  They are so chic in the summer and easy to wear under your boots in the winter.
  • Trouser

SheShe has some Lissette trousers in store.  Such a universal & sophisticated style.
  • Khaki Pants
So many kinds at so many stores.
  • Denim Jacket
I always think of the gap or ralph lauren when I think of denim jackets but SheShe has a great one from Live a Little.
  • Blazer or Cropped Jacket
I love my black boyfriend blazer from Pollux.  Look at my previous post on Blazers.
  • Overcoat
I have a wool, black & white houndstooth overcoat that I love!!
  • Wrap
Pollux in Montrose has lots of different wraps in all Colors.
  • Flats - neutral or red
I love my red Toms!!
  • Pumps - black
I have a great pair from Nine West.  I love a peep toe pump.
  • Evening Heels 
Metallic or nude.  See my post here.
  • Boots
I love Franco Sarto boots!!
  • Metallic Hoop Earrings
Love my Stella & Lily hoops.  Read about this amazing company here.  Available at SheShe.
  • Great Bra & Spanx
SheShe has Spanx.
  • Clutch
Gotta make it a Marmie!!
  • Bag/tote- Marmie all the way ;)
  • Sunglasses
Pollux has a great selection of sunglasses.  I like the iconic black Audrey Hepburn style myself.
  • Black Tights or Black Leggings
Available at Pollux and SheShe.