Current Obsessions

Hi friends!  Today I thought I'd put together a lil' list of some of my faves.  I've been blogging around 3 years now (not counting the occasional blog disappearance for, ahem, months at a time), and I don't believe I have ever put together a list of my favorite things.  There are many bloggers that I follow that have done these lists, and I have always enjoyed their "favorites."  I've even taken their advice at times, and tried some of their must-haves to find out that I love them as well.  So, here's my list.  Random and funky, I guess that's just me.

Benefit Big Beautiful Eyes compact:  I was introduced to this little compact of prettiness by my friend, Ashley at Kindredly, last year.  We had met for our usual lunch of mexican grub, and I commented on how pretty her eye makeup looked.  Ashley, ever the fashionista, was using this compact at the time and completely sold me on how pretty (and natural) the colors were.  I don't know about you, but I've always been at constant odds with eyeliner; wanting to use it because I love the way it brings out my eyes, but hating having to worry about it running or smudging after an 8 hour day.  This compact is the best!  The pink and brown shades bring out every eye color, and the brown is perfect smudged in your crease and along your lash lines.  My eyes stand out without looking overdone.  I will say, using shadow as liner takes some getting used to, but once you start doing it, you'll never go back to that plain ole' stick eyeliner.  It typically runs around $30 (definitely ain't cheap), but it lasts awhile so you definitely get your $$'s worth. Loves!

One-N-Only Argan Oil:   Last summer, I read about this oil hair treatment in my monthly Glamour subscription.  Since I was in the process of growing out the unfortunate bob with side bangs, I was willing to do anything, including putting a jar of mayo in my hair to make it grow (yes, I really did read that that works- no lie!).  I stopped by the local Sally Beauty Supply, and after looking on shelf after shelf for 30 minutes I finally found it.  (Side note: the container is tiny, but heed my warning: a little goes a LONG way!)  The first time I used it, I put a quarter-sized dollop into my hair and literally had a greasy head for 4 days (shampooing every day, nonetheless).  I don't use this product every day, maybe 2 times a week.  As soon as I step out of the shower, I apply a dime-sized amount in my ends only.  Brush through, dry, style, and voila: instant healthy and shiny hair!  This little container has done more for my hair growth than any vitamin, cream, or shampoo will ever do.  Cheers!

Nicki Minaj:  When Amy and I went to see Britney a couple of weeks ago, Nicki opened up for her.  I knew I liked her, I mean I am all about some "Super Bass" and "Moment 4 Life."  I had no idea she would be my next girl crush.  Let's just put it out there, girlfriend's got's it going on!  She raps and wears a bodysuit and Christian Louboutin's, what's not to like??

Flipping Out:  If you aren't watching this show, go to Bravo right now and set it up on your DVR.  Best show on television!  Tuesday's, 9 pm- hook.it.up.  Jeff Lewis is an incredibly funny hottie (he's gay, ladies, but gahh he's fun to look at!)  who used to "flip" houses, but due to the real estate crash, is now just designing.  He and crew are hilarious, crude, and lovable.  Go watch now!

Paula Deen: I don't know if it's because I have now hit the point in Weight Watchers where anything that's below 10 points bores me, but I have been on a PD Cooking spree, and while my waist line is not loving it, my hubby and son sure are.  This past weekend I made her: Toffee Brownies ("num, num, num, num" as Aaron would say), Corn Casserole, and Walk Away Baked Spaghetti (my personal fave), and I can without a doubt say, my days have never been happier.  Life's too short to stay under "29 Points" every day!


So there we go.  My current obsessions.  Hope you enjoyed!

~LL

Love Hangover

Yesterday afternoon, my mom and I went to see Crazy Stupid Love.  It was such a great movie!  I am a HUGE, HUGE Ryan Gosling fan.  Basically, if he was starring in a Gigli sequel, I would be pretty gung ho to see it if that included starting at his face for 120 minutes.  I mean y'all, if it was a Ryan Gosling versus "Boyfriend" showdown, I think I'd have to go with the former Mouseketeer.  He's been getting me over breakups, and appearing in many sweet, sweet dreams since I watched him seduce Sandra Bullock in Murder By Numbers in 2002. 

Anywho, I tried to take a picture of my face while watching this movie, but my plan couldn't be pulled off.  I was literally lit up like a Christmas tree from the moment he appeared on the screen.  Since I did not want to let the public know they were in the presence of a Ryan Gosling fanatic, I manged to snap a few pictures undercover with my BB.  I have made a lil' collage of my afternoon lovefest with Mr. G.  Enjoy:

Such a hottie

At the end of the movie, this song was played.  Dontcha' just love it?!




  So pretty!

"I whip my hair back & forth!"

Happy Sunday, y'all!  Has everyone had a good weekend?  Our weekend has been fairly low-key and I have thoroughly enjoyed it.  My sweet hubby got home from work Thursday night, and we have literally been home-bodies ever since he walked in the door.  It seems that every weekend he's home, there's something going on every night: parties, get-together's, showers, etc.  I took my own advice, and said "No" to any invites that were extended our way, and with the exception of grilling out with his family last night, I have stayed true to my word.  Here's to hoping this new mantra will stick!

So, I have a question for the ladies (and you guys, too if you're interested); do you wash your hair in the morning, during the day, or at night?  The reason why I'm asking is because I am currently trying to switch up my hair-washing, drying, styling routine.  The reason(s) why I've decided to rock the hair boat so late in the game is because (1) Aaron has officially dropped his morning nap.  This has been an adjustment, I will not lie.  You see, I don't like change, and while we are now getting used to the fact that he's up from 7:30a to 12:30p, it has not been easy; and (2) Since I am officially going back to school, I don't know if the morning hair process can go on much further..considering the fact that I can barely drag my ass out of bed at 7a (I know, lazy, lazy girl) without having a cup of coffee as big as my head in my hands ASAP.  If y'all know me, you know I have a head full of hair.  I'm not bragging I promise; this hair will literally be the death of me one day.  Ohhh, the things I've done to this head....well, it's a shame.  For example:

Me & Adam @ my cousin's rehearsal dinner- July 2007.  Can you say hein??  This is what I called "Marilyn on top/Norma Jean on bottom."  As you can see, my hairstylist hated me.  Guess the 20% tip wasn't enough?  Needless to say, she was fired soon after.  Why do I look so happy, you ask?  Probably because I had drowned my sorrows in multiple glasses of Pinot Grigio. 

SSI/Laura's Bachelorette party 2006.  This is what I like to call "Bangs: Part 1."  You see, "the bangs" and I have had a very tumultuous relationship.  Sometimes my "cow-lick" would do right in order for my bangs to look decent, most of the time it wouldn't, as you can see in Exhibit B:

Last summer at my sister-in-law's wedding.  Uhhh, I can't even comment on this awfulness.  Obviously, "the bangs" really hated me then. 

OMG- this one's the worst: a short bob/bang combo- ahhhhhhh!!  The horror!!  Can you see, I look just like my puppy girl, Sophie May??  That should've been the first sign..... This photo was taken in May 2010 the day I had it done.  That was the last day it ever looked like good, I assure you.  I'm chalking this mistake up to postpartum hormones gone bad.  NEVER again!!

Okay so I have to admit something, y'all.  I got bangs....again.  Rut-roh!  I know, I know, it's horrible.  They sucker me in only to throw me out to the wolves!  I got bangs in June; yes, I'm in the process of growing them back out, but I've managed to not let them control me...for the most part anyway.  Hence:

Destin, July 2011.  "I am in control of the bangs." Repeat, "I am in control of the bangs."

So to get back to my original question, do you style your hair in the morning, during the day, or at night?  I decided that in order to better accommodate my new schedule, I would wash/dry my hair every other night and style in the morning.  So far, it's been working okay...I guess.  Do y'all know any tricks on having that fresh-washed look everyday without the inconvenience of washing your hair every day?  What about styling tips?  I need help, folks!  This mane is finally growing out, and it hasn't been easy.  I need some tips in order for it to keep growing, so it doesn't end up looking like this again:

Look, even my precious baby is horrified.  This was taken last Fall, FYI. Terrible.

That's all.  Have a good day of rest!  Loves!!

The art of saying N-O

I am a people pleaser.  Always have been.  I have tried to rectify this many times.  I've tried to be "the bitch" (that was laughable).  I've tried to be the girl that was carefree and couldn't be pinned down (that was a crock, too).  I am officially facing the fact that I like to make other people happy, and (horribly) I am also one of those girls that cares what people think.  I know I could be a lot worse, but seriously?  When did I start letting other people determine my happiness??  I am a smart, educated woman.  Why do I constantly feel the need to prove my worth, my friendship, my sanity just to make someone else happy?  Why am I always the "yes" girl?

What is the "yes" girl you ask?  It's the girl that says yes to everything.  "Will you buy this?  Yes, of course."  "Will you pay money (that you don't have) for this?  Yes, most definitely."  "Will you make yourself uncomfortable just to make me happy?  Oh my goodness, YES!!"  I'm so tired of being that girl.  From this moment on, that girl is gone.  Buh-bye.  I will no longer: spend money that I don't have on things that will make others happy and leave me (plainly put) broke; bend over backwards to please you if you won't do the same for me; commit myself to numerous obligations only to make myself exhausted and wondering where "my time" went; try like hell to keep friendships alive and well- doing all of the grunt work (i.e. driving, inviting, planning) only to get no reciprocation from these so-called friendships.  I am officially DONE.

And it's already starting to feel good...

The truth about stay-at-home moms

Lately, I've found myself feeling more stressed out, overloaded, and just downright exhausted.  It's actually been this way for quite awhile.  Granted, I've been home with Aaron ever since he was born, and let's face the facts: being a stay-at-home mama is hard!  People warned me about this before I had Aaron.  I always nodded like I agreed, secretly thinking "what's so hard about staying home, raising your baby, and keeping up with the house?"  Apparently, a lot.  Staying home with your child is not: sleeping in, leisurely breakfasts, lunch dates, and shopping.  It's waking up early, trying to jump in the shower and grab a cup of coffee before the little man wakes.  It's trying to curl your lashes and powder your face while your child clutches your legs saying, "mamaaaaa, mammmmmaaa."  It's no longer being able to go to the bathroom alone because your little monkey has learned how to open a door.  It's play dates, Yo Gabba Gabba, dirty diapers, ear infections, teething, trips to the dreaded Walmart just to get out of the house, and everything else that goes with raising a little human all wrapped up into one.  Are some days extremely overwhelming and exhausting?  Yep.  Would I change it for the world?  Nope.  Because out of all the messes and pains I deal with on a daily basis, it doesn't  compare to the look on Aaron's face when I open that door to his bedroom, he grins at me, and says "duice?" (Translation: Juice.) 

Thank you God for this child. 

The Doc Visit

Ahhh....it's Tuesday night and I just put my little punkin in the bed.  I have officially made myself comfortable with a huge glass of Fat Bastard's Shiraz and two reduced fat Oreo cookies....livin' the high life lemme tell ya!  As soon as I finish blogging I plan to catch up the Real Housewives of NYC Reunion.  Honestly, that's probably why I'm already drinking; I can already feel myself getting stressed out about watching these women scratch each others eyes out.  Why do I find this entertaining?  I have no clue.

As I mentioned in my previous post, we celebrated my parent's thirtieth anniversary this weekend.  What I didn't include is the fact that I was sick as a dog on the day of the party....figures.  Last Thursday night, I noticed my throat was getting sore and I was feeling achy and gross.  I knew then that this was not a good sign, but since I didn't have time to be sick, I ignored the symptoms and pushed on.  Friday morning, I woke up feeling worse, even more of a sore throat, and still achy, so I popped an Advil Cold & Sinus and pushed through yet again.  I packed the monkey up in the stroller, went for a walk, daring this lil' illness to keep on messing with me.  Bad idea.  So Saturday arrives, I wake up, at this point feeling like I've been hit by a truck, head to the restaurant with my sister to decorate, and decide at that moment as I'm standing on a chair in wedges hanging a banner, that if I don't get down soon I might puke.  At this point, I decide it's time for a visit to the Doc in a Box.  Luckily, one of my dad's oldest friends is a PA at a nearby clinic so I head on over.  After filling out the paperwork, hopping on the scale (damn WW....haven't lost one pound since the week before), I'm put in a room to wait.  After a few minutes there's a knock, and a young guy walks in.  Young, hot guy that I've never seen before with a stethoscope around his neck in scrubs and a tight shirt.  Shit.  I thought I was seeing our family friend, not a hot guy with muscles and a tight shirt.  He introduces himself, and I manage to stammer out a hello, while turning a shade or red that closely resembles that of the medical waste container.  He precedes to check my stats, listen to my breathing (dying), and ask me when my last "menstrual cycle" was (DYING!!).  He is calm as a cucumber- I'm at this point avoiding eye contact and trying to refrain from laughing.  As a side note, why do I revert to 13 year old behavior around an attractive male?  I mean, at one point in my life I did have some "game."  I managed to land a hottie of a husband.  It's like as soon as I got the ring on my finger, all coolness that lived inside me was gone.  Poof!  Finally, hottie is finished and out the door.  Whoo!  It's over.  My Doc walks in, looks at my throat, ears, nose, etc. and declares that I have an Upper Respiratory Infection.  He recommends a shot and some antibiotics, which I wholeheartedly agree to.  Big mistake.  Hottie walks back in, two shots in hand.  He smiles at me (dying) and says "drop your pants."  Wth??  You've got to be kidding me.  This has got to be a dream.  First of all, I haven't received a shot in my rear since I was in elementary school; second of all, why on why does the "shot-giver" have to be the hottie with the tight shirt; and finally third of all, why did I have to wear the "comfortable" underwear that I just bought in a variety pack at Walmart last week??  Oh God, just take me now!!!  After two shots and one tiny band aid on each cheek, hottie left me with a wink, and utter humiliation.  Moral of this story: the first day you start feeling bad, go ahead and make the dreaded trip to the Doc.  If you don't, your Hanes Cotton Hipster panties just might be revealed to a hottie in scrubs and a tight t-shirt.  Just sayin'!

30 years is a long time!

Last night, my parents celebrated their 30 year Wedding Anniversary.  Isn't that awesome?  30 years.  Sometimes I wonder if Adam and I will ever make it to 4 (kidding, kidding).  But seriously, 30 years is an amazing accomplishment.  When they got married in 1981 my mom was 20; my dad, 23.  Can you imagine getting married so young and actually staying married?  I know, I know, marriage shouldn't be looked upon as something that you can get in and out of so easily.  But let's face it, many people do get married and get divorced two years into their marriage.  Now, I'm not saying there aren't good reasons for divorce and that people who get married should stay married forever; however, I am saying being married for three decades is a long time and something that one should be proud of.

My sister, Megan, and I managed to surprise them last night with a dinner party of friends and family.  We contacted everyone about two weeks ago (such late notice), and luckily, with the exception of a few couples, everyone that we invited were able to attend.  It was truly a wonderful night!  Surprisingly, Meg and I were able to pull of the surprise (We just knew my Mom would find out- she can be a little nosy sometimes.  Love you, Mom!) and it was a hit!  Here are a few pics to document the night:

Baby love

My cute parents and of course, Aaron

The Mamakat & me

Just some of our lovely guests.  As a side note, I suck at taking pictures.  This coming from the girl that told my husband I would like a Canon Rebel for my birthday.  Wth??

Ahh, he's gorge!

All in all, perfect evening! Of course, the hubs was missing but he was definitely there in spirit.

I hope all of your weekend's have been just as sweet!