Currently: Totally Tuesday Edition

Happy Tuesday! Hope everyone is having a lovely day even though we are on our third day of rain here in Bham. The good news? It's officially May! May means summer is practically here with warm weather, road trips, cook outs, sunshine, baseball games, ahh so much to look forward to! I live in sundresses during the warm months so this (under $25) little yellow number is a current fave!

 

The beginning of May also means Cinco de Mayo! Tacos and frozen margaritas? Go ahead and put me down as a yes! Here are a few fun options to get you ready for Thursday. I love the pairing of a festive off the shoulder top with denim cutoffs! Oh and how great are these Pom-Pom gladiator inspired sandals!? Plus they are under $45! Here are a few more favorites to oh-ley in!

 

 

(from left to right): 1. Trim Top (also comes in black!) 2. Printed Romper 3. Could Shoulder Top 4. I Heart Tacos tee (I have this and it is sooo soft!) 5. Tacos and Tequila Tank (wear with fun printed shorts like these cacti inspired ones) 6. Embroidered Dress

 

 

I'm also currently loving decorating my home with cozy, bright colors. I found the cutest watering can then filled it with some beautiful fresh flowers! I also bought this little round, woven tray then added a little pink gnome (found at Target in the under $3 section) and a candle. A few colorful outdoor throw pillows then voila a newly decorated deck on a budget! It's a great spot for Saturday morning coffee and reading as well as summer nights for cookouts. You can also find this adorable mug at Kate Spade!

I have done a little traveling and have some exciting trips lined up all summer. I'm actually going to sunny Cali this weekend for the Tinkerbell Half-Marathon (Disneyland!) then NYC, Orlando, San Diego and LA are all on tap for some weekend fun in the upcoming weeks and months. One of my favorite places to plan day trips is Atlanta, GA. It's a short drive (about 2 1/2 hours) and I love the shopping, art, food, everything in the city! I was there a few weeks ago for the Justin Beiber concert (yes, I went and it was amazing) and most recently this past Sunday for the Beyoncé concert (incredible btw). I'll have a full trip report on what to do and see in Atlanta in a day coming up this week!

 

While I love traveling, I am also quite the homebody at times. I don't mind only being gone for only a day or two on vacay because I miss people at home. I also miss this little cutie! Formally introducing the newest member of the family, Lucky! She is the sweetest little mini Australian Shepherd puppy. Currently we are working on learning to walk on leash and that has been...interesting. At least she has a fun collar and leash to practice with!

 

I am also trying to make a summer reading list. I love writing and reading is just so soothing and relaxing. If you have any suggestions let me know! I recently finished this book, a very good and easy read! Last night I started this one and I can already tell it's going to be good!

 

That's about it! Thanks for catching up and I have some fun posts coming up so stay tuned!

 

 

See It or Skip It: March Movie Edition

Hey guys! Hope everyone is having a productive and happy hump day! It's been a busy few weeks, who is ready for summer!? I know I am and with warmer months that means it's almost summer movie season! Right now though we are still in spring mode but there have been plenty of movies that pack a summer punch.

Zootopia



One glance at the cute Disney poster and you may think Zootopia is just a fun kids movie. It is but in reality it is much more. The film which takes place in the fictional world of Zootopia, where predator and prey live in harmony together, yes, that means none of the animals eat each other, covers racism, sexism, tolerance and everything in between. In today's world it is important for kids to see a film like this and some adults could benefit a lesson or two from the movie. While young ones will enjoy there are jokes for the older crowd too (try and spot the Breaking Bad nod!). One of my favorite films of the year so far! Check out the trailer now!

SEE IT

10 Cloverfield Lane



Hyped as a follow up to the 2008 found footage film, Cloverfield, the J.J. Abrams vehicle did not disappoint. The trailer was released weeks before the film premiered and left very little clues to what the film was about. I don't want to spoil it for you but it's not what you think it is. I'll just leave it at that. The movie proves monsters come in all types of shapes and sizes and some aren't always the aliens you see destroying a city. John Goodman is excellent in the film as a paranoid, conspiracy theorist housing two civilians after what looks to be a terrorist attack. I won't give away much more but you can check out the trailer here!

SEE IT

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2




Ok, I'm Greek and when the original premiered over a decade ago, my family loved the movie! It is still one of my favorites and if I ever see it on, I always stop to watch. It's a romantic comedy classic that was smart, charming and different. When I saw there would be a second one after all these years, I did not have high expectations. What a pleasant surprise! The entire cast is back and while not as original as the first, it is still a fun film that is perfect for girls night, family movie outing or a date. My theater was actually sold out when we saw it and the audience loved it. Yes, Greeks are very similar to the way they are portrayed although my family has never used Windex. We aren't that crazy. I don't think. See the cast Opa! 13 years later in the trailer here!

SEE IT

London Has Fallen



Gerard Butler is back to the save the day and President (again) except this time it's across the pond. When a master terrorist attack takes place in London, the president has to be saved and there's only one man who can do it. The film, a sequel to the 2013 Olympus Has Fallen, is non-stop action from start to finish. I liked the original, did it need a sequel? Probably not but we were granted one and for what it is, it's not half bad. The plot is basically a reason to see Gerard Butler take down a room full of bad guys reciting one liners and all while wearing an expensive suit. The movie is not bad, it isn't great either but if you are looking for a film to get your adrenaline pumping then this is the one for you! Check out the high energy trailer here!

SKIP IT in theaters and save for a Redbox or Netflix night at home. Unless you LOVED the first one or an action buff SEE IT in theaters.

Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice



One of the most highly anticipated movies of the year is here and has already made millions this past weekend. Opening to mixed reviews from critics, Batman vs. Superman is a thrill ride with two of the biggest comic legends finally meeting on the big screen. Why are they fighting you ask? Well, Bruce Wayne aka Batman witnesses Wayne Tower falling after Superman saves the city of Metropolis, an event that took place two years ago in the film Man of Steel. Not knowing what Superman exactly is, I mean he is an alien who has super powers, Batman worries Superman will go all villain on the world at some point thus destroying humanity. Or something like that. Watch the trailer here!

The plot is a bit muddled, Lex Luthor and Wonder Woman are also involved, but people want to see action and fight scenes with the title characters and they get both. I am not a comic book fan but I do enjoy the movies, not knowing everything about the characters and back history, I still really liked the movie. This film is not on par with the Christopher Nolan trilogy from a few years ago but I will say Ben Affleck is probably the best Bruce Wayne/ Batman of all the films made to date. As a rule, I don't listen too much to what critics say, I suggest the same for you. This is a superhero movie so I have no idea why it has gotten such a bad rap. It's not an Oscar contender but who cares? Sometimes you just like to go to the movies and have fun. Form your own opinions! Then blog about them :)

SEE IT

Hope you enjoyed my See It or Skip It for the month! Now go grab some candy and go to the nearest theater!

xoxo,


 

Lilly After Party Sale Tips

Hey babes! I just wanted to remind everyone the Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale starts this morning (Monday, January 4th) at 8:00am et. Here a few tips!

1. Set an Alarm for 7:50am

I will be at work but for those not already or maybe have the day off, set your alarm for 7:50am. Take into account that the sale starts at eastern time so plan accordingly!

2. Have Your Account Ready Before You Enter the Sale

If you already have one, make sure you know the password and have the correct email down. If you do not have the account, create one here!

3. Download the Lilly Pulitzer App

This is how I gained access so easily during the last sale, just go to your app store and search "Lilly Pulitzer" and you will see the app!

4. Buy Your Must-Haves First

I like to get the items I definitely want in my first order. I usually get my top three and go ahead and check out then I can go back to the sale and browse to see what else I want to add to my closet. The reason for this is you don't go overboard buying and this is important, even if you have something in your basket it is still up for grabs. Until you purchase the items they can still be bought by other people.

5. Have Fun!

This is a big sale, it only happens twice a year (the other is in August) so yes, everyone gets hyped over it. Don't stress over it, it's just clothing! As soon as you are placed in the virtual queue once you enter the site, think about the things you need in your closet or maybe something you have been eyeing for a while. Lilly is all about living colorful and having fun!

The sale ends tonight Monday, January 4th 2016 at 11:59pm.

Good luck out there!

Happy Lilly After Party Sale Day!  

Travel Adventures Set for 2016...So Far

Happy second day of 2016! Wow I really can't believe that 2015 is in the books, it was a really good year for me which was much needed after my 2014. Even though I was sad to see 2015 go I love the new year because it brings so much promise and truly feels like a clean slate. I have made a few goals and no, none of them include dieting but it does include something I love, travel.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

As you have seen in previous travel posts, I know a thing or two about mini-trips and even the hectic 24 hour trip. I've done both of these. A lot. While I wish I could spend a week exploring new cities, states and countries, that isn't a possibility for me with school, work, and budget constraints. However, mini-trips prove you can still travel and be back in time before your alarm for work goes off and it's much easier on your debit card.

Here are the places I already have locked down to travel to in 2016. Some are brand new, others have maybe been visited once or twice but there is still more I would like to see!

1. New Orleans, Louisiana

Confession, I have only been to the Big Easy once in my life. Yes, and I live in the South. I have a weekend trip planned for the last weekend in February for the Rock n Roll New Orleans Half-Marathon but just because I'm running doesn't mean I won't be able to take in all the sights and sounds! Plus, I won't feel guilty about eating beignets, carb loading, right?

Photo Credit: Pinterest

2. Dallas, Texas

Excited to scratch one of the most popular cities in the U.S off my list in March. Longhorns, Cowboys, and everything is supposed to be bigger, right? Can't wait to see what desserts they have and pretty much all the food. It's in the South, so you know it's going to be good. Also excited for shopping, museums and all that the city has to offer!

Photo Credit: Pinterest

3. Gulf Shores, AL (Hangout Festival)

Ok, ok, yes, I have been to Gulf Shores many times, especially since the beach is only a few hours away from Bham. This is however, my first time going to Hangout Music Festival! Pumped to be heading to the beach in May to watch artists like Calvin Harris (T-Swift cameo?), Walk the Moon, Fetty Wap and more take the stage for a weekend to remember!

Photo Credit: Pinterest

4. Denver, Colorado

This is another destination that will be a first timer for me this summer! I'm excited to finally visit the home of the Denver Broncos, mountains, and maybe most of all, Voodoo Doughnut. Might be a little break from the humid and hot weather in the midst of a Southern summer. Pretty excited for this one!

Photo Credit: Pinterest

5. Vancouver, Canada

Grabbing my passport for this August trip! First time in Canada. First time in Vancouver. I have heard nothing but great things about the city and it looks absolutely beautiful! This is going to be a good way to say goodbye to summer which I hope is filled with adventure.

Photo Credit: paradiseintheworld.com

There are several other places I am planning on visiting in 2016 but that will come at a later post when all the details are worked out. What about you? Heading anywhere exciting? How about a place I need to add to my own list? Let me know!

Happy Travels! Let's get out there this year!

xoxo,

Ultimate Holiday Party Box

Hello everyone! Hope we are all having a lovely Tuesday! The weather seems to finally be clearing up here in the Ham and with the sun out and fall weather in the air, I can finally start taking some pics of all the new looks I've been wanting to share with y'all. I especially love piecing together holiday looks, which can you guys believe it's almost Thanksgiving? Then it goes straight into Christmas mode! If you are already in the "jolly holiday" spirit, I have the perfect way to kick holiday season into high gear.

 

Ok stop drooling over the delicious macaroons for one second. Something I love about being a blogger is collaborations however I only choose items and products I genuinely use or like. When I found out about the Ultimate Party Holiday Box created by the super whimsical Over the Moon with help from the delectable Magic City Macarons and talented Allison R. Banks Designs, I knew I had to share with my readers!

This box is perfect gift for someone (great for secret Santa and holiday parties) and I really like the fact that all the products are created locally here in Birmingham, AL. It's really important to me to buy local and support smaller, local businesses. I find it so much more special and unique! I have loved Magic City Macarons since I tried them last holiday season at a friend's Christmas party. I even got the info and ordered some for my family's Christmas Eve gathering (they were a huge hit!). Seeing the business grow in the last year has been incredible, Nancy does a fantastic job with promoting her product and I love that Macarons can be found at some of the biggest events in town. I absolutely loved the popcorn flavored macaroon as well as the Coke-a-Cola flavored choices she had on hand at the local Sidewalk Film Festival back in August!

Over the Moon is a fairly new business and I can already tell it will be a success! I have been looking over their website and they sell something for every occasion. Birthdays, wedding showers, sorority recruitment, baby showers, you name the occasion and they have it or can custom make it for you! The products are full of whimsy and just bring a smile to my face. Allison R. Banks, who is the calligrapher for this collaborative box has beautiful designs to make any occasion special. I am amazed at anyone who can do calligraphy, the writing and designs are always so intricate and beautiful and Allison's work is no exception. Add all three of these special, talented collaborators and there you have the Ultimate Party Box!

To purchase the Ultimate Party Box, just click here! The box is PRE-ORDER ONLY and they are taking orders the rest of this week ending on 11/13/15 with delivery being the first week of December. So, what all do you get for $48? It comes with the "Jingle Bells" die cut letter with foil polka dots, a 10 foot long metallic neutral tassel garland (this is super long and really fluffy and can be used over and over, it's my favorite), a 12 foot long silver and white dot garland, 4 macaroons in holiday flavors from Magic City Macarons, 8 coasters and 10 gift tags from calligrapher Allison R. Banks. It is an awesome deal!

If you happen to miss out ordering this particular box, the Over the Moon does offer several other holiday boxes (but the do NOT contain the macaroons or calligraphy) that are sure to make your holidays shiny and bright! However, I am obsessed with this box and have already made plans to order mine. They also have some really cute custom cards, if you are looking for something a little more unique to send out this year! I highly recommend checking out all the product from this talented trio and order the Ultimate Holiday Party Box while you still can!
 

One last shot of the sweet stuff (you guys know I love my sweets). If you have any questions feel free to ask me or email Laura Ann from Over the Moon at LA@iloveoverthemoon.com.

Happy Pre-Holidays!

xoxo,

Kate Spade Surprise Sale Picks

Happy Humpday! As you know the Kate Spade Surprise Sale hit yesterday morning and I am shocked at the great deals! There are items up to 75% off and if you want a classic designer item this is the time to buy. I love this bucket bag in the French grey, I also like this quilted bag (I got it in a blush hue at the last sale!), this for work and travel, this adorable print wallet, love this for traveling, and how cute is this? Ahhh I love it all there are SO many great choices you can't go wrong! The sale ends tomorrow (October 29th) at 11:59pm so hurry, hurry! Visit the sale now!

Happy Shopping!

xoxo,

Halloween Happenings in the Ham

It comes to the surprise of no one that I LOVE Halloween! I am so sad we are nearing the end of October but who is ready for Halloween weekend!? I'm still working on my costume...let's just say if I can pull it off, it might be my favorite costume to date. While I do blog here from Birmingham, AL and this post will be about Halloween Happenings in my city, there will also be some suggestions and ides for those of you in other states/cities since Halloween fun is everywhere!

 

1. Halloween Themed Treats

 

My pick: The Heavenly Donut Co.

 

If you follow me you know that I run lots of races and one of the main reasons I do (besides health) is because I have a sweet tooth! Running for donuts is an actual thing for me. Halloween is the perfect time for spooky treats. One of my favorite local donut shops has the cutest themed donuts (there is one that looks like an owl that is almost too cute to eat). These are perfect to take into work this week or for a party you might be having this weekend! Check your local bakeries to see what they have in store and if you aren't close to any local shops then national chains Dunkin Donuts and Krispy Kreme can help you out.

 

2. Sloss Fright Furnace
 

If you live in Bham then you know about Sloss Furnaces. The furnaces are a huge landmark that is a throwback to the steel and industrial days in the South. They host many events throughout the year including concerts, music festivals, 5k's and even weddings. But come October people know it's home to Sloss Fright Furnace. Now the furnaces look creepy during the day so just imagine what the vibe is after dark. Throw in the legend that the furnaces are actually haunted and you have yourself the perfect Halloween outing!
 

I actually went to Sloss this past weekend with friends and we had a great time. Essentially there are three "hauntings" you can experience the main one would obviously be the Furnace Tour which as the name would imply takes you through the furnace. You and your group will have to walk single file through the tour but the good news is you will be in a large group so you can stick close. Personally, I smiled the entire time and didn't find it particularly horrifying. It was fun for me but I did have friends that were more jumpy and if the actors sense that you are scared they will single you out and yell, chase, etc. However, the actors can not touch you but be mindful and don't touch them either. It was $24 for the experience and also came with a ticket for Outbreak 2 which is a zombie filled maze that sees if you can survive the Zombie Apocalypse (just a warning there is running, climbing, chasing, crawl spaces and tunnels and obstacles in this maze). For an extra $4 you can pay a visit to the Conjuring Room which was well...an experience. All of these "hauntings" are fun and while some teens/adults that spook easily and children would find it scary the majority would find it to be a fun thrill.

Check out ticket options here and dates (it's open every day this week) here!
 

3. Local Haunted House Attractions

My pick: Atrox Factory

There are several options when it comes to haunted houses in the Bham area and it doesn't get much scarier than Atrox Factory located in Leeds, AL. For $20 you get a real scare and by scary take it from someone who doesn't scare easily that I find this place terrifying. Sloss is a good warm-up if you think that it is scary I would steer clear of here. At Atrox they can touch you and by touching it is usually just a hand on your shoulder, touching hair, light poke on your side, etc. There are rooms where you will be in complete darkness and people will be around you so I have warned you! Now if you are brave and laugh at the sight of Michael Myers stalking with a butcher knife on Halloween night then you will love it! The scenery, sets and designs are excellent quality and there is a reason it has been voted one of the scariest attractions in the country. My advice is to try it out, there are exits so you can leave and try my trick of smiling and pretending (even if you are) not to be scared. Also, wear a baseball cap if you are nervous about the slight touching plus you can pull the cap over your eyes if things get too intense for you.

The lines do get crowded and long (especially with this week being Halloween) buy your tickets online and for a little extra you can get VIP status aka you don't have to wait in line and other pass options. Get all ticket and time info here plus any other needed info! They also offer celebrity appearances and this week just happens to be Tony Moran aka Michael Myers himself (how appropriate for the holiday).

Photo Credit: Atrox Factory

4. Howls and Growls: Black Jacket Symphony Presents Michael Jackson's "Thriller"

If you are looking for a way to support a good cause while listening to one of the best albums of ALL time then I highly recommend Howls and Growls coming this Friday night (Oct 30th at 7pm). I have been to several Black Jacket Symphony shows and they are incredible! If you don't know who they are, it is essentially a live cover of famous albums. The singers and artists are always on point and I like how this performance also is giving proceeds to a fabulous charity. Get your tickets here!

Photo Credit: Greater Birmingham Humane Society

Not into Thriller? If you want something else to do on Friday night, the Alabama Symphony Orchestra Presents: Psycho starting at 8pm. The orchestra will be performing LIVE with the movie (can you imagine how the shower scene score will sound live? Chills!) get your tickets right here!

5. Filed of Screams

Now this is a new event coming to the Magic City this year but from the description it sounds pretty awesome! During the day it will be a festival-carnival type event complete with a zombie 5k starting at 8am with the festival beginning at 11am. Then that night(7:30pm) there is a Halloween costume gala where you wear your Halloween best! The main thing that strikes me about this event is that it is for all ages and the gala being a special treat for adults. The event will also utilize the lovely Regions Baseball Field which is one of my favorite spots in the city! Get event details here along with prices and tickets!


If this still isn't enough Halloween goodness you can always take a visit over to the Birmingham Zoo for the classic annual Boo at the Zoo which is happening every night this week starting at 5pm. Or if on Halloween you want to get a little more party into your monster mash then go to the Lakeview District in downtown where local bars such as Innisfree, Side Bar, Moe's and more are sure to be serving up some tricks and treats as well as spooky libations for a fun time! If you are going out to the bars, be careful and please do not drink and drive! Get your friend or someone at the bar to call you a cab. Halloween is about going out and having FUN but we don't need any real life horror reenactments. I also love Avondale Brewery and they will be having a Bone Thugs-N-Harmony concert that night and you can get tickets here!

There will be plenty going on so I'm sure you will have a spooktacular (yay puns) time at whatever you choose to do! If you don't live in the Ham then just check you local hangouts, online, paper, social media, etc. to see what's happening in your city! Everything I listed, is a good chance there is some similar equivalent to it in your town or city. Whether you are hitting the town, screaming in a haunted house, or just watching scary movies with your friends at home, have a fabulous time and make the most of this scary day!

Boo!

Happy Hauntings!

xoxo,

Tori Burch Private Sale Picks

Hey babes! In case you missed the announcement earlier there is a huge, "private" sale (70% off some items!) going on at Tori Burch! This brand is one of my favorites, their classic ballet flats have always and will always be a staple for your wardrobe no matter the season. In addition to the flats, there are clothes, bags, jewelry, and accessories. Things are going super fast so get shopping and here are a few of my picks to get you started!

First off, here is the site link you need to enter for access to the sale.

Ok, now my picks! There are so many so it's hard to choose but I love this T-Hinged wide cuff and this romantic dove cuff. I also really like these stackable ring sets and adorable fedora. You also can't go wrong with striped flats, or this classy ballet flat or these snakeskin ones (obsessed!) or these amazing booties which I'm shocked were included in the sale. Tori Burch has some great bags and this clutch is classic Tori. The color of this clutch makes me smile and how great is this bag for everyday wear and/or traveling? Love the leopard print!

Hurry get to the sale NOW before everything sells out! The sale officially ends on Monday, October 26th but things are already gone so get to it!

Happy Shopping (and Saving)

xoxo,

Easy, Fall Living

 

 

Hello all! We are almost in TGIF mode...but not quite yet. I hope everyone is having a lovely Thursday and has some exciting plans in store for the upcoming weekend. I've mentioned here that I absolutely love weekends in the fall! Football, movies, haunted houses, hiking, it just seems like there is always so much happening in October. I have found the most perfect fall outfit that can take you from work or class to pumpkin patch picking (seriously how many people did that last weekend?) or a scary movie date to even a concert by just adding a few fall details.

 

First off, by now you know I live in t-shirt dresses. They are so comfortable and with a little bit of styling, can make you look like you've pieced together a look that would make Reese Witherspoon jealous. T-shirt dresses are a great base piece, kind of like a blank art canvas that you can add to create a look of your own. With today's look I started with one of my all-time favorite wardrobe colors, blush pink. It's soft and feminine and the color looks good on everyone, what more could you ask for? It looks a little to basic solo so I add a chambray denim shirt to tie around my waist. Now, some people like to tie an actual jacket around their waist but I prefer denim or plaid shirts. The shirts are less bulky and don't add heaviness to your look or frame, it simply cinches the waist plus if you actually do get cool you can always untie it to use! I get most of my shirts at Old Navy or Forever 21, just size up to get the effect.

 

Another item big on my fall wardrobe staples? Hats! I love them and think they are the perfect way to add a unique touch or if you aren't feeling your hair that day. Add some fringe booties (I also love this look with converse sneakers or ballet flats), a unique necklace and your favorite fall bag then call it a day! Oh and you don't like the blush color, maybe you are someone who hates pink? Don't worry this dress comes in so many color options, you are bound to find one you like! Can't choose which color? They are under $20 so go ahead and get two...or three. You will be wearing these on repeat all season and then some!

 

Shop the entire look below and pick out your next fall must-have.

 

T-Shirt Dress// Necessary Clothing  Chambray Shirt// Forever 21  Wide-Brimmed Wool Fedora//  Forever 21  Wood Bead Tusk Pendant// Accessory Concierge  Grey Fringe Booties// Sam Edelman  Tote// have had this Burberry bag for years. Definitely a splurge item but check here to find really awesome designer bags that won't break the bank!

Happy Shopping!

xoxo,