{Fridays Fancies} Long Weekend

Long weekends may be few and far between, but when they roll around, I can't help by happy dance and throw a little parade. Work can be so stressful, and I unfortunately let it get me down more than I should. But having extra days off to spend with my honey, nest a bit, sip coffee and catch up on R&R, it really is so revitalizing.

And yes, I realize I included a cardi despite the fact that it is still in the triple digits in Texas, but I don't plan on being outside except for some early morning gardening, so bring on the cuddly sweaters and the (mostly functioning) air conditioning. To those of you in breezy climates, soak it up for me, will ya!

Studs // Tank // Rag and Bone boyfriends // Chucks

Cardigan // Ring // OPI's Lincoln Park After Dark

 

Check out my Fancies from last Labor Day {here}! (How has that been a year?!) Funny to see that not much has changed; I can still chatter endlessly about coffee, cardigans, and kitties.

{Friday's Fancies} Labor Day & a Kitty Dress

This little girl is very excited that September is just around the bend! While it's still a bit warm here in Texas, we have been getting a break from triple digits, and I dare say I've even found myself starting to get a bit chilly here and there. (I'm cold-natured, so really anything below 90 degrees means I'm probably looking for a blankie.)

We'll be out and about tomorrow, getting my hair did, shopping for some furniture for the new digs (hoping for some great sales), and visiting the lakehouse to plan evening lighting for the wedding. A day of running amuck necessitates an ensemble that is no-fuss, practical (hello, flats and satchel), yet cute enough to hang in Dallas. (Big D folks can be pretty fancy, y'all.)

Hoops // Bag // Polish
Dress // Belt // Sunnies // Flats

Quirky patterns like this can be really fun when paired with understated accessories. You've gotta rock that, "Oh yeah, these are kitties" confidence if you're gonna sport something like this. I'm a big fan of light and feminine dresses, especially while it's still a bit warm. (Naturally, a light cardigan is never too far away.) And I am of the mindset that hoops can make any outfit seem more pulled together yet easy-going...nevermind these babies cost more than my car. Casual, right? To balance the blush tones of this look, I'd pair it with my favorite nod to fall's impending arrival: OPI's Lincoln Park After Dark. (Let's be honest: this polish is tied for favorite with the Pumpkin Spice Latte. Winning combo right there, folks.)

Wishing you all a lovely weekend! Rock those kitties, y'all.

For more Friday's Fancies, check out all the lovely submissions over at {long distance loving}.

Things That Make Me Frolic

Spring is just lovely, don't you think? The beautiful weather here in the south right now makes me positively giddy. I can't help but smile thinking of all the sweet spring details. 

Flowers and trees bloom and revive from their barren winter state. True, blooms bring bees. And I hate bees. But I'll gladly brave the little buggers for this glorious sight.

Mmmmm...iced coffee. Really, all iced beverages are a special kind of yum during these breezy, sunny months. But you can't beat the light kick of a delicious icy roast.

'Tis the season of fabulous wedges, sandals, and showing off those pretty ankles. If my toes didn't curl up like an elf's, I'd be all over the pedi-baring peep-toes. Thankfully, there are still plenty of saucy shoes to chose from that don't expose my pixie toes.

Mmmmmm....gelato. This cool treat pairs well with a walk at dusk and a long chat on the porch into the evening, feet kicked up...and citronella candles ready for action. (I'm in Texas, after all. Skeeters love those pretty ankles, too.)

What has you jazzed for spring right now?

All images via Pinterest.

My Day In Pictures

I don't know about y'all, but I've so enjoyed the Christmas traditions posts over the past few days! I didn't want to totally mail it in on my blog duties, though, so here are a few snapshots to fill y'all in on my day thus far...

My co-worker's pup Oliver stopped by for a visit. Dude loves him some pearls.

Sipping on a Venti black iced tea so this old lady can make it through the evening. (Our office Christmas party is tonight. Woop!)
via

Listened to The Civil Wars and drove around with the windows down during my lunch break. Refreshed my soul.
via



A look at today's get-up (approximately). I went for classic and festive, something that would transition from work to play. Bring on the tasty eats and fancy cocktails!

 Hope you are having a wonderful week and take a moment to enjoy the spark in the air of the Christmas season!

Coffee counts as DIY, right?

Because if it does, I am a crafty queen!

In a baffling twist of fate, I realized last night that I am completely out of coffee at home. Not a single espresso pod (except for decaf, which doesn't count for life) nor coffee bean to be found. I am not sure how this happened, but I am fairly certain that the apocalypse is near.

Photo: notebookmagazine.com

In light of my coffeeless excuse of an apartment, I drove through Starbucks on the way to work for my morning fix. As much they're mentioned here, I actually rarely visit Starbucks proper. (Rare for an addict, of course. It's all relative.) Admittedly, the prices are a little tough to justify at times, but it is quite a treat when I visit. I get a curiously giddy feeling when I hold that warm iconic cup in my hands, which I like to imagine is how Proust's Marcel felt when nomming his madeleine. But that is purely speculation.

Instant gratification aside, there is something so sensuously special about making one's own coffee. From sniffing out delicious blends in their bags and griding the whole beans to the perfect size, to tamping the grinds* and pulling the perfectly timed shot (if you're an espresso lover like me), the process itself is an experience. 

Photo: fancyadance.tumblr.com

Creating a delicious beverage can be an art, and I appreciate the time invested in making something special to start one's day. A little happy with the right accessories (raw sugar, steamed soy, dash o' cinnamon, whatever you fancy) can go a long way.

Photo: myrevelment.com

Happy brewing, dear readers!

*I am kind of a sellout, though, as I inherited an espresso machine with pre-formed pods. ((hangs head))

[Inspired Thursdays, v.1] Dropping a Line

This post is an introduction to my new series, "Inspired Thursdays." Lately (especially), I have found myself stirred by all the beautiful, thoughtful people and things around me, and I wanted to share that with y'all. Please feel free to share your own inspired moments on your blog or in the comments section below. (If anyone is feeling crafty and wants to create a pretty little button for Inspired Thursdays, I would happily use it every week and link back to ya!)

I am a huge fan of good ol' snail mail. In an age of instant gratification when it comes to communication, it is so heart-warming to discover a hand addressed envelope burried in the midst of bills and junk mail in your mailbox. And stamps! Remember stamps?

Photo: etsy.com

I have a very special friend in New Jersey who consistently surprises me with sweet cards and thoughtful gifts, for holidays, special moments in my life, or sometimes for no other reason than to let me know she is thinking about me. It warms my heart beyond words to have someone so sweet in my life who cares about me so. In fact, I am blessed to have quite a few people in my life who encourage me in this manner, and I don't take their care for granted.

Inspired by my generous, sweet friends and family, I am making an effort to more consistently reach out to those who are in my thoughts and heart, for whatever reason or occasion. I try to keep a stash of special note cards that I've collected over the years (I recently loaded up when visiting Powell's Books in Portland) so that I always have something on hand, and it's also a nice idea to keep a few gift cards or small treasures around to send on a whim. (Starbucks cards and quirky items from Francesca's are some of my go-to gifts.) We are all busy and have a lot going on, so keeping these things in stock, so to speak, will allow you to respond to desires to reach out.

Thank you to those of you who brighten my days with your kind words and thoughtful prayers. (Special shout out to my favorite Jersey Girl, Kendra. Love you!) Y'all inspire me so much, and I am definitely shaped by the love given so freely to me.

What inspires you today?
(If you are responding in your own blog, please comment with a link or email me and I'll add it to this post!)

I have no legs.

OK, that's not true. But given my level of activity as of late, you'd think it were. I do realize the irony of this admission, coming from the same girl who just this past spring got all shouty about staying active. Humbled, I am. Bossy gals often look foolish, and it's definitely a look I don now and again.

If it weren't for (far too frequent) bathroom breaks, I doubt I'd leave my office chair more than twice a day (to refill my coffee mug). Over the past few weeks, I've even spent numerous lunch breaks glued to my seat, searching for new blogs or perusing images on Pinterest. (I am eLame.) But after a lovely day of traipsing around the fair yesterday, I was once again reminded how wonderful it feels to move. Still on an activity high (and probably sugar high, as well), I decided to use my perfectly functioning (albeit intensely pale) legs and take a little stroll for lunch. (Emphasis on "little.")

Photo: classy-in-the-city.tumblr.com

I walked down the stairs of our office building (I do at least heed my own advice on the stairs...all one set of them), across the parking lot and into Zoe's for Mediterranean yummies. Nommed pita later, I used the crosswalk and everything to visit the shopping center across the way, prancing over to Starbucks for a refreshing afternoon beverage(unsweetened black iced tea, please). If I could actually gague distance, I'd be able to better contextualize the brevity of this wee journey. But the distance isn't the point. (Getting there, promise.)

The point: I usually drive to that Starbucks. Or to the Panera in the adjacent shopping center. It isn't even a five minute walk, yet I usually drive it. When I lived in Brooklyn, I walked eight city blocks (yes, sometimes in the snow) to the nearest subway station to even begin my commute to work. But these days I'm driving myself across the street for caffeinated treats and delectable sandwiches. Madness, self!

The payoff: in addition to not feeling like such a sloth, I was filled with delight by some of the sweet moments I witnessed by virtue of simply being outdoors, amongst other humans. I am a total house cat and generally prefer to be indoors, in select company, curled up in a blankie and reading a book (or watching HGTV and Food Network). But there is something to be said for stepping out of one's comfort zone...and stepping out, in general.

I heart fall.

I've decided it's officially fall for three reasons: (1) it rained (proper) over the weekend and is still overcast today, (2) I've worn boots three days in a row now, and (3) I am perpetually craving Starbucks' hot apple cider.

Here are a few things that are making me positively giddy this time of year...

Photo: classy-in-the-city.tumblr.com

I recently discovered a beautiful park within walking distance of work, and I cannot tell you what it does for my day to enjoy a moment outdoors with a good playlist or book. My honey and I recently spent one Saturday laying in the park, listening to the wind blowing through the trees and marveling at the fiery hues of autumn slowly creeping into the foliage.


Photo: everythinglovely.tumblr.com

 Rich auburn locks, smoky eyes and elegant cool-weather accessories are the perfect look for October. (This photo makes me pine for long hair again.)

 Photo: hgtv.com

An inviting chair and cozy blanket make for the perfect thoughtful spot. Watch the rain fall out the window, re-read your favorite compositions (Catcher in the Rye is a fall must-read for me), or cozy up by a fire/space heater. Bonus points for a warm beverage in hand or a furry friend napping at your feet.

Photo: freepeople.com

Year round I gaze at the giant shoe boxes perched atop my closet, just waiting for the time of year to roll around to sport the beauties nesting within. I have my staple pairs of boots for every occasion (casual with jeans, dressy for work, sassy with skirts, comfy with PJs, etc.), but I think my favorite is pairing some richly-colored heeled boots (like these, above) with tights, a cozy dress and a scarf.


 Photo: google.com

My boyfriend makes the best warm beverage treats I've ever tasted. (Ear muffs, 'Bucks.) His cappuccinos are probably my favorite, and enjoying one in PJs on a rainy morning is pretty much my idea of perfection. A great beverage warms so much more than just the tummy.

Photo: alexxandra81.tumblr.com

Scarves are wonderful because they're essentially blankies that are sanctioned for all-day wear: at work, at home, wherever. I especially love neutral-hued textured pieces like the one pictured above. (This photo captures another delightful fall "accessory:" bangs. Long hair, I have not, but I am a proud member of the bangs brigade.)  

This photo feast brought to you by Pinterest. Yes, I did.

What are some of your fall favorites?

iLose

I was fairly disappointed in myself as I set out on the journey of a lifetime upon finding my baggage encumbered by a giant bag o' cords for all my contraptions. I should have just thrown machinery to the wind and vowed to commit 100% to the road, embracing the moments. (But then how would I have shared it all with you, right?)

I hate that I've become one of those people who can't be away from their Crackberry for more than an hour without having a meltdown.* I get the shakes if I can't find a WiFi connection for my laptop. (Starbucks, FTW!) It's sad that my local road-trips (1-3 hours in length) are dampered while waiting for my iPod to charge back up for use. (Seriously, turning the damn thing on drains half the battery. Where you at on that, Apple? And don't even try to talk me into buying a newer version. A contraption is a contraption, and I expect results, yo.)

I have a dear friend who refuses to give in to the iWorld, and I can't say I completely blame her. (Earmuffs, my sweet Mac.) In terms of contraptions, Apple is doing some nice work (minus the aforementioned iPod battery fail). But in creating such lovely machinery, they've made it far too easy for people like me to become completely reliant, even subservient, to my gadgets. And readers? I'm so not that girl.

I was the one who rocked the pager in high school...and wasn't a drug dealer. (My high school years were 1996-2000, by the by. I.e., way past the era of the pager's coolness. If there every really was one.) And while everyone else was in 2009 enjoying the awesome world of sweet apps and uber-fast internet via mobile phone, I was exploring the cutting-edge world of...wait for it...ringtones. Look. Out.

And now I have a GPS. My Garmin literally tells me what to do. IT'S A MACHINE. Now, granted, I bought this particular contraption because it tells me how to get places, which, that I am relying on a talking box is inherently sick. But it sasses me! The thing actually argues with me. Call me crazy, but I swear the tone changes from pleasant to pissed when it has to recalculate because I've (once again) chosen to trust my own sense of direction over its "short cut." (Things have actually improved with this contraption upon changing the voice from the American broad to the sexy Aussie. Chicken and I also named him "Chauncy.") (Indeed, I realize I named the robot. Which means I'll keep it forever. Or until the technology is defunct. Next month.)

So while my affinity for the gadgets troubles me deeply, I do justify it ("Danger, Will Robinson!") by insisting that such contraptions allow me to connect with real people: my phone to text and email (and occasionally even call someone), my camera to take pics to share, my iPod to reminisce, and Chauncy to get me to social gatherings. That's got to count for something, right?

...Bueller?

*Can you imagine if I owned an iPhone?!

[West Coast Road Trip] Day 6: Touring Downtown Portland

I am (yet again) exhausted beyond belief, so I'm going to make this short and sweet...

5:30am - The Chickens and I head to Downtown Portland, they to go to work like good members of society, me to run amuck like a proper tourista.

6:00am - Post up at Starbucks for catching up online, blogging, listening to some music, and hanging out. Triple espresso, given.

8:00am - Found myself a lovely park bench on the waterfront where I listen to Pandora, watch people play with their dogs in the park, and smile like a fool at the wonder that is this trip.

9:00am - Walk around downtown Portland, still smiling like a damn fool. Starbucks stop #2.

10:00am - The Epicurean Excursion begins at the beautiful Heathman Hotel!

Our stops include:

Pearl Bakery ~ The chocolate croissant and baguettes are to die for. Bonus hair net.

Cacao ~ Who knew that a girl without a sweet tooth could so enjoy drinking chocolate?

Flying Elephants Deli ~ Tomato orange soup...like woah.

Stumptown Coffee Roasters ~ The Guatamalan blend we sampled was one of the most delicious full-bodied coffees I've ever tasted.

TeaZone ~ The jasmine-infused green tea was my fave.

Cool Moon ~ Hefeweizen ice cream. Done.

In Good Taste ~ Four words: black truffle infused salt. LOVE. (The delicious glass of pinot noir and moroccan flavored ketchup & mustard didn't even stand a chance.)

Hot Lips Pizza ~ Best slice of vegan pizza I've ever had.

2:30pm - Head home with the Chickens. Nap time.

5:30pm - Lovely dinner at home of veggie burgers with chips and dip.

7:00pm - Visit Mr. Chicken's folks and hang out in their beautiful garden.

And now I rest my weary body and hope I wake up feeling better. At the moment my feet are throbbing from the 3 mile tour (in Chucks...idiot) and I am fighting a sinus infection. Really, body?

Tomorrow: Seattle, WA. I WILL feel better in the morning!

[West Coast Road Trip] Day 5: 9.5 hours, 613 miles travelled

Yesterday was another bright and early start at 5:30am. I was so motivated to get on the road that I actually missed the complimentary La Quinta breakfast. Blasphemy, right?

After a full-blown shouting match with Lady Garmin (that smug, loud wench), I was on the 5 and headed straight for Oregon. (Homegirl tried to take me on some tiny, one-lane freeway, which would have added about 30 minutes to my time. Where's the logic in that, machine?)

Anywho, we reconciled and had a very lovely journey together. Starbucks in hand and the 1940s station on Sirius, I took in the scenery and had a nice chat with Mom. She would have been 53 yesterday. (I imagine the cake in Heaven is out of bounds delicious!)

The drive from Sacramento, CA to Portland, OR was absolutely gorgeous! I even got teary a few times given how beautiful and majestic were the sights. (I'm not usually a cry baby, but seriously...wow.) I was so inspired, in fact, that I talked to a STRANGER while filling up at the base of Mount Shasta (see pic below). We bonded, even. (The eff?!) But, seriously, it's a wonder I didn't drive off the road upon views like this...

I arrived in Portland around 4pm yesterday. The Chickens and I enjoyed dinner of delicious Divine Thai Wraps at Sweet Lemon Vegetarian Bistro. And because I'm in vacation (and a heifer at heart), we capped off the evening with cupcakes from Bliss Bake Shop. (Coconut Bliss for me, please!) By the way, I keep meaning to take pictures of all my delicious eats to share with y'all...but they're destroyed and all over my face before I remember to do so. Perhaps I should slow it down a bit on the scarfing? Meh.

It was so nice catching up at the lovely Casa de Chickens with Mrs. Chicken herself. (The only thing missing was Biscuit.) We called it an early night on account of the fact that we had all had long days; not to mention, we left the house this morning at 5:30am to begin our respective days.

On the agenda today: foodie walking tour (eep!!), traipsing around downtown when Mrs. gets off work, and then...we'll see. :)

[West Coast Road Trip] Day 4: 10 hours, 589 miles traveled

I'm tired from a long day of travel, my loves. So here's the lazy breakdown:

3:00am - Wake up. Curse insomnia. And eyeballs.

3:45am - Head out for a quick pitstop at LAX.

5:00am - First Starbucks stop of the day, just outside of LA. Triple espresso and "The Coffee House" station on Sirius. Watching the sun come up in this fashion was not too shabby at all!

6:00am - Pull off to skip around on the beach. Oh yeah. I do the skipping. The joggers? Not amused.

6:45am - Quick potty stop at a park just south of Carpinteria. "Why mention this?" you ask. Because park means SWINGS! Yes, gals and gents, I played on the swings. By myself. At 6:45 in the morning.

7:30am - Breakfast at an adorable patisserie on State Street in Santa Barbara with my dear friend Emily (a.k.a. Paint Chips). It was so nice catching up and it did not feel like a second has passed since we were hanging out all the time (back in 2003). She's preggers too, so it was fun to hear all her adventures thus far. Isn't she cute?

11:00am - Pitstop #2 at Starbucks, this time in San Luis Obispo, which is where I lived for a year (2003-2004) for college. Definitely fun to visit my ol' Starbucks to charge up my contraptions, refuel on caffeine, and check in with friends on FB and whatnot before jumping back on the road.

11:45am - Um, after this point it all kind of blends together because I didn't stop except to refuel or grab a little snack. But the drive was GORGEOUS and I'm so glad I chose to see California this way!

4:30pm - Arrive in Rancho Cordova/Sacramento to hunker down for the night. I ate In-N-Out in my hotel room with my lovely date, Food Network. Great end to a wonderful day. Time to wind down for another long day of driving...

On the agenda for tomorrow: Sacramento, CA to Portland, OR to stay with The Chickens!

[West Coast Road Trip] Day 1: So this is what it's like to NOT sweat 24/7

My day started at 4:15am on a whopping four hours of sleep. (I blame you, Food Network. And self in general.) But it's all good; there were planes to be caught...and coffee to be had! (Addiction, schmiction...)

My very sweet aunt was kind enough to drop me at the airport, and I was elated to learn that I had lucked into a first class seat. Holla! (I flew stand-by this trip, so really even getting on the plane is a nice surprise. Airline employees in the fam, FTW!) I enjoyed my spacious seat, comfy blankie, and delicious breakfast. Happy Natty, indeed! (By the way, I'm pretty sure the lady making all the in-flight announcements was Lois Griffin. Which is weird. Because cartoon characters don't have day jobs.)

And then the guy at the rental car place tried to give me a red Mustang convertible. Now, while I thoroughly appreciate Homeboy's offer, I am going to be doing well as it is to make the 1000+ mile trek without getting a speeding ticket. (No, not because I'm female, but because I am Cali-raised. We don't believe there's a difference between the 5 and the Autobahn.) So I settled for a shiny mint green Ford Focus. Win? Maybe not, but it does have about eleventy thousand plugs for all my contraptions, so I don't think I did too badly. (No, I'm not going to be playing with my Blackberry, iPod, Garmin, Mac, etc. while driving. I'm a safe driver! Ish.) Plus, I'm not going to lie, that little bumper car is a blast to drive.

So then I walk outside to fetch the car. And I pause. I breathe. I note that I am not instantly covered in sweat and my hair is still (for the most) part smooth and straight. "Oh yeaaaah, that's right, Self, it's not hot as the fire of a thousands suns in this state." Zing! I practically skip to my car, scurry off while Buble croons on the radio, and hit the 405 with my windows down!

I'm so excited to see my brother, who I will be staying with until heading for NoCal on Monday. His friend's condo is lovely and I've got a comfy, fluffy bed all to myself. (I'm in it right now, in fact. Naughty.) He went off to work like a good Brover, and so I settled in, cleaned his roommate's bathroom (I can't help myself), then hit up In-N-Out with a little too much excitement considering it's just food. (Who are we kidding? I love me some nosh.) I finally took a little cat nap before we went out for the evening.

We hit up a few spots in Corona del Mar, first meeting up with Bobby's boss (who is adorable and couldn't say enough about good ol' Brover), and then some of his buddies (who were great fun). We rode bikes along the beach in Newport, which would have been amazing except that I don't really excel at the bike riding. You know how they say that's one of those things you never forever how to do? Yeah, well they LIE.

Although, I did have the Wicked Witch of the West's theme song playing in my head the whole time. I felt the sudden urge to steal a little dog for my bike's basket. But I didn't. No one likes that girl.

Adventures to be continued...

[Femme Writes] A woman's work is never done...

On the 5th of every month, bloggers from around the world are open to write about rights and issues concerning women. First started by Shine and Marie, we’re hoping to bring a variety of women’s issues to the forefront to make people aware of what’s going on. For the month of June, we’ve chosen to write about Women in the Workplace. Please join us in telling us your stories, thoughts, and ideas on a monthly basis. To read previous installments, click here.

So many of y'all know that I'm an actress and stuff. (Well, I'm on hiatus at the moment, so technically right now I'm...well, nothing.) And while this is an incredibly tough industry to break into, I was blessed with the best foundation one could ask for: entrepreneurial parents.

There is a lot to be said for growing up in a household in which my parents never stopped thinking about their careers and--because they were both self-employed--were never off the clock. Nor did they have benefits, vacation/sick time, or anyone else to blame if everything went to hell. Needless-to-say, I was more than prepared for the hustling and endless hours that go into cultivating my career as an actress, all thanks to good ol' Mom and Dad.

But here's the coolest part: my mom, Queen of Everything Awesome, was not only her own boss, but she was the owner and operator of a MACHINE SHOP. She'd wake up every morning, make breakfast for her kids before school, fix her immaculate mane and apply individual lashes to each eye (this was a friggin' science, let me tell you), stop by Starbucks (apple, tree) and the donut shop to pick up treats for every one of her employees, then arrive at work in time to cool the place down and start the coffee pot before anyone arrived. Then she'd throw on her welding helmet and get to work, only breaking for lunch and her mani/pedi appointments, which she kept every other week. At the end of the day she'd scrub up, make sure everything was put away and prepared for the next day (nary a stray metal shard in sight), and come home to make dinner and spend time with her family.

Not only was she an amazing mother to my brother and I (and whoever else needed some motherly guidance...or a warm meal), regularly attending PTA meetings and hauling around whatever crap we were hawking for school fundraisers, but she also ran a very successful business in an industry where men call the shots and women fetch the coffee. (Which, to be fair, she did...but as a gesture of appreciation for her employees' contributions.) She regularly dealt with dudes sauntering into the shop, thinking they were going to pull a fast one on this sweet little southern belle sporting an oil-covered apron. Oh Lord, you've never seen a jaw drop so quickly! She'd put them in their place, usually with a little sass and a smile, and watch the contracts pile up.

My point (other than once again regaling you with stories about my lovely ma, forgive the detour) is that most of us women will at some point be written off and taken for granted because we have the audacity (/sarc) to be smart, business-savvy, and lovely to look at, and more than likely this will manifest at work. But I think it's worthwhile to acknowledge the bias, laugh (because sometimes you just have to giggle at naivete), and know that you are about to knock the socks off of anyone with whom you interact: co-workers, managers/bosses, clients/vendors, your husbands/wives, children, and friends.

Oh, and wielding an iron mallet also helps drive your point home. Just in case you were wondering.

Doing a little sumpthin' sumpthin' for myself...

(And no, I'm not talking about that, my dear head-in-the-gutter friends.)

This is one of those rare weekends during which I have nothing on the books. There is nothing like spending a weekend in comfies, sans makeup, catching up on a little Me Time. No work, no drama, no driving amuck, and no schedule whatsoever. Woop woop!

Today I indulged by doing something I haven't done much of in the past six months: I grabbed a book and headed to Starbucks, right smack in the middle of the day. I got a soy frappucino (with a free coupon, nonetheless), sat on the patio in the sun, and read about 40 pages from The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (our current Book Club read). It was absolutely wonderful!

The sun warmed my uber pale skin, while the wind gave me goosebumps and played in the pages of my paperback. I happily tapped my flip flops as I read, and even found myself taking pleasure in the chatter coming from the other patrons taking advantage of the patio on this sunny spring day. (That's right, folks: nary a dirty look or threat of bitch slaps to the Stranger Danger.)

I used to take my reading dates for granted, especially when I'd schedule them in the middle of a busy weekend. I could barely get through five pages without adding another errand to my list and thinking about the things I needed to be doing in my apartment. But I now realize how decadent are these moments of peace, especially when relished in the midst of an unfettered day. I have so many friends and family members who don't even get a moment to themselves to take a hot bath or watch some mindless TV--at least not without being interrupted by the kids, the husband, the dog, life--much less a whole hour to bask in the sun with a tasty coffee treat and a good read.

Not to mention, given my current financial situation, I no longer spend my weekends getting fancy spa pedicures, shopping until I can't carry any more, and noshing on expensive takeout. But for $5 (in theory...today was on Starbucks!), I get a moment of Happy that simply cannot be underestimated.

What are your favorite little indulgences?

Reading this post will do absolutely nothing to enhance your life. You've been warned.

I decided that I've been a very bad vegetarian as of late. Instead of changing my eating habits and working out, I vowed to resume taking vitamins. ('Cause that's the same.) Mom bought some vitamins a few weeks ago per her doc, but they upset her stomach and so I simply commandeered these.

Bad idea number one.

I took the first pill this morning with my coffee.

Yeah, don't do that (i.e. bad idea number two).

One of the selling points of this particular vitamin is that it is designed for "Women's Active Mind and Body." Well, this woman possesses neither of those things as of late, so that should have been my first clue that I was barking up the wrong tree. But I liked the idea of getting all my vitamins/minerals in addition to "energy support" (since the slow coffee and/or iced tea drip to which I'm attached all day aren't enough) and "weight loss support."

Maybe, just maybe, they should have indicated that the weight loss method of choice with this pill is bulimia. I puked within ten minutes of taking the mo-effer.

I know, I know. "But Natalie, why the H would you take vitamins on a stomach full of iced espresso? You're so pretty." (That last bit is a condescending, albeit adorable, quip of which my friends and I are most fond.) And you're correct. It was a bad idea.

But if you think I'm giving up my coffee for fear of a lil osteoporosis or vitamin deficiency, you're out of your gourd! I mean, coffee comes from the ground. Vegetables come from the ground. Vegetables are healthy and chock full o' vitamins. Ergo coffee is better than vitamins.

If you don't see my logic, I just can't help you.

Set Diary [Taking Advantage - Day 1]

Taking Advantage is a short film in which I play the murderous mistress of a boss with vengeful plans of his own. (It's a thriller, in case you couldn't have guessed.) The film should be completed March 2010. This is my third starring role with Blue Light Pictures, which means that most of the cast and crew are friends at this point.

6:30pm - After working a nine hour day (and having been up since 6am), I arrived on set at a beautiful residence in Frisco, TX. It was a homecoming of sorts, being back on set with the faces I've grown to adore over the past year or so of working with these folks on several other films. I downed my half-caf soy pumpkin latte (which I would later wish was infinitely more caffeinated and laced with NoDoz), and we got started on my hair and makeup. The majority of the cast and crew had a 5pm call time, so I was a bit surprised to find them still setting up the first shot when I arrived. However, it is a well known fact that the first scene on the first day of a shoot is usually the most arduous. No big deal.

8:00pm - The first few scenes are done (all of which I've simply observed), I'm still in my scrubs (from the damn day job), crew breaks for our home-cooked dinner, and a very risque photo shoot takes place (for the sake of the film, you dirty bird) that provides fodder for the next few hours. (Side note: while I got a kick out of this as much as any, it did make me even more nervous about the "sex scene" I would be shooting on Sunday. I am a bit uncomfortable with PDAs as it is, and homegirl definitely upped the bar with her boundless sexuality and rockin' bod. And damn those irresistible Flaming Hot Cheetos on set; I've got to be on camera in my bra in T-minus twelve hours!)

10:30pm - It starts to get a little hazy at this point. We all realize we're in for a long nite and foolishly unprepared: there's no Starbucks in sight, we don't do coke, none of us brought sleeping bags or PJs, and most of us were pretty worn out upon arrival (from day jobs, prior shoots, life, etc).

1:00am - I'm not sure I have filmed a scene at this point, but total delirium was alive and well at this point, so here were the highlights from the rest of this overnight shoot:
- The decor in the house started to turn on us. Picasso-like decorative plates, Jesus pictures, countless angels, and random trinkets showed up in the unlikeliest of places (tucked under a lamp shade....WTF?).
- I nearly knocked myself unconscious from falling so convincingly (sarcasm? yes.) after being hit in the head with the butt of a handgun. Time to add stunts to my resume.
- Renee and I literally jumped for joy when a fresh supply of the "good" chips were discovered somewhere around 1:30am. Funnyiuns make the world go 'round, people.
- A failed attempt at making a pot of coffee in a house free of cream and sugar goes awry as I nearly sustain third degree burns to my hands while trying to drink hot, black coffee from a Solo cup. (Nothing but bad decisions are to be made after midnight. I'm sticking by that.)
- We almost froze to death thanks to the perpetually open door (right next to where we were stationed) that welcomed nice lighting for the shot, and therefore had to be open for every subsequent scene for continuity purposes. There might have also been zombies or cows of some sort outside, the sounds of which convinced our key grip Michael that we were are likely about to die. (It was the wee hours of the morning people. This was not outside the realm of possibility.)

4:00am - I selfishly leave set long before anyone else as my scenes are wrapped for the evening...er, morning. I half-ass my goodbyes as I drag my exhausted, fully made-up self home to sleep. At this point, I am thanking the good Lord for making the potential shoot on Saturday fall through, as I would have basically had to drive the hour home, shower, drive to Oklahoma, and arrive on set for an eight hour day on zero sleep...and 24 hours of hot mess.

Will you take a check?

Because I'm utterly spent and cannot think of anything better to blog (well, I can, I'm just not in the mood for all that typing and dictionary-looking-uping...and yes, that is now an actual verb), I present to you:

A Sneak Peak Into the Average Bank Statement for Ms. Natalie Cottrell

Debitor / Price / Purchase

SBUX / $4.50 / Soy Pumpkin Latte with a side of best morning ever
DDP* / $35ish / moisturizer (worth. every. penny.)
ULTA / $28.14 / nail polish (indeed, that is a lot of nail polish)
SBUX / $2.27 / Venti Black Iced Tea
SBUX / $4.50 / Soy Pumpkin Latte (might have been the same day as previous debit)
CHIPOTLE / $6.75 / veggie soft tacos (a.k.a. love, true love)
DDP / $26ish / makeup, or cleanser (no telling, really)
EXXON / $30ish / gas (evil, thy name is daily 70 mile round-trip commute)
SBUX / $3.75 / Soy Carmel Frappuccino (write-off, post-fill up treat)
B&N** / $14.10 / "Bright Lights, Big Ass" (Here's to you, Ms. Lancaster!)
BCBS / $186.00 / health ins. (I'd better actually use this crap some day! Wait...)
CREDIT CO. / $300 / card payment (don't remember what I'm paying for)
DDP / $75ish / misc. skin care products (again, not sure what I bought here)
SBUX / $2.44 / does it matter?? Little cup o' happy, that's what!
DOMINO'S / $13.40 / large cheese pizza (bad decision; might have eaten the whole thing)
TARGET / $25.75 / toiletries & candy (all of which have mysteriously disappeared)
SHELL / $28ish / gas (flashing light be damned, hate Shell gas. next time: Pixy Stix)
DDP / ___??? / ___??? (pretty sure I just straight up gave my paycheck back to them, but only if they promised to share with Starbucks )

And there you have it, folks!

Thrilling, I know.

*Dallas Dermatology Pratice - pseudonym for my place of employment (cosmetic services suite)
**Barnes & Noble....duh.

[Monday Rant] What's Up, Starbucks?!

Dear Starbucks,

I heart you. You know this. Sbux is my happy place. You have lovely treats and give me something to look forward to every day. Not to mention, your Barista machine has allowed me to make delicious beverages in the comfort of my own home. Mom and I are both super stoked about the new soy frappuccinos, which is the best treat a lactose-intolerant lady could ask for (unless you count the wonderful desserts available at Spiral Diner, for which I'd make the drive to Dallas any day of the week).

However, I do have a bone to pick with y'all: I am not a fan of the silly charge for soy milk. First of all, I don't appreciate being punished, so to speak, for being lactose intolerant. Trust me, I would love to be able to enjoy ice cream and whole milk without feeling like a heaping pile of poo, but alas, it is not so. Secondly, as eco-friendly as your company claims to be, why would you not support alternatives that represent a more responsible choice as a consumer and citizen of this troubled plant?

Finally, if you're going to charge more than your already-elevated prices, you'd better have the shit in stock. Seriously, three different Sbux were out of soy milk within a week. Obviously your customers are fans of the non-dairy alternative, so make sure you've got plenty on hand. Plus, with all those up-charges going on, you should have a nice little stash of cash to prevent this from happening, yo. Don't advertise the soy option and then fail to deliver when I finally come in. Not cool.

I hope we can get past this problem and resume our relationship, stronger than ever. But I needed to say something before it got worse and to the point we couldn't even speak to one another anymore. I know you'll take this issue as seriously as I do, and I look forward to enjoying my soy beverage, without incident, once again.

With love,
Natalie (I heart soy pumpkin spice lattes) Cottrell