Monday, February 18, 2013

Everything in its right place












dress: ModCloth | scarf: Charlotte Russe | cardigan & shoes: Target | belt: vintage

I can hardly think of a more apt description of my life than the title of the Radiohead song that is lending its name to this post. A month ago, I wouldn't have believed that I could be this content, but now I've got the job of my dreams, my little sister just got engaged to a wonderful guy, I've got a new niece on the way, and opportunities are opening up everywhere. Perhaps it makes for boring blog entries, but I'm really quite excited for both the present and the future.

I've come across some criticism of bloggers that are too cheerful, too happy about their lives. In a way, I understand; it can come across as insincere or some form of bragging: look how perfect my life is! I get that. No one wants to read something that sounds too fake. (I know I don't, at least!) But on the other hand, I don't think there is anything wrong with celebrating the good times...and for me, this is one of them. So I'm going to keep on being joyful - remembering all the while, of course, not to pass up on chances to grow and challenge myself.

But joy can never be full unless it's shared. So, tell me, lovelies - what's good in your life right now?

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Unstoppable

























































top: Ruche | lady tie: Flapper Girl | skirt: vintage | tights: Walgreens | wedges: Target

While it would probably be hyperbole to call this my favorite outfit ever, I think I can say that this is definitely my favorite outfit right now. There are a few specific reasons why - I'm having a love affair with gingham/plaid right now, and I just think lady ties make everything look classier - but beyond that, it just makes me feel amazing. The minute I put it on, I'm suddenly confident and ready to tackle just about anything. I wore it to my recent interview and I wore it again on my first day on the job (which, by the way, is incredible - I could hardly be happier!). Truth be told, I think I've worn it just about once a week for the last month and a half...because, well, why wouldn't I? It's hard to ignore a feeling that wonderful.

So I'd like to have a word with anyone who thinks clothing is superficial and can't make a difference. Of course, I don't think it's wise to rely completely on clothing to make yourself feel good, and we'd all do well to judge books by their covers just a little less often. But never underestimate a lady who's wearing the right outfit on the right occasion. She's unstoppable.

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Thursday Three: 2.7.13

1. This stylish lady's outfit

I have no idea who this lady is (if anyone knows, please tell me, and I'll put up a link!). What I do know is that I adore this outfit from head to toe. Some outfits scream "I'm trying to look chic!" This one nonchalantly says "Whatever, I know I'm chic." And that makes all the difference in the world.


I don't own a sewing machine, but I'm tempted to get one just so I can buy and make this gorgeous pillow. Galaxy prints seem to be abundant these days, but though I love those, I think I like this print even better. Maybe it's the colors...maybe it's the vintage look. Regardless, this pillow kit is occupying one of the top spots on my wishlist!



3. "Heart it Races" - Dr. Dog (Architecture in Helsinki cover)

And last but not least, I'll leave you with this fantastic cover of "Heart it Races." Listen to it, and I dare you not to get it stuck in your head. It's been stuck in mine for days, and I've been smiling the whole time. Enjoy!

That's it for this week's Thursday Three! What are you loving this week?

Monday, February 4, 2013

Winter is all over you












dress & hairpin: ModCloth | cardigan & shoes: Target | tights: Walgreens

Lately, the phrase "When it rains, it pours" feels particularly applicable. The only thing is, a lot of the things that have been pouring on me (so to speak) have been positive. It just feels like, after a period of relative calm, everything - good and not-so-good - is happening at once.

On the not-so-good side of things, my dog got really sick a week ago. I've seldom felt as helpless as I did when I got that phone call. I was stuck at work, and we still didn't know what was wrong with her, except that she wasn't eating and could barely able to climb the front steps. I know it sounds utterly cliche, but I don't think I realized just how important she is to me, and how much joy she adds to my life, until I saw her looking tiny and limp. She's my cuddle buddy - she sleeps on my bed every night - and the thought of losing that was just unbearable. The vet doesn't know exactly what was wrong (some kind of infection in her jaw), but thankfully she seems to be back to her old self now. I just about cried when I saw her running around with her usual pep and joie de vivre. I guess what I'm trying to say is, if you have a pet, give them a little bit of extra love today.

On the good side of things, one week ago, I found out that I'm going to have another little niece! And she'll be close by, too - even better. Also one week ago (yeah, it was a busy day), I found out that one of my dearest friends got engaged. And finally, one week from today, I start my new job - though I still have an overwhelming pile of tasks to finish before that happens. I'm eager for the new challenge, but somehow two weeks notice doesn't feel like quite enough time to wrap everything up and say my goodbyes.

But, with that said, I'll close with another quote that is perhaps even more applicable than the one I opened with: "A ship in harbor is safe, but that's not what ships are built for."

Amen to that.

Thursday, January 31, 2013

Thursday Three: 1.31.13


1. The Eleventh Doctor's outfit

No, this week's Thursday Three is not just those three photos of Matt Smith (tempting as it may be). You may find this kind of crazy - especially since I don't think I've ever posted a photo of myself in pants on this blog - but I've been really inspired by his Doctor Who costume lately. It's a great menswear outfit, but with some tweaks, I think it could make a killer outfit for a lady as well. Picture it: swap out the pants for a black pencil skirt, swap the bow tie for a lady tie...

Yes, I know I'm being a complete nerd.



I have a confession to make: I ordered this globe for my new workspace before I even found out I got the job. Aside from the work itself, decorating my new desk is one of the things I'm most excited about. It's always exciting to move into a new space and make it feel like home, isn't it? My new desk has a lot to live up to; for those who missed it, here's a peek at my current cubicle.



And speaking of my new workspace - I hope to fill it with prints. and this one definitely fits the bill. Bright colors + a pretty sans-serif font + an inspiring Anne Shirley quote? Always a winner in my book.

Have a great weekend, everyone! What are your Thursday Three this week?