Preppy and Proud of it!

What happened to being polite?

2012-01-27T14:34:00.000-08:00

I find myself wondering about manner this afternoon. I think I have mentioned before that I am the president of our local little league. I have had several emails from parents either about their team assignments or other adminstrative things that are downight rude and nasty. It would never occur to me to talk to or email someone giving their time to run a volunteer youth sports program the way some of these people are doing. I think that being able to use email is part of it. It is much easier to be unpleasant when you are interacting with a computer than when you are face to face. But using an electronic form of communication is not an excuse for verbal abuse. I am trying to raise my kids to always be polite and respectful, no matter what the medium of communication. Although truthfully, they are to young to be online. My mother always taught me that you catch more flies with honey than vinegar. Which is why I am replying to these hateful messages via phone and polite as pie.

Happy Birthday AGB!

2012-01-25T10:34:00.000-08:00

11 years ago today my first little guy entered our life. We were so excited after 2 years of fertility treatments to welcome an addition to our family. Although I could have done without 21 hours of labor followed by an emergency c-section due to fetal distress, all was well at the end and he has been a joy ever since. He was an easy, happy baby and is a good boy. Being his mom has been a wonderful experience and I look forward to seeing what life holds for him. Happy Birthday sweetie!

Colored Denim?

2012-01-24T14:44:00.000-08:00

Brightly colored skinny jeans are everywhere right now. I'm just not sure how I feel about this tread. It seems young to me and I have a vivid memory of green jeans and a matching green top from Victorias Secret that I had back in the early 90s. Plus, I am not sure that brightly colored, tight pants would be that flattering. I am tall and relatively thin but I have muscular thighs and calves. Still, I can help thinking how fun a pair of red slim pants would be with a navy and white striped shirt and top siders would be. What do you think? Yeah or Nay?

Brooks Brothers Spring for kIds

2012-01-20T14:35:00.000-08:00

I found this adorable picture on the Brooks Brothers Facebook page. It's part of their spring line. I know it is still along time till spring but I adore the red jeans on the little girl. CMB is 8 but almost as tall as her 11 year old brother. She's to old to dress like a little girl in the smocked bishops she and I used to love but I don't want her to dress like Brittney Spears. I tend to buy most of her clothes from Lands End. Partially because, she is still a kids and hard on her clothes and partially because I can be sure the jeans will cover her fanny and the tops will cover her tummy. I love Brooks Brothers for myself and Hubby loves them too but I forget they do kids clothes. Well maybe I forget they do boys clothes because both my boys have navy blazers from there. Anyway what do yu think? Do you buys kids clothes at BB?

To Brooch or not to Brooch?

2012-01-18T12:14:00.000-08:00

I have a collection of vintage brooches that were my great grandmothers. They range from the aweful to the kind of cool. The trouble is I am always at a loss as to how to wear them. I'd love to look like Emma Pillsbury on Glee and wear then on my mulitude of cardigans but always feel silly when I put them on. Plus I worry about them causing little holes in my sweaters. What do you think? Do you wear brooches? If so how?

Time to unwind

2012-01-13T10:36:00.000-08:00

Boy am I ever glad it is Friday. This past week has been so busy. I can't recall if I mentioned it here but I ended up as the Little League President when we held board nominations in the fall. This past week has been super busy as we have been drafting teams every night this past week till at least 10. There are still two more divisions to draft but they are the lower ages so hopefully will be more drama free. Anyway I'm loveing this spotted sleep shirt from J Crew. It looks perfect for curling up with a cup of tea or hot choclate and relaxing. Of course since Hubby is out of town on business this weekend and we have to finish AGB's science project, go to cub scouts, flag football and lacrosse, it may not happen exactly like that. Sigh, well a girl can dream.

Brighten up a gray January!

2012-01-12T12:22:00.000-08:00

Todays post on Matchbook Magazine Daily Spark Blog(http://matchbookmag.com/blog/fashion/color-palette-4/) was about the color Rasberry. I love pink in all it's forms but rasberry is one of my favorites. Slightly less "holiday" looking that red and slightly more "grown up" than pink, it brightens up the cold, dark weather we so often see in January. Of the items here I especially like the Tory Burch flats. Perfect with gray or camel slacks on a winter day. Rasberry cashmere gloves and a hat would also work their magic.

Shopping Plan for 2012

2012-01-09T13:43:00.000-08:00

I spent some time over the weekend going through my closet and pulling out items that are worn, don't fit or are just not getting the use they should. I've come to some conclusions about my style and created a shopping plan for 2012. My biggest tendancy is to buy for the life I wish I had and not the actual life I live. I work full time as a compliance attorney in a bank so jeans, knits and tees and more casual attire are a smaller part of my closet. Hopefully this will help me stay on track.

1. Blazers: I love blazers and am in pretty good shape. I have the necessary black, navy, gray, pinstripe and camel blazers, plus the great aubrey berry color I got for Christmas. I'd love to get my hands on a lexington or bella and will watch ebay for deals but overall I think I am in good shape here.

2. Pants: I really am not a huge fan of pants. I try to be but tend to reach for skirts much more. I have a great pair of black ones and also gray ones as well as navy pinstripes. I would really love to find a perfect pair in camel lightweight wool. I do have minnies and cafe capri pants in navy, black and white which I do wear on weekends and casual days. Again, I could use a pair in khaki.

3. Skirts: This is my best catagories. I really am a skirt person and have added several this past year. Of course I love the J crew pencil in the double serge wool. I have that in black, bronze ocher and now the Viridian green. I also have the necessary denim pencil. My love this past fall/winter has been the flair skirt which I aquired in the camel, navy, henna and rose print. Given the mild climate we have here in Northern California, I can wear these skirts almost year round. I'm pretty much set for skirts. I would love to have a red pencil and have added this to my ebay watch list.

4. Sweaters: I am also in good shape here. I have weeded out the pilly, nasty ones and the ones that remain are the right colors and in good shape. No real need to aquire more here.

5. Blouses: Again, in pretty good shape. I love button down shirts and have several that are in good shape. I always have to watch my white ones because they wear out faster than others but do not need many here.

6. Knits and tees: These I need to stop buying from J Crew as I threw out serveral relatively new ones with holes. I have several nice ones from Banana Republic that I wear under blazers and cardis for work. These will need to be replaced as necessary but it is not a category that actively needs to be shopped.

7. Shoes: In need of some updating. I have developed some foot issues and so have thrown out cheap and/or poorly made shoes. This area will be updated thoughtfully and with an emphasis on quality. I need a pair of leopard pumps and heeled black boots most and would love to find a great pair of red heels as my red juliets are looking sad.

8. Bags: I continue my quest for the perfect bag. For me this needs to be large enough to carry my heels, lunch and boot as well as my general purse items. Right now I am using 2 bags for this and will continue to look. I am hoping I am about to get a new job that I would communte to in my car as opposed to BART which would make some things change.

9. Jeans: I don't wear them alot but have a comfy weekend pair and two pairs of good dark jeans, one for flats and one for heels that I wear to the office on Fridays as well as one pair of skinnies I tuck into boots on the weekends or going out. Unless something tragic happens, I should be good.

10. Coats: In great shape here. I have a red J Crew lady day coat and a slightly longer cashmere camel coat that are in perfect shape as well as a Banana Republic trench that is in good shape. I admit I'd like a new navy peacoat but it's in no way needed.

So that about sums it up. Really, I came out of my closet cleaning feeling pretty good. Shoes are likely the main focus of 2012 as is the quest for the perfect bag but overall, the closet is in pretty good shape. What do you think of my plan? Do you make similar ones?

New Years Do Over

2012-01-06T11:36:00.000-08:00

Well I had great plans for starting the New Year off right when our routine offically bega on Tuesday the 3rd. The kiddies would go back to school, I would go back to work and the exercise, sleep, eating right resolutions would begin. Well you know what they say about the best laid plans of mice and men? Tuesday morning began with daughter CMB looking kind of off, you know how kids do? There didn't seem to be anything really wrong but she just didn't look right. Well I wasn't totally surprised to get a call from the school telling me she was sick. Hubby was working from home and picked her up. Cue the first night of high fever and vomit. I worked from home on Wednesday and it began with a scary high fever and a really ugly rash. Hubby took the boys to school and we headed to the pediatrian. The answer? The "slapped face" virus. Apparently this is a virus somewhat similar to Chicken Pox that is highly contagious, causes a high fever and a red rash that makes it look like someone slapped your face. Hence the name. Enter the second night of fever and vomit. Thursday she was some what better. Still running a fever but much less and she slept better. Hubby is working from home today since I had a meeting I couldn't miss and she is clearly in better sprirts. Fingers crossed right now that no one else becomes ill. I think I deserve a do over don't you?

Christmas Haul

2012-01-04T15:18:00.000-08:00

One last holiday themed post before I accept that it is January and the holiday fun is over for another year. I wanted to share some of my favorite presents from the holidays.

First is this Hermes silk scarf from my monther. It was her grandmother's and looks brand new. I love the vibrant colors.

The Viridian green no. 2 pencil skirt from J Crew from mom and dad. So exciting and matches perfectly with the scarf above.

This is the Aubrey Jacker, also from J Crew from a few years ago. It's a wool herringbone, fully lined in a bright berry like color. Mom found it new on ebay. Also perfect with the scarf above. I'm not sure if I am brave enought to wear all three at the same time. Maybe with a black cashmere sweater and tights? I tried it on and it does look smashing, but it might be a tad much for my office. Out to dinner or to an event it would be perfect!

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T10:05:00.000-08:00

As the clock ticks down on 2011 and we prepare to welcome 2012, I have only a few random thoughts. First off I am taking down all the Christmas decorations and giving the house a tip top cleaning. I always do this. I like to start a new year on the right foot. Tonight we are staying in with the kids. Yesterday we picked out a new movie to watch (Kung Fu Panda 2). We'll have a nice dinner and watch the ball drop in NYC at 9 our time. We call that celebrating "New York New Years". Hubby and I may stay up till our time New Years but no guarantee! I have to say I am not sorry to see the end of 2011. It has not been my favorite. I'm hoping for better things in 2012! Wishing you and yours a safe New Years Eve and a fabulous 2012!

Christmas Recap Part 2

2011-12-31T09:19:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day were spent at my parents house. We do this every other year. It's both fun and stressful. I do love to see the cousins open their presents together.

Niece E opening her presents. All she wanted Santa to bring her was a snow hat. Looks like she got her wish.

My youngest son, OPB. His great grandmother gave him this funny wolf hat she got on a trip to Alaska and it was a huge hit. He is a wolf scout this year in cub scouts so he loved it!

Daughter CMB wanted roller blades and Santa obliged. She was totally excited.

All three of my kids dressed up for Christmas Eve. Love the bow tie on OPB?

CMB by the tree on Christmas Eve. She's getting to be such a big girl. It's hard to believe she is only 8!

Christmas Recap Part 1

2011-12-30T18:13:00.001-08:00

The Christmas festivities commenced for us this year on 12/23. We alternate where we spend the holidays. One year we spend Thanksgiving at my folks and Christmas at home and then reverse the following year. This was a year to be at my folks. On the night of the 23rd some friends of theirs had a caroling party. The host is a former concert pianist and has an amazing voice. It was really fun.

My niece, E who loves to sing and looks quite at home on the piano.

CMB singing her heat out!

MMB and CMB. People think we look a lot alike but I don't really see it. Plue she's pretty blond.

CMB up close. It was a really fun night and a great way to start the Christmas festivities!

Quick Thoughts for 2012

2011-12-29T16:27:00.000-08:00

I promise to do a series of Christmas recap posts but have yet to manage to get all my pictures out of my camera. However, as we approach a new year, thoughts always turn to resolutions. I really loved this article entitled..."30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself" You Can Read It Here!

It really spoke to me. Especially numbers 5 and 6. But it was number 25 that really grabed me. Number 25 is "stop pretending everything is fine when it is not" I am the queen of this.

I am going to print the article out and post it on my cube wall to remind me. I'm sure I have other resolutions but this list is a pretty good start!

Happy Holidays

2011-12-22T10:22:00.000-08:00

Today is my last day at work before the holidays and likely my last post too. Tomorrow we will head down to my parents and I won't have access to my computer till the middle of the following week. I'm looking forward to the time away from work and relaxing. Hoping everyone has a safe and happy holiday!

Belle of the Ball

2011-12-20T10:08:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite parties of the year is the Los Altos Hound Hunt Ball. It's always the Saturday before Christmas and held at the Menlo Country Club which is a gorgeous club and the food is terrific. One of the most fun things about a Hunt Ball is that it is "white tie, scarlet if convient." That means long dresses and even more fun, the gentlemen of the hunt who are awarded colors wear scarlet tails with their white tie. It's so festive and fun!

LAH Huntsman MC, Master of the Hunt (and my dad) KB, Master Emeritis AS and Master of

Hunt JG. My brother-in-law D, sister JAO, Hubby and me!

Hubby and I. I totally love this dress and most excitingly, I last wore it the year before I had AGB which was 11 years ago. Love that it still fits! It was a really fun night and a great kick off to the week before Christmas.

A Favorite Holiday Tradition

2011-12-15T09:41:00.001-08:00

I had another favorite holiday tradition to share, The Nutcracker. Every year since I was 10 I have gone with my parents and sister to see the Nutcracker at San Francisco's War Memorial Opera House. The San Francisco Ballet was the first ballet company in the United States to perform the Nutcracker and they are justifiably proud of their production. The past 4 years we have taken my daughter, CMB and the last 2 years my sisters son T. Neither of my boys attend because they just aren't interested and getting dressed up does not appeal to them. I take a day off from work, we get all dressed up and go out to lunch first. It's my favorite part of th eholidays!

The San Francisco production of the Nutcracker is a little different. First the Nutcracker has a slightly different and distinctive look as you can see above. Second, at the end, before the grand pas deux that is more traditionally danced between the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavilier, the Sugar Plum Fairy turns Clara into a grow woman (by magic) and the grand pas deux is danced between the grown Clara and the Nutcracker Prince. This has 2 different results. First, their is no Rose Queen, the Sugar Plum Fairy dances that solo and second, there is no Sugar Plum Cavilier. It was a little odd the first time I saw it but now it makes sense.

Here are CMB and her cousin T after lunch before the performance. I have more pictures of the kids and family but haven't had a chance to get them out of my camera. Truely it is a special day and one both CMB and I look forward to all year. We buy a special ornament for the tree each year and then when we decorate the tree the following year can remember the good times. Do you go see the Nutcracker?

On my wish list!

2011-12-12T14:10:00.001-08:00

I have been on the hunt for a new scent. I love Bobbi Brown Beach and wear it all summer long. But summer is over and I just used that last of my fresh lemon sugar which I like but don't love. I wanted something a bit more grown up. Something that says, "Why yes, here I am" if that makes any sense. I think I may have found it in Brooks Brothers new scent called Madison.

The Brooks Brothers web site describes it as follows:

"Introducing Brooks Brothers Madison for her, a new style of signature fragrance that captures the essence of the feminine, flirty and glamorous. Madison is filled with dramatic notes of night-blooming jasmine, pink peony and purple rose maroc against a sensual background of deep Tuscan leather and spicy pink saffron. Includes a crystal pave fleece charm attached with 40" silk cord which is removable and can be worn as a jewelry piece"

I will have to stop in on my way home some night this week and check it out. Meanwhile, I've put it on my Christmas list. Santa, are you listening?

Creating Holiday Traditions

2011-12-08T07:27:00.000-08:00

Everyone has their treasured holiday traditions. Did you ever wonder how they got started? In our case, it usually starts with a one off experience that is so fun, it must be repeated and pretty soon it isn't Christmas without it. In our family we have a tradition about cutting down our tree. We live in the SF Bay area. For years, we have gone over to Half Moon Bay to cut down our tree. Three years ago, the weather was so nice, we went down to the water and had lunch. This time of year coincides with crab season, so we bought some crabs for dinner (YUM!). Suddenly it was tradition. Some years it is wet and some years fine. This year all the kids are old enough to enjoy the crab, clam chowder and calamari. In such small ways, traditions are born.

AGB holds up the treasure. Crabs for dinner!

It's nice to have AGB old enough to help secure the tree to the car. Having it fall off is my re-occurring nightmare!

Dad cuts it down although everyone wants a turn withthe saw!

A rare moment of fmaily togetherness, no fights on Christmas tree day!

MMB, I always get the final say on the tree!

Another Wardrobe Staple, The Camel Coat

2011-12-07T12:59:00.000-08:00

A while back I did a post about one of my favorite wardrobe staple, a black cashmere tee. Well I have another one to mention, the camel coat. Mine is a cashmere, single breasted one the hits below the knee. I bought it at an end of the season sale, almost 10 years ago when I was preggo with AGB. Then it hung unworn in my closet for almost 8 years while I was a stay at home parent struggling with baby spit up and toddler mess. At the start of this last current cold season I noticed that my last years coat looked a little tired and unearthed this brand new coat from the recesses of my hall closet. It is still perfect and given it's absolute timelessness, still looks perfectly stylish. Wearing it today with my tartan perfect shirt, black cashmere tee, bronze ocher J crew pencil skirt and black boots I feel just like Dan Ackroyds preppy girl friend from Trading Places!

Thoughts on the Flair Skirt

2011-12-05T10:48:00.001-08:00

J Crew branched out from their fabulous pencil skirts this year and gave us the flaire skirt. I was totally seduced by the rose print. Then I canved and bought navy.

However, I have to wonder about the camel and henna. J Crew is offering 25% off and free shipping on any amount today and I was thinking about grabbing another color. The issue of whether I need another skirt aside, I'm concerned that, unlike the pencil, this shape and the buttons will look dated next winter. The material and workmanship are top class on this skirt and it has the capability to be a wardrobe staple for many years. What do you think? Is this a shape that will stand the test of time? Or will I pull it out next year and think, "so 2011?"

Need a Little Christmas!

2011-12-02T12:20:00.000-08:00

In spite of my great list of ways to avoid letting the "Grinch" down the chimney yesterday, he is still lurking around so I am courting "Holiday Cheer" with great determination. This picture from J Crew years back is one of my long time favorites. I have this great coat in red and love it. I'm going to pop into Starbucks for a peppermint mocha on my way home and cuddle up with my kids to watch Rudolph tonight. Tomorrow we are going get our tree and deck our halls! Then I will really be ready to throw out Mr. Grinch

When the Grinch Comes Calling

2011-12-01T15:11:00.000-08:00

As the clock clicks over to December, I find myself feeling somewhat Grinchy. The holidays can be a very stressful time and I always feel the pressure to create the perfect holiday moment. The best tree, just right presents, fabulously fun parties and terrific treats all need to be part of the mix and I find myself feeling overwhellmed and cranky. So how to keep the Grinch at bay?

First, I try to remind myself that I don't have to be perfect. The excitement of the season is really enough for my kids. Just being me is good enough. Second, I try and enjoy what I can. I work full time and am not the one home baking cookies (which is likely a good thing since I am

a terrible cook) but I can sit down after dinner with a cookie and hot choclate and hear about the mess they made with Dad. I can walk around the city at lunch and admire the tree in Union Square and the skaters at the Embarcadero. Third, I really do try and work out. It's horribly hard to get up in the cold and dark to do this before work, but it does make a difference.

Saturday we will go and get our tree and dress up our house for the season. Hopefully, the Grinch wont come bother us! Do you have any secrets for when the Grinch comes calling? If so please share!

A Wardrobe Staple

2011-11-30T13:10:00.000-08:00

There are certain items that are just the building blocks of a wardrobe, at least mine. A navy blazer, a striped boat neck tee, you get the idea. Another absloute staple is the short sleeved cashmere tee. I have several of these but the black one is most certainly the centerpiece. Today I am wearing it over a white turtleneck with gray skirt and tights. Saturday I think I will wear it to pick out our tree over the tartan boy shirt. A short sleeved sweater just can do so many things. Here in Nothern California, where our summers are cool and foggy, they can be worn to the office with skirts and trousers and look polished and puleld together. In the winter they layer over tissue turlenecks and button downs for that extra layer. Truely a cornerstone in my closet. Do you agree?

Gingerbread Hot Chocolate!

2011-11-28T10:46:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Ours was fun and festive. Now however, my thoughts turn to my very favorite holiday of them all. Christmas. When I got to work this morning the office lobby was all decorated and I am looking out my office window at the tree in the Bank of America plaza across the street. Starbucks is filled with their red cups and gingerbread lattes abound. But, having kids, we often experiement with hot choclate recipes. I found this one below for gingerbread hot chocolate in Coastal Living Magazine. Yummy!

Ingredients
1 (1-inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
10 whole cloves
2 (3-inch) cinnamon sticks
4 cups whole milk
1/3 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish: mini marshmallows

Preparation
1. Combine first 3 ingredients in an 8- x 10-inch piece of cheesecloth; pull edges together, and tie to secure.
2. Heat milk and spice bundle in a 3-quart heavy saucepan over medium-low heat. Bring just to a simmer. Remove from heat, cover, and steep 30 minutes.
3. Remove spice bundle from milk. Heat milk mixture over medium-low heat until hot. Add brown sugar; cook, stirring constantly, until sugar melts. Add chocolate, stirring until chocolate melts. Stir in vanilla. Serve warm; garnish, if desired.

Being Thankful

2011-11-23T10:03:00.000-08:00

I can hardly belive that it is Thanksgiving tomorrow. It seems like this year has just flown by. I have so many things to be truely thankful for. Wishing you all a wonderful holiday and I will see you all next week!

Think Boys, Think

2011-11-17T10:47:00.000-08:00

It's 5th grade music time! That's right, yesterday AGB came home with a trumpet. I suppose I shold be thankful, he attends public school and this is not an enrichment program I paid extra for. It's the school 5th grade music program and all 60 5th graders take part. Still, I feel like I need to apologive to my neighbors, "that noise? no there is not a cow in labor in my yard, that's my son and his trumpet". I have visions of Robert Preston in The Music Man standing in front of this group of 5t graders going "think boys, think". Still, learning to play an instrument is a good thing and I also suppose I can think of worse instruments. His best friend was assigned the violin.

My New Favorite Show

2011-11-14T10:41:00.000-08:00

I totally love the new ABC series Once Upon a Time. The idea is that the Evil Queen cast a spell that transported the inhabitants of Fairy Tale Land to a small town in the Northeast called Story Brook and none of them remember who they are and none of them are happy. A small boy named Henry, the adopted son of the town's mayor (who happens to be the Evil Queen) is the only one who knows what is going on and how to break the curse. He finds Emma Swan who is his birth mother (and the stolen daughter of Snow White) and tries to convince her to help him break the curse. It's totally fun and fabulous! Have you seen it?

What I decided

2011-11-10T10:15:00.000-08:00

In my last post I shared that I was thinking of getting another skirt in the Jcrew 25% off sale. Well, I tohught I would share what I decided. I actually ended up getting none of the skirts I was thinkng about. I received the dreaded cancel email about the green pencil skirt, the blue was just to bright and the camel was sold out in my size. I figured it was the universe's way of telling me I didn't need another skirt. Then, last night as I walked to the train I passed a J Crew store. In the window was a maniquin wearing the flair skirt in the rose print, a red turtleneck sweater and camel coat. I felt faint with desire and rushed home to check the website. The skirt was still there, in my size and I jumped. It's a beautiful print and I can't wait to wear it. I also ordered the cashmere turtleneck in the red to go with it and already have a camel coat. My fall/winter story is really, camel, gray and navy with red touches. This should fit right in.

Decisions, Decisions

2011-11-08T10:03:00.000-08:00

I've decided to buy one more skirt during the current J Crew promo. It's 25% off, plu i have my rewards card and 8% with ebates so it seems ot good to pass up. So it's decision time. I'm wanting a great camel skirt since my color story has evloved to be camel, gray, navy and touches of red. So should I get the pencil? It's totally classic

Or should I get the flair. I admit the a-line shape appeals to me more than the pencil which I usually have to buy a size up and have altered because I have hips but a small waist. Still, I worry that this shape will seem dated next year while the pencil will be classic forever. Also, it somehow reminds me of middle school.

Now I totally went nuts and bought the skirt in virideian green. It hasn't shipped yet but I couldn't resist the color.

If I have the green one, do I need the blue one?I missed it the last time it was out and have lusted for it since then. I haven't seen it in person but understand it's really bright. They both seem pretty similar, in that they are statements, in a classic shape. I don't think I can justify both. Which do you like best?

Decisions, Decisions. I may just get the camel pencil and call it good. Do you have any of these? What do you think?

Here puppy, puppy

2011-11-04T15:51:00.000-07:00

I've had a rough week at work and thought this might bring a smile to yours (and my) face. Summer is puppy time in hunt kennels. One day during the summer we took CMB's new horse up to our kennel property to ride and start getting him used to hounds. While there we got to play with the new puppies. There are very few things cuter than hound puppies. My daughter, CMB, is in the center with the lemon colored puppy. The other two are our huntsman's kids. Happy Friday!

Manner will Always Matter

2011-11-02T09:15:00.000-07:00

Are good old fashion Southern manners going away? The NY Times seems to think so. According to an article found HERE. Although the article was interesting, I refuse to believe it. I think manners will always matter and I am raising my kids with that in mind. Saying "yes, please" and "no, thank you", waiting until everyone is seated before begining a meal, writing a thank you note, standing when a lady leaves the table, and a hundred other small things are what matter. They may seem like an outdated way of behaving but I think how you present yourself and how you treat others is important. The overall mood of the country and the anger I see only serve to reinforce that. Manners and civility are the better course rather than ranting and raving. It's not always easy to do but it always pays off, at least in my experience. I'm going to give you a specific example from my professional life. Two years ago the manager that hired me left for another position and I was shunted about the department and had staff added, then realigned. It was not a good experience. I was always polite and helpful and never refused to do what I was asked. Although it seems like I should have been more angry and forceful the utlimate response was a new manager and a great review commending my positive attitude and grace under a less than ideal situation. Are manners on the way out? Not in my household!

Cousins

2011-11-01T10:57:00.001-07:00

I tend to do alot of posts on cousins. My kids have alot of cousins. On Hubby's side they are the youngest and there are 15 cousins older than my kids, the oldest of whom is married with kids. On my side my kids are the oldest and there are only my sisters two. However, we see them the most since we live close. My sister's son and OPB are besties. However, this post is girl cousin based. My daughter, CMB is 8, my sisters little girl E will be 3 next week. They haven't really had alot in common until now. E is finally old enough to ride the pony and CMB loved that. This past weekend we had a race meet on the day before our opening hunt. CMB rode her new horse Dancer and E made her debut on the pony, Baxter. CMB used to ride Baxter but has finally grown to tall. You can see Baxter behind the girls and the trailer. He's totally darling and a great first leadline pony.

Opening Meet

2011-10-31T10:37:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was the opening meet for the Los Altos Hounds. We were a little anxious because it was the first time that CMB's new horse Dancer had been out on a formal hunt. We've had him out several times during the pre-season autum hound training but a full on hunt is a little different and opening meet is a big deal. I am thankful to report that he was very good. The weather was quite warm and dry here in NorCal but we still had a great time.

Hopeful wants out of the trailer! I love the hounds. They are so sweet and darling.

This is our whole group. From left to right are my father, me, CMB, my mom and my sister.

Mom, me and CMB. Getting ready to go!

CMB calls my father Abu. I've been taking this same shot of the two of them every year at opeing since her first opening meet when she was 3. She is 8 now and this is her 5th opening meet.

CMB and Dancer. The begining of a wonderful new partnership. He's about 15 hand high so she ought to do for her for the next several years. By next season they should be ready to go first field and jump.

2011-10-25T13:53:00.000-07:00

I love Bobbi Brown makeup. He tinted moisturizer is one of my absolute favorites. I also adore the gel eyeliners and cream eye shadows. Her palettes are also amazing. She has a nack for putting together the right shades so that they all work and nothing is left out. Currently I am loving this tortoise shell palette. The Nordstrom's web site describes it as follows:

"A flattering collection of warm neutral makeup for medium to darker skin tones, this palette lets you go from soft to smoky in no time flat. The eight shadows in the Bronze Tortoise Shell Eye Palette are designed to be layered—there's no blending required. Start with the lightest shade, then layer the darker shades until you get the desired intensity. Tortoise-shell glasses inspire the special limited-edition compact—Bobbi's muse for this collection.Shades include:- Banana Eyeshadow.- Gold Nugget Sparkle Eyeshadow.- Amber Shimmer Wash Eyeshadow.- Copper Cocoa Shimmer Wash Eyeshadow.- Tiger's Eye Metallic Eyeshadow.- Bronze Metallic Eyeshadow.- Olive Sparkle Eyeshadow.- Espresso Eyeshadow. "

It feels like the perfect combination for falls richer colors. What do you think?

Help out San Mateo Park School!

2011-10-24T12:36:00.000-07:00

Hello and happy Monday to all my lovely readers. Hope your weekend was fabulous. I wanted to ask for your help. Everyone knows about the dire straights most public schools are in these days. Well, A few months ago our Grant Team (of which I am a member) submitted an entry for a proposed tech lab with new computers, iPads and printers for San Mateo Park School. Voting is now open and the school needs everyone's help to win up to $50,000 in The Clorox Company’s Power A Bright Future grant program so we can do it!

Help us secure funding to "Create a Technology Lab that Empowers Teachers to Engage all Students"! There are two easy ways to vote - and you can do BOTH daily!

We need your votes daily until December 9th!

Text clorox8968 to 44144

AND you can also vote on our nomination web page at http://tiny.cc/votepark
You may vote one time online AND one time via Text per day. Please share this great news with your family, friends and neighbors so they can vote too!

Our school is a wonderful place. The teachers and the staff are truely amazing. It's a math/science magnet school and we want to keep making it even more amazing. If you could spare a moment to help that would be fabulous!

Mad for Plaid

2011-10-21T16:10:00.001-07:00

I love plaid and last night looking in my closet I realize that it is possible that the plaid shirts may have taken over from the navy striped ones. J Crew has done several great plaid shirts this fall and most of then have taken up residence in my closet. I really love their "Boy Shirt". It's slim and neat, not sloppy and it has a presence and style, whether worn with jeans or a pencil skirt. What do you think? Are you "mad for plaid"?

I love this navy with cream and red plaid shirt. It has the brass colored buttons too. I am wearing it to work today with dark trouser jeans and ballet flats. I also like the look of it as they styled it on the web site and might try it with my camel trousers. I also plan to wear it under my navy tippi sweater with the cuffs rolled back and my bronze ocher pencil skirt.

I know they have re-released this tartan shirt but I bought mine last winter. Looks great with black pants and is very festive and yet I don't think it screams "Christmas" so loudly that it couldn't be worn other times.

I loved this navy plaid shirt above so much that I also bought it in the red color. This one looks great with cords and jeans and is a weekend staple.

I also bought the fabulous quincy tartan shirt which appears to be sold out on the web site so I can't find a picture. It looks great under the navy Tippi and also under the camel one. I may need an intervention!

What is this?

2011-10-20T11:40:00.000-07:00

OK, J Crew has a fabulouse promo going on right now with 25% off (everything) and free shipping with $150 (lower than their usual $175). Anyway, I was clicking around their site, trying to decide if I wanted anything and this, I hesitate to call it a top, caught my eye. More like seared my retinas. J Crew calls this the "Porcupine Popover". The description says it is a merino top with a "chiffon overlay embroidered with fabulous all over jewled fringe." It looks painful, and like it would catch on everything. The best part is that this, we will call it interesting, top can be your for the sale price of $395! Total fail. Would you buy this? Am I missing some amazing trend because all I can say is ick.

Ode to the Cord Blazer

2011-10-19T10:22:00.000-07:00

I love a cord blazer in the fall. Some how they are the perfect transition item. The texture gives a nod to the season and yet not to warm for the changing temps. This is especially true here in Northern CA where it was about 55 this morning but will be in the low 70's by afternoon. The true appeal of this kind of jacket is it's ability to go so many places. Yesterday I went as a chaperone on a filed trip to the NASA Ames facility with my son's 5th grade class. I wore jeans, driving mocs and a purple fine wale cord blazer from Nordstrom's Halogen line. Today I am back at the office and wearing the same blazer with a navy blouse, gray trousers and a statement necklace. I also have an older J Crew brow cord jacket that I wear a ton with jeans in the fall and winter. They elevate the look without overdoing it. What do you think? Are you crazy for cord?

The Button Front Skirt

2011-10-12T11:40:00.000-07:00

These slightly flared button front skirts are everywhere this fall. This one is, of course, from J Crew but Banana Republic has an almost exact same skirt and I even spotted one at Brooks Brothers. I confess that I love the longer length but just can't make myself buy this skirt, although I have tried on all versions more than once. Why is that? I have tried switching tops, shoes, boots you name it. I confess that they look to much like the dowdy button front full skirts I remember growing up in the 70's. Maybe it was traumatic but when I put one on, I just see dowdy. I also suspect that it's not quite the professional look I am going for. I saw a girl on the street as I walked to the train station the other night and she wearing the heather acorn colored skirt from J Crew with the leopard print Tippis sweater tucked in and some great boots. Really she looked amazing enough that I was tempted to run directly to J Crew and hand over my credit card in a daze but then I looked again and realized that she was at least 10 (if not 20) years older than I was. Hey, at 41 I'm not all that old but this girl looked like she'd get carded at Target. Once again, I suspect that this skirt style proves the rule that if you are old enough to have worn or remembered the style the first time, you are likely to old to wear it when it comes back! What do you think?

Tying the reversible bow tie

2011-10-11T10:34:00.000-07:00

I love bow ties on men. Sadly neither Hubby nor my oldest son are reallyinto them. My youngest son, however, rocks them. I think I've posted before with the great diagram below about how to actually tie one (not easy). I found it on www.socialprimer.com. I love that site and also their blog. If you have boys you are trying to bring up preppy it's a great resource. Especially if you don't live in the South or North East. Anyway, today they had a post on their blog about how to ties these great reversible bow ties. Essentially to acheive the two sided look above, in step 6 you twist the tail (the part in your left hand) around as you tie so that the reverse half shows. Social Primer makes these great reversible ties for Brooks Brothers and are avialable for purchase if you follow the linl above!

Weekend Wear Revelation

2011-10-10T13:59:00.000-07:00

A while back I posted about the hole in my wardrobe that was casual weekend wear. Cozy cords and sweaters, cute outfits to run errands and the like. Kind of like this darling picture from Loft. They were just missing from my closet. Pencil skirt, button downs, dress slacks and heels? Check. Workout pants, sweatshirts, baseball caps and sneakers? Check. The middle was a gaping hole. Which of course I set about filling. Now I do have a small stash or cords. more casual button downs and sweaters. But you know what? I have hardly worn them. Last night, after a busy yet fairly routine weekend, I had a revelation about why. Let me give you the weekend run down. Saturday morning started early, I dropped AGB off for baseball, while I ran (and I mean actaully ran) over to the bank to meet the little league treasurer (I am the president) to change our accounts. Then after running back to pick up AGB we went back to the house. There, while hubby and OPB were out at the grocery store and picking up his new cub scout uniform I cleaned the house. Then Hubby took AGB to soccer and CMB and I rode our bike to the local high school where she had a tennis clinic and I played on another court with a friend. We rode home, showered before dinner and then watched a movie. Sunday I coached AGB's fall ball baseball game in the morning and hubby took CMB to lacrosse. I did get a lunch time shower and put on a nicer pair of shorts and cute top but most of the day (and all of Saturday) was spent in black yoga pants, a tee and baseball cap with sneakers. Suddenly it all made sense. Kind of like when your kids are small and spit up on you all the time, right now mine are all school aged and still young enough that I am involved in all their sporting activities. Although how I ended up little league president is a mystery. That hole was in my closet for a reason. I don't need many of those things because I don't have that kind of life right now. What do you think? Does that make sense? Do you have any closet holes that are actually serving a purpose?

Seasonal Cocktails

2011-10-07T16:14:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love a good cocktail on a special night out or even after a long day at work. The fabulous Belle over at Capital Hill Style posted this wonderful pumpkin martini. I'm not usually one for flavored drinks but it sounds wonderful! So on a Friday aftenoon, raise your glass and have a wonderful weekend!

Pumpkin Martini

1/2 oz. cream liquor

2 oz vanilla vodka

1/2 oz pumpkin liquor

1 tsp whipped cream and cinnamon sticks for garnish

Pour the cream liquor and vodka into a shaker, fill with ice and shake.

Add pumpkin liquor and shake again. Pour into chilled glass and garnish.

You can rim the glasses with a cinnamon and sugar mix or brown sugar if desired.

Enjoy!

Quality or Quanity?

2011-10-05T13:32:00.000-07:00

To me that has always been the essential debate regarding my closet. Some part of me years for more (who doesn't be honest) and would rather buy six ribbed turtlenecks at Old Navy than one perfect cashmere one from say Neiman Marcus. Let me start out by saying that I am in no way intending to disparage or praise any retailer mentioned. I'm just using them as examples. As I have grown older though I have come to appreciate the quality. I am trying to edit my closet so that I have only things I love and want to wear as opposed to tons of things that are only ok. For me this means I need to stop trolling ebay. Now again, don't get me wrong, ebay is a great source for fashion finds but I have more than once fallen prey to the inexpensive copy and been disappointed. This leads to me not only wasting money but looking aweful. I'm going to undertake a massive clean out this weekend. If it isn't perfect, it goes. Stay tuned for the results!

Today Student Counsel, Tomorrow the World

2011-10-04T10:30:00.000-07:00

In the 5th grade, the kids can run for the student counsel. AGB has decided to run for Spirit Leader. He has these 4 buddies and they told me they have worked out a plan to run the world (their words, not mine). One is running for president, one for vice president, one for secretary and AGB for spirit leader. I think they just didn't want to run against each other. Anyway here is AGB showing his poster. We can put up two at the school. On Thursday he will give a speech to the school (which he has already written and memorized) and then voting is Tuesday. I'm so proud of him for putting himself out there and taking on the responsibility. So vote for A!

Chicks with Sticks

2011-10-03T10:19:00.000-07:00

I've always encouraged my kids to play sports. I think they are a great sense of pride and self esteem as well as learning to be a part of a team. I think this is especially true for girls so I have been encourageing CMB to try new sports as she searches for something she loves as much as her older brother loves baseball. She's tall, strong and fast but wasn't crazy about soccer. She has however discovered lacrosse. Here in Northern California lacrosse is a club sport at the junior levels. I think some of the high schools have programs but not all of them. Here she is on her first day of fall ball under 9 lacrosse. She really loved it and is looking forward to next week. Can't say I blame her, it looked like fun!

Soccer Fun

2011-10-01T10:52:00.001-07:00

I meant to post this last week but it took until today for me to get the shots out of my camera. last weekend AGB's soccer coach arranged for the team to be the ball boys for the Stanford mens soccer game versus Vermont. They were able to walk onto the field with the team and then worked the sidelines during the game. The also got to scrimage on the big field during the half. They had a great time and said the guys on the team were really nice!

The AYSO U12 Silver Bullets and the Stanford University Men's Soccer team

Am I the only one who thinks this is funny?

2011-09-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

I know riding boots are big for fall. I love mine and once it finally gets cold here I wear them a ton. What I find funny is these two toned boots for women. Traditionally these two toned boots are worn by men. In the fox hunting world they signify a man awarded the colors of the hunt, similar to the red coat. My father and husband both have boots that look exactly like this. Well, theirs are made by Dehner, not Juicy, but still. Ladies who are awarded colors wear black boots with black patent tops (and black coats but the that's another post). My riding boots that I wear to actually ride in are all one color since I wanted to be able to wear them in the show ring and also the hunt field and the patent top boots are not correct anywhere but the hunt field. I know, it's a odd tradition but I can't bring myself to wear this type of two toned boot since I know what it really means. That, plus the fact that my father and husband laugh whenever they see these on women and offer me theirs. I do like the look. What do you guys think? Does the tradition behind something fade into the background when entered into the mainstream fashion world?

This says it all!

2011-09-29T09:37:00.001-07:00

A friend shared this sign now posted in the stairway of his building on Facebook and I had to laugh. I somehow just want to say well duh! But then again, there are some folks who live their lives with their i-phone twittering away and they might need this type of reminder! Anyway, it made me laugh. Hope it makes you smile too!

Picture Day

2011-09-27T10:05:00.000-07:00

Today is picture day and here are my three darlings all set to go. My personal favorite is OPB who insisted on wearing his bow tie. Funny how some fellows are bow tie guys and others are not. Hubby is not and neither is AGB, but OPB he adores them and has already asked for a special one to wear at Christmas. CMB has what we call "Heidi Braids" because they are braided down and flipped up. I actually use the same technique I use when I used to braid manes at horse shows. AGB agreed to wear a polo shirt and that dark green is one of his favorite colors. I thought it was interesting that this was the first year I can remember that they were more interested and opinionated about what they should wear than I was. They are growing up!

Colored Skirts and Tights?

2011-09-26T13:16:00.001-07:00

I (and so many others) adore the beautiful colored pencil skirts J Crew is turning out this year. I was seduced by the amazing green one. It's not quite cool enough to wear it here yet but as I gazed at it hanging primly in my closet, waiting for it's day I began to wonder, what color tights and shoes and I going to wear with it? Frankly this stumped me enough that I considered returning it. I didn't buy the flame colored one but think I would wear it with chocolate or camel tights and boots or perhaps black or gray, depending on the look. But with the green I am not sure. Navy? Gray? Black seems kind of harsh and a little boring. I always have the best of intentions when it comes to tights but in reality, I usually only have black and brown ones in my drawer. What do you think? What color would you wear with this beautiful skirt?

A Pumpkin Shortage?

2011-09-22T17:00:00.000-07:00

My sister just sent me a text saying I should run to the store and get pumpkins right away because there was a shortage this year. I couldn't believe it. Pumkpins just grown in a patch right? Here in Northern CA Half Moon Bay is the place to get your pumpkins. Starting in a week or so, the 1 lane windy road from the SF Peninsula to the coast will be bumper to bumper as folks flock to the patch. Anyway, turns out the damper, wetter, colder summer both here and around the country (Including Irene in the Northeast) has made for a smaller crop, both in size of the pumpkin and the number available. My sister knows I am a pumpkin slacker these days. When my kdis were small and I was a stay at home mom, we went to the patch every year. I even had cute matching outfits for pictures. Now mykids are all in school and I am at work during the days. Add to that the fact that at 11 AGB would rather be hung by his toes that seen at the pumpkin patch with his family in matching outfits and what you get is that I usually buy them at the grocery store the day before Halloween. Looks like I better get a move on this year. How about you? Are you a pumpkin patch visitor?

Capes?

2011-09-21T09:56:00.000-07:00

Capes, ponchos, whatever you want to call them seem to be big this fall. I especailly like these two in camel and black from J Crew and Loft. I've never worn a cape/poncho before and always sort of figured I never would. I was in elementary school in the mid seventies and figured if you were alive the first time the trend rolled around, you're too old the second time. But still, these intrigue me and yet I have no idea how to wear them or what to wear them with. Are they outerwear like a coat that comes off when you reach your destination? Are they like a wrap cardigan that is the focus of your outfit and stay on? I'm thinking they would look great over dark jeans and an ivory cashmere turtleneck with boots. But that's as far as my imagination goes. What do you think?

Banana Republic 13 Pieces = 31 Days of Style

2011-09-20T09:57:00.000-07:00

Did anyone else get an email from Banana Republic touting their 13 pieces = 31 Days of Syle this morning? If not head on over to their web site and check it out. The pieces are really interesting and the outfits look totally wearable in real life. I love the idea of a preplaned wardrobe where a few key pieces create a number of different outfits for varrious occasions. I actaully have several pieces that are very similar to what is shown here and I'm going to check out their other suggestions and see if I can make it work for me. The only thing I am not crazy about is the brown booties. I'm just not a bootie person. I have nice brown pumps and also brown flat boots so I'm going to substitute those instead. Banana Republic is also having a 25% off a purchase of $100 with the code BR25 so have fun!

Missoni for Target, Am I The Only One Who Doesn't Care?

2011-09-19T10:31:00.000-07:00

Last week Target launched their Missoni line and it was apparently epic. The web site crashed, people flooded the stores grabbing everything they could get their hands on and leaving empty bare shelves. All I could say was, meh. I just doesn't do it for me. I've never been a fan of the Missoni chevron/stripe thing. Not on clothes, bags or shoes. It didn't thrill me on luggage, bikes or home goods. I didn't even check the web site and have not ventured to my local Target to check out what's left. I suppose that is a good thing as it means I am not spending money on things I neither need nor especially want since I recognize the vibe is not me. Still, can't help but feel a tad left out. Oh well, now a collaberation with Milly? Vineyard Vines? Sperry? I'd be crashing down the web site! Target, are you listening?

Please Pardon the Interuption

2011-09-16T15:11:00.000-07:00

I'm going to take a couple of days off. The little cold I have been nursing since it wrecked my Labor Day weekend has returned with a banks. As soon as I get home from work and get the kiddies in bed I am going to suck down a thera flu and collapse into bed. Unfortunately this is a busy weekend as AGB has both soccer and baseball and CMB and I are going out with hounds early tomoroow morning as we work to get her new horse Dancer ready for our opening meet in November. I'll try and get some shots of that. Enjoy your weekend everyone!

In her Own Words

2011-09-14T07:34:00.000-07:00

Jackie Kennedy was a style icon then and now. But she was more than that. She was an integral part of a "brief shinning moment". A time in American history when it seemed everything could be accomplished, that the world could still be ours. Perhaps that is why she still sparks the imagination in these uncertain times. Diane Sawyer aired a 2 hour special on ABC last night that was based on a taped interview she gave to Arthur Schlesinger just 40 days after JFK was killed. It was a fascinating look into a woman who never really spoke in public. Did you watch? What did you think?

Mommy Jewelry

2011-09-13T15:01:00.001-07:00

I love "mommy jewelry" and wear a couple different pieces. Below are my three favorites but there are tons of other types out there. Do you have a favorite?
This sterling silver necklace is from a company called TJ and Co. They also make picture jewelry and things for dads as well as brides and grooms. It's a sterling silver ball chain necklace and three discs with each kids name. You can also get them in gold. Their website is www.tjandco.com. Stella and Dot also does something similiar with initals I think and you can find them at www.stelladot.com.

This my husband had made for me the first christmas after I had the twins. On the gold bar are the three birthstones. Garnet for AGB and peridot for the twins, CMB and OPB. The kids call it my "family key" necklace. I can't refer you to a web site since Hubby worked with a local jewelry designer who has also made my wedding ring. This one is my favorite!

This pin was a gift from my parents after I had the twins. It's a gold and silver diaper pin with three gold baby shoes. I really love it and usually wear it on the lapel of my red J Crew winter coat.

Blackwatch Plaid

2011-09-12T12:00:00.000-07:00

I love plaid, really any plaid but I have an very special fondness for Blackwatch plaid with it's deep navy and greens. My parents call their barn Blackwatch Hill. All the horses have blackwatch plaid blankets and sheets with red monograms. I wish I had a picture to show you. We also all have blackwatch plaid saddle pads with the same red monograms. Next time I am home I will snap a picture, promise. Because we all love the plaid, it extends over into our cloths as well. It seems to be popular this fall as well. Here are some of my favorites!

Ralph Lauren's timeless bags. My mom has the whole set which she has had forever. It is a running joke between my sister and I that we will know who she loves best by who she leaves them to in her will.

This is J Crew's school boy blazer in the black watch plaid. For some reason the picture looks odd. I don't have this blazer but I have something even better. It's a Brooks Brothers boys blazer in a sz 16 which fits perfect. I found it one day in our Junior League's re-sale shop and ha to have it. I think I paid $15 for it and it looks perfect.

These Lands End plaid down vests are from last season. Everyone in the family, inlcuding all the grandkids have one. My husband and brother-in-law opted for solid navy instead but the rest of us adore them. I wear mine with red underneath. It's a weekend staple during the cooler months.

Do you have a favorite plaid?

Driving Mocs, my favorite shoe

2011-09-09T12:06:00.000-07:00

I love driving mocs. They are just about my favorite weekend shoe, especially in the fall. They are like the flip flop of fall. Super comfy and slightly more dressy than sneakers yet not as fancy somehow as ballet flats. Worn with jeans, khakis or cords they are the perfect shoe for fall weekends before it gets wet and I find myself wearing my wellies everywhere. AGB has his first soccer game of the season tomorrow morning and I am sure I will be on the sidelines in my mocs and jeans. I love these ones from lands end. They are really cushy inside and come in a ton of colors. I also havea calf hair leopard print pair from J Crew that get a ton of wear. Do you have a favorite fall shoe?

Preppy for the rest of us

2011-09-08T11:23:00.000-07:00

I've always considered myself preppy. But the other day a friend told me that I could consider myself preppy but I was not a prep. His reasoning? I'm from California and plan to continue living here, don't have enought money, didn't got to the right schools (although I did go to private school which he considered marginally acceptable as opposed to where I am sending my kids), don't sail and I work full time. He of course hails from outside Boston, went to the "right East Coast prep school and college, is only living here until he can figure out a way to move back to Boston, sends his kids to private schools and of course, his wife doesn't work. I admit I was taken a back as they say

After considering his points, I have to say I disagree. Preppy isn't confined to New England, although I admit it was born there and remains perhaps the natural habitat of preps. To me being a prep is a state of mind. I value my family and my home. (hey, that's why I went back to work). I value tradition and try to celebrate it. The public school my kids attend is very good and they are thriving there. No, I don't sail because I get seasick on the dock but hey, I fox hunt and my daughter plays lacrosse. The picture above is my daughter with her grandfather at opening meet.

Preppy is a state of mind. It values tradition and manners. It appreciates the past and embraces the future. How many preps of the past would have blogged? Now there are tons of preppy type blogs. What do you all think? Is he right?

Classics for your Closet

2011-09-06T14:08:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I am a classics person when it comes to clothes. Ballet flats and button downs, cords and clutches, pearls and pencil skirts. I like simple, well made clothes. I found this great checklist over at Matchbook Magazine. By the way, if you don't already read it you totally should! Check them out over at http://www.matchbookmag.com/. How many of these great items reside in your closet? Almost all of them currently live in mine!

It's Offical!

2011-09-01T16:18:00.000-07:00

Welcome September! The kids are back to school with freshly sharpened pencils and new note books and fall is upon us. I do love fall, cozy sweaters, cord pants, log fires. Of course the leaves and general fall foliage doesn't look much like this here in Northern California. I went college in Connecticut and I remember how I loved the turning of the leaves. It was one of my favorite seasons. Of course, it won't really cool here and settle into fall for a few weeks but I ahve started to embrace the idea. This weekend the whites, seersucker and madras head to the back of the closet and the cords and cashmeres come to the front.

And Their Off!

2011-08-31T10:45:00.000-07:00

It's the first day of school and I have to say it went very smoothly. Everyone was up, dressed and ready to go at the appointed time. This is the last year all three of mine will be at the same school as next year AGB will march off to middle school. He and his three best buddies were thrilled to all be in the same class. They proudly informed me that they "ruled the school". Here are my three on the school sign this morning. I take this same picture every year and it is amazing how they have changed! Look out 2nd, 3rd and 5th grades! Here we come!

Back to School, Finally!

2011-08-30T10:21:00.000-07:00

Well, it's finally back to school time. Tomorrow is teh first day of school. We are starting a little later but will go until the middle of June. The boys were making the most of it and were both still snuggled up in their beds when I left for work. Tomorrow will be a different story. AGB will be a big ffth grader. He and his buddies informed me that they will now "rule the school'. CMB will be in third and OPB in second. This is our last year with everyone at the same school before AGB heads off to middle school. Back packs and lunch boxes are all set and ready to go!

Happy Birthday CMB and OPB!

2011-08-27T09:05:00.001-07:00

It's hard to believe that my darling twins, CMB and OPB are 8 years old today! They are growing into such wonderful kids and I can't wait to see what the next 8 are like! Happy Birthday!!!

Which Font?

2011-08-24T09:26:00.000-07:00

I was over at the Monogram Chick site the other day look at new backpacks for CMB and back to school. She really needs a new backpack since last years really took a beating at girl scout camp. We went back and forth over which monogram to choose and she finally settled on the circle. I'm partial to the diamond shape. Which do you like best? You can check out the other great things avialable to be monogramed by clicking on the link here. www.monogramchick.com

Parent Paranoia

2011-08-23T16:36:00.000-07:00

It's hard these days to be a parent. When I think of the things I did as a kids, like riding me bike to school with just friends in first grade, I don't know why I am still alive. The world seems much more dangerous to me somehow these days. Or maybe it's not and it's just the view from the mommy chair that makes it seem so. Anyway, I read a post over on yahoo about a mother who couldn't bear to let her 7 year old daughter out of her sight, including when she showered, used the bathroom or slept. My apologies right now if that was someone reading this post. I don't like to judge other mommies. We are all doing the best we can under our circumstances. Still this seemed over the top to me. After all, the goal of raising a child is ulimtately that they can go out into the world and do without us. That's right, if you do your job well, you will have raised a person who can survive in the world without you. Hard to think about when your kids are small and need you for everything and seem so fragile. Mine are school aged. AGB is 11. I let him ride his bike 3 blocks (alone) to a friends house to play baseball last week. He called when he got there. Big step for me. Still he thought it was cool and that he was a big, responsbile guy. It makes it a little easier for me that he is super level headed and a little timid. I figure baby steps. Teaching kids to be independant is a balencing act today. We need to protect and keep them safe and yet teach them how to protect themselves and keep themselves safe.

Puppies!

2011-08-22T12:56:00.000-07:00

There are few things in life cuter than little baby puppies and almost nothing cuter than baby hound puppies. These three cuties are 6 week old English Foxhounds at the LAH Kennels. My daughter CMB is in the center and the littlest girl and boys on the end are our huntsman's kids. Aren't they darling!

Anniversary!

2011-08-19T09:32:00.000-07:00

Today is my wedding anniversary! it's so hard to believe that 16 years ago today was our wedding day. We were together 3 years before that and lived together about 18 months of that time so in someways it feels like we've always been together. After three kids and varrious crisis modes later we are still going strong. It's one of the most important thing in a relationship, no matter how bad things get, neither of us considers giving up. We continue to work together to keep our family strong! We don't have any major plans tonight but are taking the kids to the water park tomorrow which should be really fun. At 3pm Iwill take a moment and remember our special day. It was truely a beautiful day. We were married at the Carmel Mission (an amazing church) and had our reception at the Monteray Plaza Hotel which was also lovely. A perfect day I will always remember.

How to be Lovely and Why it Matters

2011-08-18T13:21:00.000-07:00

My daughter's favorite expression is "isn't that lovely!" But her brother asked me the otherday what thay actually meant. I found myself explaining that being lovely was more than pretty and that being lovely was something to aspire to as a person as well as in looks. Here is a list of what I think a lovely person is.

1. She (or he) is kind. This person asks you how you are, how your fmaily is and is generally interested in your response. If you are having a rough time a lovely person listens to you and can sympathize. They will even follow up later with a call or note yo check on you. This is the same person who shows up with soup when she has heard you are sick or with flowers when your mother dies.
2. A lovely person respects others and their time. If he or she says they will be somewhere or do something, they follow through. You know you can count on this person. If they become aware they are running late or can't complete a task , they let you know so you can make other arrangements. They do this in a timely fashion, not at the last minute and which leaves you scrambling.

3. A lovely person treats everyone the same. She does not assume she is better than someone because of who she is or what she has. This person appreciates advice from others and does not respond to a rude comment with further nastiness.

4. A lovely person respects herself and is appropriately dressed and turned out for the occasion at which you might see them. Not wearing an oepra gown at the park or pajamas to the grocery store.

I'm starting to sound preachy so I will stop. I often feel that in today's hyper wired society manners and all that goes with them has gone the way of the 8 track. Why call someone if you can text, why write a think you letter if you can email? Manners and elegance seem to be less important to so many because they are a "bother" or "to formal". But that does not have to be the case. It is possible to be lovely and elegant and still be casual. Isn't that what we are all striving for?

Yummy!

2011-08-17T12:25:00.000-07:00

I found this to die for receipe on the Everyday Food web site. Don't these sounds amazing? Bacon, egg and toast cups. Yes Please!

Ingredients:

3 tablesppons unslated butter, melted

8 slices white or whole wheat bread

6 slices bacon

6 large eggs

coarse salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat overn to 375. Lightly butter standard muffin tin. With a rolling pin flatten bread slightly and with a 4 and 1/2 inche cookie cutter, cut into 8 rounds. Cut each round in half and then press 2 halves into each muffin tin, over lapping slighly and making sure the bread comes up to the edge of the muffin tin. Use extra bread to fill any gaps. Brush bread with melted butter.

2. In a large skillet cook bacon until almost crisp (about 4 minutes) flipping once. It will continue to cook in the oven. Lay one bacon slice in each cup and crack and egg over each. Bake until egg whites are just set (20 to 25 minutes). Run a smakk knife around cups to loosen toasts and serve immediately.

You could also use cooked and crumbled sausage instead of bacon on make a vegetarian version using spinach and bellpeppers. I don't cook much but breakfast and brunch are my specialities. I might just have to give this one a whirl!

Hanging on to Summer!

2011-08-16T09:45:00.001-07:00

Yes, I see all the fall fashions in the stores and the back to school sales. But I am refusing to accept that summer is over. The kiddies don't go back to school for another 10 days and I intend to milk it. I've down loaded the school supply list for the upcoming year but they are sitting forlornly on the printer. I refuse to by new fall fashions right this minute, for myself and my kids. Mostly this is because as soon as the kids go back to school it will get hot here. We have had a cool damp summer here in Northern Ca. This is normal. In September and early October we will have Indian Summer with a vengance. There is no need for cords and cashmere just yet! So hang by the pool as long as you can! Summer is not over yet!

Batter Up - Little League World Series

2011-08-15T12:01:00.000-07:00

During the next 2 weeks I will know exactly where to find AGB if I am looking for him. he's glued to ESPN watching the Little League World Series. We watched several regional finals over the weekend and the actual series starts Thursday. The dedication and love of the sport is so great to see in these kids.

A "Weighty" Issue

2011-08-11T11:23:00.000-07:00

Ok, another semi serrious post topic today. Apologies in advance. I'm seeking advice from mother of daughters. Mine is 8. She a beautiful, super smart girl. The picture above is from our Girl Scount Camporee where she canoed, rocked climbed, hiked and did archery with enthusiasm. I've noticed recently (as have her pediatrican, grandmother, father and aunt) that she is looking a little heavy. She's has excellent eating habits. We rarely eat fast food and I pack her a healthly lunch everyday at school or camp, not school lunch in otherwords. Snacks consist of fruit or yogurt mostly. Least you think I am miliant about this, there are occasional treats of course. She's active and spends very little time watching TV or playing on the computer. Yet, still she looks a little heavy, especailly around the waist. The pediatrican said there was nothing to worry about, she was just getting ready to grow again and some of the extra body weight would become breasts and hips when she starts to go through puberty in 2 or 3 years. Thus far I have made no reference to the fact that she is a looking as she does but I wonder, how do you talk to your daughter about weight and body image? School will start soon and I don't want her to be teased or to feel bad. She is going to be a big girl. She has long legs and broad shoulders as well as being the tallest girl in her class. Any books out there you suggest I read? Any words of wisdom?

A Job vs. A Career?

2011-08-09T14:15:00.001-07:00

Those of you who read this blog know I whine about my job sometimes. I was loving being a stay at home mom to my three but then the recession hit and Hubby and I decided we liked paying rent and eating more. So back to work I went (Hubby owns his own small food business). Going back to work for a major corporation provided us with benefits, a 401K and other cool perks. I've been at this job for about 3 years and I would say things range from stable to improving slightly. I've recently been approached by a recruiter about a couple of jobs that would be a major step up in private equity. I've decided nothing ventured nothing gained and am exploring these options. I was thinking about it and my hesitation stems from the fact that moving on and up the ladder would be an admission (and an acceptance) that this is not just a job I am doing until things turn around allowing me to return to my stay at home life. It's an actual career. It woul dmean longer hours and more work related stress. It would also likely mean a better salary Not that there is anything wrong with acepting this as a career. It's just a mental shift I am kind of struggling with. Thoughts? Suggestions? Words of Wisdom? Anyone?

How to Talk to Little Girls

2011-08-08T11:22:00.000-07:00

I met my sister for dinner the other night with both our daughters (mine is almost 8, hers is 3). Both girls were dressed in their fancy best since going out with mommy night is a sacred ritual. I wanted to complient both girls on how nice they looked but refrained from starting the conversation out on that notes because I had read the totally amazing post on the Huff post Books site by Lisa Bloom about how to talk to little girls. To read the full article, just follow the link http://www.huffingtonpost.com/lisa-bloom/how-to-talk-to-little-gir_b_882510.html?ref=fb&src=sp%22

The article makes an excellent point that if we want our daughters to think of themselves as people with ideas and opinions first then we need to treat them that way. That starting onversations with girls by complienting their appearance teaches them that appearance is what is valuable about them I mean, no one is going to open a conversation with my 11 year old son by telling him how cute he looks. They are going to ask him what books he has read, who his favorite baseball team is, what he likes in school. But conversations with my daughter often start with how nice she looks. I really took that article to heart. My daughter is extremely bright and has strong opinions about lots of things. I want her to know that this is what people are interested in first. That what she thinks is more important that how she looks or what she wears.

So next time you are introduced to a young girl, or just get home and great your own, remember to ask about what they learned in school, or what they read or something more than how they look.

I Surrender - Wearing Glasses

2011-08-05T11:43:00.000-07:00

Ok, I confess. I wear glasses. Interestingly I am not totally blind without them but I am pretty near sighted. My main optical issue is that without my glasses I have no, as in zero, depth perception. As a child people always wondered why I was so clumbsy, well without depth perception you run into and trip over a lot of things. I always hated them and started wearing contacts as soon as I could. I've always struggled with my contact though because of infections. I get cold sores in my eyes. Not on my lips. Something about contacts causes them to come back more easily and frequently. And of course, getting one while wearing contact imeadiately ruins the contacts. Over the years I have tried just about every type of contact out there. Even the wear once and through away kind. Those work best but I got through them way faster than VSP pays for them. So I am giving in, embracing my glasses.

This will require 2 steps. First I need new frames. My current ones look sort of like Harry Potter's frames. Round, tortiseshell wire frames. I think they date from college. Since have rarely worn them, I haven't replaced them. I like the ones the model above is wearing but they might be a little to trendy for me.

Second is I need to review my makeup look with glasses on. Bobbie Brown had some great tips for makeup looks with glasses. To start out she recomends that you wear less eye makeup since the glasses already draw attention to your eyes. She also emphasizes the importance of undereye concealor and corrector which does make sense. Her two step process is great since the corrector is pinkish and the concealer is yellowbased. I might check it out. I've never used it but my sister uses Benefit Boing and swears by it.

Another thing Bobbi suggests is eyeliner. I get this as it helps define your eyes behind your glasses. I love her gel eyeliner and have it in several colors. I really love the graphite and the black mauve shimmer.

It is also very important to define your brows when wearing glasses. I confess that I don't always do this. I keep my brows neat and tidy but don't always comb them or use a pencil/powder thing to define them. I'll have to work on that.

Lastly, Bobbi stresses that it is super important to wear lipcolor when you wear glasses. I can see this. I always wear lip color so this one isn't hard for me to follow.

Do you wear glasses? Have any special tips for me? What do you think about the tortiseshell frames the model is wearing? I worry that they might seem dated very quickly.

Nautical by Nature - An Ode to the Navy Blue Blazer

2011-08-04T09:04:00.000-07:00

There are few things as preppy as the navy blue blazer. Even Lisa Birmbach notes in her book "Treu Prep" that everyone of us, regardless of sex, age or sexual preference owns a navy blue blazer. That is certainly true in my house. At Christmas both my boys and Hubby came out dressed in nice slacks (the boys has camel colored cords and Hubby gray flannels) white shirts and black watch plaid ties. I also own one, ok several. My personal favorite is actually a Brooks Brother boys size 14. I wear it with everything! To the office, with jeans, you name it. The Brooks Brother blog, Rouge and Gentlemen has a great post on the naval history of this most prep of wardrobe staples. To read the whole article, click on the link. http://blog.brooksbrothers.com/the-answers/nautical-by-nature/http://

Do you own a blue blazer, which one? I'm always looking for new ones!

Back to Town

2011-08-03T09:49:00.000-07:00

I got a great email from Brooks Brothers the other day with their new fall line. It's called Back to Campus or Back to Town. I just adore it . It's so east Coast Prep to think of closing up your summer house and coming back to town in the fall. Obviously, I'm not the age to be going Back to campus. I just love this look. Clean, pulled together and ready for fall. Of course it's early August and it really won't be cold enought to wear this look here for a few months yet but, still love the look and what it represents.

Cousin Cabin Weekend

2011-08-01T10:24:00.001-07:00

Every summer my sister, my two cousins and I take all the kids up to the cabin for a long weekend of fun. The cabin is in a little town called Fish Camp about 20 minutes from the south gate of Yosemite. Our grandparents built it when we were small and all of us have great memories of spending time there when we were small. It's only about 50 minutes from the town of Fresno where we grew up and where my two cousins still live. For my sister and I, who live in the Bay Area, it's closer to a 3 and a half to four hour drive but since it's not Lake Tahoe, there is very little traffic. The cabin is called "the BaxStop" because our grandparents name was Baxter. Every year we take a picture of the kids in front of the cabin sign. Mine are the oldest 3, my sister had two (her's is the littlest daughter and the blond boy in the navy shirt). The other two the next youngest girl and the blond boy in the red tee are my cousins. One other cousin isn't married but she brings her great dane, Trigger. All the kids love Auntie B the best. We have great fun playing in the creek and hiking. This year the water was high and fast and the dads were able to move a bunch of rocks in the creek so the kids could ride down the creek in tubes. It was a ton of fun! I'll put up some more pictures of the kids riding the tubes later but wanted to share these geat shots first.

The younger generations!

The original cousins! Stripes and solids!

Manners Matter

2011-07-27T10:51:00.001-07:00

As my kids grow up I am more and more struck by how much manners matter, and how much they seem to be lacking. I am working hard on my kids in the area of table manners, phone manners and speaking to adults. My kids (ages 8 and 11) are learning to open doors, clear the table, stand when a lady enters to the room, answer the phone politely, write a thank you note when they receive a gift and speak respectfully. These things matter. It drives me crazy at family dinners when the young people sit around and let their parents do the dishes. These are not children but young adulys of 15 to 20. I usually shame them into helping by sending my smaller aged kids into do the work. I understand that todays society things are less formal. This especially holds true in Northern California where people think they are dressed up if they wear a navy blue hoody instead of a gray one. I must go on record as stating that I do not think this is a good thing. How you behave is important. I also think this extends to how you dress. My sons are not allowed to wear basketball shorts and ratty tees to school. And I mean not allowed by me, the dress code allows it. They do wear nice quality tees or polos and chino shorts, khakis or jeans. My daughter does not wear shorty shorts or tiny tanks. This is considered old fashioned of me by several of my friends. I am teaching my daughter that if you respect yourself others will respect you. Part of respecting yourself is taking care of your appearance. I try and model that for her. I love these books from Brooks Brothers for that exact reason. I often give the "How to Raise a Lady" book as a shower gift and I gave the "50 Things a Young Gentleman Should Know" to my oldest son when he turned 10. He and I often read parts of it and talk about what they mean and how they apply to his life. I think these are important lessons. What do you all think? Am I hopelessly old fashioned?

Cousins at the amusement park

2011-07-26T07:51:00.000-07:00

This summer we splurged and bought season passes to an amusement park about 25 minutes from our house. It's really been great. Because we know we can come back there is no pressure to stay if it gets really crowded. We've run down for an hour or two after work, stopped by in the morning for one ride, you get the picture. Last weekend we went with my sister and her oldest son, T. We really had fun!

T and OPB. Despite the fac that T is a year younger, they get on great!

All the cousins!

Which way do we go?

The boys of summer!

Brooks Brothers Fall Collection for Kids

2011-07-25T09:51:00.001-07:00

I know it's the middle of the summer but fall collections are starting to hit the stores and I totally adore these pictures from the new Brooks Brothers Fleece line for kids. I love these looks on kids. It's hard these days to find cute clothes for kids (especially girls) that are age appropriate. My daughter will be 8 at the end of August but is very tall and is often take for 10. I don't want her dressing like Brittney Spears. I'll certainly be checking these looks out.

Aren't these boys cute? My boys have much shorter hair but I'm digging the red pants. My youngest son would love them.

I just love this dress. I might have to find it for CMB. It's a wool crepe. It would be perfect for the holidays!

I think all these looks are cute. They might be just a tiny bit to old for CMB but its a great start!

What to wear when you aren't at work

2011-07-20T09:16:00.000-07:00

I've noticed a hole in my wadrobe recently and it's casual weekend wear. I had this down when I was a stay at home mom. Having morphed into a working mom I am set for pencil skirts, work trousers and good tops. I'm also covered if I am coaching AGB's baseball team or horse riding with CMB. I'm even covered if I have something special in the evening. However, if I am running around doing errands or having brunch/shopping with a friend or watching (as opposed to coaching) one of the kids activities then I am at a bit of a loss.

This is my current fashion problem. I want to look pulled together and moderately stylish. But for a weekend I want to be comfortable as I can. Call it "relaxed elegance" The trouble with that is that often my idea of "elegance" does not fit with my idea of relaxed. Still I'm going to try and define what relaxed elgance could look like, since it's me there has to be a classic twist. If you are more funky consider adding your own twist whether it be edgey, punky or country.

First, consider the right basics. They shold be well done but don't have to be insanely expensive. Consider what might happen if you step in mud or have to deal with other potential messes of a weekend type. However, that is not an excuse for worn, stained or ill fitting.

Second, think about you. What works for your life and your body type. I am comfortable in boot cut jeans, waist defining tops, blazers and comfortale flat shoes. Find what works and replicate it.

Third, think about color. If I could wear granimals I would. I tend to pick a color schem and stick with it. Right now it is navy, gray and white. For a splash of color I usually chose green. Figure out what suits you and go with it. Don't be afraid of brights if you like them, coral, red, yellow.

Fourth, look at the fabics you are using. It is a requirement for me that my weekend clothes be washable. I don''t want to wear a dry clean only blouse to a little league baseball game. Still, a cotton/silk blend blouse or tee has a lovely drape and somehow looks a little more pulled together. Jcrew makes some lovely blouses like that. The same principal applies to tees, consider a model blended top as opposed to the college tee. The fit is nicer.

Fifth, get good pants. These can be jeans (in whatever shape you prefer), Khakis, capris or even a nice pair of jersey draw string pants. Pay attention to shape and fit. Just to be clear, your lulu lemon workout pants don't count here. We are shooting to get above that look.

Sixth, think about shoes. During the winter I lived in my hunter wellies because we had such a wet winter in Northern CA. When it was cold I had the fleece sock liners. These don't have to be dressey but should not be cheap and should work with your choice of pants. Loafers, driving mocs, gladiator sandles take your pick. Cheap rubber flip flops? No, save those for the pool or beach.

Seventh, have a few informal basics. A short trench, a sweater pea coat, a knit jacket, a pretty scarf. These can help elevate your look and yet remain casual.

Eight, think about accessories. These don't need to be elaborate. A fun watch, a cute bracelet. This is a great way to show your fun style.

Finally, think about your hair and other personal grooming items. I don't feel you need to go all out in your grooming routine as you might do for a Monday morning meeting but please, wash your face and comb your hair. No fair sticking on a baseball hat. That look has it's place but not here. My hair is about shoulder length right now and I am tending to the smooth pony with a fun clip. I also try and add a tinted mositurizer and lip gloss. Takes 5 miutes and goes a long way.

The above is actually what I strove for as a stay at home mom and would work equally well for all most any non-professional office type wear. What's your style? Is it different on the weekend?

Troop 32599 has an Aqua Adventure

2011-07-19T07:36:00.000-07:00

Last week Troop 32599 celebrated a great year of Brownies. We all went to a water park called Aqua Adventure. There were water slides, a "river" hot dogs and general fun. The girls were proud that the money they earned through cookie sales funded their trip. The troop also contibuted $500 the Red Cross for Japan tsunami relief. A very good time was had by all the girls.

A Better Kind of Beauty?

2011-07-13T12:18:00.000-07:00

I don't exactly consider myself a "style blogger". But I read alot of them. As the mother of a daughter who is about to be 8, I do worry about the pressure on girls to be "pretty". Not just pretty but to look a certain way. Namely thin and blond. That's one of the reasons I love that the US Women's soccer team is going to the finals of the Worlds Cup! Look at Hope Solo (she plays goalie) for example. She's strong and toned. From her pictures it even appears she might be wearing a little makeup and has had her eye brows done. She appears to care about her appearence. Best of all, no one is judging her on it. No one is wondering if she's had botox or telling her she should lose weight or wondering about her dress size. Instead she looks strong, confident and yes, pretty and feminine too. Now that's a person I want my daughter to look up to. Now that's a role model.

Can Kate Bring Back Hose?

2011-07-12T16:31:00.000-07:00

Ok, I apologize for yet another Kate Middleton based post. I've been looking at the pictures of the recent royal trip through Canada and LA and drooling at her clothes. You have too, admit it. One thing has struck me, she's clearly wearing hose. Sheer nude hose!? Wow, I thought those went out with the dodo birds. Now she's not wearing white nylons or some weird non leg colored hose. But she clearly is wearing very nice, very sheer nude hose. So are they coming back? There seem to be two schools of thought around hose. One is that they are a torture device and should be left for dead on the side of the road. The other is that they really can look elegant and keep your feet from chafing and sweating in your shoes. I confess that I am in the second camp. As long as they are good quality, sheer hose I don't mind wearing them. I've never found them to be all that uncomfortable. Now, I live in Northern California where it does not get thathot. I could see they might be be great in Atlanta or Florida in July and August. There is a third school of thought which is that she is just following royal protocal. Maybethose Brits are just more formal than we crazy Americans are? Note that most of her shoes are closed toe pumps? The one time she was wearing a peep toe shoe, she did not have on hose. I think that hose with a lovely dress and pumps is perfectly appropriate and I confess that I sort of hope they come back. I am all for dressing up. Yes, I love pretty dresses and nice clothes. I am not a khaki pant and polo girl. What do you all think?

Makover your attitude?

2011-07-11T12:34:00.000-07:00

I love makeovers. New hair cuts, new make up, closet cleanouts, all high on my list. Right now, however, I am concentrating on making over my attitude. I've just been in a funk all summer. Summer is the time I most hate being a working parent. My kids are home with the sitter or at camp. It's expensive and I'm missing the fun. I guess I just got grouchy. I've been distrcted at work and cranky at home. Ive been making poor food choices and skipping workouts. All of which ads up to not a fun mommy who feels like she has gained about 5 pounds. This weekend though I feel like I've turned a corner. I got up this morning and did my workout and made sure I packed a good lunch instead of relying on grabing something from the shop in my building. I'm focusing on being thankful that I have such a good job instead of feeling resentful I have to do it. Lots of people are in worse shape. Every now and then I have to remind myself to look on the brighter side of things and be thankful for what I do have (which is a lot of wonderful things) instead of wishing for what I don't have and missing what's important.

Not Just a Pretty Face

2011-07-08T13:43:00.000-07:00

We all know how beautiful Kate Middleton is. I know I loved watching the royal wedding on televison and have followed the varrious news outlets and blogs drooling over the pictures of the current Canadian trip. But it was this picture that brought tears to my eyes. This little girl has stage 4 cancer and meeting "Princess Kate" was her wish to Canada's Children's Wish Foundation after watching the Royal Wedding from her hospital bed. I read the story here, http://www.whatkatewore.com/. It totally brought tears to my eyes. Clearly this woman is more than a pretty face and nice clothes. I've been feeling down and having a rought week at work but tonight I plan to go home, hug my kids and feel blessed.

Hooray for the Red, White and the Blue!

2011-07-01T14:13:00.000-07:00

As we prepare to celebrate our nations independence I wanted to take a moment to drool over the ever lovely Kate Middleton, or the Duchess Katherine, as I suppose she must now be known. I just love these two navy blue looks she has worn on her trip to Canada, especially the lace one. Navy is one of my very favorite colors. It's crisp, it's nautical (or naval if you prefer), it's somehow less harsh or draining against your skin. All and all it's the perfect color. And as always Kate looks great in it. I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday weekend!

Rocking the White Suit?

2011-06-30T09:58:00.000-07:00

As June turns to July it really feels like summer. We are having a rather strange one here in SF. Today it is warm and sunny, two days ago it was 55 and pouring rain. Our usual summer pattern of foggy mornings and evenings has not really arrived yer but I expect it shortly. I saw this white suit on the Banana Republic web site the other day. I thought it was really cool but am not quite sure whether it would work here. I just can't see wearing it to work. Maybe out at night? Or to a party? I know that in warmer weather climates it might be different. It seems kind of "miami vice" to me. Is it maybe just a East Coast/Southern thing?

Happy Birthday To Me!

2011-06-29T10:00:00.001-07:00

It's my birthday today. I don't have anything super exciting planned. It's a normal work day for me but the kids have been cooking up all sorts of art projects if the glue and glitter consumption of the past 2 days is any indication so I expect treasures when I get home. I'm 41 today, wow that's hard to believe. Happy Birthday to me!

To Tuck or Not to Tuck, That is the Question!

2011-06-28T12:37:00.000-07:00

Do you tuck in your shirts? I've always been a tucker. Mostly because I have narrow shoulders and a small waist and larger hips. Yes, I am a pear. If I don't tuck then I feel I look sloppey and much larger than I am. I know that alot depends on the shape of the top and what kind of bottoms but I general I tuck. What about you?

Potatoe Salad

2011-06-27T12:01:00.000-07:00

Nothing says summer barbaque or picnic like potatoe salad. And with the 4th coming up, the time just seems right for a post on this summer treat. Everyone is familiar with the traditional version that mom used to make but this one is a little different. I found it in Southern Living and it's really good. Even my kids like it which is saying something! Give it a whirl, let me know if you like it. And if you've got a version you like even better, please share!

Ingredients3 pounds baby red potatoes, cut in half

2 Tbsp. olive oil

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. fresh ground pepper

1 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar, or balsamic vinegar may be substituted but will darken the color of the dressing

2 tsp. sugar

2 tsp. Dijon mustard
1 cup thinly sliced red onion
1 oz. crumbled blue cheese

6 bacon slices, cooked and crumbled

Preparation:

Preheat grill to 350° to 400° (medium-high) heat.

Place potatoes in a single layer in center of a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil.

Drizzle with olive oil; sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Bring up foil sides over potatoes; double fold top and side edges to seal, making 1 large packet.

Grill potatoes, in foil packet, covered with grill lid, 15 minutes on each side.

Remove packet from grill. carefully open packet, using tongs, and let potatoes cool 5 minutes.

Whisk together mayonnaise and next 4 ingredients in a large bowl; add potatoes, tossing gently to coat.

Stir in onion, blue cheese, and bacon.

Enjoy!

Troop 32599 does Camporee

2011-06-22T11:03:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, CMB's brownie troop, 32599, attended our spring camporee. The fun starts Friday night and goes till Sunday morning. It is held at a YMCA camp in Pescadero. Last year it was really hot and sunny, not so much this year. It was cold and damp. A good time was still had by all! CMB at the archery range. Our troop was not old enough to do this last year so everyone wanted to do it this year. It was harder than it looked but most of the girls eventually managed to at least hit the target.

On the zip line! This is everyone's favorite activity

Troop 32599 in all it's glory. We say 12 banana slugs on this nature hike. A camp record!

Canoe time! Just in case you did not know, if you put 3 girls into a canoe someone will have to go fetch them and that someone will likely fall in the lake.

CMB on the rock climbing tower. She love this activity and climbed all four sides numerous times. Even the advanced side

Opps, forgot the picture

2011-06-21T14:38:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I was in such a hurry to hit the publish button that I forgot to attach the picture of the blazer I was talking about. What do you think?

Do I need a white blazer?

2011-06-21T14:25:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of summer and it is quite surpisingly warm here in the SF Bay Area. Quite a nice change after the cool, wet spring we have had. With the warmer weather come thoughts of white jeans, dresses, tops and shorts. I love summer white. One white summery item I have never owned is a white blazer. Yet I have seen several recently like the one above from the Gap. I saw a nice one at Banana Republic too. In some way they seem sort of "Golden Girl" to me. Older women in a retirement community if you get my drift. Yet somehow they are calling to me. I tend to wear a seersucker balzer during the summer when I need a light weight blazer but I'm really thinking about this one. I can see it with dark trouser jeans and a bright colored top or with cute summery shorts and espedrilles. What do you think? Do you own a white blazer?

Ode to the Shirtdress

2011-06-20T16:13:00.000-07:00

I love a shirtdress, especially in the summer. There is no other way to look as effortlessly polished on a warm summer day than the right shirtdress. And what makes the right shirtdress you ask? It should be a crisp fabric with some body to it. Not clinging in otherwords. I usually lose the fabic belt they tend to come with and wear a leather belt. It must be long enough too! This is especially important in dressing for work. Either right at the knee or maybe just an inch over. Anything more is likely to much leg. Worn with a cute flat or wedge this is the perfect summer outfit. And totally effortless! Just throw it on and go. I'm in love with this J Crew dress. It's right in so many ways. However, the major fail is length. It's way to short. I tried, I really did but there was no way to make it work so back it went. I hate the shoes too. I like a cute shoe. These don't seem to go with the fun summer vibe I get from my shirt dress. What do you think?Do you wear shirtdresses? Love them? Hate them?

How Weird are These?

2011-06-17T09:27:00.000-07:00

OK, I get that rainy weather requires water proof shoes. I admit that I don't live in the North East or Mid Atlantic or even the South where summer thunder squalls occur. Still I just don't get these shoes. J Crew calls them rainy day flats and they are on sale for something like $50. But they have open toes? And side cut outs? Plus they are that plastic jelly like stuff that reminds me of th "jellys" I wore in the 5th grade. I just don't get it. If it's raining and wet enough to need water proof shoes, isn't it to wet for open toes? I mean what is the point?