Friday, July 30, 2010

decisions, decisions...

Really, I should be concentrating on lighting, sinks, vanities, and toilets right now....

However, I am more than consumed with the seating around my future, 8ft. island. Because I plan on using industrial style lighting the metal stools from above might work. 
Although it might be a tad too "industrial!"




I am loving these authentic French cafe stools though. You can order whatever color weave you want AND we all know how sturdy and resilient cafe chairs are- pretty too!

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Continental Airlines- I hate you!

Continental Airlines,
I know hate is a strong word, but I have had it.
Sick of hidden baggage fees!
( all of a sudden lax sticks are not checked at gate-  $64 extra!)

Sick of slow security!
 ( not enough employees, ONE person handling elite line AND regular line!)

Sick of poor communication!
(Ever hear the expression, "doesn't know their ass from their elbow?"- that is how I felt dealing with check-in folks today, couldn't figure out how I could pay for baggage both ways so that my daughter wouldn't have to worry about it on the return trip and it became a 4 person consultation with 15 minutes till boarding time. Honestly, I was about to jump out of my own skin!!!)

I have traveled a lot this year and I can't say any of the airlines are beloved by me, Can you say, VOLCANO?! However, I have never left an airport as stressed out as I did today. I'm sure it didn't help that I was sending my sixteen year-old on her first solo flight and I wanted everything to go smoothly and it SO didn't.
Insult to injury was that I was stupid enough to think that the $209.00 round trip to Raleigh/Durham was a good fare, not a great fare, a good fare. But when you had on $46 for first bag and $64 for her #$% lacrosse stick... well that makes it $319!!!!!
Not so good.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Must haves? Have some, want some...

This was in the Huffington Post on July 21, 2010 and I have to say I agree with some of it.

10 Must Haves



According to retail analysts, an economic turnaround is still on the distant horizon. But as a professional who follows trends for a living, I can assure you that consumers still love to have an "it" item. In fact, I would argue that when consumers are feeling financially strapped the allure of snatching up one of the must-have pieces of the season feels like money well spent.
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The "Houlihan" from J. Brand
When a pair of pants is a featured in the New York Times, you know that you have a sartorial hit on your hands (or your hips as the case may be.) Named for Hot Lips Houlihan from Mash, these slim fitting cargo pants were the must-have bottom of Spring 2010. So why would you need a $238 pair of cargo pants in your wardrobe when you probably have a perfectly nice pair from Old Navy that you bought ten years ago? Because these cargo pants are an engineering masterpiece! They have the perfect balance of stretch and structure, sex appeal and tomboy nonchalance. Expect to see a slew of knock-offs hitting stores at every price point over the next 12 months -- this cargo pant has legs.
*I'll have to see as I why would I want to add any extra inches to my outer thighs! I think my daughters would look super cute in them though :)

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The "Alla" from Alexander Wang
Alexander Wang is the reigning King Midas of fashion trends. His "Alla" leopard haircalf wedges were an instant sell-out and instigated a series of rumors about the crazy antics of fashion editors trying to get their manicured paws on a pair.
*This is when the Huffington Post looses a little bit of credibility with me... Are we talking New York fashion editor must haves or everyday shlubs like me? Because I don't even see my daughters wearing those shoes!
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Fenton/Fallon for J. Crew
Just when you thought you couldn't possibly buy one more sparkly doo dad from J. Crew, their design and merchandising brain trust announces a collaboration with cult favorite Fenton/Fallon. The punk vibe added a dose of edginess to J. Crew's spring staples and spawned a slew of imitations.
*Have no idea, this a wait and see thing for me...
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The Liberty Print Bicycle from Target
Ah, Target! Their spring 2010 collaboration with venerable UK fabric house, Liberty of London, gave bloom to a garden of inexpensive happy floral items just as we were beginning to think that winter would never end. And while their product offering ranging from flip flops to mixing bowls was a huge hit -- the Liberty Print bicycle stole the show. In fact, I watched a woman wedge her newly purchased bike onto the downtown 2 train moments after the Liberty of London for Target pop-up shop was literally ransacked by floral crazed shoppers.
*I think I am going to Target today! Seriously, is that the prettiest bike ever?
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The iPad from Apple
Granted, the iPad isn't technically fashion, but it was definitely one of the most buzzed about items to hit stores this spring. And while fashion houses from Gucci to Louis Vuitton scramble to manufacture iPad cases... I have to hand it to the folks at "iGotaBigAssPocket" for coming up with these denim beauties.
*MUST HAVE!!!
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J. Crew's Unisex Meridien II Nautical Tee from Saint James
Nautical stripes were by far the most universally adopted trend during the spring season. The iterations of this classic were endless, but J. Crew took a pristine approach and stocked the original. If you were one of the 5 people that didn't purchase a striped t-shirt this season, fear not! There's still time! Stripes are expected to sell right through Fall -- although when my Dad starts wearing a striped boat neck -- we should probably plan an intervention.
*Have, but not sure it's a must. Do I want the rest of you wearing it and we all look like we are in the French navy?
The "Original Boat Shoe" from Sperry
"Heritage" brands are hot. From Pendleton to shirts to Red Wing work boots, the Gen Y consumer is choosing brands with a history. Sperry, founded in 1935, has been particularly successful in finding a new audience for its uber preppy boat shoes. In addition to its iconic brown leather Topsider, Sperry has added versions in sherbet-hued suedes and neon patent leathers. Expect this trend to morph into a resurgence of the classic penny loafer for fall.
*Have AND a must have MORE!
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White Ceramic Watch from Michael Kors
Due to the ubiquity of smart phones, watches have been fashion road kill for several seasons. Michael Kors, however, ignited a small frenzy with his white ceramic watch for spring. It looks a lot like a certain other white ceramic watch made by a famous French fashion house but you can have the Kors version for about one tenth of the cost.
*I am here to tell you that everyone wants this watch or one like it. Just spent the last three weeks selling the rubber/summer version. The age span clamouring for this watch is amazing to me- from grandmas to tweens!
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"Particuliere" nail polish from Chanel
And speaking of famous French fashion houses, Chanel's nail color (apparently when nail polish costs more than $20 you get to call it nail "color") was the must-have shade of the season. The smoky taupe color is ... well ... particular. Especially because it's nearly impossible to find in stock anywhere.
*I think I have to see it live to know if I want it, intriguing.
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"Little Movers Jeans Diapers" from Huggies
Proving that fashion knows no boundaries, someone at Huggies came up with the brilliant idea to make a denim diaper. In actuality, the diaper isn't made of denim -- it's a regular diaper printed to look like denim. Personally, I think the style quotient might be a little low on this trend, but I have to praise the folks at Kimberly Clark for coming up with the product's tag line: "The coolest you'll look pooping your pants." Who could ask for more?
*Luckily, no need for those here! But can't you just see the possibilities? Adult diapers?
Let me know if any of these are must haves for YOU!

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Porcupine Plays Like a Puppy, this is for you Ina!

Click on link below to see an amazing video, I couldn't figure out how to post video so I could only post link....


Porcupine Plays Like a Puppy



Monday, July 19, 2010

This weekend- Yes, already planning!



These have been big sellers for me. They look great on suntanned arms and transition well into the Fall season.
So, I am heading into NYC to buy a HUGE slew of them.
Think beach bracelet, grown-up style... Calypso/preppy style!

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Just to remind you,

 This was...
This.
Only a few weeks ago.
Lots of exciting stuff going on here!

Monday, July 12, 2010

I forgot to tell you!

I met a blog buddy!

Jill, of caffeinecourt.blogspot.com/  came to Lax for the Cure to see her niece from Maryland play.
She brought her husband and two adorable daughters ( who were quite the troopers- 98 degrees in the blazing sun!)

She is another Jersey blogger and tennis player, we have a lot in common :)
I read her blog and she must read mine because she knew I was going to be at the tournament and stopped by to visit.

I have met a few blog buddies (Hi Ina and OHN!) and have not been disappointed. When you read people's blogs you really feel as though you know them and if they write frequently and honestly-
 you really do!

Jill is like that. If you want a good laugh AND if you want to feel as though you are not the only one to notice how kooky your neighbors, tennis team, friends and family are- stop by Jill's blog,
you won't be disappointed.

Monday musings...

So, here I am.
Monday morning.

Two full trucks that need to be emptied.
How is it that I sold so much this weekend and I still managed to return home with TWO full trucks?
Note to self: You have way too much inventory!


Contractor just informed/reminded me that the kitchen needs to be emptied as they will be gutting it tomorrow.
How is it that I can be so excited and so filled with dread at the same time?
Note to self: you have WAY too many junk drawers in your kitchen!


Need to take daughter to store.
How is it that a sixteen year-old, bright, wonderful girl doesn't realize that sneakers/cleats that are used for soccer AND lacrosse need to be replaced A LOT? That playing at a top lacrosse, college recruiting tournament in  treadless, sneakers filled with holes, that have been worn since the 8th grade is not  that smart?
Note to self: Stop neglecting 4th child and pay attention to her needs, cuz she's not!


Go to bank and post office.
How is it that the errands that ACTUALLY make me money are the ones I hate to do?
Note to self: Get over it.

Appointment with daughters for manicure/pedicure.
How is it that even though my polish is still intact after a grueling weekend in the hot sun wearing my amazing flip flops that I KNOW that it is imperitive that I and my daughters go to the nail salon?
Note to self: Leg and foot massage plus female bonding equals happiness!


USTA tennis match tonight.
How is it that I do not remember how tough it is to leave my family after being away all weekend and how do I think I can physically play a match at night after the grueling weekend I just had?
Note to self: Re-think USTA for next year, but enjoy the match tonight, tennis is fun!

It looks like it's going to be a good day and I hope you have one too :)



Sunday, July 4, 2010

Twilight-Eclipse

While we are on topic of TWILIGHT-
If you saw the movie,
HOW DISTRACTED WERE YOU BY BELLA"S/KRISTEN STEWART"S WIGS???!!!
If you didn't see the movie,
I hope you aren't DISTRACTED BY BELLA"S/KRISTEN STEWART"S WIGS!!!!!

Who knew?


 
This weekend, the stars of the film will be visiting theaters across the country to surprise fans and watch the movie with them. Cities, theaters and showtimes are listed below. Happy 4th of July!

JULY 2

CHICAGO
AMC River East - 7:10 & 7:45pm
Regal City North - 8:45 & 9:15pm

KANSAS CITY
AMC Barrywoods - 5:00, 5:30 & 6:00pm
AMC Studio - 7:30, 8:00 & 8:30pm

LAS VEGAS
Cinemark Suncoast - 7:35pm
RAVE Town Square - 8:30pm
Regal Red Rock - 7:00pm

LOS ANGELES
AMC Century City - 4:40 & 5:20pm
The Landmark Theater - 7:15pm

MINNEAPOLIS
AMC Rosedale - 8:50pm
AMC Southdale - 8:00pm
Kerasotes St. Louis Park - 7:00pm

NASHVILLE
Carmike Thoroughbred - 9:30pm
Regal GreenHills - 7:30pm
Regal Hollywood - 8:30pm

ORANGE COUNTY, CA
AMC Block - 7:00, 7:30 & 8:00pm
Regal Irvine Spectrum - 5:00, 5:30 & 6:00pm

VANCOUVER
Scotiabank Vancouver - 6:30 & 7:00pm

WASHINGTON DC / NORTHERN VIRGINIA
AMC Tyson Corner - 7:00pm
RAVE Fairfax Corner - 8:30pm


JULY 3

ATLANTA
AMC Discover Mills - 7:40pm
Regal Atlantic Station - 8:30pm
Regal Mall of Georgia - 7:00pm

CLEVELAND
Cinemark Valley View - early afternoon
Regal Crocker Park - early afternoon

CLIFTON, NJ
AMC Clifton Commons - 7:40pm

DALLAS
AMC North Park - 6:00pm
Cinemark Webb Chappell - 4:00 & 4:30pm

DETROIT
MJR Marketplace - 7:00, 7:30 & 8:00pm
Uptown Palladium - 9:00pm

KONA, HI
Wallace Makalapua - evening

LONG ISLAND, NY
AMC Roosevelt Field - 7:10pm
National Amusement Hicksville - 6:30pm
Regal Westbury - 8:00pm

NEW ORLEANS
AMC Clearview Palace - 8:25pm
AMC Elmwood - 6:15, 6:45 & 7:15pm

MANHATTAN, NY
AMC Empire - 7:30pm
AMC Loews Lincoln Square - 7:00pm
Regal Union Square - 8:00pm

PARAMUS, NJ
AMC Garden State - 8:45pm


PHOENIX
Harkins Tempe Marketplace - 7 & 7:30pm
SanTan Village - 5:20 & 5:50pm
Superstition Springs - 8:00pm

SAN FRANCISCO
AMC Metrion - 2:00 and 2:30pm
Cinemark Daly City - 3:00pm


JULY 4

JACKSONVILLE
AMC Orange Park - 3:00 & 3:30pm
Regal Avenues - 4:05 & 4:35pm

TORONTO
Cineplex Scotiabank Theatre - 6:00, 6:30 & 7:00pm 

So, we were there!
And he showed up,
except he looked more like this,
Not a major player, but the theater went wild, ( meaning, hundreds of young girls aged 10-16 years-old!)

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Lax for the Cure 2010- Susan G. Komen

Lax for the Cure 2010- Susan G. Komen
New Egypt, NJ.
SO EXCITED!
Lots of giveaways- all for a good cause!
Preppyplayer-me will be, partnered with bungalowco. scout bags, donating scout lacrosse bags throughout the tournament.



How awesome is that!
There is a limited supply, so make sure you buy early!

File this under: Things I Won't Miss When My Children Grow Up!

Visits to the orthodontist.