from one relationship to the next....i'm moving on

Recently, I shared about a really hard break up that I recently went through. It was incredibly tough, and for quite some time I was in denial. I knew she had left me....I knew it was over...but I wasn't sure I could move on.

Suddenly the dreaded day came when my roots began to show, and though the heartache hadn't completely healed, I knew it was time to move on. I couldn't sit and sulk any longer. It wasn't what Aviva would want of me anyway. She'd want me to be happy. To move on. To find new love.

And so, I placed the call and made plans for my first date.

When the day came, I found myself a little nervous. It was a combination of first date jitters mixed with excitement about possible new love.

As I stared into the abyss of my closet, I couldn't help but obsess about what to wear. Super trendy to show my style or relaxed and no fuss to show I can be low maintenance? I opted for a maxi dress and a hanes tank. A little style with a little relaxed. I carefully applied my makeup, taking my time to make it all just right.

On the drive there, I found myself wondering....what if she didn't like me? What if her hair was orange and she thought that was a suitable shade of blonde? What if she had just graduated from Beauty School and I was one of her first clients? Or....what if...and I sudder even thinking about it, what if we didn't have anything to talk about? Would I instead awkwardly read a book or a magazine and never know the person who was making me, me?

As it turned out, she was the cutest one in the salon. In fact, as I made myself comfortable in her chair, I decided her hair was just what I wanted.

Ya, can you say crazy stalker first time client? Oh well, she was cute and I wanted to be too.

Thankfully, we had lots to talk about, and really we didn't have too much awkward talk. Although, I did feel that I mentioned Aviva a little more than I needed too. I likened it to being out with a new guy and talking about your ex a little too much. Whatever...I have issues. Like you don't.

All in all, I left there a very happy girl, with awesome blonde hair that I never even knew I wanted.

So, the lesson learned?

While nobody can ever replace your first love, sometimes your second love can be just as sweet.

And I will live happily ever after...unless she moves away too.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

i believe...

...that life is too short to say no to chocolate cake.

...that you should always check one more time on your babies, no matter what age they are, before going to bed.

...that snuggling is beyond words.

...that words go a long way in someone's heart, therefore choose them wisely.

...that marriage isn't all about love and butterflies. It's more about hard work and determination.

...true love doesn't fade.

...drawstring waists are every girls best friend.

...in having at least two open books on your night stand.

...despite pretty packaging, inside there is always at least one defect.

...in being content but striving for more.

...a true best friend feels like home.

...in clean sheets on Sunday.

...in forgiving and being forgiven. No matter what.

...in saying 'I love you' first.

...there is a very good reason for waiting until marriage.

...a woman has a right to change her mind.

...a child's laughter is the most pure sound in the entire world.

....I believe....

to be continued.

What do you believe?

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

apartment makeover

Moving from a house to an apartment has been interesting and challenging, but I can say we've settled in pretty nicely, given it's only been barely two months.

While I still feel as though I have a ton left to do in order to complete my ideal design decor, here are just a few pictures to show what has been done.

This is the master bedroom before:

(Love how it opens to the patio with a gorgeous view!)

And after:

I got those awesome prints on etsy, and I am in love with them!

Here is the kitchen before:

And the kitchen after:

I got the tile idea from Design Sponge, and then did my own take on it. I actually took frames and wrapping paper from Ikea, and wa la, instant tiles.

Now here's what I'm working on next, (and ideas are more than welcome!!!):

I need to find something to do with the long wall next to Jimmy's side of the bed:

And then I need to finish up the area at the foot of my bed where the tv and chair are:

I'm also attempting to put the finishing touches on the playroom and living room as well, but those pictures will be another post another time.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

fashion friday

Thanks to Maegan for inspiring the braid, it got a ton of compliments at my HurryDate event!

Now for the rest of the outfit:

Boots: Charlotte Russe, about $20.

Cutoffs: Express jeans from Goodwill that I cut myself (I think I need to make them a tad bit shorter), about $5.

Top: Target and let me just say, I love it. I love it. I love it. $10.

Chunky Bracelet: vintage...which really means thrifted. $4.

Sunglasses: Part of a buy two for $10 deal at Styles for Less $5.

My entire outfit cost under $50. Is that something to brag about? =) I think so!

Your turn...if you want to.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

you give God a bad name....a bad name!

Wanted: A believable christian. Humble, sweet, forgiving, fun, normal, normal, normal.

There have been so many times in my life that I have really been bothered by Christians. And this is a bit of a problem, you know, considering I am one.

I grew up in a christian home and went to church every week. But, as I grew up, I had my heart broken time and time again. And when hurt comes from a Christian, for some reason, it just stings that much more. I'm not exactly sure why. I mean, we are just as capable of messing up as the next person....

I could even say, to be honest, that there are many times even I am not the best example of what a Christian should be. (Shocker for most of you, I know.) Many days, many many moments a day, I do not represent what my beliefs are really all about.

And in those many moments I've wanted to scream....don't look at me! Don't watch me!

At one point, after seeing some stuff go on that really just didn't seem christian-ish, I found myself wondering....Do I even want anything to do with this religion, in which was proving to be full of hypocrites?

So, I took some time away from church. From the bible. From hanging out with other believers.

But after a considerable amount of time, I was still experiencing heartbreak. I was still seeing hypocrisy. I still didn't love what I was a part of. I realized it didn't matter who people were, where they came from, or what they believed or stood for...they were all human. They were all capable of messing up just as much as the next person. (I'm a smart cookie, I catch on quick.)

I missed my God. I missed the hope and grace and mercy he brought into my life. I missed the freedom I experienced in Him. I missed what had always been a part of me. And I came back. With a different attitude. A different outlook. With a different understanding of who He was.

I was able to do this, because I realized that I couldn't keep looking to other people. As much as we are called to be the best we can be....I can't deny the fact that we are imperfect. So instead I studied the bible. I took time and did my research to really see if it was really true. I prayed, and meditated, and spent time getting to know Him on a personal intimate level.

Understanding christianity became less about other people, and more about God.

I have to continually keep my eyes on Him. On His example, and then do my absolute best to imitate that. And when I can't, when I just simply don't feel like it, when it's on purpose or on accident, I will be the first to admit my defeat. I will learn a lesson. I will find humility in it's truest form.

This has all been on my mind lately, what with the media focusing on Spencer & Heidi, the Christian moms who outright lied about losing a baby on their well known blogs, Jon & Kate...and so on.

I found myself getting so fired up thinking this is where so many people are getting their ideas of Christianity from! This is what people think it's all about! This is what turned me, an already established believer, off from my own beliefs!

Once again, I have to remember....

I am no better. I too make mistakes. I too am not always the best example. The only difference is, I don't have a camera on me at all times.

If I could say anything to anybody out there, if I could teach my own kids something from all of this, or if I could simply just remind myself...

It's not about them. It's only about Him.

The only requirement of this job? (Other than...please please don't go on a reality tv show, unless you can actually put us in a good light. Hence, the wanted ad at the top.)

Find Him, know Him, and then decide for yourself.

If you can handle all that....you're hired.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

well being

I came across this recently, and it has really stuck with me. I thought I would share...

What is well being?

• Small pleasures in life: not related to the big moments in life, but rather part of your everyday life
• A precious, treasured moment
• A sudden awareness, you suddenly realise the beauty of the moment
• A feeling that life is worth living
• Something that overcomes you, it overtakes you
• You cannot plan it, it just happens
• A very personal experience

*Stay tuned for some of my own actual writing tomorrow.*

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

mommies don't do that....

A couple of weeks ago, I was getting ready for work and Taylor ran out to see what was going on.

"Where are you going?!?"

"I have to work honey. But, I will see you tomorrow in the morning."

"Don't go! Mommy, why are you working???" He whined.

"Cause I need to make some money."

"But mommies don't need to do that. That's not what mommies do."

I have since been baffled as to how I feel about that.  Does the strong woman in me stand up and roar, or am I softened because he will always remember me being home with him?

I think it works out to this...

I'm softly roaring.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

things i love....love, love, love

This time it's all about the websites...

The great thing about sisters is that they always share their latest and greatest finds, and these fun sites come courtesy of them.

First up from Malia:

Gwenyth Paltrow's Website Goop.

I'm loving this site because she has such cute and fun ideas. There is one section all about fashion, and she shows off different outfit ideas by adding and taking pieces away. There's also a section about exercise and she actually posts a video her trainer made especially for her. She promises that by doing it every day for 10 days, your bootie will take a new and amazing shape. Um, ya...I'll take that. Anyway, there's a ton to go through, so go and have fun. While you're there you can also sign up for her newsletters, which is basically her latest post to the site coming to your email. You'll love it.

The rest are home decorating sites Heather sent me:

Turquoise has the cutest pictures and ideas for home decorating. I'm in love with everything on this site, and I drool every time I look. I can't wait for the day that money isn't an issue and I can make my own home look this cool.

Spoost is another one that I have come to love. I recently found out, thanks to them, that my decorating style is Hollywood Glamour. And I feel so much more complete knowing that. I always knew there was a name to my taste, and now I know. You can too....go check it out.

And that my friends, is all I have for you now.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

love and laughter

Thank you baby, for your love and laughter.

And back, by popular demand....

Happy Father Day, my love.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

the essential survival kit for moms: 7 things every haute mama needs to stay sane

Another article for your weekend reading, written by the lovely Haute Mama's. (me & betsy)

The Essential Survival Kit for Moms: 7 Things Every Haute Mama Needs to Stay Sane

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

fashion friday

Usually on Friday's I post an outfit I wore during the week...and then I add in Mr. Linky in case other people want to do the same.

This week I'm taking a break.

Why?

Because I'm feeling lazy. I am so tired and so lazy, that getting dressed, taking the pictures and then uploading them...it all seems so monumental that I just yawned thinking about it.

It may have something to do with this thing I'm doing that I'll share more of next week.

Either way...my fashion mojo is on hiatus but will be back next week.

If you have something cute though...share away! Now excuse me while I mold into my couch and catch up on the reality tv I missed this week.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

parenting advice you didn't ask for but need:

Parenting advice is tricky, but since you asked....I am more than happy to share with you what I've learned thus far.

To those about to become a parent:

Sleep now. Because you will never know sleep like you know it at this very moment. Children have this weird way about them. They actually love life, and they look forward to waking up every morning. And so they like to do their best to beat the sun. And then they feel that they should drag you along with them. This starts immediately after birth and doesn't seem to have an end in sight, so sleep now.

To those with a newborn:

It will get better. A full nights sleep does exist...when they move out.

Breathe. Take in the moment. Inhale that sweet scent. Savor the loveliness of a non moving, non opinionated infant. Cherish it. Because time moves quickly, and they will soon turn into toddlers....and you could have missed the innocence.

To those with a toddler:

Xanax. Lexapro. Prozac. Seriously, just take whatever they offer you. You. Will. Need. It.  Then add in God and lots and lots of prayer.  You. Will. Need. That too!  

To those with a Preschooler:

Grab a notebook. A recorder. A journal. And then write down the hilariousness that comes out of their mouths. You will never want to forget the beginning of their own well contemplated thoughts. Hug them. Teach them. Make the hard moments a chance to learn. They are about to leave you, and what you give them now, they will bring into the world...

Other bits & pieces:

This awful stage you're in that you feel like will never end? I promise you, it will. Just when you think it can get no worse and you are about to lose it, a new annoying thing will take it's place. God seems to be clever like that.

When you're eating something yummy and you don't want to share, tell your child it's your healthy food and they wouldn't like it. It works, and now I never have to share my special treats.

Rather than telling your child 'no' or 'no-no,' say 'no thank you.'  You will adore it when it's repeated back to you one day.

Don't put up with tattling. Send them to a place where they sit facing each other and have them work it out themselves. My rule is, they have to stay put until the problem is solved and a hug has ended the war. This teaches them to 1) think twice about tattling, and 2) learn problem solving skills with friends.  Most importantly, it allows you to get back to your tv show, book, or other extracurricular activity you do while ignoring tattling children.

Advice that matters most:

We as parents are all learning. We are all (most) doing the best we can. We are all giving and loving and parenting with what we believe is right for us and our home. We are all in this together. So we should all have grace, extend grace...recieve grace. What is right for one, may not be right for another.

If you are loving the guts out of your children, then what other advice really matters? 

You're already doing what matters most.

(If you can't tell, my kids have been exceptionally sweet as of late, hence the optimistic outlook on parenting in this weeks posts.  But stay tuned...things have been known to change quickly.  My xanax is never far.)

Want more advice, click here.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

fear to courage

'Fears simply reveal where we have yet to grow. And each time we fight and win, that fear turns to courage.'  mike quinn

Fears are never easy to live with. They're even harder to face. And overcoming them takes courage in itself.

I've never been a fearful person. I loved change, loved the unknown, loved adventures. I was fearless, young, unafraid. And so, ten years ago, I bravely packed my car and left for California, without a plan. No friends, no job, no life. Yet, I knew it was to be my home. I had no fear.

As the years moved forward, taking my maturity with it, I began to learn. Life began to happen. Pain multiplied. It became something real, not just something internal I chose to torture myself with. It was tangible. It was there. There became something to lose.

I fell in love. With a man, with my babies, with my life. I now had something, someones, to lose.

And when life began to happen to me, seeing that it reached out beyond me, I found fear.

Life brought me anxiety. Anxiety brought me fear.

Yet I vowed. I would not be held captive. I would fight. For me, for my loves.

I find many things that remind me of that time. That time of life was not kind. And when I face them, I want to run. I want to hide, because what if? What if I don't conquer? What if I lose? What if, once again, it is not just me who will hurt?

Fears simply reveal where we have yet to grow. And each time we fight and win, that fear turns to courage.

And then I remember that truth. I must press forward, face the fear, and walk away armored with growth and courage.

Slowly, I feel the freedom. Hesitantly I face the reminders. There remains just one more. In time, in short time, I will be face to face with the final hurdle. But I won't run. I won't hide. I won't allow in that fear that wants to grip my thoughts and mind.

For again, I now have something to lose. But even more to gain.

My loves. Because from me, they will learn. From me, they will grow. 

As long as I continue to face the fear. 

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

advertising

Advertising space is now available on Le Musings of Moi! Right over there to the right of the blog, could be a home to your very own ad.

For stat info as well as ad rates, email me at summer@lemusingsofmoi.com

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

my heart grew

My sweet Taylor. Your heart amazes me. The amount of love. Forgiveness. Purity and hope. Everything you are is everything I want to be. 

How is that? You are merely four and yet the wisdom you contain surpasses that of many I know.

I want to bottle up your sweetness. Lock it up and hold tight, ever so grippingly, to the key. I never want it to go. I never want to say goodbye.

The smile on your face when you realized Daddy's trip away meant you got to have a special night snuggling in my bed, was a smile so full of love. Of adoration. Pure happiness. I want that.

The tenderness of your sweet tickles on my arm well before dawn, and the softness of your voice when you whispered...

"I love you so much mommy. I love this special time with you and I am so happy God gave you to me. I feel so much love for you in my heart."

...I needed that.

You couldn't see me, but warm tears fell from my sleepy eyes.

It was a softened moment, the kind that only happen between dreams and wakefulness, and one to be always etched on my soul for a lifetime.

I pray this heart of yours, the love you have, the forgiveness you extend, that it will remain always...you.

You are rare. You are that moment this morning. So pure, so sweet.

And in those moments, you prove to me, erasing all doubts that may have ever existed...that God is real. Moments like that, children like you, could never be anything less than a miracle from Him.

I love you Bubba, to heaven and back, I love you.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

a picture worth a thousand words

If only we could all be so careless and free...

My nieces swinging in the buff...

*please know, I do not endorse grown adults going out and swinging in the nude.  Please take in the metaphor sense only.*

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

fashion friday

I love my shoes still.  I've actually worn them a few times already which makes me happy, because I feel like I'm getting my money's worth.  As for the ties...you must be dying to know, so I'll tell you.  I've decided to tie them in the back.  Seems right that way.

The black dress is Forever 21 and the belt is a vintage scarf.

Now really quick, I have to share my latest in the personal matchmaking. Just recently, I met up with my client in his amazing home in Rancho Santa Fe, and had a little Image Consulting Session. Basically, a friend and I sat down with him, and we went over his hair, his interactions with women, dating advice, and then we got to raid his closet telling what worked and what needed to go.  It was very Stacey and Clinton, as he pointed out.  I felt like we gave good advice, and he bestilled my heart when he went out and bought a pair of the jeans I suggested the very next day.

It was amazingly fun, and the best part is I got paid for it! I really felt like I was in my element, and I think I may have just found my calling. Forget matchmaking, just call me the Personal Image Consultant. I'm working on something a little more hip sounding, but that'll work for now.

Now that I've found my calling, I'm here to help.  But it'll cost ya.  I mean, I'm all experienced with it now.  

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

In with in crowd

I never really loved High School.

I didn't dig the early start time, the vicious rumors and gossip, the lockers that I could never remember my combination for (I still have recurring dreams on that one!), but what I especially hated were the cliques. I could never quite get into the idea of it, and I certainly couldn't claim one that I wanted to be officially affiliated with.

Looking back, I had friends in nearly every "clique" there was in every school I went to. (I went to three high schools in four years. Another story for another time.) Anytime I felt like I was starting to be branded, I felt myself withdraw a little. I could never understand why. But, I always kept myself on the outskirts of every social circle. I had friends on the inside, but my attitude was a little of 'don't you dare draw me in with you.' It was never a conscious decision, just something I have since noticed in looking back.

I'm noticing though that this didn't end in high school. It continued into my twenties, and now into my thirties.

I have a wide array of friends. I just don't necessarily have one group of friends, and when I have parties or get togethers, a lot of my friends only know each other and are familiar with each other because of me. I don't intentionally make it this way, it just seems to be how it has worked out.

I've been this way in my blog as well. I know blogs that focus more on one particular topic seem to be more successful, but I can't seem to commit to being branded.  I know if you get in with the top clubs, you can rock it out.  If you kiss some serious bootie, you might get noticed.  If you follow, they will too.

But, it's just not me. I guess it never really has been.

Jimmy says he loves this about me.  It's one of the things that drew him into me.  The unexpectedness, the inability to figure me out.

I may never be in.  I may never be the best.  I may never be able to say, I'm a part of "the" crowd.  This used to bother me.  I used to think there was something wrong with me.  But, in time, it has settled.  It has become me.  

I just wonder, will I always be the one on the outside looking in?   

I guess for now, when I think of where I want to be...

it's right here, wherever here is.  

All I know is that it still feels like the outside.  

She sits and longs

for what she isn't sure

And yet, where she is

is right where she wants to be.

For now.

 

*this has been a part of Writers Workshop*

*A reminder...Fashion Friday is tomorrow.  I will be adding Mr. Linky for anyone who might want to join in.*

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

something for everyone

Writing va-cay has been good. I am getting some good thinking done. And I'll definitely be back tomorrow. It seems not writing is a lot harder than writing.

Anyway, on my last of the best of the best posts, I am going to share with you the articles I have written either on my own or with my writing partner, Betsy.

I think there is a little somethin somethin for everyone.

See ya tomorrow.

How to Look Fabulous in 15 Minutes

The Good, the Bad and the "Oh God, I'm Ugly!" Side of Motherhood

Oh, the Places You'll Go! (Moms and Guilt Trips)

The Truth About Playgroups

Why We Love TV

Why Breastfeeding Can Just Suck It

Top Ten New Years Resolutions Moms Can and will Keep for 2009

A Review of Loreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara

Tips to Keep Your New Years Resolutions

Last-Minute White Elephant Gift Ideas for Christmas Parties

Winning the War on Toddler Sleep

The IBoss: Why It's for Everyone

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

the power of forgiveness

And another best of:

Today's post is called:

The Power of Forgiveness....

My lesson this week? Forgiveness.

I've always had a harder time forgiving myself, but as I get older and the pain from someone I love hurts even more, I find it can be hard to forgive either way.

A couple of years ago I read a book called, Captivating by John & Stasi Eldredge. I wrote this part down in my journal that really stood out to me.

"Forgiveness is a choice. It is not a feeling - don't try and feel forgiving. It is an act of will. Don't wait to forgive until you feel like forgiving. You will never get there. Feelings take time to heal after the choice to forgive is made. We acknowledge that it hurt, that it mattered, and we choose to extend forgiveness to those who hurt us. This is not saying, 'It didn't really matter.' Forgiveness says, 'It was wrong. Very wrong. It mattered, hurt me deeply. And I release you. I give you to God.' It might even help to remember that those who hurt you were also deeply wounded themselves." Jesus did not retaliate when He was insulted. When He suffered, He did not threaten to get even. He left His case in the hands of God. 1 Peter 2:21-23"

I had to go back to this passage this week when I was hurt beyond words. In the moment all I really wanted to do was to hurt them back, to make them feel just a little bit of the pain that was throbbing in my heart. I wanted to hold on to it, to keep talking about it, and to have others tell me I was justified. I wanted to wallow in my tears and pain, and allow this person to see just what they had done to me.

I tried to pray in the middle of it all. It was a measly prayer, but I guess that's all it took. Because by the end of the day, I was reminded of what I had learned a couple years ago when I read that book. I had to forgive. It was not my place to punish. I had to give it to God. And I did. As best as I knew how. So at the end of the day, I went to this person and I forgave them.

I did not expect what happened next.

Since I've never forgiven quite like this before, I expected tears and awe for what I had just done, but instead it was a simple moment that seemed to pass quickly. The response was "Thank You." And of course, after pondering that moment the next day, I decided I wanted to take it back.

I said a few half hearted prayers. And again, I guess that's all it took. My mind was quickly flooded with thoughts of all the times I'd made mistakes, took them to God and knew I was forgiven. My response? "Thanks God."

Did I ever stop to dwell on what it took for Him to be able to forgive me? That it took Him sending His son to die on the cross? Sadly, not too often. Did I ever cry and cry and lavish on Him all my thanks and praise for being able to forgive without hesitation? Not many.

And now I know how that must have hurt Him. Yet, even in that He forgives. He understands.

It's a painful lesson. Most usually are. But, this week, no: this day....actually, just this moment, I will try to do the same. This moment, I choose to forgive and give it to God.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

mini vacation - best of....

I'm taking a few days off to let some creativity flow. I should be back on Thursday. In the mean time, I'm going to be posting "The best of" posts. Or three posts anyway, that I particulary like the most thus far.

I hope you miss me, I know I'll miss you. In the meantime, enjoy.

The one that got away....

Oh, in my story there are many. I was never a long timer in relationships. I think my longest was a year, and whew, that seemed like an eternity. I always tease Jimmy that he is my longest relationship.

I have the story that I think most girls have.

I've definitely had my heart broken. I've been hurt, lied to, misunderstood, unforgiven, broken up with for no reason, strung along...even cheated on by two different guys who I honestly never would have thought would hurt me that way.

But of course, not being perfect, I've broken a few hearts as well. Mostly because I was immature and not sure what it was I wanted or needed.

I was talking to one of my best friends about this whole "what if" thing....thanks to Jason (The Bachelor). And you know, after all is said and done, we came to the conclusion that the one who got away, is exactly that. Away. And most likely for a reason. Of course, and let me be clear, that reason is most certainly not me! Oh no, it's so so him. He (and I use that in the plural form) is not in my life because he wasn't the "one."

The "one" will fight for you. He won't let you go no matter what. He will cherish the sweet and thoughtful things you say and do. He will be honest with you. He will treat you better than you even think you deserve. He will love you despite your flaws, and he will forgive you for your many mistakes. He will laugh when you laugh, and he will wipe your tears when you cry. When things are really hard, he'll be right there next to you, because he loves you. He will see you in the morning and hold your hair when you throw up. And he will still think you are the hottest thing he's ever seen. Through the good and the bad, and even the really really bad....he won't ever even think of leaving you. Even when you tell him you never want to cook him meals for dinner.

That "one" is the one that stays. That's the one you keep. That's the one that will never get away. And that's how you are able to let the past be the past, and thank God every day for the "present" he's given you.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

looking fabulous in 15 minutes

I just published another article on Associated Content...you must read it!

How to Look Fabulous in 15 Minutes

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

you win some, you lose some...and christian louboutins

An open post for Fashion Friday was a good idea...in theory...

You win some, you lose some, I guess. ;-)

I'll keep it up the rest of the month though, and see what happens. Regardless, I'll still be here doing my thing on Fridays whether you decide to join or not!

I have to say, I wore my new shoes last night to a surprise birthday party, and I love them in a way that I explained to Jimmy, may be a sin. Say, should there be a fire, I would grab my kids, their journals, and my shoes. So, ya, it's that kind of love. Last night before bed, I mourned a little over the scuffs that appeared on their sweet little bottoms as a result of wearing them outside. And I related it a little to the insane diaper rash that has taken over Chloe's sweet little cheeks. I figured my shoes must be feeling a little of the same pain. My poor babies.

Anyway, I am definitely happy with the choice. Happy I birthed two amazing children to deserve them, and happy that after 5 hours of wearing them, my feet never hurt.

So, now I'm off to go organize my apartment like an OCD girl off her meds. (I'm not really OCD, and I don't take meds. Well....at least not for OCD.)

Enjoy your Saturday.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

fashion friday

Welcome to the first official open Fashion Friday!

Here's the details...as I've decided to make up rules, because I'm in charge, and I like rules.

As long as it's related to fashion, you can link up. Take and post pictures of your favorite outfit (dressy or casual), your favorite hair style, your cutest purse, shoes, jewelry....basically anything during the week that you wear and you want to show off.

I think we're all looking for new ideas and inspiration of all kinds, so don't think you aren't fashionable enough to join in! I want to see it all!

Here's mine for the week.

My jacket is from Target and I am in love with it. In Love.

The dress is The Limited...and actually I bought it from TJ Maxx when I was pregnant, and wore it all the way through. I still love it even without a baby in the belly, because it hides the cake in the belly as well.

The necklace is doubled up, and it's thrifted. As you've seen, I wear it often.

My boots are super old, and they actually don't even have a brand tag anywhere on them. I bought them at least 6 or 7 years ago, so I can't for the life of me remember where they're from. I have them in camel as well.

My purse was a Bunco win, believe it or not, and it's from Windsor.

Okay, so I have some exciting news. I finally found the shoes. On Mothers Day, my husband gifted me with an amazing pair of Christian Louboutin's, only I have had some issues with finding a pair that fit right. Apparently, his sizing is a bit of a problem for many.

Anyway, I went to return my third pair, and suddenly found these:

And now, my search is over. I am happy, I love them, and I think I may even sleep with them. In fact, you can bet that next weeks Fashion Friday will be centered around these babies. My sweet babies that I earned for birthing babies. Ahhhh, happiness. (By the way, I tied the tops differently on purpose...just wanted to try out both ways.)

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

muffin top, insecurity, shopping & rachel zoe

It's in black and white....well, because....I wasn't feeling so pretty in color. Ah, if only we could do that in real life!

Yes, I know it was long. I'm sorry. I felt wordy. But, I hope at least, that it was the best five minutes of your day. Spent with moi.

By the way, as I was getting ready to post this, the kids who live upstairs just walked by my open window smoking pot. Yup. Just walking through the complex up to their apartment in which they live with their mom, smoking weed.

I'm not too sure I love it here anymore.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

why i wont be famous

Remember that video of the kid that was going around who just had his teeth pulled and he kept saying, "Is this real life?"

That's what I found myself asking when I was watching I'm a Celebrity.

I also asked myself....Why is Heidi brushing her hair like that? And what is she spraying in her hair every five seconds? And why does Spencer refer to himself in the third person? That is just weird. And uncomfortable to watch actually.

I do however think Janice is pretty funny. And Frangela? They kinda found a place in my heart as well.

Anyway, so today I finally watched the premiere of Jon & Kate, and I have to say, I almost cried. Seriously, that is just so sad. They are a complete mess.

I mean, between Heidi & Spencer and Jon & Kate, do you even need more convincing that being famous isn't all it's cracked up to be?

Yes? Okay then. Here are just a few more reasons....

There, I feel I did my community service for the day. If I can save just one person from being famous, then I can rest peacefully.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

and then....I cried

So, today I cried.

I was watching Taylor ride his Razor around the building with his new neighborhood friends, and I realized how big he's getting. He was off playing with his friends, away from the house, doing big boy things. When I was watching him, I felt so proud. He was so kind, so polite, so good and sweet.

Anyway, I cried. Because I realized that as time moves on, my time and influence with him is becoming less and less. Next year, preschool is three days, and then the following year is full day Kindergarten. I hope he never forgets the time we've had, the laughter and tears (both his and mine) that accompany an entire day together. I hope he never thinks it's uncool to snuggle his mama.

And then...today I put Chloe in the Bob for the first time. It was Taylor's first and only stroller, and now Chloe gets to inherit it. Up until now, she's only been in her Snap and Go. But, being that she's almost 8 months (and really should have been in a normal stroller for some time now) I figured today would be the day. So while Taylor was at his best friends house, Chloe and I went thrift store shopping. When I put her in the stroller and looked at her all grown up, I cried.

And then...I was in the thrift store. I saw a dad and his pre-teen daughter shopping. He told her she could get whatever she wanted. He called her honey and sweetie, and you could tell it was their special time.

That was my dad. We loved to go to garage sales and thrift stores together. He called me honey and sweetie. And he always told me I could get whatever I wanted. It made me miss him. And then...I cried.

Being a mom is a roller coaster ride for sure. You are up and down, back and forth, you scream and cry and you want to get off, there's throw up and nausea, laughter and fear....and before you know it, the ride stops and you have to get off. Only, you don't want to because you realize how short it really was, and if you could just ride it one more time you'll make sure to enjoy every twist and turn...puke and all.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

the cutest headbands!

Awhile back in a Things I Love post, I showed off the cutest headband ever that I had found on etsy. I ordered one for Chloe, and almost every day (that we leave the house!) she sports it and gets a ton of oohs and aahs everywhere we go.

They are freaking adorable.

So, get this, Rachelle the owner of KenziePoo is offering to giveaway two headbands of your choice to two of my readers!

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"