alissa b

*Sugarlips Giveaway!

2012-03-02T13:15:00.005-08:00

[Jacket - c/o Sugarlips, sweater - All Saints, top & scarf - Forever 21, pants - BDG via UO, boots - New Look]

I’ve always loved parkas and, since last year, I’ve always looked for the perfect one but haven’t ever settled on one. I finally found the perfect one: it’s by Sugarlips and it’s a good combination of girly and sporty, typical of parkas.

Today’s giveaway is courtesy of Sugarlips! One lucky winner will be chosen randomly to receive a 50% off any purchase. To enter, simply visit Sugarlips and leave a comment below with a link of your favorite garment! For two additional entries to the giveaway follow them on Twitter, and/or like them on Facebook. For each additional entry, please leave an additional comment indicating so. The giveaway ends on Sunday, March 18 at 9p. Good luck!

give me a word i can keep

2012-02-22T15:08:00.000-08:00

[ Scarf - Deena & Ozzy via UO, top - Express, skinny jeans - American Eagle, moccasins - BDG via UO ]

Today I…

woke up early enough to shower and make to school in something other than pajamas—but didn’t straighten my hair
wore a sweater this morning when it was 36 degrees and didn’t when it warmed up to 73 degrees—I thought it was February? Oklahoma, have you forgotten that its still winter?
made an eye appointment
got the chance to show off my new suede moccasins that Chris bought me for our anniversary. i just love ‘em! (and him!)
had one class outside
had zero lunch
ignored the dishes. again.
attempted to make a deal with Chris so he’d do the dishes
am cuddling with Ossie right now. He’s snuggled in my lap
am getting ready for midterms. study guides, note cards, highlighting.
am missing my family :’(

it's not what i didn't feel, it's what i didn't show

2012-02-16T11:16:00.000-08:00

[ Blouse - Image, top - Forever 21, pants - BDG via UO, flats - WalMart ]

These are shots from Tuesday. Since my and Chris' anniversary is so close to Valentine’s Day, we don’t usually do much celebrating of V-Day. Our romantic evening included eating $1 McChickens, sharing french fries, and a movie marathon. He knows how to please my heart (and stomach). Good man!

I spy another WalMart find! Remember my WalMart find from the summer? This little dress! Well earlier this week I was waiting on some photos to print, I stumbled upon these $14 dollar flats. Now, as you already know I am all about wearing black—and I have seven pairs of black flats. But I’m so picky about the ones I buy that the last pair of black flats I bought was three or four years ago! So I was thrilled to find these shoved onto a shelf. I love the soft imitation leather and the contrast shiny toe—aka a great find!

Moment of the day: Monday it snowed. Monday it was very cold and very windy. Monday I had to go across campus to take an exam. Literally ten yards into my journey, I tripped and fell into a snow drift. Snow/water filled the insides of my gloves. Snow/water completely drenched my pants. Only 120 yards left to go.

Awkward moment of the day: The lady administering the exam notices my wet pants and pink nose, “It cold outside?” I give a polite fake laugh. She tells me to put my backpack against the wall, I dump it and my soggy gloves on the floor against the wall. The lady then says,”Oh honey…you have grass all down your backside.” Yeah, I’m just here to take my exam please.

can we just go ahead and end up together?

2012-02-10T14:25:00.000-08:00

*ignore the fact that anniversary is misspelled on the balloon. I was delirious while sneakily trying to do this at 3a

My surprise for my and Chris’ three year anniversary…he woke up to a living room full of balloons!

I’m so lucky to be with a man whose smiles, laughs, and stories are so captivating.
I’m so lucky to be with a man who shamelessly kisses my hand, tickles me, and is still so playful.
I’m so lucky to be with a man who makes me feel like the luckiest girl in the world, rather than the crazy, anxious basket case that I am.

And I am so lucky that this man loves me and wants to spend the rest of my life with me. Because there’s nothing better than hearing those words so genuinely expressed and feeling the exact same.

Here’s to three years and counting…

sparkle & fade

2012-02-07T17:53:00.000-08:00

[ Blazer - local shop, necklace - UO, top - Forever 21, pants - BDG via UO, heels - Alloy ]

Most days I can't say that I'm 80-100% efficient with my time. I like waste a lot of time accomplishing nothing. Like piddling around on the internet, scrolling and clicking at anything remotely interesting. Watching youtube videos and reading people's comments. Making lists, and including things I've already done so I can feel accomplished and cross them out. Recolor code my closet. Watch reality television.

Not today! I woke up at 630a and handled business: went into work early, made a lot of progress on my tasks, helped T with her house hunting, ran errands, and finished homework. Bam. I'm giving all the credit to this rhinestone bib necklace. It's my source of power. Psh, and you were wondering how I was going to wear this bad boy.

As you know I'm not a big wearing jeans fan, but hands down these are the best pair of pants I own--worn before here and here.

falling temperatures

2012-02-06T14:00:00.000-08:00

[ Beanie - unsure, sweater, jeans - American Eagle, top - UO, wedges - Deena & Ozzy via UO ]

First, I’d like to introduce you to my new hair. I took the plunge and got two inches cut off. Two inches cut off? Yeah, I know, it doesn’t look like it. The weird thing is, I’ve been on this mission for the past few years to grow my hair out, grow my hair out, grow my hair out. Well it has. And now what to I do with my life? GET STRAIGHT ACROSS BANGS THAT’S WHAT.

Second, I’d like to introduce you to my new bangs. I still feeling out my feelings on them.

After zero hours of sleep last night, I had all the time in the world to get ready this morning. As well as time to drag Chris out of bed to take photos. As well as a whole hour of time wasting before my first class.

In all that spare time of not sleeping I have figured out my entire week’s schedule, what I want to wear to work tomorrow, figured out my anniversary surprise for Chris, and decided that I hate Oklahoma weather—ok, I did that last one later in the day. Hate the weather meaning Oklahoma days like today when it’s super freezing in the morning then come midday, it’s irregularly hot. I come out of class wrapped up in a scarf and a hat with people passing me in shorts. So I’m left standing there thinking “Uh…cool. When did this happen? It’s still February right?”

Top seen before here and wedges before here.

worry is to torment oneself with or suffer from disturbing thoughts or anxieties; fret.

2012-02-01T17:16:00.000-08:00

[ Cardigan - BDG via UO, top, leggings, boots, bag -Forever 21, necklace - unsure ]

I really can’t tell you how glad I am that its February. Because I’m assuming that unlike January, February won’t be back to back to back bad days. I’m in that spot where things seem to be piling up fast and its starting to overwhelm me.

How I “cope” aka yesterday:

Think. Keeping thinking. Over think. Make lots of lists.
Drive home, under the speed limit, listening to the same two songs on repeat (and thinking “these artists really get me”) for an hour drive from work.
Only to get home aggressively run two miles on the treadmill listening to angry music (and thinking “these artists really get me”).
Which leads to brooding in the shower until all the hot water runs out when all I’ve managed to do was wash my face and shave below the knees on both legs.
Put demands on Chris. Like two of those insanely delicious Valentine’s Day sugar cookies from Panera and pizza and a depressing movie (which wasn’t so depressing and quite good). And cuddling too, dammit.

But the day ended with me feeling a lot better, despite the fact I accomplished very little (…and the guilt and anxiety creeps back as I write this/am reminded).

Oh, and I get my hair cut/colored this weekend (good) between doing endless amounts of homework (bad) and studying (bad) and the superbowl (good—but only if the Patriots win).

guess who snagged some sales?

2012-01-26T19:49:00.000-08:00

Paprika Chiffon Belted Dress via ASOS

BDG Classic Solid Cardigan in Maroon via UO

Rhinestone Bib Necklace via UO

this girl did.

For some reason I have really, really been feeling the color yellow/mustard lately. Proof: the cardigan, my nails, and now this perfect little dress that’ll arrive just in time to celebrate my three year anniversary with Chris. February 8, get ready. I’ll be strutting my freezing butt off just to be looking good for my man.

Fine, I’ll be wearing tights. Probably two pairs to try to double up on warmth. And a coat, duh, when we are outside. Stop hassling me.

The maroon cardigan? Same brand and style as my charteuse (aka yellow/mustard) cardigan but just happens to be $20 cheaper. The “rhinestone bib” necklace? I admit, I don’t know how this will go over. I don’t usually wear bibs or rhinestones. Cross your fingers it looks classy with a nice fitted top to wear to work or this baby will be returned.

Conclusion: Despite my gravitation to wearing neutrals, I’m warming up to bold colored garments. And apparently to blingy bibs too.

honey why you calling me so late?

2012-01-25T21:01:00.000-08:00

[ Black cardigan - American Eagle, beige cardigan & racerback - All Saints, bottoms - BDG via UO, shoes - Deena & Ozzy via UO, rings - assorted from the years, scarf - mom's ]

OK, so I have written and deleted two paragraphs/rants. The quick and less annoying version to read amounts to this:

For some reason, I'm just feeling all out of sorts lately.

Blah. I'll do better next post, promise.

january lately

2012-01-22T13:11:00.000-08:00

A mystery package arrived from best friend M this week. Inside? Pug bookends!

Awkward moment of the week: the moment you realize you really do need to go grocery shopping because you are completely out of toilet paper. And have resorted to using tissues.

The boys looking so serious.

And not so serious.

This is my don’t-get-dressed-on-the-weekends-because-I-mostly-just-stay-cramped-in-my-computer-chair-doing-homework outfit photo.

be the girl you were too lazy to be yesterday

2012-01-17T17:29:00.000-08:00

[ Blouse - Threadsence, bottoms - BDG via UO, shoes - Gordman’s, hat - Walmart, Coat - Old Navy ]

I dressed for success this morning. This morning that was 22 degrees...hence why I seem to be clenching my fists in every photo. Red lipstick--check, heels--check, sweater leggings underneath my trousers for extra warmth--doesn't count, and this amazing new spotted blouse that says "I'm professional and creative"--check.

Two shouts of love to Chris: First, for being miserable about the weather but taking these photos anyway and second, for always warming my car up before I have to drive to work. This kid is a keeper.

a roadtrip to arizona for the fiesta bowl

2012-01-14T20:33:00.000-08:00

Obviously I am a little bit behind since this happened a few weeks ago. But here are the photos (and photos and photos) from our trip to go see OSU play in the Fiesta Bowl!

The numbers:

4 states
16 hours in a RV
4 margaritas
70,000 fans packed into a stadium
1 overtime
1 winner—Oklahoma State!

The margarita machine

Checking out the Stanford lots.

Stanford's mascot is the tree. Hence the menacing shirts..."Fear the Tree"

Former OSU cheerleader showing off her moves.

We won! 41 Okstate - 38 Stanford

hard luck

2012-01-11T17:08:00.000-08:00

[ Jacket, scarf - Forever 21, top - Gap c/o Chris, sneakers - Converse, sweater leggings ]

Being indecisive with my photo format today and trying something different. Probably won’t stick with it but I like it for this post.

I can’t think of what to write. But here are two things that come to mind from this week.

1. Day three into new semester and so far it’s been a mess. Rearranging and dropping classes, buying and returning books (spent $500 on books this time), and too many appointments with my adviser.

2. Today was a blustery, very cold day. On my walk home from campus I was forced to get sprayed by not one but two sprinklers in order to reach the crosswalk. Wet face. Wet hair. Wet jacket. As you can imagine it was an awful walk the rest of the way.

you keep me wide awake and waiting for the sun

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

[ Scarf - Chris’, sweater - Old Navy, top - local, pants - BDG jean via UO, flats - Buckle ]

These photos were taken over holiday break on the last day we were at my parents. I nabbed this sweater at Old Navy for $10 while Christmas shopping. Flats seen before here and here. After coming home, unpacking and cleaning, Chris took me out for a little dinner date at Red Lobster. It’s become his new favorite.

Today I’m sitting on the couch, surrounded by tissues, smelling like Vicks and reading Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest. Sick. Sick, and school starts tomorrow…can’t wait.

clips and phrases

2012-01-05T20:00:00.000-08:00

[Cardigan - BDG via UO, top (old) - unsure, necklace (old), pants - American Eagle, boots - local shop]
New Years Illustration - Kelli Murray

This is what an Alissa looks like at 8:30a. Squinty and grumpy, and somewhere between a quick breakfast of homemade waffles (thanks for the left overs, mom!), a packed lunch in a WalMart sack (classy), and rushing out the door for work. Can you tell I’ve been favoring this cardigan lately? Previously worn here and here.

Well, it’s 2012. So far I’ve spent the first four days of January in Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico and Arizona on a road trip with my family and Chris to cheer on the OSU Cowboys at the Fiesta Bowl. My voice is hoarse and my camera is overloaded with +400 photos.

And I’ve read two books.

And I haven’t gotten any of my textbooks or notebooks for spring term that starts Monday. And I’ve been driving myself crazy about how I plan on passing German II.

Some photos from New Years Eve

2011-12-30T23:40:00.000-08:00

December was hectic. Between finishing up with finals, working during break and sorting out our family’s Christmas plans (and presents)—it wasn’t until two days before Christmas when things started finally slow down for me. I was able to catch my breath. I was able to be with family and finally enjoy the holiday.

And the Christmas ~~present~~ memory of riding in a horse drawn carriage. At midnight, in the freezing winter—but curled up next to Chris. Whispering, pointing out Christmas lights, and listening to the sound of horse’s hooves. I had that feeling, deep in the pit of my stomach, that I knew I didn’t want to be anywhere else with anyone else but him.

a (very special) new thing

2011-12-29T14:41:00.000-08:00

[ Sigma 18-50mm lens ]

It was this time last year when I gave myself the goal “if I want to try something—just try it!”. I wanted to push aside my anxiety, and my fear of failure. A big part of that dealt with being more proactive and more creative with my blog. I’ve always been blogging, whether on tumblr or way back during xanga/livejournal days, and I wanted my blog to grow with me. If change hasn’t reflected in my blog, I can honestly say it has in my life.

It was this time last year when I gave myself the goal to try, and I have.

Photography: I picked up a camera. I experimented with different ones, via my college’s art department or my dad's, and was able to replace elements of my blog with real photos, photos I took. My blog became less of collection of random thoughts, rants, and reblogs and became a more cohesive tool for me to share my life with my family and friends as well as strangers.

Outfit posts: I stood in front of the camera. This part was hard—I felt silly and embarrassed. But I liked this aspect of blogging and wanted to try doing it for my blog. I started with a old snapshot camera and a tripod in a corner of my room. Then one afternoon Chris offered to help. Day after day, I slowly realized that I looked forward to putting outfits together—finding multiple ways to style something I’d usually only wear a one or two ways—and posting them. It was freeing. Whether I received lots or little feedback, somehow the mix of blogging and posting outfits I was becoming more comfortable in my skin and more importantly—becoming comfortable with trying new things.

School/Grades: I wanted a 4.0 for the fall semester. Something I had never gotten in college and I wanted to strive for it my senior year. I buckled down, hard. I said no to invites, missed (some) family occasions and lots of down time with Chris. I spent game days and long weekends in the library. I took 18 hours for the fall semester. I took 18 hours and got 5 A’s and 2 B’s. A 3.7! It wasn’t my goal, but given the amount of work I put into the semester—it almost felt like a 4.0

So thanks to my dad who gave me his camera for Christmas. Thanks to my family who came together and decided to buy me this new lens. Thanks to my readers and those who comment. I’d do this blog if I had no followers, but it means so much that I have support from you all.

with love, oklahoma

2011-12-29T09:34:00.000-08:00

[ Cardigan - BDG via UO, scarf - gift, top and pants (old) - American Eagle, boots - local ]

Today I am so happy and honored to be guest posting for the lovely Charity of c'est la belle vie! I have attached my photos here for you to enjoy, but please pop over to her blog to see what I had to say about this look.

Hope everyone is having a great Thursday. I am so loving this time off work and school its not even funny!

i would swallow my pride, and choke on the rinds

2011-12-28T09:45:00.000-08:00

Beanie - Old Navy, leather jacket- Forever 21, hoodie & jeans - American Eagle, tee - Chris’, flats - Buckle

With all the hype about the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo books and the subsequent movie—which makes my list of top ten favorites, David Fincher made a truly amazing film—I finally gave in and bought/started reading the first book of the trilogy. And when I say gave in, I mean before we got up in the theater when the credits started to roll, I told Chris we were stopping on the way home to buy the book. And the second one.

So if you need to find me, I’ll be huddled in my snuggie reading for the rest of the week.

frohe weihnachten!*

2011-12-25T18:04:00.000-08:00

Cardigan - BDG via UO, scarf - gift, top and shorts (old) - American Eagle, tights and flats - local

*(merry christmas! in german)

After an early start and a busy day, I’m finally relaxing with my family and on the couch cuddled up next to Chris and the pups. I’m now dressed in Rudolph pajamas (that’s right, matching top and bottoms gifted from my momma), eating sugar cookies and flipping channels between the Thunder basketball game and the Packers football game.

I couldn’t be happier!

Hope you are enjoying your holidays and the time with your families! :)

december lately part 2

2011-12-18T23:07:00.000-08:00

Coat - Delia’s, scarf - UO, bag - Forever 21, cigarette jean - BDG via UO, wedges - Deena & Ozzy via UO

Look what Chris has stashed under the tree…

With the exception of Friday night, we spent the entire weekend huddled up at home. Towels lined against the door to keep the cold air out. TV marathons. Cooking together. Sharing a bottle of wine, and then drunkenly attempting to play RockBand.

Me on the vocals for the first time = bad. Chris pretending I was good on vocals = good.

Also worth mentioning: Full work of week starts tomorrow. Fall terms grades come out Tuesday.

am / pm #1

2011-12-15T14:43:00.000-08:00

AM: to the library and for errands
BDG cardigan, Urban Outfitters scarf, Walmart dress, ASOS thigh high socks, Old Navy oxford ankle boots

PM: to work
BDG cardigan, Forever 21 top, BDG cigarette jean, BDG loafers

I’ve somehow revisited my Maroon 5 obsession from sophomore year of high school. Listening to them when I get ready, on my walk to classes, on my drive to work, and mini trips to the store. (“Chris, don’t feel down! Listen to this!” and I play Misery. Two times. Sometimes three.)

Awkward moment of the day: at work, explaining my changes to the proposal and further suggestions when suddenly I'm completely distracted. By distracted I mean I faintly hear an old Maroon 5 song playing in someone's office. My brain derailed and I was embarrassed because it took me like three to five minutes to pick up where I was.

Side note: am / pm something you guys like? I really love how Sara Zucker does her 8am vs. 8pm feature and wanted to do something similar. Worth keeping y/n?

december lately part 1

2011-12-14T16:41:00.000-08:00

Scarf and coat - Forever 21, cigarette jean - BDG via UO, wedges - Deena & Ozzy via UO

Still in the middle of finals, but here are some bits and pieces of life according to my camera.

an update aka project 3 of 5

2011-12-09T12:52:00.000-08:00

Here's a peek of one of my five projects (+an exam) I had due for finals. This project was for my fiction writing class and we had to write a story and turn it into the professor in an audio format (cd, mp3, etc.) T and I had a lot of fun (even though we didn't finish until 3a this morning) playing around with the music and adding in sounds/noises. Then we ran with the idea of making them look like legit audio cds by making our own covers and putting them in real cd cases. Haha, my case was taken from an old Papa Roach album.

Luck to everyone going through finals!

brb

2011-12-05T15:21:00.000-08:00

It’s dead week y’all and everyday I’m ~~hustlin’~~ studyin’

Meaning I’m going to be knees deep in finishing up three manuscripts (and recording one of them), a long paper, studying, and studying to get ready for finals.

I’ll see you when I see you!

silence and noise

2011-12-04T21:51:00.000-08:00

Coat and shorts -Forever 21, sweater and tights - local, top - Silence and Noise, wedges - Deena & Ozzy

Things that I don’t understand and don’t want to talk about:

This outfit. It looked better in my head.
Keeping up with the Kardashian’s. Kourtney and Khloe Take Miami. Kourtney and Kim Take New York. Khloe & Lamar. Why can’t I look away?
When professors invite undergrads to a party at their house. How it’s “professional” but someone last year “totally dumped Everclear into the punch bowl” and it got “totally crazy”. Teacher/student boundaries, please. Unless there’s bonus points.
Oklahoma State. The BSC. National Championship.
How flattering it was to be complemented by a nurse at my gyno appointment. Just to clarify, nothing dirty.
Why children’s toys are so expensive. Barbies that costs $26.99. Between Chris and I, we are buying for four little girls. I’m going to become that cheap aunt that never sends gifts or money in cards real fast
Returning this top because of Chris’ severe discomfort/confusion over the back. “No, no. It’s just weird. I don’t like it. Where would you even wear it?”
Things I do when I have alone time at the house. Like watch every TLC wedding show and special (Nick & Vanessa’s Dream Wedding) that aired while eating more than half of the leftover chocolate pie. With no pants on.
20 more days until NBA basketball. Can't.Wait.

give a little more

2011-11-30T18:25:00.000-08:00

Blazer - the Wooden Nickel, tops - Forever 21, leggings - local, boots - local

Blazer seen before here and here.

Dead week is next week, then its finals. This has been a particularly hard semester for me, not only because of my class load, but because of other factors as well. I’m just so anxious, excited, and exhausted being so close to being finished with it.

After seeing this picture on We Heart It some time back, I really wanted to post a bunch of these fliers up and around on campus. This past week I did. I taped copies up on doors and pinned them up all over bulletin boards in buildings and the library.

Hopefully it can bring a a tiny bit of stress off someone’s shoulders.

wish to wear / j. crew's very merry gift guide

2011-11-28T19:06:00.000-08:00

Lodge moccasins, Archie Grand for J. Crew notebook, Printed iPhone 4 case, Weatherby rain boots, Skinny calf hair belt

Looking for some cute gifts for Christmas? Christmas shopping makes me anxious! This + money usually leaves me scrapping gifts together last minute but J. Crew has you covered with their Very Merry Gift Guide. Here are a few that caught my eye!

(Gasp. $60 for a belt? Gaaah.)

keep your hopes up high & your heads down low

2011-11-27T16:11:00.000-08:00

Beanie - Forever 21, sweater - Chris’ from Hollister, tee - Truly Madly Deeply, sweater leggings - Gordman’s, socks - ASOS, boots - American Eagle

Two more full weeks of classes and then it’s finals week. Two weeks.

But for now it’s still the weekend/Thanksgiving break. Aside from today, I think I’ve worn the same pair of sweatpants four times in a row. Chris and I have been cuddling up, watching movies, playing Hanging with Friends (have the app? challenge me! my username is wafflekingbitch), and using up all our bowls (and some tupperware) by eating cereal.

Productivity has slowed a little but I already know everything I need to start/finish up for the next two weeks. I’ve been using this weekend to study for an exam I have tomorrow. I am so ready to get this semester over!

Awesome moment of this week #1: getting my Urban Outfitters package.

Awesome moment of this week #2: the NBA lockout is (tentatively) over! The season to starts on Christmas Day & will then play a 66 game season. Hell yeah basketball is baaaack!

What's been playing on my Pandora station:

Misery - Maroon 5, It’s Complicated - A Day to Remember, Under the Sheets - Ellie Goulding

2011-11-25T18:19:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving morning Chris and I were scurrying around the house. Trying to get all three dogs clean (muddy paws and noses from playing outside) and settled, finishing the remaining laundry, packing up the car and getting ready.

I’ve been trying to time a good day for Chris and I to take our holiday/Christmas card photo for the past two weeks. But it wasn’t happening—if it wasn’t the weather, mostly dreary and rainy outside, its been impossible trying to match up our schedules. But thankfully, Thanksgiving morning before we left we were able to make a quick stop, set up the tripod and get a good one!

Now an unmarried couple sending out a holiday card may be lame, but least we haven’t slummed to posing with ours dogs and sending those out. We’re doing that next year. Haha, kidding. Maybe. Besides…they’re cute to put on the fridge. Lemme alone!

Traditionally, I always spend Thanksgiving with my parents but this year they are visiting with one of my sisters in Germany. So my other sister took reins of Thanksgiving with preparing and cooking the dinner and desserts. We even brought a plus one this year. Chris’ friend/musician sensation Casey Smalley joined us.

I failed and only took a few photos from our Thanksgiving…

Casey’s footwear. I hate that I forgot to get a photo of him and Chris together.

monday feelings

2011-11-21T11:21:00.000-08:00

Friday night the university got news of two of our (basketball) coaches dying in a plane crash. All games were canceled but our football game away. That night, our football team got their first loss of the season.

“November 18, 2011, is a day Oklahoma State will never forget. It was a day where OSU fans, players and coaches awoke to the news of tragedy and went to bed with the bitter taste of defeat.” —See article here.

All my classes, with the exception of my night class, were canceled so students could attend the memorial services of the two coaches. I feel less of a loss for the OSU family and more an ache for their individual families. One coach left behind a wife and two kids. My thoughts go out to them and to the pilots’ (a married couple, who didn’t survive) families as well.

A solemn day at OSU.

*sweatshirt is thieved from my mom, who is from Wisconsin

splurge, splurge + a side of guilt

2011-11-21T00:12:00.000-08:00

All from Urban Outfitters, from left to right: BDG Woven Tassel Loafers, Silence & Noise Keyhole Tank Top in black multi, BDG Cigarette Jean, Deena & Ozzy Sculpted Wedge, Staring at the Stars Open Weave Fringed Scarf in grey, Sparkle & Fade Colorblock Tulip Dress, BDG Classic Cardigan in chartreuse, Truly Madly Deeply Merci Tee in blue.

Purchased.

To help ease my guilt for buying this, I must disclaimer/justify it to myself. I have only gone shopping three times this entire year. All the money I’ve earned from my internship has gone towards groceries, etc. Also, I mostly bought sale items + used a discount code (for those interested: TOPARTY) towards the purchase.

Despite having to be extra tight until my next paycheck (which comes at the end of the week), I can’t help thinking: “Omg. Omg. Can’t wait for this package to arrive!” every time I see the confirmation email/order status in my inbox. I should be embarrassed about how giddy I am about it, but no shame.

Can’t wait.

five things from this week

2011-11-16T15:15:00.000-08:00

1. Long sleeves, scarves, boots, coats, my cappy.

2. Chris’ spiffy frames

4. A package of beauty goodies from Lipstick & Stockings that includes my new favorite Wet N’ Wild Trio “Walking on Eggshells” eyeshadow palette and an amazing elf brush set. I tend to be (really) clueless about makeup so I’m blown away by what she sent, the quality, and just her! Check out all the goodies here, and her beauty blog here!

5. My parents have deserted me during the holidays! No one likes Thanksgiving anyway, right? They have packed up and jetted over to visit my sister and her family in Germany…but they did leave us their pup (remember baby Molly from back in the spring/summer?) to take care of!

I’ve been doing a little growth photo project with this beast. I need to do a new one because she’s already taller (but not as thick/built as) than Bane.

+6. Attempting to do some new doodling and hating them. Texts are hard. Dogs are hard. Drawing is hard. #jealousofrealartists

light up the lawn

2011-11-13T18:28:00.000-08:00

from August and from my drafts folder.

The first time I went, I was a freshman. I had only lived on campus for a week, if even that long, and was eager to become involved in the school. A bit nervous too. It was the first event of the school calendar year.

The second time I went as a senior. I carried two cans of corn, one for me and one for Chris, as our entry tickets. We had walked from home to campus and could hear the recognizable, but now forgettable, cover songs being played by a live band. I tried a small dance on the sidewalk then playfully pouted when he didn’t join in. We arrived roughly five minutes after it officially started, but library lawn was already packed with bodies.

The library is the heart of campus. Deep orange-red bricks built up into wide arches and tall columns. Up, all the way up to the clock tower that chimes the school song—and Christmas tunes in the winter. At night the clock tower glows on and over the lawn stretches before it. Yard after yard of thick grass, manicured so particularly like golf course greenery.

That night, the lawn was compacted with long rows weaving up and down of booths and folding tables. Each pushed free items on us as we walked. A bank gave out highlighters, a club handed out frisbees, a church with pamphlets. “Where will you go after you die?” it asked. Chris kept the pamphlet to look at later but never did.

Everything was orange. The highlighters, the frisbees, plastic cups, posters, the tent covers and tarps, the balloons, and chalk on the pavement. Even the students were sporting their own orange: last season’s football shirts, the free tees from freshman orientation, you get the idea.

As it got darker, the grass became more and more trampled and and muddy. Ice cream wrappers and flyers sopped up much of the slick dirt. Some got into my sandals. The band changed to a woman soloist and surrounding lamp posts began to literally light up the lawn. We sat and listened and talked.

We left before the rain had shut down the mechanical bull.

wish to wear / stitched + adorned

2011-11-11T21:55:00.000-08:00

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Just stumbled upon this cute little shop called Stitched + Adorned. All items are from independent designers and hand picked by the shop owners.

1, 3, & 5…please don’t sell out!

stress & mess

2011-11-08T09:41:00.000-08:00

If I’m being honest, I have been a big ball of crazy for the past two weeks. My internship + 18 hours of school is finally catching up with me. If I’m being honest, I think I have cried at least every other day for the past two weeks. From stress, from personal issues. Sometimes just out of spells of frustration and others sobbing, huddled against Chris’ chest.

And while I’m being honest, it’s hard for me to open up when/on why I’m having a rough time. But I am lucky to have a few very strong, smart people in my life who remind me to stop feeling stuck and alone and defeated.

I’m five weeks away from ending the hardest semester I’ve had, with the strongest GPA I’ve ever had
I’m five weeks + one more semester away from graduating
I’m in a great internship that I love that could lead to an amazing job

When I’m feeling badly it’s hard for me to focus on the understated, sweet things that are happening around me. Here’s my happy list:

coming home to Ossie snuggling with one of my shoes or in one of my t-shirts
packages in the mail
listening to Ellie Goulding & her cover of of this song
wearing boots and big heavy sweaters again (when the weather permits, Oklahoma is still going back and forth between warming up and cooling way down)
random study breaks where Chris surprises me with hot chocolate & the movie “crazy, stupid, love”
long conversations to old & far away friends
falling asleep in thunderstorms

carry this picture for luck

2011-11-06T14:13:00.000-08:00

Blazer, tights, ring - local, top, skirt, handbag - Forever 21, suedette wedges - New Look

November has become the birthday month since Chris and I got together. Within the first two weeks of this month, we have my mom’s birthday, Chris’, one of my sister’s, and one of Chris’ sister’s.

My parents are leaving in a week to go visit that very birthday sister in Germany for a few weeks—gasp! including Thanksgiving! So they’ll be out of the country on Chris’ big day (he’s turning 25!) so we got to dress up & go out for an early birthday dinner and drinks. The restaurant…was incredibly nice and upscale aka pretty much the nicest place I’ve been. I felt like a little kid trying to mind my manners, eat properly, and be aware of how loud I was talking. Haha, but the food was absolutely delicious and it was a great time.

Despite the 35mph wind, I was able to get the tripod steady before we left and snap some outfit photos + some with Chris! I’m wearing my blazer (seen before here and here!) and this size-to-small skirt (seen last winter here!) with some thick tights and suedette wedges.

(Psst, look I finally got my roots touched up & my hair highlighted!)

just bend the pieces til they fit

2011-11-04T15:23:00.000-07:00

Scarf - Old Navy, top - Gordman’s, jeggings - American Eagle, flats - unsure

Hello internet. A quick post for now, I’ll properly update tomorrow I promise.
Also, hello November.

with Ossie

i like the light but hate the heat

2011-10-26T14:29:00.000-07:00

Hat - unsure, sweater - Gordman’s, top & jeans - American Eagle, boots - local

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

I went solo (and a bit goofy) with the camera today using the tripod and the (frustrating) timer.

Today started early, or at least was suppose to. I hit snooze a few times. I worked from bed on some unfinished tasks for work and then seriously considered skipping classes. It was cold, gray and windy outside. And I had so much homework I wanted to do. I just wanted to stay in bed and do it but I pulled on my poof hat (to hide last night’s hair/the cowlick that rearranged my bangs) and walked to campus. I spent some time at the library, got a hot chocolate from the bakery, went to classes.

The weird thing about doing a blog that shows what I wear is it’s weird to post repeat outfits. I don’t have an unlimited amount of cash or a bottomless closet, so I wear the same outfits. Especially ones that are my favorites. This is one of those outfits.

Same outfit, same season via 2010, webcam style with Ossie

too many lists

2011-10-24T13:26:00.000-07:00

I feel like my life is literally wrapped around my planner. I’m a list maker and when I get stressed I’m make them only to remake them several times, a very anxious habit. I’m there right now, feeling seriously behind and it’s only Monday.

What I need to do:
-enroll! enroll! enroll! …for the last time!
-read & critique 2 nonfiction manuscripts
-read & critique 2 fiction manuscripts
-read the rest of Red Hourglass (by Gordon Grice) for nonfiction
-write 6 essays, each being 3 pages
-write philosophy paper
-go to the tag agency
-do my assignment, begin study guide for exam 3
+whatever I’m tasked with at work

What I’m looking forward to:
-T’s birthday dinner tomorrow
-Homecoming & walk-around this weekend
-Pay day
-Eventually making time for a hair appt! My hair has been going into automatic buns & ponytails because my roots have been driving me nuts.

And can I just say how appreciative I am of all you readers! It really is special to me that you guys take the time to read my posts, look through all the photos and even comment on them. Being able to share bits & pieces of my life and have them actually mean something to someone else, is one of the reasons I love blogging.

:)

full hearts can't loose

2011-10-22T15:51:00.000-07:00

Coat, shoes - Old Navy , sweater leggings - Gordman’s

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

What? Alissa regularly updates her blog? Nope, not this week. Or last week. But I have legitimate excuses, guys.

1. I’m stretched thin and exhausted from school and work. Ironically, my last year at college I’ve actually been working my hardest. Definitely no senioritis here.
+I took this short course this weekend (Fri 6p-10p, Sat 8a-630p) and I’m ready to fall over and nap. But I have to edit (and then reedit) a 48pg document for work & write a paper for Monday.

2. I pretty much wore a combination of these clothes the entire week: leopard flats, leggings, two hoodies, Chris’ tee, Oktoberfest tee, and neon pink shorts. Haha, nothing quite ~blogging quality.

So aside from being grouchy and complaining—it feels like autumn in Oklahoma! I’ve put pumpkins out on our porch steps and hung our wreath. I love smelling our fall candles burning in the house. Pumpkin spice, apple cinnamon, hazelnut cream. And even better I can wear this new coat! First piece I’ve ever bought in this color but I think it suits my skin tone/hair color well.

Awesome moment of the week: winning lipstick & stockings giveaway! I’m going to be hassling the postman each day until those goodies show up. She’s really put a little bit of everything into this giveaway! I can’t wait.

Awkward moment of the week: a considerably older gentleman handing me a documentary on abortion outside the library. I spent the rest of my walk home from campus trying to figure out if it was pro choice/anti-abortion.

“i know” is never good enough

2011-10-17T21:11:00.000-07:00

Sweater, tank, wedges - Old Navy, jeans - Forever 21

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

So much has happened this past week and this weekend especially (insert quick photo from Saturday night here) but for right now, this is Friday:

Waking up to overcast morning skies and chilly weather. The coziness of this new cardigan. Classes and a meeting with my adviser discussing my laaaaast semester (only 14 hours left of my college career! omg!). Burning our new fall candles. Pumpkin spice, apple cinnamon, hazelnut cream. The house smelled so yummy! Heading to my hometown to relax & enjoy an event at my parent’s winery. Soft music, snack pretzels and wine. A ride home talking about love, the future, and of what to make for breakfast the next morning.

Some photos from Friday…

cinnamon chip and wild blueblerry

2011-10-11T20:09:00.000-07:00

I woke up yesterday morning to overcast skies and chilly weather and a long day of studying ahead of me. A surprise lunch after classes with my parents and Chris was the perfect quick escape. And it was the perfect lunch!

My lunch = soup with cuts of potato simmered with seasonings and smoked bacon in a rich cream sauce flavored with onion and snipped chives all in a bread bowl + hot chocolate topped with whipped cream & a drizzle of chocolate syrup.

Yum, yum!

ghost of a good thing

2011-10-09T21:36:00.000-07:00

Poncho (from this post!) - ASOS, scarf - Forever 21, boots - Old Navy

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

this week = midterms

What have I been doing? Well. I’ve been buying textbooks, reading textbooks, high lighting in textbooks, carrying textbooks, re-reading and memorizing textbooks.

I’ve been making lists on what do to and when to do it. I’ve been juggling studying between coursework and actual work. I’ve been sending out birthday cards (when did cards get so expensive?). I’ve been noticing my “black spot” (aka my roots growing out) becoming more and more noticeable. I’ve pulled out my tea kettle again as well as my long sleeve shirts. I’ve (okay, mostly Chris) been teaching Ossie to catch frisbees in the air. I’ve been spending too little time at home.

I’m happy with how well I’m doing in classes and loving my internship/job, but I’m tired and I’m romance starved. I’m ready to spend a solid day/night with my man.

I’m ready to catch my breath, if only for a day.

people and things

2011-10-07T22:28:00.000-07:00

Goldfish umbrella - gifted, cape - Old Navy, top, leggings, boots - Forever 21

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

The weather forecast is rain today, through the weekend, and til Tuesday. I’m huddled up for another weekend in the library, this time studying for midterms instead of writing. It’s so empty here on Fridays and Saturdays. (What? College students usually go out and binge drink on the weekends?) I even have a semi-routine going now. I bring snacks, a comfy hoodie, and big fluffy socks to change into once I slip off my shoes. I find a secluded spot and plug in my earphones then get down to business.

Been listening to Jack’s Mannequin new album since Tuesday. And, pop over to my friend Alex’s blog to watch this video about the album.

On a different note, I’m dying to plop down on my couch and catch up on all my shows that recorded this week. Dexter, Boardwalk Empire, Real World, The League, & Project Runway. We recorded the pilot episode of American Horror Story on FX, anyone watching that? It looks different and c’mon, it has Dylan McDermott. Haha, reliving my crush on him from the 90s when he was in Steel Magnolias and Miracle on 34th Street.

quiets the nerves

2011-10-04T06:13:00.000-07:00

Waffle knit sweater & satchel - American Eagle, vest - Forever 21, top & leggings - Gordman’s, boots - local shop
Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

Even though it’s going to be way too hot for this outfit come this afternoon, when I woke up this morning at seven it was completely appropriate. And I’m feeling poorly and exhausted, so I really only wanted to skip class and stay in bed with big fuzzy socks on. But I’ve been working hard this semester, so it’s stupid to skip class.

Classes now, then I have to get ready for work + the hour drive there + actual work then eventually home and dinner + homework. Maybe at least I’ll be able to do my homework in bed!

Awkward moment of the day: updating my blog before I e-mail/facebook you back.

fall time foot wear

2011-10-02T15:32:00.000-07:00

Old Navy Fold-Over Faux Leather boots, Old Navy Sueded Oxford ankle boots

Ankle boots from Gordman’s , Old Navy Sueded Desert Wedges

Heels and sock from Gordman’s

With the shopping trip with my mom and taking advantage of Old Navy’s sale a few weekends ago, my shoe rack is starting to fill up! Here are all my newbies + some socks.

You’ve already seen me wearing the Gordman’s ankle boots last week in this post! The heels, another find from Gordman’s, have been a go-to for a lot of my work outfits. I’ve been rolling around the idea of doing an “am/pm” outfit post for days I go to school and to work, but haven’t got around to actually doing it yet!

I was excited to snag all the Old Navy’s shoe on sale, as well as some other clothes that I’ll post later. I even got the fold over boots and suede wedges from my old navy wish to wear! Happy dance.

October, please bring the cold weather with you. I’m ready to wear all these with leggings and coats and scarves.

a day on campus

2011-09-30T07:35:00.000-07:00

Pssst, can you see me in the reflection?

Happy Friday everyone!

scars and souvenirs

2011-09-28T18:03:00.000-07:00

Photo: Berlin Wall, Germany 1984 - Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

I’ve unintentionally started a camera collection. Over the years I’ve gotten two old polaroid cameras given to me as gifts and now my dad has handed down me his old Canon.

He got the camera back when he was a lieutenant fighter pilot in 1983. Its witnessed the birth and growth of both my sisters. It captured many airplanes and been taken from the country to country.

This camera took that last photo (above) of my dad with another pilot, being hoisted over the west side of the Berlin Wall, Germany in 1984. He has this photo sitting in his office and when I asked him about it he said, “I remember thinking that was the only place I thought graffiti was appropriate.” He then told me that the east of the wall no one was allowed to get close to it, so it was completely clean.

(On a lighter note, the camera also survived an 1988 Oktoberfest in Germany too!)

thanks for being my inspiration and distraction over the years

2011-09-26T13:44:00.000-07:00

Sweater & ruched leggings - Forever 21, top - Free People, boots - local shop

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

Aside from the cliche saying “case of the Mondays”, I seriously feel cheated out of my weekend and was dreading getting out bed this morning. (You know when the bed feels just perfect?) Saturday and Sunday, two whole days spent at the library studying and writing. And now, I have to wait FIVE days before I can finally relax and have a weekend! Pity party for Alissa is happening right now, please join in at anytime.

The weather here has been wishy-washy ranging from in the 70s-90s, so this look is obviously from early last week when the weather in the low 70s aka amazing. I’m wearing my favorite black top from Free People (seen before here and here) and violet leggings. That’s right, violet. Thoughts? What actually caught my eye about them is that they’re ruched around the ankles and have a zipper up the side of the leg, which you can’t see since I’m wearing a high boot, insert webcam photo from last winter here. Haha, obviously a great detail shot.

But other than my general grumpiness and the weather, how was your weekend? Well, I’m off to go eat dinner with Chris before I have to head off to my night class!

What’s been playing on my Pandora station today:

Breakeven - The Script, Yellow - Coldplay, Stolen - Dashboard Confessional

the next act

2011-09-24T10:18:00.000-07:00

Striped vest - Charlotte Russe navy vest - Forever 21, romper - Old Navy,hat - WalMart, bracelets - assorted over years, boots - Gordman’s

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

Things I’ve done lately: woke up late but managed to get to class in time rocking the greasy hair and sweat pants (so hot!), spent every night in the library with the exception of last night, eaten lots of frozen pizzas, went with friends to watch Lion King & remembered every song in it, submitted a “3 minute fiction” story to npr.

Oh yeah, I also hurried into a library bathroom and waited five minutes so I could pee in peace before I realized I was in a men’s room. The middle stall with no door, the penis drawn on my stall door, and the smell should’ve tipped me off but no, it was the urinals on the way out.

Things I’m going to do this weekend: spend two more nights at the library. I’m looking forward to next week when things slow down again.

paper dreams

2011-09-20T17:42:00.000-07:00

bits and pieces from my moleskine

The past two weeks, I’ve been reading a lot of writing. I’ve been thinking about writing. I’ve been going back to old writing, like that big pink chunk of a journal and that slim silver one. I’ve been going back to favorite inspirations, like Amelia Gray’s AM/PM.

And slowly, I’ve been getting back to my own writing. I’ve been doing less journaling, less blogging, and focusing more on strengthening my manuscripts for school.

This semester I want to write something meaningful to me rather than just fulfilling the assignment’s requirements. Something fresh, something vulnerable.

(It’s harder than it sounds.)

wish to wear / uo

2011-09-19T21:26:00.000-07:00

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

This list could have like, thirty items on it I promise you! I don't know if I'm just a weird person or something but on my favorites side bar, I have a folder for my favorite shops and I just make wishlists, constantly. Always adding things. Anyway, here are a few items from my Urban Outfitters folder.

If you've been following me for a long time, you may recognize that Deena & Ozzy tote from past wish to wears. I am just in love with it, but the reviews for it are so mixed that I keep teetering about buying it. And I can't get over how cute & clever this eyeglass case is!

P.s. thanks to all who entered the giveaway. The winner is announced here if you'd like to see if you won!

51

2011-09-17T21:41:00.000-07:00

Sweater - Gordman’s, corset top and shorts - Forever 21, flats - Gap, lipstick - Rimmel London’s 024 & 180

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

It's the weekend. It's a time I can finally catch up on assigned reading and start two different manuscripts. It's a time for overpiled laundry and dishes.

It's also my dad's birthday. Since I can't spend it with him, I really wanted to do something special. We've been talking about how much we love stop motion videos, like this one, and so I attempted to create a small (and embarrassingly amateur) one for him!

Happy 51st birthday dad! Ily. See the video here or watch below.

season sum up

2011-09-17T11:34:00.000-07:00

Behold the summer 2011 outfits collection! I've come to notice that when the weather is hot, I tend to like my outfits to be a little more clean cut and "preppy", I guess you would say. Whereas once the weather starts to cool down I start doing my sloppy-layering look that I love so much.

See all Outfits here

I liked going through and looking at all the old photos. Are any some of your favorites?

Also, today is your last day to enter the giveaway! It ends at midnight tonight!

head filled with smoke

2011-09-14T17:02:00.000-07:00

Cape and socks - ASOS, shorts and moccasin boots- Forever 21, top - local shop

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

It’s September. I want to start pulling out all my autumn clothes already! Long sleeves and scarves and tall boots! Luckily, the Oklahoma weather has finally dropped out of the hundreds and landed in the 70s-low 80s range this week. Giving me my first excuse to wear my new ASOS cape I ordered a few weeks ago—see this post! I don’t want to hear a bad thing about it because I love it. And when I say love it, I mean I ordered Chris to admire it when I was prancing around the living room in it.

It’s breezy but still a bit warm outside so I skipped over the leggings and pulled on my black shorts and over the knee socks instead. I really can’t wait till the weather really gets cold so I can pair this cape up with a chunky scarf or a winter hat like this one in black. And completely unrelated but how adorable is this little beanie with bear ears?

What are you waiting to pull out of your closet to wear for cooler weather?

*Don't forget only four more days left to enter for my giveaway!

oktoberfest

2011-09-11T18:34:00.000-07:00

Saturday afternoon & night away at a Oktoberfest festival with Chris and my parents.

wish to wear / old navy

2011-09-09T13:18:00.000-07:00

1, 2, 3, 4

My mom has taken pity on me being a poor college student (and maybe reveling in the fact I’m the last kid she has to put through school) & is going to take me back-to-school shopping for the very last time tomorrow. Gasp.

She tends to stay away from crowded malls and their prices, so we’ll be probably be stopping by stores like Gordman’s or Old Navy, etc. I’m crossing my fingers on Old Navy because it crosses a few basic items off my “legitimate clothing list”. Ehem, see it here.

This has been another “is it fall yet?” post.

P.S. Mom, if you’re reading this…as J. Lo use to sing, “my love don’t cost a thing”. Love you.

tonight make me unstoppable

2011-09-07T19:02:00.000-07:00

Jacket - Forever 21, violet tunic - Charolette Russe, socks - ASOS, black top & boots - local shop

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

Today = classes, assigned reading, dinner & studying

What I really wore to classes today was a t-shirt and shorts and a ball cap. So I’m glad I have these photos from Sunday! Oklahoma was kind and decided to drop its weather out of the 100s and into the low 80s & 70s. It actually feels like fall! I pulled two of my long tunics out (violet tunic seen before in this post) and layered them along with my leather jacket. You may remember this jacket from when I first started doing posts (here)!

Now, back to flash cards and practice quizzes. Crazy, exciting stuff happening over here.

What’s been playing on my Pandora station today:

Black Balloon by the Goo Goo Dolls, The Thief by Relient K, Float on by Modest Mouse, Warning Sign by Coldplay

the bright young things

2011-09-05T21:19:00.000-07:00

Top and boots - Forever 21, scarf - gift, skirt - local shop

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

The long weekend is over (the extra day was much needed) and it's back to real life again. I have school this morning and after, I'll change clothes & travel a little less than an hour to go to work. I forgot to mention, in my earlier post, about how amazingly they're working with my school hours! I'm able to work from home throughout the week and then after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays, I drive up and work from 1-5p! Not a bad set-up!

You've seen this striped top a million times already (like here, here, and here) but today I've paired with something new! Well, actually it's very old skirt. You can probably see a little bit of fraying at the bottom if you look closely. I bought it like five years ago? But point is, it's new to you! As for shoes, I pulled out my cowboy boots seen before here and simply rolled down the tops.

As for what's on the calendar for this week, my first exam is on Friday! What do you have going this week?

date night in

2011-09-04T20:30:00.000-07:00

1: The first season of The Walking Dead 2: clearly, my sexiest hair style ever

3: Blue Bell vanilla & chocolate sundaes

We’re avoiding the crowded bars and busy restaurants tonight to snuggle up on the couch and eat ice cream and watch zombies.

Psst, season 2 starts next month!

*giveaway! - closed

2011-09-03T14:29:00.001-07:00

Forever 21: Longline Lace Top

My first giveaway! It's quick and small, but it's an item I bought that doesn't quite suit me. It's a lace top in deep taupe, sleeveless with a scoop neckline and a skirted multi-ruffle hemline. It really is a lovely top but it just doesn't flatter me the way I had thought it would, so hopefully one of you readers might enjoy it!

UPDATE 9/17: Thanks to all who entered! Below is the winner...congratulations! I will email you for your contact info so I can mail out your garment!

I'm trying to get another giveaway together...hopefully sponsored by a brand, but if not I'll try to do something special for you readers anyway!

praying for a remedy

2011-09-01T17:59:00.000-07:00

Sweater - my mother’s, romper - Old Navy, sandals - American Eagle

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

Busy.
Busy.
Busy.
Busy.

and sleepy.

end of an indian summer

2011-08-29T18:07:00.000-07:00

Fedora - WalMart, sweatshirt & shorts - Forever 21, satchel & sandals - American Eagle, ring - Free People

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

+bits and pieces from last weekend’s family reunion

When my family moved from Las Vegas to Oklahoma, I immediately rejected everything about the state, its culture, etc. Seven years later I find myself drawn to dream catchers, Indians prints, charms of eagle feathers—hence the sweatshirt. I bought it sometime last year during the winter—a time that was impossible to wear because of the neckline cut & random holes.

I wore this outfit to class last week and received an anonymous “what a cute outfit!” while at the cross walk which I thought was so nice. Never underestimate the power of a compliment! It can really turn around a day. Note to self: start complimenting others more often.

Tomorrow, after class, is my first official day at work. Guess who’s feeling nervous?

catch up

2011-08-28T11:41:00.000-07:00

Photobooth

In case you were wondering where I’ve been recently, I’ve been nonstop at classes, library, & at the computer lab. BHere’s catch up:

i. First week of classes conquered! I have a feeling that this is going to be a good semester. Though my assigned reading this semester is already outrageous!

ii. I was sneaky and managed to get a 100% refund on my pre-session Islam textbooks because she happens to teach the same course this fall. Otherwise I would’ve had to wait to sell them back to the school at the end of the fall semester…which is always awful. Last year I spent like $450 on books & only got $6 dollars back.

iii. Remember that possible opportunity as a technical writer intern? Well, on Friday I had the interview. And that interview turned into a two hour meeting complete with tour of the office work spaces and laboratories and meeting some of the scientists there that I'll be working with. So I'm now the official technical editor (paid!) intern. Meaning I'll be reviewing and editing the scientists' proposals & such. As of now, I can't say too much about it but the job does requires me to get a government security clearance. So cool.

I left the meeting feeling my heart was too big for my body and felt so incredibly lucky that I was going to be apart of their team. Can you imagine, a little English major among all these geniuses?

iv. I forgot to mention this interview was in another town and I was anxious/nervous about the drive, so Chris sped through work in order to drive me. Also meaning he had to wait two hours in the parking lot while I was inside. Poor guy! But after the good news, he took me out to celebrate! This guy is a keeper, for sure.

v. It’s Sunday. And laundry day. And the day I like to spend some extra time in the tub reading ~~a magazine~~ coursework while having a hair mask in. And my day to play catch up with blogging (and blog reading).
What’s playing on my favorite Pandora station this morning:

“Never Going Back to OK” by the Afters, “Shine On” by Jet, “Drown” by Carolina Liar

5,376 hours away

2011-08-22T15:20:00.000-07:00

Scarf, top, leggings, ring - Forever 21, boots - local shop, satchel - American Eagle
Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

Hello everyone! I hope you all had a lovely weekend & a not-so-Monday Monday.

I’ve literally just come home from school and am being a busy bee on my computer. Answering & checking emails, printing off class syllabuses, etc, etc. and I couldn’t be in better spirits. So I wanted to go ahead a do a quick blog before I got into coursework reading (already?!) and making a surprise dinner for Chris.
Guys, today was my first day of my last year of college. Big stuff. And this is what I wore (and to be fair, what I wore yesterday too to a family reunion). I feel over summer and I’m ready to slink back into my way of dressing in autumn/winter. So I dug out my scarf (worn before here) and my boots.

I had only two classes today—fiction writing and nutrition. Both went well, but I’m ridiculously excited/intimidated for what the work load will be in fiction writing. Instead of doing three manuscripts of 10-15pgs like I’ve done in all my previous writing classes, we’re only doing one manuscript of 25pgs. It’s new and makes me nervous. I really want to make sure that I can come up with a special idea and make/write it into something special, especially since we’ll be working on it the entire semester. + that professor wants to us to audio the manuscript into an mp3 as our final. Which could be really fun to get creative with music, etc.

…that was a lot of rambling for me trying to say this: I’m home from school and I’m happy with my classes & my outfit and I’m cooking for my man tonight.

+ unnecessary photo of what I ate for lunch

(on the) back burner

2011-08-20T15:15:00.000-07:00

Top - All American Rejects concert, shorts - Forever 21, shoes - Vans

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

I’ve had lots on my mind lately and been feeling out of sorts. So today I slept in and took my sweet time getting up & about. Hello hour & a half shower: singing, shaving the legs, deep conditioning hair mask, etc. This afternoon I plan to meet up with my good friend T, who I haven’t seen all summer! But I will get to see her often now that we have a class together this fall (aka next week)!

Here’s what I’ve worn from the other day. Real casual, just a band tee and shorts and my Vans. You've seen these shorts a million times like here and here. This shirt is actually from an All American Rejects show that I went to with my sister years and years ago. The band actually is from this town! Neat neat neat. And, by the way, Oklahoma also gave you Brad Pitt. Your welcome.

Hope you all enjoy your weekend!

Cowboyopoly from last week’s game night. We’ve got school spirit over here.

hello, goodbye

2011-08-18T17:17:00.000-07:00

Earrings - Free People, tank, sandals - Forever 21, jeans, hoodie - American Eagle

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

Not much of a fashion/outfit post today, huh?

Here's why:

I’m a bum. Woke up at 6a, tied up hair, & a quick shower
is the day of my final exam
is the last day of my global islam class aka no more six hour long classes! Meaning I’ll have 3hr credit & an A under my belt for the fall semester fist pump!
104° weather and I’m wearing jeans & a hoodie because the classroom we’re in is FREEZING. Making walking to campus = a heat stroke
Speaking of jeans, these were my first pair of skinny jeans. From 2005. As you can tell, they're pretty worn out.

Now, I have two days (+a weekend) before the official fall term starts up to relax!
& after a week of being at my parent’s, the trees & damage to our house has finally been cleared away. So we’re moving back into our house today! Mom & dad’s a/c…I’ll miss you dearly. We may just have to invest in window unit already.

fair-weathered friend

2011-08-15T17:04:00.000-07:00

Dress - my mom’s, ring - unsure

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

I really enjoyed this past weekend (Bane’s 8th birthday was Saturday!) but I was ready to get back to finishing up this Global Islam class. After today only two more days!…which means my final is Wednesday. Grumble. And then a few days of rest before fall term officially starts on Monday! Here it comes, my senior year of college!

This is dress is one of those finds from my mom’s closet. I wasn’t sure if it was suppose to be a skirt or a dress. I’m voting a dress.

Awesome moment of the day: getting an email from said interning opportunity as a technical writer, inviting me to come for a site visit & meeting next week.

coming to terms

2011-08-14T16:49:00.000-07:00

1. Morning coffee 2. A sleepy Ossie 3. My dad’s old sweaters

4. my parent’s kitchen tree bedded with a bunch of their wine’s corks 5. blogging & school work

This is a sum of what I’ve been up to this Sunday. A sleepy start and an early (9am to be specific) morning coffee outside on the patio with Chris and my parents, followed by a breakfast of omelets & bacon.

After finishing up my country reports for class tomorrow, I blogged a bit. And then I spent some time digging around in my parent’s closet, looking for finds. Now I have two bags of clothes to take home with me! They let me snag loads of big, cozy sweaters that I can’t wait to wear. Even a few of the sweaters were bought in England and others from when they lived in Germany.

finder's keepers

2011-08-12T12:22:00.000-07:00

Hat - Walmart, top - Free People, shorts & bracelet - Forever 21, flats (seen before here!) - Zigi Girl

Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

I’m cheating. I wore this the outfit other day, not today. I’m currently in my parent’s kitchen (reason why in a second) in my pajamas & eating cheerios. But having said that, I love this Free People racerback (seen before here) and I wear it all the time. It’s a trapeze top which makes it perfect in my eyes. I can either tuck it in since it’s fitted at the top or let it loose because has that wide hem I love. Bottom line: it’s my go-to black top. School, a weekend away, grocery store, whatever—I’ll wear this bad boy anywhere.

So back to me eating cherrios in my parent’s kitchen. On Monday night, a wild storm did this to our house. Devastated our backyard/back end of the house with trees, tangled up the power cords meaning no power, & broke a window. We had to pack up (by packing I mean dogs, clothes, & school work but also our entire fridge/freezer). What a mess! So we’re house crashing with my parents until everything’s fixed.

But it’s hard to complain when their house actually has A/C and we get my mom’s cooking. Not bad as far as silver linings go.

+ I did want to give a big shout out to my dad for continually allowing me to snag his camera! It means a lot to me. You’re helping me keep this blog alive!

it's only gonna set us free

2011-08-08T15:30:00.000-07:00

Top, shorts, sandals, ring - Forever 21, nail polish - OPI
Camera c/o my dad: Nikon D3100

I just got home from my first day of my Global Islam “pre-session course”. Aka a class that made my fall term start today, rather than two weeks from now. It’s basically just a two week course that will be over before the first official day of classes, the 22nd, and counts towards my fall hours.

630a — wakeup, breakfast, feed dogs, shower & get ready
730a — leave for class (Why so up & about so early when I live down the street from the university? I’m out of town, house sitting for my parents.)
9a - 430p — Global Islam class + lunch

This means two hour drive round trip for a six hour class. I’m already exhausted. But a paper & presentation over Albania awaits.

Did I mention our midterm is on Wednesday? :/

august and after

2011-08-07T16:44:00.000-07:00

August 2011 Nylon magazine, Victoria's Secret swim bandeau, Forever 21 shorts

Last day of my summer break? Let's break out the bikini then.