One Of THOSE Days

Because Jon is stressed at work, and I am off to NYC tomorrow, I decided to take Max out alone for most of the day so that Jon could shop and run errands. Max and I laid around in our pj's for a few hours (doing laundry and playing) and then went to meet Tracey + Adelaide for lunch at Sip + Kranz. Max was fairly behaved until we went to Nordstrom which is when the little devil broke out. Where he wasn't pushing the pump on every lotion, potion and perfume he was picking up mirrors, laying on the floor. So we quickly picked up the Caudelie toner that I needed and waked home, where he got into even more mischief.

Its Sunday so we went out to dinner. The entire time Max was obnoxious and misbehaved. Jon got a beer, I had a wine we tried to settle him down but in the end, I slammed my wine like a Jagger shot and Jon got his food to go. Everyone in the restaurant looked at us like we were bad parents, but too much sugar x no nap= disaster.


I also packed for NYC today, though I will most likely be REPACKING tomorrow.
Whats coming: Sweaters
- Burgundy Cashmere JCREW Cardigan
- Black JCrew Tuxedo cardigan
- Lurex threaded See By Chloe cardigan
- Black cashmere Mayle shawl neck cardigan
- Black marino wool v-neck JCrew cardigan

Dresses:
- Vinceness
- Ignacia
- Micheala (black)
- Black Melia
- Kaori (in case of a party)

One pair of Jeans
The Zora top

Shoes/Accessories:
- Black patent Lola clogs
- Francoise Boots
- JC Haley Flats
- Billy Douce
- Black Chanel 2.55
- Leopard sequined belt
- 2 necklaces from F21

and multiple pairs of tights, sweater leggings etc....

I so couldn't think of what to pack. The weather is so up in the air in Feb. I figure I will just wear Odette and take my wavy knit scarf (or skull scarf).

I have a feeling I will be going through my bag and editing one last time tomorrow night after work. At this point I have no room to buy anything...

Continued Musings on Favorites

Another piece I parted with during summer 2008 was the above gold jacket from spring 2006. I remember waiting and waiting for it to come in. The day it arrived and I went to pick it up Maggie Gylenhaal was in the store buying the Gloria hand knit and a billy bag. This was in March (end of March). I never really got a chance to wear it as I soon found out I was pregnant and I didn't want it to call attention to my mid-section. Summer 2008 I was purging Mayle that didn't fit to finance the fall collection. I sold this jacket as I hadn't wore it in over 2 years. Then as I heard Mayle was closing I was desperate to track it down. It would pop up on ebay and I would be outbid or it wouldn't be my size (and the girl I sold it to wears it often). I was so happy to finally win it on eBay on Thursday. It was one of those times when I forgot the auction was ending, I had already bid earlier in the week and I ran back to my desk to eat my lunch and reload the page to make sure I didn't get out bid (which has happened to me 2x's before - once with the Josephine dress (outbid by $1 at the last SECOND) and in summer 2007 with the Carola dress in Madcap sample (outbid at the last SECOND again by $1).

As I counted down and refreshed (and believe me I don't know how I even had the time this week to think about it - I missed the butterfly print auction completely due to a long meeting) I was so happy to see that YES I won the auction. Hooray. And the jacket comes with a belt, which is not how it was sold (It seems to be the belt it was styled with in the look book). So be on the look out as I may be selling the belt if I am not into it.

Sadly the jacket is arriving while I am in NYC but its something I am looking forward to wearing when I get back.

Now if I could only find Violette Vincennes, the black and cream Valentine dress from spring 07, The jade green pelle, the green or black version of that top I found at consignment... I would be so happy.

It feels good to be back at work and now have the means to really rebuild what was once a truly stellar Mayle collection.

Memories

I bought this top during summer 2002. It was one of my favorite Mayle collections - I remember seeing the top in Nylon in an editorial and literally buying it the day it arrived ($250 - a Mayle top for a steal). Its such a great piece, I often paired it with a cut off denim mini, sometimes cute black shorts and occasionally an A-line skirt.

The last time I wore this top was the black out of summer 2003. I was working at ELLEgirl. I had paired it with a cut off denim skirt, and silver Prada sandals that were flats and I lived in. After walking/running down 46 flights of stairs (we were on 44 and there were STILL two more floor to the lobby) and exiting the building into 98+degree weather and then WALKING home over 40 blocks, climbing more stairs to my apartment, leaving my apartment and then walking to Jon's office and climbing his stairs then home and climbing mine again there just seemed to be something that wasn't right about the linen. Like it was so delicate it couldn't with stand everything that it had just gone through.

I sent it to the dry cleaner. The linen rolled up at the bottom. I waited two years and cleaned it again and when I finally went to try it again (post Max) it didn't fit. I was sad. There is something so 1920's about this top, the pleating etc...I sold it. I knew the person and it went to a good home (she also bought the black dress just like it but without the pink linen)

I was so happy to be able to replace it on ebay for $40. I am hoping that its not as snug a month from now after the sugar and carbs have "left the building" and I am looking forward to figuring out how to fit it in with current wardrobe.

Finally Friday

I woke up today, got a venti latte and walked to work. It was a crazy day. I actually was so exhausted when Jon picked me up 5:30 I literally felt as exhausted as I did when I had Max. It was lost up updating and creating documents for next week's event, a long meeting with our client and I was HUNGRY all day (even though I drank 2+ liters of water). I am not complaining, the exhaustion feels good.

I wore Hidie with the shawl neck cardigan from fall 2005 (or was that 2006?), some black tights the JC booties and a great necklace from F21. I am trying to figure what to pack for NYC. Event day its jeans (and I am going to sneak wearing my lotus print camisole). I know the weather is frightful, we do have some other meetings... I am thinking Melia, Micheala, and not sure about others. I do want to pack light.

Tonight I read Max "Where the Wild Things Are" again. He is so in love with that book, he asked me for a Max suit, I think he will have to settle for the soft plush doll.

I Thought It Was Thursday Every Day But Today

I literally thought it was Thursday nearly every day this week. Today, I thought it was Friday. In just four days I take off for New York. As excited as I am to go I am just going to miss Max terribly. I have been laying in his bed with him at night and reading him no less than three stories before Jon comes in for sleep training.

Today was my first day with no sugar (that I know of) in my diet. I definitely felt the effects - for some reason I was hungrier. For breakfast I had Greek yogurt, hard boiled egg (though I had the egg white part only), some greens with tuna, some carrots, some cashews. I was ravenous by 3pm.

It probably did not help that today was complete craziness in regard to next week's event in NYC.
I wore my madcap sylvestre dress with the leopard belt and the blue sparkly cardigan from H&M. My JC booties were my foot wear of choice today.

Its looking like Friday may now be my only "free time" so if you are up for a mid afternoon coffee before I head out to JFK let me know. I am hoping to have some time to go to Lyell, INA(s), Tokio 7, Barneys and No.6...

Lightening The Load

Today I FINALLY made it to the gastroenterologist (after a year of making appointments and cancelling). Call it fear of the unknown. I had a great chat with the doctor and a fairly easy exam. In order to get to the root of my problem I need to completely change my diet. No refined sugar, no bread, no pasta, no chocolate. I also have some other daily things I need to do like drink 32 oz of water as soon as I wake up, and eat alot more protein. I go back in two months - so we will see what happens. I was so not happy when they weighed me and I weighed what I did back in May.


Lets see if I can do this. I have tried before. Its hard for me to pass up the sweets....and treats...

And Even More Mayle For Sale (Again Not Mine)

Caroline has some great Mayle pieces for sale...if your interested, email her at complicatedskirt@gmail.com

Theodora in black size 4
Mayle top circa 2003 Spring size 6 (fits like a 4)
Letticia Re-Edition Skirt size 6
Senna Jacket Sample
Pitsula in Cream

Lazy

Lazy is wearing the same outfit two days in a row. Which I did today. After a rough night of sleep, I couldn't fathom what to wear to work today, so I wore burgundy cardi, black eniko and the liquid leggings withe my black oxfords. Jon wasn't feling well, but took Max to school and drove me part way to work - (yes I lost half my walk). Tomorrow I plan on getting up earlier and walking the whole way. I was also naughty and had pasta for lunch (and a greek salad). That is the one thing about Portland VS NYC - I walked a good 2 miles to work every day each way and here I am walking way less (though have been less winded walking up the 7 flights).

Last night I finished the book "SPIN" by Robert Rave. It was a great book about working in PR - its fiction based on real life (he used to work for Lizzie Grubman). I highly suggest it for anyone who loves celebrity dirt.

More Mayle For Sale (Not Mine)

From Jen in NYC- is selling a pair of Ilda Pants from the Mayle Spring 2008 collection. 95% cotton / 5% Elastin. Black with a slight, subtle sheen to it. Size 2. Great details such as the zipper at the ankle, self-belt at the back waistband, notched V waist, and seaming details on the front pocket area as well as at the bottom hem of the leg. The fit is extremely flattering. Never worn and in perfect condition. $99.

If interested please email her at: jenappel@gmail.com

Oh Yeah

I forgot to add in my last post - I hit Anthropologie today and there some cute things but there is a reason that the dresses are all $128-$168 - its the elastic in the waist - I tried on 12 dresses and not one of them were flattering - that said I saw some amazing housewares and smelled some great candles... I sort of wish I had $200 to just blow on "stuff" at Anthropologie - would def stock up on some cool dishes, candles, champagne glasses etc.....

The Long & Short Of It

This has been the longest - yet shortest weekend ever. Because I feel immense guilt about leaving Max for several days to go to NYC, I spent 4 hours of mommy time with him yesterday (we went to clubhouse where I volunteered, went to Rite Aid, the post office and out to lunch at the noodle place he loves). We went home and met u with Jon who drove us to Target where the elusive leopard jacket is still not available! Then Max went to a birthday party from 5-7 then home.

We are still trying to sleep train him - he did crawl into our bed at 2 and at 3 I was awoken by a very wet max, so I got up, stripped the bed while Jon changed him and got him settles back in his own bed. Mind you I fell asleep at 9:20 last night. I didn't wear anything fabulous yesterday just the Anna Sui for Target dress with sweater leggings and boots with a very old black jcrew cardigan.

Today I slept until 9:30 then sat in bed reading. My shoulder is killing me. Today's outfit is eniko in black with my burgundy jcrew cardigan black liquid leggings and JC black oxfords.

I took Max to a bake sale set up by the neighborhood kids to benefit Haiti and then to lunch at Nordstrom.

Its been raining non-stop today and I am exhausted.

Key Word Spamming?

I was excited to log on to eBay today to see 70+ Mayle items, that was until I noticed that about 20 of them were anything but Mayle - some the farthest from - Patrick Robinson, D Squared, Vintage, Isabel Marant, Nanette Lepore etc... eBay used to be so good about its key word spamming policy and as of late they have been incredibly slack. There is nothing worse that logging on, getting a rush that something you have been looking for is on eBay only to find out that its not that product. In the past eBay had no problem shutting down an auction for keyword spamming, I guess in order to cut back and save money this is one area that they ignore......

Rio Plata Beatrice

Friday. Hooray! Its nice outside (always nice when the weather cooperates). Max nearly slept through the night in his bed with one hiccup - when he woke up completely wet at 1:55 AM (the LCD of the microwave still glaring). I put him back to bed and some how fell asleep. Its been a busy morning - and I realized if I plan out what I am wearing in my head the night before, getting dressed is way easier.

Today its the Rio Plata Beatrice that my friend Julie picked up for me at the Closet when she was last in Boston. It was $130 which is a steal - I was however surprised that the closet would accept the dress based on its condition - or sell it for $130. There were light make up stains and some yellowing by the arm pits (which is never good) however I have an excellent dry cleaner so the stains came out and the yellowing is not so noticeable. I paired it with the black aiko cardigan, a locket from F21, black tights and Mary Jane's.

Things I have noticed about being back at work:

I am totally eating MORE during the day. Though not junk - almonds, oranges and lots of water and my skin feels oilier!

I am able to walk here in 15 minutes but I don't feel like I am in any better shape - I need to walk way more (+ maybe walk the stairs for 5 min 2xs a day).

I am also thinking about the Rodarte. What is wearable? I may return the lace dress - I am not sure I have reason to wear it??? Thoughts?

And I am getting so excited for NYC - though I will miss Max so much!!

Bahia!

Oh how I wish I also had this in Rio Plata..........A girl can dream.

Swathed in Skulls

Its nearly the end of my second week at work and I have to admit I would love to know how I am doing. I am feeling like I just do not have great confidence right now and being back in an office environment after a year of looking for a job/staying home with Max/doing some freelance has been hard. Possibly the lack of sleep from yet another night of sleep training Max/then Max getting into our bed has something to do with it. I also attribute much of my lack of confidence to being virtually ignored by my parents as a child - but that is a story for another time.

Last night Jon and Max picked me up around 6:20. I was the last one at work and was so tired that we decided to get a fast dinner and that fast dinner was from Chipoltle. Its funny we were driving and Max started saying "Max has rice and beans for dinner, daddy is having a hot dog and Mommy is having a salad." That child really has us pegged on what we like to eat. That said the burrito bowl was delicious (though not as yummy as the taco salad from Cha Cha Cha). We went home, I gave Max a bath and then went out for Fleur's birthday. We gave her a gift card to Forever 21 - because Fleur is the only 35+ year old person we know who can fit into those clothes!

The weather today however, is lovely. As it hasn't been super chilly I have just been wearing my black BR trench (which Fleur has in a great gray color that is OF COURSE sold out in my size online). I put on Bahia with black tights, lola clogs. I regret not wearing a sweater as now I am totally chilly and sitting at my desk swathed in an over sized scarf from Zara with skulls all over it.

One of my favorite finds for $19.99 (though I have Paul Witt to thank for finding it when we were shopping in the new Zara on 42nd and 5th in December 2008). The scarf is so McQueen - I am often stopped about it.

It's before noon but I am thinking about lunch and meeting Kathryn + Tilly for some adult conversation at Breken at 12:30.

Not The Best Picture... But You Get The Idea

The Elvira On Michelle

Mayle For Sale! (But Not My Mayle)

So Susie has a few pieces that she mentioned on Flickr that she would like to trade/sell. They are two of my favorite pieces from the 2005 and the 2006 collections. I own both and have to say if you can afford to snap them up you should. They are both incredibly rare!!

1. Elvira: What can be said about this dress? Its pure perfection - a take on the classic sailor dress. I own this in the cream and the brown. a staple of my summer wardrobe (and its been photo graphed on Maggie, Kirsten and Michelle) . Susie has it in both a 2 and a 4.

2. Sasha: A fantastical piece from Fall 2005. One of my favorite dresses ever (and I am thisclose) to fitting back into it comfortably! Susie's is a size 6.

She is looking for either a trade for one of her covets (list to follow) or a cash offer. Please note, neither of these dresses pop up on eBay. They are truly collectible.

Susie is looking for:
Something in the Amalfi print (Avignon, Barcelona, Federica, or the top)
Michaela in the goldenrod lotus print
Emanuela, or Elvira in the purple/white stripe.

She is also open to hearing other trades.

Susie is also looking for the circus braid belt. She would trade the jeweled belt that is in her Flickr photo stream or she has a mint condition pair of carribea flats, size 37, in cocoa/bronze (gorgeous combo)

Contact Susie at: susiesfrocks@ gmail.com

Exhaustion

I forgot just how tired you get from working (and I over exert myself by climbing the stairs) and rushing to take care of a family. Not that I am complaining. I really like my new job, its super creative and the company does some amazing events for big clients.

Last night i was at work until 5:45 which is nothing compared to jobs I used to have in NYC (8PM? 9PM? 10PM anyone - with no lunch break, just a gross delivered salad at my desk). Last night was truly the lazy mother's dinner. Max had turkey and cheese with berries, an orange and a glass of milk, Jon had a slice of pizza and I had a small salad. All picked up at whole foods for too much money). As much as I love the idea of baking some chicken I just don't have 40 minutes to cook it at night and I don't want to fall into the pasta for dinner black hole of calories and carbs. I really need to invest in a slow cooker. ASAP.

Yesterday I wore the outfit I wore to the saks event on Saturday to work. Its funny, I remember Alicia talking me out of buying Zophia because it was just another black dress (and I bought black vanya). I found this website for a shop in Atlanta called Blue Jeans. They bought some terrible stuff, but they also sold Mayle (go figure). Zophia was on sale for $150 and they had a size 8 which I altered and I wear this dress so much. Its such a favorite.

Today I am wearing black micheala with the black knit kimono style cardigan from spring 05, a tassel necklace from F21, Gray tights and my lola lace up clogs. I will try to take another sneaky bathroom photo today.

Also Katharina from SE told me that she would try to get me some photos of the latest Mayle pieces. I am dying to get my hands on something new, something mayle. I can't find ANYTHING that I want to wear at any of the shops with the exception of some Lyell for UO and a few JM pieces. Even the Rodarte that I obsessed over is languishing (needs alterations). I can't wait for the trip to NYC, I am hoping that getting in early will offer me a few hours to hit Barneys, No 6, Ina, T7 and Nanette before I jump into full on work mode. Ideally I would love to find a mayle covet, the gold sequined nanette dress, something cute from No 6 and the JM Anna dress.

Nanette

Here it is!

Wearing a Splash of Color?

So I have been wearing something that would surprise you today. It surprises me- a multi-color floral dress with beading and I have to say that even though I paired it with a black cardigan I am still not 100% sure that its well, me, it could be the leggings and ballet flats. Not my finest moment as the flats are studded with bows and the dress is like Lilly Pulitzer hit the sequin factory. Did I mention SPANDEX leggings? This is what happens when you get dressed well, in the dark.

I am going to take an iphone photo and email to myself (and of course upload it to the blog)
But be honest with me people, tell me if this dress is divine - or if its dire. I feel like maybe I am losing my edge????

24?

I have always been a huge fan of 24. There is something about the show that just gets my adrenaline going - even though its completely violent (and doesn't seem like a show I would normally watch). I have to say that this season has gotten off to a bad start. Maybe its because for the first time in years, the season opener was not commercial free (talk about not spending ad dollars). Tonight Jon and I are going out to dinner with some friends - which has been long planned so I am DVRing the 9-11, and I probably will not stay up to watch it - as I am learning being back at work does not leave much time for television watching and I need to be considerate of what JON wants to watch as well. I used to spend a morning looking for jobs online and powering through 90210 (so sad that Jenny Garth is not coming back) leaving the evening shows free for Jon... but not anymore.

And today I am at work, on a holiday for the first time in my entire life. I am hoping to still get alot done today even though the contacts I need to speak with may not be in.... I know that tomorrow will be a busy day.

This morning I woke up at 7:08, showered, threw on some clothes (old Nanette dress with beading, crazy print, black leggings, black cardigan and ballet flats). It isn't insanely cold, so I wore my trench with a scarf and that was super comfortable.

I am thinking about the JM sample sale. Sad that I am missing it. Cursing that WHY couldn't it be when I am in NYC? and hoping that Moya finds a great piece for me....

Late Sleeper

Today was my day to sleep in - and I slept until 11, its been one of those days where its been raining non-stop. I tried to eat sensibly today, hard boiled egg, coffee, toast, Greek Yogurt and berries. Around 1 we hit Burgerville where this time I ate more sensibly - I got just a regular hamburger. After running more errands (and driving around SE Portland - Hawthorne is pretty cool) we picked up some groceries and then I went out to look for an umbrella stand. After going to no less than four places I gave up, went to buy a baby gift at GapKids, ran into Macy's and got a great 12 quart sauce/frying pan with a lid.

Now I am watching the Golden Globes ... so more later.

Zac Posen, Shopping And Other Things

I decided to be wonderful to Jon and let him sleep late. I took Max over to Kathryn and Tilly's to run around and play for a few hours. We stayed until after lunch time, when I brought Max home and went out to attempt to read the new Julie Powell book while eating sushi.

I was a big fan of Julie's first book based on her blog and the Julia Child challenge. "Cleave" however I found the book very self indulgent, and it bothered me how it would talk about learning to be a butcher then jump to her story about cheating on her husband, then a recipe, then about cheating, then about butchering. I got about 60 pages in before I had Jon take it to Powells (I am happy that I only paid $12 for it).

At 3:30 I headed down to the YP event at Saks to promote the ball. Before I hit Saks, I went to Gap Kids and got Max some amazing things on sale - a great plaid jacket, a star wars t-shirt, some skull socks, a sweater and some skull sweatpants. I love an extra 30% off.

At the Saks event we also received a special discount so I picked up the KAWS for Kiehls Creme de Corps lotion (purely for packaging) some Fresh Pomegranate conditioner and some Kiehls gardenia body wash (for some reason I have an amazing stock of body wash - enough for like 10-11 months).

Tonight I have been sitting on the couch catching up on shows: Project Runway, Parks + Recreation, Celebrity Rehab. I am so excited for tomorrow's 24 premiere.

I am so excited to sleep late tomorrow!!

Today's outfits

AM: Mirabelle in black, gray tights, Mary Janes, black cardigan
PM: Zofia, gray tights, chunky F21 necklace same leg and foot wear as before, JCrew tuxedo cardigan

Justine Dress

Not sure if you remember a blog post from AGES ago about back stock at SE - but I have recently found a white/gray-silver justine dress from spring 2007 in a side 4. Its a true 4 and $250ish (I need to recheck the price at the place I saw it). Let me know if you are interested. Its in pretty great shape. Please note: the dress in the photo is the PINK version.

Merci.

The End Of The Week, But Not The Weekend

Its been a pretty whirlwind week - starting the job, taking Thursday off to do some errands (and other outstanding appointments). Its Friday, and I am TIRED. I think its going to take awhile to get back into this working mother mode. When we lived in NYC, Max was always fed by the time I arrived home from work, so Jon and I would give him a bath, get him ready for bed and eat some take out. Sadly here in Portland its very different, we just can't order some take out, and Max needs to be fed.

My days this week have been
Wake up 7AM
Get Max dressed (after he uses the potty)
Make Max breakfast
Pack his backpack with his water bottle, extra pants (had there been a potty accident the previous day)
Load dishwasher
Pack my laptop up (and breakfast)
Pick up the house
Get the boys out the door
Shower
Quickly dress
Walk to work (approx 20 minutes)
Stop at Starbucks inside Safeway at 13th + Lovejoy for a venti latte
Get to work
Work all day
6PM get picked up by Jon
Quickly make dinner
Eat by 6:30/6:40
Get Max ready for bed (7:30)
Max goes to bed (8:30)
TV (8:30-10:30)
Bed

Repeat

Somethings I need to do to get out the door quicker include clearing out the hall bathroom's shower where we have been storing cd's cleaning supplies etc. I am also thinking of buying a slow cooker so that I can make some yummy meals that will be ready when we get home (though will add on time to my morning).

Do I need to get up at 6:30? Only time will tell. Its days like today that I miss my nanny who always had Max fed and happy.

Yesterday was great, I ended up doing somethings I haven't had time to do - return library books, drop off clothes at the dry cleaner, go to the post office. The one errand I wasn't able to get to was shoe repair - which will have to wait for another time.

It is amazing though walking 1.4 miles to work then up 7 flights of stairs. I am always sweaty and out of breath. I could take the elevator but why when I need the exercise?

And for the life of me, I cant remember what I wore yesterday - oh it was black Micheala. Today I am wearing the leopard print Nanette dress with black tights and my little black oxford JC booties + a black cardigan and a F21 necklace....

The one thing about going back to work? Thinking about what you wear every day.

Day 3

There is nothing like sitting at home in some comfy clothes and watching a concert from the comfort of your own living room. Jon and I are drinking wine and watching Muse. I LOVE Muse. They are coming to PDX in April and I am hoping that we can go. Years ago in my past life as a talent booker, a good friend of mine from London was trying to sign them. The boys were like 16. I remember we took them out to eat at 7A and then they couldn't get into any bars (except for the after hours club Sita's on the lower east side.... oh how I loved an after hours club). The band ended up signing at the time to Maverick, Madonna's label. She invited them to her house in LA and they swam in her pool. But Matthew was always nice and remembered me (I did procure $10 Budweiser's for him).

Today was a good day. Still getting back into the swing of things but I am more and more excited to go to NYC, work on this event and *hopefully* connect with some people.

Today was essentially a Mayless day (with the exception of my coat) I woe the floral dress from anthropologie, black tights and the tuxedo cardigan from Jcrew.

It rained ALOT.... But I did venture out for lunch, was able to grab something yummy AND I made a taco salad for us for dinner. Its been a long night as we are sleep training Max. Bribery wit children, sometimes gets you no where.

Another Day

Day two back at work. Its been crazy busy. Its amazing when your working how you fall back into habits - not going to the bathroom, drinking too much water, eating lunch late (and having the problem of occasionally not loving what you eat).

I also realized its better to stop at the Starbucks inside the Safeway to get a Venti beverage than stopping at Umbria to get a much smaller one for the same price (plus there is no line and its closer!) Now I just need to figure out how to deal with dinner at night (when Jon picks me up) and getting ready in the morning.

Today I wore Ignacia with berry colored tights and Mary Janes and my JCrew tuxedo cardigan.

I can't wait tonight to tuck into my new Julie Powell book "Cleave" as I finished the Nanny returns last night. The one good thing about working besides a paycheck? I have not stopped in the shops which I used to do all the time and spend money that I shouldn't have on the most silly things (tights! lip gloss! nail polish!)

I am already thinking about what to pack for NYC....

Start Spreading The News!

My first day at work was a blur - I had a 9 AM and a 10Am meeting, then my boss took me to lunch, then I had a 1, 1:30, 2 and 3PM meeting about a project that I am managing.

It also turns out that I will be in NYC from February 2-5th (5th is a go home day) for an Adidas event - which I am super excited about. I am thinking I will stay at the Ace Hotel and hopefully if I have any down time can see some friends, meet up with the NY Mayle Blazers and possibly pop my head into Ina and Tokio 7.

I was perplexed by what to wear today, so I just wore my JM dress - essentially the same outfit from Thursday (and quell horror, Friday).

Its amazing how early people get to work here - 8AM, so I am definitely going to have to switch up my evening habits of staying up late watching TV and reading as I need 10 hours of sleep. That and to clear out the shower that we have been using as a storage space - so Jon and I can both get ready at the same time.

It Came Via Email..

I got the job!! I am so excited - I am going to be an account manager at a local marketing company that works with MANY big brands. There are some conditions like after the first 30 days a review and then a 90 day probationary period but that's standard. I am so excited that I am finally going to contribute to the house and just *maybe* can afford a Mayle for SE spring piece (within reason of course).

The Weak-End

As Max has gotten old I have found it harder and harder to sleep. Its not a sense of worry, its that nearly every night (unless we have a babysitter who puts him to bed) Max comes into our room at 2/3/4 AM and gets into our bed. It wouldn't bother me so much if he was say going to bed at 7:30 or 8Pm, but Max refuses to go to sleep until 8:30/9:30 and the its always in our bed with Jon moving him when he is in deep REM sleep. We also have to lay down with him which takes up so much energy (and I normally end up falling asleep myself).

Last night Max came to our room at 4AM. He wouldn't go back to sleep, tossed and turned and it was generally uncomfortable for me to sleep. I picked my self up and slept on the couch, which yes after 9 years is still very comfy. I wonder, why does Max have to sleep in our room? What is it about being with us. I know its a sense of comfort for him as he doesn't see us all day but taking over our bed is another thing. Jon and I are going to look into getting him a bigger twin bed and trade in his cute Ikea toddler bed - hopefully that and a Thomas comforter set will make a difference.

I also had several eBay auctions end a few days ago and today. I was reminded how annoying eBay really is - the winner of my leopard Marius (it was an 8 - I probably would have kept it if it was a 6) never paid, never wrote me back and bid $2.50 more than the initial bidder, so I emailed them and told them that as I had not heard from them after emailing them several times, I was selling the jacket to the initial bidder who paid immediately when I sent them a second chance offer. My gold Momo sold as well so we will see what happens with that bidder. Hopefully it will be a seamless transaction. I just don't get people on eBay. I always contact the seller immediately and let them know when I will be paying. It's like people don't have good auction etiquette.

My eBay in-box was full of emails for the Jacinthe - no one bid but everyone wants it for $200. I think its a sign that maybe I should work harder on working out, try to change my problem areas and keep it.

Today we ran errands and I initially wore my Amalfi print Barcelona (always the piece that tells me if I have packed on too much weight). I wasn't feeling great in it so I opted for Zofia with my See by Chloe cardigan.

Friday I'm In.....

Rainy Friday... I started out on the phone with sorting out my UE claim, then met Anjali for breakfast at cafe nell. We had a great time catching up... I then went to pick up a Mayle top that I have been looking for - I found it in a 10 which is slightly too large, but I plan on altering it as its such a great piece - photo above. I used to own the dress version which I sold and sort of wish I still had. A Mayle top in MINT condition for $120? You just cannot go wrong.

I finally made it back to the tailor - they were closed due to a power outage yesterday - and this is a word to the wise, if you have the JM slouch dress its NOT an easy alter. The dress I found to fit a bit weird. It fits well on the bottom but the top is just WAY too blousey (well for my frame) and as his sizing is off I picked up an 8. The dress is pieced together in an intricate way - and the strip of satin down the back is one piece from top o bottom making it nearly impossible to alter. My tailor found some pleats that she plans to open and sew up to take away the extra fabric. The cost of this alteration? $69 which really doesn't make me excited for getting the dress for a deal a few months back. If I had known this, I would have skipped it. Lesson learned: if something seems like its not right and it LOOKS like it cant be altered, don't buy it.

After the tailor I met Kelly for lunch at Typhoon for a catch up and then hit the post office to mail some packages.

I really tried to not be in the house today - I didn't want to fall into the Law & Order trap - so I cleaned up for a bit then met Tracy for happy hour at Clyde Common.

Oh yeah they want me to come back in again about the job on Monday, so I will be doing some juggling. Fingers crossed!

Baby Its Cold Outside!

I love this weather its sunny and chilly out!! Today I wore my Blue stripped JM Lena dress with black tights, Mary Jane's and my black Mayle shawl collar sweater. I added a great new necklace from F21 to complete the outfit.

With the sun shining I was motivated to run some errands including getting my red slouch dress altered, and pick up a NWOT Florinda (size small) that I found for someone (though I haven't heard from them - so if its something you are looking for let me know). I also got a GREAT surprise. Jon bought me a ped-egg, which I have totally been obsessing over for what seems like two years.

Then I had a great sushi lunch and am starting on a lasagna for the boys. I hope this weather stays this way!!!

Tonight I am going to work out for the first time in nearly a year at Kathryn's and I am super excited.

New Ideas?

When I was browsing in Nordstrom the other day I noticed the Milly top above. Its a dead ringer (though different pattern) than a classic Mayle top from fall 2004 (you know the one the bib front, banded sleeves, the belt detail and key hole neckline?).

It got me wondering as to whom else would start to replicate old Mayle pieces? To a super fan like me - I noticed immediately and honestly it made me not want to buy anything from Milly in the future. Obviously all designers are inspired by other designers or vintage pieces. I mean the original top itself was inspired by a top that Jane wore all the time but it doesn't make me want to buy the sad knock off (at $250).

JM Sample Sale

The pieces I am looking for are.... below (with photos) JM's sizing is still off - so I usually go for 8's.

The Diamond dress in black size 8
The draped dress size 8
The Sarta dress in the aubergine size 8....

If you go to the sale let me know!

Broken Embraces and Other Ramblings

I can't believe its Wednesday already. Today it didn't rain so I was extremely happy. I ended up searching for jobs while alternately eating some toast with sugar free jam and watching some Law & Order CI/SVU's that I divoed.

Last night I did a closet clean so I took some of my non designer things to Buffalo Exchange and then met up with Amy for a movie at the Fox Tower - Broken Embraces which I highly recommend. Recently I have had no appetite, so I had some popcorn and a soda but didn't eat all of the snack or consume all of the drink. After the movie I went to Forever 21 to spend more of the gift card my brother in law gave me for Christmas - I got three more necklaces and I have another $17 left to spend. I also hit Nordstrom to return the DVF top I bought without trying on.

Dinner tonight? Pork chops with BBQ sauce, apple sauce, horseradish mash ad grilled asparagus + carrots.

Outfit? Black Tana with liquid Hue leggings, Mayle boots and Aiko cardigan in black

Also a HUGE thanks to Sarah for the scoop on the Jeffrey Montiero sample sale on the 18th. If anyone plans on going let me know. I am looking for a dress from resort as well as two dresses from fall.

Jeffrey Monteiro Sample Sale

200 Centre St, # 2

New York 10013

(646) 415-8218

One Day Only – Monday, January 18th

11am till 7pm

Cash & Major Credit Cards Accepted

Mishapes, Mistakes Mistakes

Tuesday. There isn't much to say about today - I have been trying to spend as much time out of the house as possible for the fear that if I sit in the house I will gorge on spreadable Boursin cheese and lay around watching television.

This morning I laid in bed and continued my job search - applying for five jobs and reaching out to a recruiter who I have to say has been absolutely no help what so ever. Its amazing that as a former marketing executive who has managed budgets, produced photo shoots for clients and managed million dollar accounts, I cannot get an interview to be an EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT. I know how to book travel, answer phones, fetch lunch, do spread sheets, make copies... but apparently you need five years experience doing this. Who on earth wants to be an executive assistant for five years???? I know this is all likely mute as I am waiting for the final offer from the job I have been interviewing for, but if there is one thing I have learned - never put all your eggs in one basket.

Around 11 I finally calmed my nerves and took a shower and headed to Kathryn's - Odessa is downstairs so it took all my courage to NOT go in and have a look around. The Isabel Marant and Jeffrey Montiero will just have to wait.

I hung out for a few hours, then convinced Kathryn to grab some sushi at Sushi Land, shopped at Safeway for some dinner fixings and then headed downtown to Nordstrom and Marios to look around. Nordstrom was a waste. I did end up with a DVF top that I didn't bother to try on, doesn't fit and now has to be returned. Mario's I did fare better. I saw two 3.1 dresses that I would live in, on sale but just cant spend the dough as they were only 30% off. They also had some simply divine Lanvin sandals for resort that were $610 and way out of my league. At this point if I buy something Lanvin the only people I know beyond someone on my board who would appreciate it would be Nancy and Tracy.

After a marathon phone call with Laurie, I went home and made dinner. Even the excitement of my best friend Jen's news that she is having a baby girl this June did not brighten my day (and Jon and I have always dreamed of Max marrying the future Dunn-Yeh baby if it is a girl).

Today's outfit? Simple.

Print + lace dress from Anthropologie
Black tights
Mayle boots
Mayle shawl collar sweater

Fun New Blog

My sister in law is an artist, and gal about town (in LA- and not in a gross socialite type way, more of a has fun doing things we normally wouldn't think of doing). I am linking to her blog so you can enjoy her mini films, paintings and more... check out her blog!

Coffee + TV

The start of a new week and just four days into the new year, I found myself stumbling around the apartment this morning looking for something to do. It was raining outside (of course), which really put a damper (pardon the pun) on my day. So I folded laundry.

As I am in limbo waiting to hear about this new job, I tried to keep busy without spending money (which is never easy). I had acupuncture at 10 - which went very well. Its amazing as last time I went I was in horrendous pain, Dr Liu said, "no pain, no gain" (referring to the needles - I was sensitive). Today they didn't hurt though my shoulders are a MESS as is my lower back. So next week, if my sinuses are OK, we will work on my back. I am also contemplating getting a guest pass to 24 Hour Fitness and going to exercise for free for a week to see if I like the gym. I think its another great way to keep me out of the house but not spending money and hopefully slightly fitter.

After acupuncture I waited for Ina to come over and clean, and then ran some errands (bank, taking a few things to consignment, putting a few things on eBay, hitting Buffalo Exchange). I ended up not eating lunch until 3:30 and succumbed to the lunch special at PF Chang's (never a good idea) - then shopped for dinner.

Tracy came over around 4:15 and hung out. Somehow this day ran away from me. It's two legs ran fast...I barely watched television though did notice that the Golden Girls are no longer on at 9 - now its Little House on the Prairie and I never loved that show.

Today's outfit? Black Michaela, gray tights, JC Mary Janes, and See by Chloe metallic lurex sweater.

Sunday, January 3?

Last night Jon and I were going to watch "Inglorious Bastards" he recently bought the new Blue Ray version - but instead we got sucked into a nearly three-hour "Kill Bill" marathon. Over the past few days Jon and I had been watching Kill Bill 2 - which is personally my favorite as a lot more of the story unfolds. When 2 finished we started watching Kill Bill 1. Only meaning to watch it for say 30 minutes we got sucked in. I love Tarantino films. I don't think he has ever made anything that is even the slightest bit questionable.

I ended up going to bed at midnight, and Max crawled into our bed at 2, so the rest of my night's sleep was restless to say the least. Max woke up with the birds this morning and it was my turn to get up with him as Jon gave him a bath and put him to bed last night. After two hours of television we rallied and headed over to our friends Kelly and Ben's for a play date with their daughter + Fleur, JD and Nathan.

The kids ran around in Kelly + Ben's newly finished basement for 3 hours. I was exhausted watching them. By the time we got home (3:15) Jon and I were so famished, Max had fallen into serious nap mode. Jon and I ate Chipolte (weekend of guilty pleasure fast food) and I ran to my friend Tracy's to babysit her daughter while she and her husband went to look at a house.

When I finally got home, I gave Jon a reprieve (he went to Powell's) and Max and I cleaned his room which took and hour. On New Years day he literally took every toy he had and dumped it on the floor. I learned two things from this:

1. Max has WAY too many toys. We just CANNOT buy him anything new for a WHILE.

2. No matter how many time you go through toys to give away (which I did RIGHT before Xmas) there is always going to be 5-10 MORE toys you can give away. I have already scoped out two toys for Tilly and some other Yo Gabba Gabba toys to donate to clubhouse.

Needless to say, Max did not help clean his room and I walked away with a headache. Listening to Queens of The Stone Age probably did not help. I cannot wait until Max is two-years older (5) so he REALLY gets what it means to clean his room.

And its a new year. I am trying to be open regarding my wardrobe. Trying not to wear a Mayle dress EVERY day. Today I wore the purple floral dress from Anthropologie with the black Mayle shawl cardigan from fall 2006, black tights and JC Mary Janes.

I was in Nordstrom at Washington Square yesterday and I saw the above Kate Spade dress on sale for $202. Its very Vivienne Westwood I liked it but at the same time I wondered would I look like a giant tartan.....?

All Was Quiet On New Years Day

I wanted to post yesterday but I just wasn't feeling well after all the new years revelry. We had a great party. I wore Lana with my J.Crew tuxedo cardigan and black tights. News years day was A LOT of resting and dinner at a friends. Today we all rallied and drove out to Washington Square. I got some great necklaces at F21 and a lovely Korres lotion for $9 at sephora. There was also plenty of Rodarte for Target but not the pieces I have been looking for (the leopard jacket).


I just got home from good bye drinks for a friend who is moving from Portland to Baltimore (then back to NYC in about 6 months).

Today I wore Zofia with gray leopard tights, black JC flat menswear shoes, and the light pink polka dot J.Crew cardi (and a giant chunky necklace from F21)