Confessions of a Wannabe Fashionista

KDot + RDog

2012-02-14T20:27:00.001-04:00

Romance is in the air and this couples survey is floating around blog land, so I thought I'd give it a try.

1. How long have you and your significant other been together?
We have been together just over 11 years.

2. How did you meet?
We met at a bar - yikes.

I was on this thing called a smoker. Basically a bunch of girls from my dorm got in a bus with a lot of alcohol and blacked out windows. The bus took us to an unknown city where we did a pub crawl. I ran into this cute guy who introduced himself by saying, "Hi, I'm a dork." He then shielded me from a bar fight and flying glass.

We discovered he went to high school with one of my good friends. I left on the bus at the end of the night while my friend stayed (breaking smoker rules). She gave him my phone number and the rest was history.

One of our first real dates.

3. If married, how long have you been married?
We've been married since July 5, 2008.

4. Where did you get married? Big or small wedding?
We were married in my parents' backyard in Nova Scotia. They busted their butts getting everything perfect. My dad even build a gazebo that housed a string quartet.

The reception was at a local hotel. There were about 125 guests.

5. Do you have any nick-names that you call one another?
I really do call him RDog.

6. 3 things that I love most about RDog.
His patience. The man is a saint - he puts up with me and my crazy habits. His generosity - he is the first to give whatever his friends and family need. His humor - we have so much fun just laughing together about stupid stuff.

7. How did he propose?
RDog is really shy and it took him a long time to dig up the courage to propose. He gave me my ring for Christmas in 2006. It was wrapped up under the tree in a shoe box (to disguise the ring box). When I opened up the box, I kept on saying, "what does this mean, what does this mean?" He gave me a huge tight hug - I think he was too nervous to ask the question. I don't think he ever actually did ask me to marry him, I just started shouting yes.

8. Flowers and teddy bear or strawberries, champagne and rose petals for Valentine's Day?
We'll take wine and video games.

9. What makes 'us' work?
We are best friends and love spending time together.

10. Most romantic thing RDog has ever done for me?
We're not really into big gestures. I find the little things he does very romantic. Like when he gets me a class of water because I'm too lazy to get off the couch or when he installed a programmable thermostat in the bathroom so it's not cold when I get up at 6am (I hate the cold).

I Will Always Love You

2012-02-14T19:00:00.001-04:00

Sweater: Banana Republic Factory
Skirt: Old Navy
Booties: Naturalizer

I hope everyone is having a happy Valentine's day!

To celebrate, RDog and I went out to a fancy dinner last Friday night. It's a very posh restaurant that we can only afford once a year.

Happy after a few glasses of wine. It was very nice but I felt pressure to use the right fork. I think I used the salad fork for my fish. I felt judged by the waiters.

Tonight is a more relaxing time. I have teacher meetings tomorrow so I don't mind staying up a little later than usual (bedtime is usually 10pm sharp). We're going to crack open some wine and play some video games. How romantic!

RDog came home with a rose and Maru's book for me tonight. If you love cats and haven't heard of Maru, you must check this out.

I gave him the gift of cash. :P He wants to start a hobby of putting together model airplanes. I wasn't sure what he needed to get started, so I just gave him the dough to buy what he needs. He was really excited.

It's our 12th V-Day together and the romance is still going strong. :P

Week of The Pink

2012-02-13T19:02:00.000-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Blouse: old Old Navy
Skirt: Cassis
Shoes: Naturalizer
Flower: J CRew

I have a system; an outfit choosing system.

On Sunday night, I pick out and try on all my clothes for the week. I find accessories and tights, steam all wrinkled pieces and hang everything in the laundry room ready to go to for the week.

I have to do things this way or I would be really late everyday. 6:30 am is not my best time.

This week, in the theme of Valentine's Day, I was struck by the pink bug while organizing this week's clothes. All my outfits for this week ended up having a bit of pink, so I am dubbing this the week of the pink.

I Like The Way You Move It, Move It

2012-02-11T13:28:00.000-04:00

Sweater: Martin and Osa
Skirt: J Crew
Shoes: Cole Haan

Love Me, Love Me, Say That You Love Me

2012-02-09T19:05:00.002-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Blouse: J Crew
Skirt: Ricki's
Belt: Joe Fresh
Booties: Naturalizer
Earrings: RDog

I'm in the mood for 90's bands tonight. Anyone else remember the Cardigans?

I'm Stuck on You

2012-02-08T17:07:00.003-04:00

Sweater: J Crew layered over a J Crew tank
Skirt: Talbots
Shoes: Cole Haan

I tried the self-timer picture again. We've been having such great sunsets. Too bad RDog isn't home in time to capture them.

This is a new skirt from Talbots. I love the skirt but was it ever fill of static today!

Our administrative assistant noticed the static and suggested I run a wire coat hanger on my skirt to stop it. I tried that trick. Yes, I stood in the office and stuck a wire hanger up my skirt. The teacher that walked in on that one got an eyeful.

It didn't really work so I gave up and went to a nearby drugstore to get a bottle of de-static-ify-ing. I have no idea what it is called; I've never needed it before.

Do you have any tricks to get rid of static cling?

I Like Pina Coladas

2012-02-07T18:47:00.004-04:00

Sweater: Land's End Canvas
Necklace: J Crew wannabe from EBay
Skirt: Ricki's
Booties: Naturalizer

I was excited when I arrived home tonight because the sun was still shinning. With the help of my timer, I thought I could get some great pictures.

I did get some great shots, I think. I just forgot to switch the camera off of RDog's manual settings, so they were pretty blurry.

I had to settle for pictures with the sun barely peeking out behind the trees.

At least it's better than an orange couch. I'm getting tired of looking at that thing.

All She Wants To Do is Dance

2012-02-06T19:21:00.002-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Sweater: Shell: J Crew
Skirt: Old Navy
Booties: Naturalizer

Keeping It Real

2012-02-02T19:04:00.003-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Blouse: Land's End Canvas
Skirt: J Crew
Shoes: Cole Haan

Today I was having trouble keeping my blouse tucked into my skirt. So I tucked it into my tights. Unfortunately, I didn't tuck my tights into my skirt.

Stellar.

Oompa Loompa Day

2012-01-31T19:57:00.003-04:00

Dress: Old Navy
Booties: Naturalizer

Sometimes colored tights make me feel fine. Sometimes they make me feel like an Oompa Loompa.

Today was an Oompa Loompa day.

January Purchases

2012-01-31T17:25:00.001-04:00

Talbots Silk Charmeuse Cami - $11.99
Talbots Solid tie-shoulder dress - $14.99
Talbots Gabrielle twill dress - $14.99
Talbots Cowl-Neck Dress - $37.79
Old Navy Micro-Pleat Full Ski - $9.00
Talbots Silk Georgette Pleated Skirt - $21.89
Talbots Classic Side Zip Fit Midnight Rinse skinny crops - $11.99
Talbots 1/2" Leather skinny belt - $7.97
Old Navy Turtleneck Sweater - $6.00
Old Navy Turtleneck Sweater - $7.97
Old Navy Turtleneck Sweater - $13.00
Old Navy Wool Cloche Hats - $14.00

Grand Total: $171.58

Not too bad considering I overdosed on needless Talbots items after I discovered an extra %40 off code.

When I am going to learn my lesson and stop buying pants online. They rarely fit. The two pairs I bought this month were final sale and neither were quite right. Baby got back.

I love the two skirts I bought this month. I'm really digging pleats lately.

The turtleneck sweaters were bought because I am always cold and I recently discovered I have neck wrinkles. Aging sucks!

She Works Hard For Her Money

2012-01-30T20:04:00.003-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Dress: Ricki's
Bracelets: Banana Republic
Booties: Naturalizer

I got nothing tonight.

Tank Head

2012-01-29T20:50:00.000-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Top: Ella Moss
Skirt: Ricki's
Booties: Naturalizer

A random outfit I forgot to post last week.

I hope everyone had a great weekend. I did lots of this over the weekend.

I can't believe I am posting this on the internet! This is me in my comfy clothes, acting silly with RDog. We were having a good game of Battlefield when I decided to put the cat's Christmas present (a cat tank) on my head. Hence, the name tank head. Good times!

No Brown Bread For You!

2012-01-26T18:30:00.001-04:00

Sweater: Talbots
Skirt: J Crew
Shoes: Cole Haan
Earrings: Joe Fresh

Today's post title relates to the squabble RDog and I had while taking these pictures.

While snapping away, RDog asked, "Do we have any bread in the house?"

KDot's reply, "Yes, I just bought some yesterday."

RDog: "Brown bread?"

KDot: "No, flax."

RDog: "Yuck, flax.

KDot: "Since you rarely eat bread at home and I bought it for my lunch and I don't like brown bread, I bought flax. If you want brown bread, you are going to have to either tell me when you want it or buy it yourself."

RDog: "So there's no brown bread?"

KDot: "*^*%&$"

So a lot of photos turned out with me with my mouth open talking and looking indignant.

Darn brown bread.

Ballerina Wannabe

2012-01-25T18:00:00.000-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Sweater shell: J crew
Skirt: Old Navy
Shoes: Naturalizer

This skirt must be worn with a hair bun. It's the law.

I danced a little bit in my classroom by myself today and felt like a ballerina.

Then I felt like a fool.

It's the skirt's fault. :P

Wiggle

2012-01-24T18:00:00.000-04:00

Sweater: Banana Republic
Skirt: Cassis
Booties: Naturalizer

I was singing "I'm sexy and I know it" while RDog took these pictures. My favorite part of that song is the line,"wiggle, wiggle, wiggle."

I can't lie; I was doing plenty of wiggling which resulted in plenty of pictures with me and my limbs askew, eyes closed and or crossed, and my mouth agape. I've realized I am not an attractive dancer.

And no, I won't be posting any out-takes. There are some things that just shouldn't be on the internet!

Winter

2012-01-23T18:36:00.001-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Blouse: Old Navy (it's sleeveless, it's my trick for no bunching)
Skirt: Ricki's
Shoes: Naturalizer

I dug out the tripod and timer because I finally made it home before dark! RDog wasn't home yet (he doesn't get home until it is well past dusk) but we had the prettiest snow; I knew I couldn't miss this photo opportunity.

So I suffered through the cold for these pictures but rewarded myself afterward with a cosy blanket, hot tea and Kitty cuddles.

Fashion disaster averted!

2012-01-20T18:00:00.000-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Skirt: Cassis
Necklace: RDog
Boots: Naturalizer

This was one of those mornings when I got dressed and realized what I was wearing wasn't quite right (too sheer and low cut for school). I hurriedly grabbed something else because I was late (I am always late in the morning). This is what turned out.

It was the first time I've worn this J Crew sweater since I purchased it last summer. I was in such a rush, I forgot to take off the tags and they were sticking straight out of the back collar. Fortunately two sweet girls noticed shortly after I arrived at school and told me. Fashion disaster averted!

OPP

2012-01-19T19:41:00.000-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Sweater Shell: J Crew (thrifted)
Skirt: Ricki's
Boots: Naturalizer
Necklace: J Crew

Today's title came from the song I was singing in my grade 11 English class this morning. My students had no idea what it was from so I schooled them in lame 90s hip hop. Sing it with me, "You down with OPP, ya you know me!"

Comment Away!

2012-01-18T18:00:00.000-04:00

Sweater: Gap
Skirt: Old Navy available here
Necklace: Etsy available here
Boots: Naturalizer

I installed Disqus the other night. I don't know why I waited so long. It makes replying to comments so much easier! Now I won't be the slacker blogger who misses most comments and never replies. I will respond to them all! So go ahead, comment away! :-)

Brown Town

2012-01-17T18:00:00.001-04:00

Sweater: Old Navy
Skirt: J Crew
Necklace: Joe Fresh
Bracelet: Joe Fresh
Belt: Danier Leather
Shoes: Cole Haan

This outfit revolved around a turtleneck and the fact that it was very, very cold.

We're having problems with our fire alarms at work. I don't know the technical part of it but the fire alarms go off when it is very, very cold. Yes, a fire alarm that goes off in extreme cold. Everyone has to evacuate when the alarms go off. This is not fun. I think my feet are still numb from the last "drill". But at least my neck stayed warm.

Casual Saturday

2012-01-16T18:00:00.000-04:00

Sweater: Reitman's (a Christmas gift from my in-laws)
Tank: Old Navy
Necklace: J Crew wannabe from Ebay
Jeans: Reitman's
Boots: Naturalizer

We went to visit RDog's parents on Saturday to celebrate his father's birthday. I wanted to make sure to wear the sweater they gave me for Christmas so they (his mom) would know I liked it.

Sunday was spent doing house chores and getting ready for the week ahead. The weekends really do go by too fast!

How was your weekend?

Talbots Extra 40% Sale

2012-01-15T16:36:00.005-04:00

Edited to add: I just found out this was meant to be an unique code. I'm not sure if Talbots will be honoring the orders. This happened to me once before and the orders did go through. *crosses fingers*

Shopping With M shared a great Talbots code on Polyvore. In case you didn't know, use 019588431 to get an extra 40% off the lowest price and free shipping!

I went a little crazy with this one.

Here is what I ordered.

Turnlock Suede Clutch

I've been eyeing this one for months. But as I feel envelope clutches are pretty trendy and won't be in style for long, I didn't want to pay too much. $22.50 sounds just about right for me!

Scoopneck Cable Knit Sweater

I've put a ban on buying cardigans as I own way too many and not very many pull overs sweaters. This one will fit the bill nicely.

Cowl Neck Dress

Winter dresses are hard to find. I have lots of blue, gray and black dresses so the green will be a nice edition to my closet.

Silk Georgette Pleated Skirt

I've wanted a mustard skirt forever.

Now the waiting game begins. Will any of these items actually ship? I've had really bad luck in the last few months. Numerous orders have been canceled by Talbots due to inventory problems.

Are you shopping at Talbots? What did you order?

It's Wine Thirty!

2012-01-13T20:30:00.000-04:00

Sweater: J crew
T-shirt: Old Navy
Skirt: Ricki's
Boots: Naturalizer
Necklace: Gift from a student

Finally, the long week is over. It's wine thirty in the RDog and KDot household.

Have a great weekend!

It's a Scientific Fact.

2012-01-12T19:03:00.002-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Blouse: Thrifted
Skirt: J Crew
Shoes: Naturalizer

This skirt looks 4 times more sparkly in pictures than in real life. It's a scientific fact.

Let's Throw This Outfit Into the Far Reaches of My Closet

2012-01-11T18:57:00.004-04:00

Sweater: Ralph Lauren
Skirt: Thrifted
Shoes: Naturalizer
Scarf: Thrifted

We were a bit rushed with the photo taking tonight. I worked an extra long day, rushed home to start making spaghetti and promptly got tomato sauce on this white cashmere sweater. When RDog got home, I pounced on him screaming, "Take me picture NOW. I have spaghetti sauce on my sweater and want to take off this dumb scarf, NOW, NOW, NOW."

Needless to say, the poor boy was rushed which is why I only have one good picture from tonight.

The spaghetti stain did come out.

The scarf got thrown into the far reaches of my closet. I love collecting vintage scarves but I realized I don't actually like wearing them. I always feel like an airplane stewardess. I'm so jealous of you hip scarf wearing people out there!

Explosions of a Different Kind

2012-01-10T18:54:00.004-04:00

Sweater: Ricki's
Blouse: Ricki's
Pants: Cassis
Boots: Naturalizer
Bracelets: Ricki's and J Crew

Ever have one of those days when you think about earlier in the day and it seems as if you are remembering events from days ago?

That was my day. Yes, it felt that long.

The highlight of my day was when the water fountain outside my classroom exploded, spewing sewer sludge all over the nearby walls.

One of my students (who was late for class incidentally) was an eye witness. He described the event "as streams of poop exploding from the fountain."

Gross, but this English teacher can't knock his word choice.

Bad Kitty!

2012-01-09T19:04:00.004-04:00

Blazer: Martin and Osa
Top Banana Republic Factory
Necklace: J crew wannabe found on Ebay
Pants: Gap
Shoes: Naturalizer

One of my new year's style resolutions is to acquire AND wear blazers most often. I feel like I'm missing out on a lot of greatness by not wearing blazers regularly. What better way to start than on my first day back from vacation.

I'm so glad I went back to work before the students. We had a professional development day (which means we sat and listened to presentations) which was a lovely way to ease back into the swing of things. Especially after my little Kitty monster woke me up at 1:55 am playing.

When she plays, she makes this horrible crying noise that sounds like she is being tortured. I should make a youtube video of it as it is super cute, just not at 1:55 am.

A Typical Friday Night

2012-01-07T11:07:00.004-04:00

Sweater: The Bay
Pants: Caissis
Boots: Naturalizer

Last night we had plans to do a fancy supper out with friends. I had stayed home in my pjs all week and was looking forward to actually leaving the house. I had just finished picking out a pretty sparkly outfit and had put the finishing touches on my hair and makeup when our friends called and canceled (boooo!).

Luckily RDog understood that he was required to still take me out for dinner. I may have whined just a little, "But RDog my makeup is pretty and I have nothing planned for supper."

I traded the sparkles for a cozy sweater because it was gosh darn cold outside and we headed off to a downtown cozy restaurant where I indulged in some seafood chowder (yum). RDog even dropped me up and picked me up at the door so I didn't have to walk in the cold.

What a good man.

Then we headed home to watch a bad movie (The PoolBoys - don't reccommend) and play some SingStar (totally fun).

A typical, relaxing Friday night. How was your Friday night?

There's a Bird on My Head

2012-01-01T12:50:00.003-04:00

Sweater: Old from Costco
Skirt: Joe Fresh
Boots: Naturalizer
Headband: Forever 21

I kept this outfit all black to try to tone down the massive amount of sequins and the large feathers on my head. New Year's Eve is a great opportunity to wear silly stuff on your head. I forgot I had a peacock on my head a couple of time and shocked myself when I looked in the mirror. "Holy crap, there's a bird on my head," was heard just about everytime I walked by a mirror.

I'm actually not a huge fan of New Year's Eve. Too many expectations are put on a night that rarely delivers. Last night, I grumbled about leaving the house but once we got to a friend's house party, I actually had a really good time. It was just a few couples sitting around drinking wine, eating yummy food and watching the World Junior hockey game.

I hope you all had a great night and you have an even better 2012! Happy New Year!

December Purchases

2011-12-31T11:38:00.000-04:00

1. Land's End Tartan Plaid Flower Pin - $8.99
2. ASOS Clutch - $22.5022.5
3. Old Navy Fair Isle Sweater - $18.00
4. Land's End Canvas Double Ring Belt - $11.99
5. Land's End Long Sleeve Flannel Ruffle Popover Shirt - $10.19
6. Land's End 3/4-sleeve 1x1 Rib Boatneck Top - $5.99
7. Land's End Canvas Double Buckle Belt - $13.19

Not shown because I can't get items from TheBay.com loaded on to Polyvore.

Topshop Jersey Pencil Skirt - $23.00
Topshop Milano Pencil Skirt - $28.00
Topshop Faux Leather Trim Pencil Skirt - $28.00

Grand Total: 169.85

Topshop was on sale last week at The Bay so I thought I'd try it out. The items haven't arrived yet so I'm not sure if everything will stay.

Land's End had a great sale so that why I have a few items from that site. I loved my my last LEC belt so I found two more (and love them too).

All in all, not a bad month to offset the spending extravaganza that was November. I focused most of my shopping on presents. I feel (hope) January will be another low clothing purchasing month. I'm itching to buy some house stuff. I'm tired of bare walls and need to hit Etsy to find some art.

Top Outfits of the Year

2011-12-30T18:25:00.001-04:00

It's December 30, the time of year for reflection. I've decided to reflect in the most superficial way possible and look at the best outfits from the past year. I'll save the deep stuff for another post. :P

2011 marked RDog's involvement in photography which resulted in a vast improvement in photo quality. Thanks RDog for taking the time to snap my photos and then doing them again when the light in the first batch wasn't just right.

With so many great photos, it was hard to choose my favorites, but here are a few outfits I liked the best.

In Country Fairs and Covered Bridges, I went casual for a change. I like this one because it reminds me of a really fun day I spent with my husband.

KDot and RDog went to Prince Edward Island to celebrate our 11th anniversary of meeting each other. It was another great time with RDog.

No food babies are allowed in this outfit. Seriously, that skirt is tight!

No bears were harmed during the taking of this photo. Another fun time with RDog where we might have heard some bears rustling around in an abandoned air hanger. We haven't been back.

The night of my favorite teacher friend's bachelorette. I felt so fine but then I forgot to pick up the bride. D'oh! It all worked out in the end.

A crazy cat lady who can layer!

A warm spring day. This dress was seen a lot around my town in the spring. Every time I saw it, it was paired with black or navy blue. I'm a bit proud of the fact I made it work with other colors.

One self taken picture made this list. The peach, the ruffles and the flower; they all made me feel so girly.

I'm probably picking this one because of the pretty picture. My outfit matched the leaves!

2011 also marked the year when I became less shy about color. I love this outfit because of its brightness!

Blog plans for 2011 include more posts, more pictures and more photo locations. Hopefully RDog is up for the challenge!

Christmas Around Our House

2011-12-25T08:35:00.000-04:00

So many bloggers have shown their beautiful homes gussied up for the holidays. It's Christmas morning and I'm waiting for the sleepyheads to get up, so I thought I'd share a little bit of KDot and RDog's Christmas decorations.

The front door has a wreath, some lanterns with battery candles inside (on a timer too), urns stuffed with branches and Christmas balls.

Inside the entry way I have a vanilla candle so the house smells like the baking I don't do.

The downstairs tree, the real one, where we open our gifts Christmas morning (if family ever wakes up :P).

I love white and sparkly ornaments.

Our upstairs hallway is really wide so we were able to fit my awesome white tree there.

In our attic office, RDog got his wish; the traditional tree with the train set around the bottom.

The table all set for Christmas Eve dinner.

Christmas Greetings

2011-12-23T21:06:00.004-04:00

Sweater: Banana Republic
Pants: Caissis
Necklace: Gift from a student
Booties: Naturalizer

Today was finally my last day of school. It was a half day so many students saw it as an opportunity to stay home and sleep in. I had a great day with the students who did attend.

I was very surprised this year by the amount of students who gave me Christmas gifts. Teaching big kids, that doesn't happen very often. But this year, several of my students gave me really thoughtful gifts, including this beautiful necklace that a student made me. Other gifts included a bag full of homemade goodies (baking and crafts), a cat calendar because I love cats and a blue angel ornament for my new white, blue and purple tree. I have some really sweet students this year!

We also had our Christmas assembly where the whole school (at least those who showed up) gathered in the auditorium to sing carols. It was a great feeling to hear all those teenagers sing and see everyone's happy face.

Yesterday I had to call in sick at the very last minute, literally ten minutes before students were to be in my room. I pulled my back out while brushing my hair - yikes! My chiropractor thinks it was just my body telling me to go on vacation. It's been a really stressful semester! I'm glad I went into school today; it was nice to end the year on a high note at work instead of feeling cranky and irritated at the few disrespectful kids I teach (the way I was feeling for the past few weeks). So many of them are just really good people. It was nice to be reminded of that today.

In other news, it looks like it will be a white Christmas. RDog and I (mostly me) are busy preparing for our Christmas Eve dinner. Then we're looking forward to some family time and relaxation.

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas.

Take care,

KDot

Superman Never Made Any Money

2011-12-21T19:08:00.001-04:00

Sweater: Land's End Canvas
Blouse: Old Navy
Necklace: J Crew
Skirt: Ricki's
Booties: Naturalizer

We Can't Stop Here - This is Bat Country

2011-12-20T18:42:00.004-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
T-shirt: J Crew
Skirt: Ricki's
Booties: Naturalizer

Yup, I'm still wearing work clothes because I'm still working! Boo! School is in all week until the 23rd. This teacher is getting mighty cranky.

Paper Clip Blues

2011-12-16T19:36:00.004-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Tank: J Crew
Skirt: J Crew
Shoes: Naturalizer

I love this skirt.

The only problem is that it's fibers are very sticky. It catches on my school desk a lot.

Apparently, it also picks up objects because I was walking around for a bit with a paper clip stuck on my bum. And not just a little clip; one of those big monstrous clips used for 100 sheet piles of paper.

Lacey

2011-12-15T19:32:00.000-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
T-shirt: Old Navy
Skirt: The Bay
Shoes: Naturalizer

C'est La Vie

2011-12-14T18:00:00.000-04:00

Skirt: Ricki's
Tank: J Crew
Sweater: J Crew
Shoes: Naturalizer

Here's my secret trick of the day. My tank was too low cut so I hiked up the straps and attached them with safety pins. I've been doing this ever since I got the darned shirt two years ago. A five minute sewing job would fix the problem but that hasn't happened yet. C'est la vie.

All Aboard!

2011-12-13T18:00:00.001-04:00

Sweater: Old Navy
Skirt: J Crew
Shoes: Naturalizer

There seems to have been an explosion of Fair Isle on the interwebs. It's a trend I thought I'd jump on; fair isle is just too cozy to pass up. After seeing my coolness today, now RDog wants in on the fun.

If only Old Navy made matching sweaters for women and men. Then we could do a sweater Christmas card, RDog! That would sure be swell.

Sigh, only Tuesday and my brain has gone to toast.

Pop of Pink

2011-12-12T18:00:00.002-04:00

Shirt: Costco
Skirt: Joe Fesh
Booties: Naturalizer
Clutch: Asos - why am I just discovering this site now! It is awesome!

RDog's staff Christmas party gave me another excuse to break out my sequin skirt. This time I kept it all black with a bit of color. Pink worked so well last time I wore the skirt, I went with it again for my pop of color.

Daily Dose of Cuteness

2011-12-09T18:00:00.000-04:00

Blouse: Brooks Brothers (thrifted)
Skirt: J Crew
Belt: J Crew
Shoes: Cole Haan

Here is your daily dose of cuteness.

Ruby perched on RDog's keyboard.

Yes, that is a bottle of wine behind her. One of our favorite activities is to play Battlefield and drink red wine.

We're a crazy bunch.

Tis The Season

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

Sweater: J Crew
Skirt: Cassis
Shirt: Forever 21
Shoes: Naturalizer

This shirt has been forgotten in my closet for a year. But tis the season for sequins so it's time to dig it out!

I Love My Booties

2011-12-07T18:00:00.000-04:00

Sweater: Martin and Osa
Dress: J Crew Factory
Belt: Yard Sale
Booties: Naturalizer

I love my booties. I also like singing that phrase. Really loud. Try it; it's fun!

Abandoned Airstrip Willies

2011-12-06T18:00:00.000-04:00

Sweater: Gap
Skirt: Old Navy
Boots: Naturalizer

A few months ago, RDog and I were checking out our house on Google Earth when we found what looked to be an airstrip nearby. We hit the back roads in his Jeep and explored until we found it. Sure, enough our country neighborhood boosts an abandoned airstrip and airplane hanger. I vowed we would go back to take blog pictures near the hanger.

Sunday we were driving home after satisfying my post-bachelorette party craving for a burger when we decided to give an airstrip picture a try. However, it didn't go as planned.

RDog wanted to get a shot of me against the juxtaposition of the beat up metal hanger. Notice the absence of any kind of building in the background.

When we pulled up to the hanger and got out of the car, we heard this REALLY loud banging. Too loud to be simply the wind banging the metal walls. It sounded like a freaked out person throwing themselves against the hanger walls or a bear.

Both prospects are not pleasant so we situated ourselves slightly away from the hanger for these pictures. I could still hear the banging though, hence the slightly panicked look on my face.

I could see the headlines: "Local Teacher Mauled by Bear While Taking Fashion Blog Pictures at an Abandoned Country Airstrip."

Not the way I want to go.

So we hustled back in the car and took off, vowing to return at a bear free time for more pictures.

It might be a while before that happens though. Abandoned airstrips now give me the willies.

Bring on the Sequins!

2011-12-05T18:00:00.001-04:00

Jacket: Reitman's
Shirt Banana Republic
Skirt: Joe Fresh
Shoes: Naturalizer (These are my "Can only stand on them for 1/2 hour shoes". But they make me feel pretty.

Saturday night was a friend's bachelorette party. It was a traditional bachelorette party but instead a fancy dress up dinner. I thought it would be a great chance to break out my sparkly skirt.

A few years ago, I wanted something sequined for RDog's staff Christmas party but could find very little available. Now it seems that sequins are everywhere. I love it. Bring on the sequins!

Orange You Glad ?

2011-12-02T21:13:00.003-04:00

Sweater: Land's End Canvas
Blouse: Ricki's
Skirt: Ricki's
Shoes: Cole Haan

Getting tired of my orange couch yet?

I regret that purchase.

Life on Mars

2011-12-01T18:37:00.001-04:00

Blouse: Talbots
Skirt: Ricki's
Belt: Joe Fresh
Shoes: Naturalizer

November Purchases

2011-11-30T17:25:00.003-04:00

Naturalizer Driven shoes: $72.31
Naturalizer Collette Shoes: $47.99
Naturalizer Carmen Boots: $71.99
Ricki's Cardigan: $22.49
Land's End Canvas cardigan: $15.00
Joe Fresh skirt: $39, used $20 in PC Points = $19
Ricki's Blouse in purple and white $8.89 each for a total of $ 17.78
Ricki's skirt: 13.99
Ricki's Sweater tunic: $13.99
Old Navy Cloche Hat: $12.99

Total: 307.53

It was the month of the shoe. I realized that most of my shoes are open toe and I live in Canada. Yup, I realized both things this month. I decided it wasn't so practical to own 20 open toe pairs of shoes and 5 closed pairs when I can only wear sandals and such for a few short months a year. And during most of those warm months, I'm at home in flip flops, not using my "dressy school stuff".

Naturalizer had a good sale (20% off and free shipping) so I hit it hard. I have really wide feet (they're pretty much square) and Naturalizer is almost the only line that fits these chunko feet.

Oh, and by the way, I freaking love my new hat. Expect to see it lots. I may wear it to bed tonight, I love it so much.

Sneaky

2011-11-29T19:51:00.002-04:00

Cardigan: J Crew
Cami: J Crew
Skirt: J Crew
Shoes: Naturalizer

RDog and I had to do a bit of sneaking to get these pictures done tonight. Our house is full of his family members. RDog is the only person in my "real life" who knows about my blogging obsession. I'm scared to tell anyone else in fear that they will think me superficial. Well, perhaps I am a bit superficial but I don't want anyone to know that. :P

Do you tell real life people about your blog?

Rocky Road

2011-11-28T19:37:00.003-04:00

Cardigan: J Crew
Blouse: Ricki's
Belt: J Crew
Skirt: Ricki's
Shoes: Naturalizer

Still digging the food blogs and the cooking. I'm munching on these tonight. So good in my belly, not good for my belly.

I Love Kitties

2011-11-24T19:11:00.003-04:00

Sweater: Martin and Osa
Necklace: Martin and Osa
Blouse: J Crew sample found on EBay
Skirt: J Crew
Shoes: Naturalizer
Kitty: Adorable

Speaking of adorable cats, have you seen Oskar the blind cat on youtube? If you like cats and need to waste some time, check this out.

Random Mooing

2011-11-23T15:54:00.002-04:00

I had just heard a cow moo. We don't live near any farms.

Dress: RW & Co.
Sweater: Ricki's
Flower: Forever 21
Boots: Naturalizer

A storm was brewing this afternoon so we were dismissed a couple of hours early from school. After a white knuckled drive home (I haven't put my snow tires on yet), I'm enjoying seeing my house in the light of day.

Three Things Learned

2011-11-22T18:58:00.000-04:00

Blouse: Martin and Osa
Skirt: Ricki's (It's gray but the indoor photo changes the color)
Necklace: J Crew
Shoes: J Crew

I've learned three things in the last day:

1. If you say that your cats haven't been playing with your breakable Christmas decorations, they immediately start batting your tree's glass balls. . . in the middle of the night

2. Food blogs are addictive. I've been reading Baked Bree non-stop for the past two days. RDog is happy; I'm cooking up a storm. Tonight I made chicken marbella. It was wicked awesome.

3. Groups of three sounds better than groups of two. Two things I've learned didn't have the same ring.

A Crazy Christmas Cat Lady

2011-11-21T18:42:00.004-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Blouse: J Crew
Bracelets: Joe Fresh
Skirt: Ricki's
Shoes: Naturalizer

This is the first Christmas tree of the year. There will be many more to follow. I plan on having 3 big trees and 3 teenie ones. I love Christmas decorations.

I always wanted a white Christmas tree and found this one for a song last year after Christmas. All the purple and blue ornaments were also bought in January last year and then packed up until now. It was like Christmas opening the boxes because I had forgotten what I bought.

Thetree skirt is forever rumpled because I have two cats who like to roll around in there. Luckily the only ornaments they have batted off the tree so far have been plastic ones. There are six plastic ornaments and many glass balls. Smart cats; they know they'll make their mommy upset if they play with the breakable ornaments.

Nobody Puts KDot in the Corner

2011-11-18T20:44:00.002-04:00

Blouse: J Crew
Necklace: J Crew
Belt: J Crew
Skirt: J Crew
Shoes: Naturalizer

Tired Eyes

2011-11-17T18:58:00.003-04:00

Sweater: Land's End Canvas
Necklace: J Crew
Cami: J Crew
Skirt: J Crew - I thought it fit me but when I looked at the pictures, I realized it's still a bit too tight. It's pulling in every single picture. More workouts are needed before its next wearing.
Shoes: Naturalizer

Mullet Jacket

2011-11-16T17:03:00.005-04:00

Dress: Martin and Osa
Sweater: Ricki's
Belt: Yard Sale
Shoes: Karen Scott

This morning I had two jacket choices. I went with this one because it is longer and I wanted to cover up some of the junk in my trunk. I was worried that I had too much badonka donk going on (a la Joan from MadMen). This dress is really clingy!

However, looking at these pictures makes me realize that the other jacket (a cropped one) would have been a better choice for my front. That realization got me thinking . . .

Is it possible to get a jacket that is long in the front, short in the front? Aka a mullet jacket? Maybe I'm on to something here . . .

Glorious Sunshine

2011-11-15T18:25:00.000-04:00

Sweater: J crew
Shirt: Banana Republic
Skirt: Old Navy
Shoes: Naturalizer

I was able to sneak in a few pictures during the day so I have another post with glorious sunshine. Unfortunately, RDog wasn't around to take the photos and remind me to include my feet in the shot.

Weekend Wear

2011-11-14T16:05:00.002-04:00

Jacket: Old Navy
Shirt: Brooks Brothers (thrifted)
Belt: Land's End Canvas
Jeans: Reitman's
Boots: Naturalizer

It was so great to see my house in daylight.

RDog and I spent the weekend relaxing and putting up Christmas decorations. This year I am going to be the crazy Christmas lady with her house fully decorated before December 1. Sqqueeee. . . pictures of my craziness will come soon.

Roaring Fire

2011-11-10T19:33:00.003-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Cami: J Crew
Skirt: Ricki's
Belt: Gap
Watch: RDog's
Shoes: Naturalizer

This picture was taken after a 12 hour work day (parent teacher interviews after school). It was nice to come home to a roaring fire, some Chinese food leftovers and a nice glass of wine. Ahhhhh, the long weekend is here.

My Man

2011-11-09T18:59:00.000-04:00

Blouse: Land's End Canvas
Necklace: Reitman's
Belt: RW & Co. (On it's last leg; the fake leather is starting to crack)
Skirt: Ricki's
Shoes: Naturalizer (Finally new shoes. They can be found here)

These pictures are from yesterday, aka RDog's birthday. He requested Chinese food for his birthday dinner so I complied by ordering a pile of Chinese takeout. Then we took these photos after eating said pile of food. Luckily, RDog is a pro at disguising food babies.

As for his birthday present, I spied these on EBay and thought they were perfect. My man loves Burberry and he loves to dress up.

I think he like them. He let out an "oh" when he opened them. My man also doesn't like to show much emotion.

Cat Tail

2011-11-08T18:19:00.004-04:00

Sweater: J Crew
Flower: J Crew
Skirt: Ricki's
Shoes: Naturalizer

We had to move our photo location in side. It is just too dark by the time we get home at night. On the plus side, RDog's indoor photo taking skills should grow a lot over the next few months. Another plus is that the cats get to hang out with us while we do our picture thing. Can you spot Kitty in these pictures?

Wine Day!

2011-11-07T18:38:00.004-04:00

Dress: Old Navy
Boots: Naturalizer

These pictures are from Saturday, otherwise known as wine day. It's our annual tradition. Every year in November we go to a wine festival in the afternoon, followed by dinner out with more wine, and finally end back at our house for more wine. Thus, it is known as wine day!

I wanted to wear something a bit dressy but it was quite chilly (there were actually flurries in the air). This ended up being my compromise; a sweater dress that's a little tighter than one I would wear to school. I don't like wearing "school clothes" on the weekend. Sometimes a gal gets tired of pencil skirts and cardigans. It's also a super comfortable dress which was great because it was a long day. A fun day, but long.

Dying Light

2011-11-04T22:06:00.007-03:00

Sweater: J Crew
Cami: J Crew
Skirt: J Crew
Shoes: Naturalizer

RDog and I are having a hard time getting home before the sun goes down. It's getting harder and harder to get non-blurry pictures. I suspect that we may be moving inside for picture time (which means a yucky flash).

The Age of Reason

2011-11-03T19:39:00.006-03:00

Sweater: Land's End Canvas
Skirt: Ricki's
Flower: Forever 21
Shoes: Naturalizer

No particular meaning to today's post title. It's simply from one of my favorite tv shows; Boardwalk Empire. Any other fans out there?

Homemade Hem Hackjob

2011-11-02T18:45:00.002-03:00

Dress: Thrifted
Sweater: J Crew
Belt: J Crew
Shoes: Naturalizer

Someone did a homemade hem job on this dress in a former lifetime; it didn't end well. Don't worry, Polka Dot Dress, I'll still love you.

October Purchases

2011-11-01T18:40:00.000-03:00

J Crew Ruffled Shirt via EBay (not shown) - $6.46
Forever 21 Flowers - $ 16.61
Lands End Canvas Cardigan in blue and green - $15.00 each
Spanx Tights via EBay - $22.89
Old Navy Ruffled Shirt - $5.09
Old Navy Color Blocked Shirt - $12.75
Old Navy Skirt in gray and green- $5.00 each
Old Navy Skirt - $6.00
Old Navy Dress - $9.00
Old Navy Jacket - $16.00
Lands End Canvas T-shirt (not shown) - $3.00
Land's End Canvas Turtleneck (not shown) - $3.00
Old Navy skirt - $23.00
Old Navy T-shirt - $8.97
Land's End Canvas scarf - $11.99
J Crew Cami - $18.97
Land's End Canvas gingham shirt (not shown) - $6.00

Total: 209.73

I went into Old Navy one day this month to do a return and was hit with a motherload of a sale. I couldn't resist. The prices seem to be a lot lower in store lately.

I also did pretty well with the Land's End Canvas Classified sale.

November's wishlist - still looking for black everyday school shoes and dreaming of brown riding boots that fit my extraordinarily large calves.

Sugar High

2011-11-01T18:12:00.003-03:00

Dress: Old Navy available here - I love this dress. I'm waiting until it goes on sale and ordering more colors. However, I'm going to try a tall size; it's a bit short.
Sweater: J Crew
Belt: Reitman's
Shoes: Naturalizer

We Did The Mash

2011-10-31T20:38:00.004-03:00

Sweater: J Crew
Cami: J Crew
Skirt: J Crew
Fascinator: Homesense
Shoes: Naturalizer

I've been waiting 355 days to wear this head doo-dad. I found it on super clearance last year at Homesense.

I was really hesitant to wear it to school. I'm a quirky teacher but I don't want to be too weird. Well, I'm glad I did. I think I received about 100 compliments. I feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

I did have to take it off during my grade 9 English class. They had a substitute on Friday and were very, very bad. I couldn't yell with this silly thing on my head. :P

Oh yah, that white stuff on the ground - snow. Barf!

I hope you are all having a fun Halloween!

Free Loot

2011-10-31T20:26:00.003-03:00

Yesterday was a Shoppers Optimum Points Redemption day. I am not a crazy Shoppers shopper (that's a mouthful). I shop there once every 4-6 weeks. But I always shop on Saturdays that have 20x the points. That way, I get enough points to get $200 worth of stuff fairly quickly. I usually end up getting $600 a year. It's a pretty sweet deal.

Ms. January has a great guide for getting the most out of your points here.

I had a pretty good time on my shopping spree yesterday so I thought I'd share my free loot!

To the left there are some baby presents. I have two cousins who have just had babies. There are assorted baby washes and oils, sleepers, little hats and cards.

The pile of junk food is for RDog's birthday party next weekend. He requested lots of nuts and chocolate for snacks.

The wee little pile in the middle are my expensive treats; Dior mascara, Lise Watier eye shadow, L'Oreal powder, face blotting clothes and some contact lens solution.

Free stuff is so fun!

Any other Optimum Points lovers out there?

Where in the World is KDot?

2011-10-30T20:31:00.006-03:00

Skirt: Old Navy available here
Top: Coscto
Boots: Naturalizer

RDog and I celebrated 11 years of being together this week. Wow, I feel old! We needed a bit of quiet time so we headed for a weekend away.

Can you guess where we went?

Hint, look at the dirt.

No luck?

Ok, here's another hint. Look what's behind me.

Ok, that's a hard one for the non-Canadian readers.

It's the Confederation Bridge behind me in Prince Edward Island (the only place around here that has red, red dirt). It is the perfect get away for us. A lot of the touristy summer stuff is closed down for the season but it is still beautiful. There are also many great restaurants to try.

I tried mussels for the first time.

The verdict; not fantastically yummy, but I'd eat them again.

Ironically both RDog and I are not big seafood lovers. We live in an area where fresh seafood is so easy to get but we don't eat it very often. We both tried lobster for the first time this summer! I can't believe I went 30 years without eating it! Now I crave it all the time.

It was a great weekend. I really needed to get away and relax a bit.

I hope you all had a good one!

Hair Do-dads and Cake

2011-10-25T18:56:00.006-03:00

Skirt: J Crew
Sweater: J Crew
T-shirt: Old Navy
Shoes: Naturalizer

Another hair post coming at you . . .

I tried the sock bun and although I love the look of a bun, the sock way just wasn't cutting it for me. It became too time consuming and too messy. I'm a neat freak so stray hairs sneaking out of my bun drive me crazy.

Enter EBay again. I found this little contraption on EBay and voila; a pretty much flawless bun in a snap. Like yesterday's hair thingy-mo-bobby, I had to wait a few weeks for shipping but it was well worth the 99 cents.

Another new hair thing I tried today was Cake's Refreshing Hair Powder. I have stopped washing my hair everyday, but as I have extremely oily skin on my forehead, my hairline too gets oily. On my non-washing days, I rely on dry shampoo to get me through the day. Sometimes, however, it turns out a bit like this. It makes me look like I have gray hair. Not cool!

The great thing about Cake's powder is that it is tinted so it blends in with my dark tresses. A new favorite is born.

By the way, if you have never tried Cake products, you are missing out. I use pretty much all the stuff. It smells yummy and it paraben free; good for those who have allergies. And no, they're not paying me to say that. I just really like the stuff!

Bits of Velcro and Foam

2011-10-24T19:02:00.004-03:00

Sweater: Land's End Canvas
Flower: Forever 21
Skirt: J Crew
Shoes: Cole Haan

Today I tried something new with my do (hair-do that is). I used a foam, velcro bumpit.I've always wanted to try a bumpit but didn't want to look like Snooki.

After Jean from Extra Petite recommended a velcro bumpit, I hit EBay to find one. The result- a 99 cent purchase, a few weeks wait for shipping and taadaa, a poofy do with no teasing and little effort.

RDog says there is no difference but it sure did save me a lot of fussing this morning. I highly recommend this little piece of foam and velcro to those girls who want a bit of lift to their do.

Inspiration

2011-10-20T18:27:00.000-03:00

Blouse: Old Navy
Skirt: J Crew
Belt: J Crew
Shoes: Naturalizer

This was my attempt to get out of my cardigan rut. I love cardigans and I wear them a lot but somethings it's nice to switch things up a bit.

This outfit was inspired by a post by Kendi from last March. It's been sitting in my photo inspiration folder ever since. Pinterest really does makes things easier doesn't it.

The Woes of a Teacher

2011-10-19T18:43:00.000-03:00

Skirt: Banana Republic (thrifted)
Cami: Cassis
Sweater: J Crew
Shoes: Cole Haan

Do these pictures convey how cranky and tired I was?

Because I was really cranky and tired. Progress reports this week, mid-terms next, report cards the week after that, four different classes to prep for, marking, marking, marking. The woes of a teacher.

I Have No Idea What to Put as a Post Title

2011-10-18T18:38:00.003-03:00

Dress: Ann Taylor (thrifted)
Sweater: J Crew
Necklace: J Crew ripoff from EBay
Shoes: Naturalizer

Something Shiny

2011-10-17T17:25:00.004-03:00

Sweater: Martin and Osa
Jeans: Reitman's
Tank: Cleo
Shoes: Karen Scott

We went out to celebrate a friend's birthday on the weekend. It was the perfect excuse to wear something shiny!

No Food Babies Allowed

2011-10-14T19:19:00.003-03:00

Sweater: J crew
Cami: J crew
Skirt: Loft
Belt: Land's End
Shoes: Naturalizer

This skirt is my "eat a salad the day before and the day of wearing" skirt. After our big turkey feast last weekend, I haven't been feeling like eating big meals this week. Therefore this skirt fit me today! I've also really been into Jillian Michaels' workout DVDs lately; I'm starting to see the results.

My Outfit Matches the Leaves

2011-10-13T19:10:00.006-03:00

Dress: Martin and Osa
Sweater: J Crew
Necklace: Joe Fresh
Shoes: Naturalizer

The dress and sweater look similarly shaded in these pictures but in real life, the dress is definitely red and the sweater brown.

This dress has been a workhorse over the years. Here's a collage to demonstrate (it also shows the improvement in photo quality over the years).

Green, Brown, Gray?

2011-10-12T20:06:00.002-03:00

Sweater: J Crew
Cami: J Crew
Skirt: Cassis
Shoes: Naturalizer

I love this skirt. It's such a unique shade of green/brown/gray, that it goes with anything.

Leaves, Wine and Cookies

2011-10-11T18:29:00.003-03:00

Sweater: Ricki's
Skirt: Talbots
Shoes: Karen Scott

The big leaf change happened over the weekend and boy is it pretty around here. I'm going to have great photo backdrops for the next week or so. Fall days like today make me want to drink red wine and bake cookies.

Scenes from Thanksgiving

2011-10-10T22:25:00.000-03:00

It was thanksgiving weekend here in Canada and the weather cooperated by taking a 25 degree jump. We had August temperatures in October! I wore a summer sundress!

Kitty celebrated by doing some suntanning.

We had the biggest meal yet in our house; 12 people and 2 tables!

RDog's only job of the day was to take lots of pictures. He drank many beer and was distracted by the pretty sky. When I checked the camera afterward, I found 10 Thanksgiving pictures and 50 pictures like this.

So that is the end of KDot and RDog's Thanksgiving scenes (unless you want to see 49 more pictures of a starry sky).

Old School

2011-10-10T16:14:00.001-03:00

Dress: RW & Co.
Jacket: Forever 21
Boots: Naturalizer

My photographer was unavailable so I had to do it up old school with the tripod and remote.

I've had this jacket in my closet for at least a year but have never worn. I love the polka dots but wasn't sure about the boxy fit. It's a hard jacket to wear. Anyone have any tips for boxy jacket wear?

Freaky Fall

2011-10-08T08:59:00.002-03:00

Skirt: Joe Fresh
Sweater: J Crew Factory
Shoes: Polo

These pictures are from Thursday, which was another cold day. What made the cold worse was that the school's heat was not turned on. It was actually colder inside than outside. I wore my coat over this for most of the day. Next week the heat is scheduled to be turned on and the weather will return to normal. I will, no doubt, be sweating at school.

There Go My Legs

2011-10-06T18:34:00.002-03:00

Dress: J Crew via EBay
Sweater: J crew
Shoes: Naturalizer
Necklace: The Bay
Temperature: Cold

If you think I look cold in these pictures, you're right. Our temperature took a twenty degree nosedive this week. The tights came out today; my legs won't be seen again until next May.

Topshop at The Bay

2011-10-05T20:24:00.013-03:00

I was very excited tonight to receive this email from The Bay:

"TOPSHOP has arrived in Canada. Get it all. Get it now."

Topshop? The trendy line I see in blogs all the time? The store the fabulous Duchess Kate was spotted in last week? Available to lil' ole me in small town Atlantic Canada?

Squuueeeeeeee. Off to thebay.com I go to do some shopping. Here are my picks.

TOPSHOP Teal Spot Pencil Skirt - Kate Middleton was spotted buying this one. She is my style icon. Nuff said.

Topshop Cobalt Blue Jersey Midi Pencil Skirt - Pencil skirt in a bright color = love.

Topshop Short Mustard Velvet Tie Coat - I love anything with a bow.

Shipping is free to all purchases over $149.

Any Canadians going to be doing some Topshop shopping?

Leopards, Bows, and Baubles

2011-10-05T20:17:00.003-03:00

Dress: J Crew
Sweater: J Crew
Necklace: The Bay
Belt: Old Navy
Shoes: Cole Haan

Request Denied!

2011-10-04T17:26:00.002-03:00

Dress: H&M
Sweater: J Crew
Necklace: Etsy
Shoes: Karen Scott

After the fiasco with the sheer shirt, I bundled up. The incident has not been mentioned by anyone in my class. Although one of the boys in the class did ask to move up front directly ahead of the overhead projector.

Request denied!

Devil Shirt

2011-10-03T19:30:00.000-03:00

Shirt: Old Navy
Jeans: Reitman's
Belt: Land's End
Shoes: Naturalizer

This shirt will forever be known as the devil shirt.

This was the shirt I was wearing the day I was teaching my grade 9 students about run-opn sentences and sentence fragments. I was going old school that day and using an overhead projector. I was leaning over the projector writing down student answers when suddenly the mood of the room changed.

Students started to look at each other; some started giggling. They started getting squirrelly. I sternly (or as stern as I can be) told them to cut it out and on we continued.

It wasn't until later on that day when I realized just what happened.

I was at home and walked by a mirror, glanced over and saw that the sunlight steaming in from the window behind me made my shirt absolutely sheer. Much like the light of an overhead projector.

Devil shirt.

September Purchases

2011-09-30T20:25:00.001-03:00

September was a light month, shopping wise. I was just too darn busy with school and I didn't see too many sales around.

Here is what I bought:

Land's End Canvas Jersey Ruffle Neck dress: purchased using a gift card
Land's End Canvas Striped Boy Tee: $10
Talbots Refined Sateen Ruched Skirt: $29.24
Land's End Canvas Classic Straw Hat: purchased using a gift card
Land's End Canvas Classic Sunglasses: purchased using a gift card
Old Navy Ruffle Trim Gauze Shirt: $15
Land's End Canvas Sneakers (not shown): $4 (gotta love those Classified sales)
J Crew Wrap Silk Dress (not shown - found on EBay): used Paypal credits from selling unwanted clothes

Grand Total: $58.24

Not too shabby. This month's surplus goes to my car, aka Allie. My car guy tells me she is getting old. :-(

For October, I'm going to be on the look out for new black everyday shoes. And since tights weather is coming soon, I'm going to need some new tights.

Poor Allie

2011-09-30T18:28:00.001-03:00

Sweater: J Crew
Top: J Crew Factory
Skirt: J Crew
Shoes: Naturalizer

I wore this outfit for picture day. Picture day clothes are important as the image appears in our yearbook. I want to live up to my rep as a stylish teach. :P This year, I didn't get the chance to really put any thought into my picture outfit.

I was busy picking out my clothes the night before when RDog broke my car. He took my car (aka Allie) out to top its tires with air and he broke it. It just wouldn't start.

I have a car with a push button start (hold the button, push the brake and it starts). I've been sensing for awhile that something was a matter with the button but no one believed me, not RDog, nor my car guy. Until last night when it went kaput.

Outfit ideas were quickly abandoned as I had to get a tow truck and watch my poor girl get towed away. It's funny how we get attached to things like cars; I almost cried!

When I returned home, clothes were the furthest thing from my mind; all I wanted was wine!

So after that night, I think my picture day clothes turned out pretty well. Allie is all better now after much $$$$$$$ was spent on her.

I Just Don't Like You

2011-09-29T17:17:00.003-03:00

Dress: Talbots
Sweater: J Crew
Necklace: Joe Fresh
Shoes: Naturalizer
Belt: Forever 21

I don't think I like this dress. I really want to love it because it is plaid; plaid is always a winner in my books. But I don't like the fit. It is too shapeless. It requires the big guns (aka my huge elastic belt) to rein in the massive amounts of excess material. Bye, bye, plaid dress.

Frozen

2011-09-28T17:18:00.000-03:00

Dress: Martin and Osa
Sweater: J Crew
Belt: Danier Leather
Shoes: Naturalizer

Not only was it freezing outside (the snap from summer weather to fall just happened) but my face was also frozen (darn dentist found a cavity).

The color combination for this outfit was inspired by the lovely AppGal over at Musing on the Mountain. I'm often afraid to mix red and green in fears of looking like a Christmas present. But the non-Christmas tones of these colors make it seem less festive (at least I hope so). I don't want to be one of those teachers to wear holiday outfits like this.

Giveaway Winner

2011-09-27T20:11:00.003-03:00

Finally I got off my butt and drew the name of my giveaway winner.

The winner is . . .

Kristin of Lovely Apidae.

Kristin, I'll be in touch with details of your prize!

Everyone else, please ignore my yucky nails. I'm a biter!

Shoe Conversations

2011-09-27T19:19:00.004-03:00

Dress: Banana Republic (thrifted)
Necklace: J Crew
Belt: J Crew
Shoes: Naturalizer

One of my students made a comment about these shoes. I taught her in grade 9 and have her again in grade 11. She always used to check out my shoes it grade 9 and made comments about me wearing a different pair everyday. Well, today she expressed disappointment about my shoe choices. You see, I have been wearing the same pair everyday.

So I had to explain to her that Ms. KDot's feet were two years older now and very, very tired. These shoes are the only thing that feels good lately (besides ballet flats and flip flops). I'm going to work them until it's tights time.

Wishful Thinking

2011-09-26T17:30:00.000-03:00

Shirt: J Crew
Skirt: J crew
Shoes: Naturalizer
Belt: Nygard

Perhaps I'm ahead of the trends for once. J Crew's latest catalog sported models wearing dark Rayban-ish shades. Has J Crew been been reading my blog? :P

What I Wore Yesterday

2011-09-23T19:20:00.000-03:00

Sweater: J Crew
Cami: Old Navy
Skirt: J Crew
Shoes: Naturalizer

This is what I look like after working for 12 straight hours. It was the best picture we took. Seriously, the best one. It didn't help that it was 8:30 pm and RDog has forgotten how to use a flash. This is my, "OMG, just take a picture look."

A Moment of Reflection

2011-09-21T20:01:00.007-03:00

Dress: Talbots

Sweater: J Crew
Belt: Danier Leather
Shoes: Naturalizer

Things are going to get a little heavy in here.

Last night while driving home, I was tired (these long days are wearing me down), worried (my car needs some $$$ work) and frustrated (traffic was moving so slow). Then the source of the traffic jam was revealed.

Last Saturday a local teacher was killed in a motor bike accident on the road I take every time I leave my house. It was a bright sunny day. A truck pulled out of my neighborhood gas station and hit him and he was gone. His death has struck a chord in our small city. He was a great teacher and was so young (only 27).

Yesterday was his funeral. As I drove home today feeling angry in the traffic, I neared the spot where the accident happened (and where the traffic was at a standstill). There were 100s of bikes gathered in tribute and flowers lined the side of the road.

I was overcome with appreciation of all that I have. No matter what problems I face, I am still here. I still have my husband to go home to. I still have my parents and my brother. Those are the most important things.

My "G" Key is Broken; It's Drivin me Crazy

2011-09-20T19:01:00.003-03:00

Sweater: J Crew
Cami: J Crew
Skirt: J Crew
Necklace: J Crew
Shoes: Talbots

Last year when I wore this skirt here, I could only think of pairing it with black. After another year of blogging and reading so many fabulous blogs, I look at this skirt and see so many color pairing options. Next time, it will be matched with blue!

My necklace giveaway is ending soon; check it out!