shopping for knight light
Tuesday, May 20, 2008The thing about having your own business just on the side is that you don't really want to make a lot of money, unless you're prepared to pay a bunch of taxes. It kind of works out for me because that means I can buy camera equipment and write it off. "I'm just keeping my expenses up." Since I'm shooting six weddings this year, I realized I was either going to have to save money to pay the government or just spend all of that money on Knight Light stuff. Hmm...which should I choose? Labels: kodachrome, retail therapy
Although I'm not going to try and spend everything I make this year, I do want to use that income to get some Knight Light expenses out of the way. Some big things that I'm considering: a laptop, a Nikon D3 (drool)... We've also decided we need some items that are smaller expenses so last night Josh and I did a little online shopping for Knight Light.
We have been talking about getting a second camera bag since we first got the D200. Since Josh is my lovely assistant he ends up carrying everything. Poor guy. I thought it would be wise to let him pick a bag he thinks will work best for us. So we purchased "The Sinking Barge" by Crumpler. And yes, I do believe it is as big as a barge. But it's what he wanted.
We also ordered fun camera straps for our camera. Abbey sent me an email with an Etsy shop that sold camera straps about a month ago. I had bookmarked half a dozen shops that made straps I liked. It probably took us a good 45 minutes to select our camera straps. C'mon...it's a big decision!
After doing the shopping, I plugged the expenses into my trusty spreadsheet. Josh looked at me and said, "Seriously, when did Knight Light start making money!?". Ha...I have no idea. Guess I better do some more shopping.
book sale
Tuesday, April 15, 2008Labels: retail therapy
Last night my town's library had a book sale so my mom and I headed up there to check it out. Ok, it's probably not the best time for me to be buying books but it's hard to pass them up when they're a quarter!
I found Dr. Spock's child care book from 1976. I most definitely bought it. I also got an old kid's craft book, a couple magazines and a few random books. My dollar was well spent!
etsy prints
Friday, February 08, 2008Labels: retail therapy
You know I love Etsy. I got these two prints before we even bought our red couch. Once we decided on red, I knew these would be perfect in the living room. Both prints are by Studio Mela and I pretty much love everything in that shop. I have so much artwork favorited on Etsy. If I didn't have a budget and had the wall space to hang it all, I would just keep buying.
the quest for gray pillows
Thursday, January 31, 2008When Josh and I bought our red couch I had the hardest time deciding what other color(s) I would use in the living room. I finally decided my accent color would be gray. Not dark dreary gray, but rather a soft light gray. Do you think I can find some coordinating pillows? Not so much. I've been looking in the stores but haven't had much luck. Now if I wanted to have red as my accent color, I would have SO much to chose from. Labels: retail therapy
I did a little online shopping and found a few that I liked but nothing that was exactly want I wanted. Plus I have a hard time buying a pillow online since you can't squish it and see how comfortable it is.
Granite Pillow, Branch - Sorry, I can't justify spending $188 on a couch pillow.
grid pillow, CB2 - Too dark
Inhabit Pussy Willows, Mod Livin' - I really like the design but the colors aren't quite right.
Weave Throw Pillow, Wrapables - Probably my favorite of them all...
I'm going to keep looking. I would really like something that is a little unique, not just a solid color. I don't think it's asking that much to find a nice gray couch pillow, is it?
i like...
Friday, December 28, 2007Labels: retail therapy
At one point in time, I would have sworn that I was addicted to chap stick. Throughout high school, I constantly would have a Lip Smacker tube in my pocket. I have since tried practically every type of lip balm and lip gloss I come across. There was the inevitable Burt's Bees period and the time that I kept buying the different kinds of Blistex... I guess I'm somewhat of a lip balm connoisseur.
Before Christmas I ran across a new company called Rose Petal Betty. Of course, I had to try the lip balm, called Pucker Paste. I thought it would be a nice add-on to a few gifts so I ordered eight.
When they arrived I picked the Ginger Peach flavor for myself. I liked it so much that I kept a couple other flavors for myself. (Even Josh wanted one. He chose the Mint Julep flavor.) The texture is good, the flavor/smell is not too strong, it doesn't make my lips sticky and it actually helps with chapped lips (some don't!). I would definitely recommend these!
my great love for etsy
Thursday, November 15, 2007In my effort to buy handmade this holiday season, I have spent A LOT of time on Etsy. I have favorited so many items and shops that it's a bit out of control. I thought I would share the wealth a bit. Some items I favorited recently: Labels: retail therapy
Encircle Sterling Silver Circle Necklace - DreamsandJewelry.etsy.com (And pretty much most of the jewelry in that store!)
Celebrate with Circles Clutch - daphnenen.etsy.com
Square Wood Tree Pendant - garnishhome.etsy.com
Luna Earrings -ElisabethSpace.etsy.com
Letterpress Calendar - ilee.etsy.com
Agapanthus Canvas Bag - stevester.etsy.com
Some of my favorite sellers:
luxedeluxe.etsy.com Unique jewelry
stringofblue.etsy.com Really interesting and pretty jewelry
raedunn.etsy.com I'm in love with the pour pitcher.
cipolla.etsy.com Seriously, those scarves with the bird on it...
littlellama.etsy.com There is something about those earrings.
seasprayblue.etsy.com Would be perfect on my art wall.
matteart.etsy.com I LOVE these prints!
moop.etsy.com I can't even begin to tell you how much I want one of their "Market Bag". Seriously, I look at them once a week. Obsessed much?
dkim.etsy.com More great artwork.
AliciaBock.etsy.com Cool photography
oneblackbird.etsy.com If I was a piece of pottery, I'd want to look like this.
foundling.etsy.com More very cool jewelry
indulgelaughcreate.etsy.com Check out my new Internet friend, Abbey's shop!
That should you keep you busy for awhile. If you're looking for something in particular and want some help finding it, I might just have it favorited!
attached to shoes
Thursday, November 08, 2007Labels: retail therapy
I can get very attached to pieces of clothing. I still have my very first EIU hoodie that I got as a freshman in college. It has seen better days but I don't know that I can ever get rid of it. I like to keep things around that have worked well for me.
Josh ordered those shoes for me two years ago. They were replacements for another pair of favorites that Bebo chewed up as a puppy. I probably wear these at least once a week. And now after two years of frequent use, they are falling apart. Josh threatened to throw them away the other night and I almost had a heartache. (The same thing happened with the pair that Bebo chewed up.) I guess I should be on a quest for a replacement pair.
You'd think I'd be happy about that....buying new shoes. But these are so comfortable! And cute! And functional... Darnit. I guess I'll admit that they are getting kind of worn out. I think I just have a hard time letting go...even with shoes.
blah & shopping
Thursday, November 01, 2007It's official. I have a cold. It's pretty much the worst timing because this is my biggest photo shoot weekend. I have two on Saturday and three on Sunday. Hopefully the cold won't get any worse! Labels: christmas cheer, retail therapy
In other news, I definitely started my Christmas shopping. Man, I love browsing Etsy and picking things out. Although all the time I have spent on Etsy has been difficult...it's so hard not to buy things for myself. My favorites are out of control!! It's going to be weird to pretty much completely shop online this year. It will be fun to go to the mall when it gets close to Christmas just to walk around. I love this time of year.
buy handmade
Thursday, October 25, 2007Labels: retail therapy
I really love gift giving. If I was incredibly wealthy I would spend my days buying things for other people. I love the process of finding that perfect item for someone. The other day I started thinking about Christmas. I even started a list of who I will need to buy for and some ideas. It's a sickness really. I just get so excited!
I had an idea that this year I would try to buy as much off of Etsy as I could. I love the idea of supporting artists. Then yesterday I ran across the website, Buy Handmade. I love it. Such a great idea...obviously. (I made the pledge and added the tag over to the left.)
Now I'm totally in the shopping mode and ready to start Christmas shopping!
Some resources:
Etsy
Modish
The Sampler
poppytalk handmade
saturday ikea
Monday, October 15, 2007Labels: apartment living, retail therapy
Knight Light had taken Saturday off so Josh and I went up to Ikea. We hadn't been since April when we shopped for our bedroom. Although we weren't getting anything major, we really wanted to look at certain pieces of furniture for the living room. Everything always looks different in person so we had to check it out to plan out the room. I had a list of items and we pretty much agreed on everything.
Josh and I always have a good time shopping together because we typically like the same type of things. Our big purchase on Saturday was five picture frames. As photographers, we should really have some of our work framed! Now I just don't know how I'll decide what to put in the others.
1/2 peck of apples
Monday, October 08, 2007Labels: retail therapy
Last week was a long one for Josh and I. Thursday we randomly decided to duck out of work early on Friday and take a little drive to Tanner's Apple Orchard. Josh has been begging for an apple pie and I've been in need of some good apple cider. So we decided it would be a perfect afternoon trip. We had such a good time wandering around. There is a lot to do if you have little kids like a huge play area. We mostly just shopped for apple-related goods, but we did get to pet some goats.
We left Tanners with 1/4 peck of Jonathan apples for Josh's pie, 1/4 peck of Honeycrisp apples because they are awesome, a gallon of apple cider, a quart of applesauce, blueberry preserves, a huge mum for my mum and 4 apple turnovers (one of which didn't make it out of the parking lot). It was such a good afternoon!
pretend dress
Wednesday, October 03, 2007Labels: retail therapy
The other day I ran across this dress and instantly fell in love with it. It's a dress that I would never buy (because of the price tag) but also never have anywhere to wear it.
I called Josh into our room to look at. I said, "Okay, we need to find a New Year's Eve party that's big and fancy. There has to be dancing and definitely champagne." He looked at me pretty much like I had lost my mind. I finished by showing him the dress and saying, "I will wear this". Then he understood. I guess he's used to me coming up with situations/events and the pretend outfits I would wear to them.
fall fashion
Wednesday, August 22, 2007I'm very fickle about what season is my favorite season. However, if I was just thinking about the clothes it would be fall. I LOVE fall clothes. The jackets, the long sleeve shirts, light sweaters, boots... In preparation for the season change, I've been doing my usual online window shopping. Labels: retail therapy
I planned two new outfits for the fall (so far). Basically one centers around a cardigan from Anthropologie that I'm obsessed with and could never afford. The other centers around gray ankle boots that I have been lusting after. (I didn't even know I wanted ankle boots this year!)
The first outfit should be easy enough to put together, given I already have the jeans and brown shoes that are similar to the Steve Maddens. It's just that darn sweater that I can't stop thinking about. Maybe I can find a sweater in the same color somewhere else. Links: jeans, clutch, necklace, sweater, shoes
I also have those jeans for this outfit so that's one thing to cross off. I'm not "needing" that purse, it's just the style/color I wanted for the outfit. I do have a white leather purse I could use already. Links: scarf, boots, top, purse, jeans
Knight Light is doing pretty good this month, with Senior Pictures and bunch of sessions lined up for when the leaves change. I may just need to reward myself with a couple new things for the fall.
oh so pretty
Thursday, July 19, 2007As pretty as the iPhone is, I think it's completely ridiculous to spend $600 on a cell phone. Labels: retail therapy
I'm just saying that if I had six hundred dollars to blow on something unnecessary...well, I'd be buying these.
i have a problem
Wednesday, July 18, 2007It was bound to happen. It does every year. Usually it's not until August that I find a jacket to obsess over and decide that I absolutely must have or I will not make it through the fall season. So this year it's a little early. Darn Old Navy. I LOVE this trench coat. The slightly shiny gray color makes me so happy. I tried it on last time I was in there and it fits wonderfully. Now I just need this and well...money! Labels: retail therapy
pretty much the coolest
Monday, June 25, 2007On Saturday Josh and I decided to hit a couple thrift stores. The first one was a complete bust. Too many people, too disorganized, not enough cool... The second one was a lot more organized so I wasn't in such a hurry to get out of there. Josh found a pair of vintage black wingtip shoes, in his size. They were only four dollars. Labels: retail therapy
I had seen a lady try on what looked to be a vintage leather coat. I heard her say that it was too small for her so one of the worker's offered to put it back. I watched it out of the corner of my eye the whole time. The worker tried it on and commented how it was just "darling" and maybe she should get it for her 23-year-old granddaughter. Another co-worker told her that the granddaughter wouldn't like it. "It's from the 70's!", he said. Ha! The whole time I thought that the coat was pretty rockin' and I wanted it.
Finally the worker hung the coat up so I nonchalantly made a bee-line for it. I tried it on and it pretty much fit! It was just a little large but I figured I'd be wearing more than just a t-shirt when I'd need the coat. There was no price tag on it so I figured with my luck it would still be twenty bucks. I saw a sign on the wall about a sale they were having. "ALL WINTER COATS $2.49" I made Josh go ask just to be sure. The ladies working confirmed that it was only $2.49.
So I got this amazing long vintage leather coat for TWO DOLLARS AND FORTY-NINE CENTS! Definitely the find of the day!
etsy is pretty much the coolest thing
Thursday, April 19, 2007Labels: kodachrome, retail therapy
Back in January I found someone on Etsy that makes custom camera bags. Kathryn of Zakiyaa was so great to work with. I wasn't really crazy about the fabric choices so I asked about using some of my own. She said "No problem". I mailed her this awesome courdoroy fabric I had found forever ago. She received it just last week and I got the finished bag yesterday.
Isn't it the cutest? I love that I can carry my D50 around without hauling out the Crumpler. Seriously, check out her shop. Lovely items.
the magical land of IKEA
Tuesday, April 17, 2007Be Brave, Not Beige Labels: apartment living, be green, retail therapy
Last week I randomly suggested Josh and I should make a trip to IKEA. Josh was thrilled; you would have thought that I just told him he was getting a brand new bicycle. He was so excited that he spent the next 2 hours scouring the IKEA website. We hadn't been in forever and after all this talk of redoing our bedroom...well, I decided we should go.
I'm not sure why so many people turn up their noses at IKEA furniture and such. I guess because it's cheap. I really like the style of a lot of their stuff. I don't care that it doesn't cost that much. In fact, that makes me like it even more! Come on, let's bring style to the masses. It's like Target doing the designer clothes. "Design for All"...way to go, Target.
We made it in about two hours only going about 5 minutes out of our way after missing the I-355 exit. Watch out for that construction, folks. It was nuts. We arrived so excited to get in there and started! I'm always floored by just how big that place is. And it's amazing the number of people coming in and out of it...it is so busy.
The first thing we saw when we got there was the Poang chair that Josh has wanted for 3 years. We hadn't really planned on buying it but it was added to our sheet, just in case. I had brought a list of things I wanted to make sure I looked at, like the nightstands. By the end of the trip, we ended up filling our cart and one of those trolleys.
I was so excited to get these three little vases. They were $1.99 a piece and so very Jonathan Adler, don't you think?
Got this little teapot for $4.99. So cute and much cheaper than anything I had found around here. It's perfect for heating water for our French press.
We also got three Malma mirrors for $1.99 each. I got just the naked wood ones so I can paint them white or yellow and put them in our bedroom when it's done. And a few other things I found:
We did also get our nightstands and Josh's chair (which he had put together in like 10 minutes because he was so excited about it).
One thing I was very excited about is IKEA's new "Bag the Plastic Bag" program. For 59 cents you can buy a flippin' huge reusable bag instead of using plastic bags. The bag filled up the bottom of the cart...it was that big! IKEA is starting to charge five cents for every plastic bag you use. Instead we just bought one of the reusable bags. For the first year of the blue bag program, they are going to donate all proceeds to American Forests. I think I'm going to start taking that bag to Meijer with us and just have them put our groceries or whatever in that. I'm a big fan of IKEA's position on environmental issues.
It was such a good day and we felt like we really got some cool stuff. I really am a big fan of IKEA. (Few more photos on Flickr.)
a new computer
Tuesday, February 06, 2007Back in November Josh and I got the Abode Suite but unfortunately couldn't load it on my four-year-old computer. I have pushed my little computer about as hard as anyone could. It's been acting up a little but who wouldn't when you're doing more work that you can handle. Labels: moolah, nerd alert, retail therapy
Last Friday while we were out for Josh's birthday, we went into Best Buy. Now usually I don't like going into Best Buy because it means me following Josh around for 45 minutes looking at all of the things we can't afford...but it was his birthday so he chose. Josh had it in his head that we should spend our yet-to-arrive tax returns on a new computer. I wasn't so sure.
We came home with this...
The tower wasn't in stock so that should come on Thursday by UPS. I freaked out a bit afterwards about spending so much money (especially money we technically don't have yet). But I'm so excited to get the Adobe Suite installed and be able to really work on my computer.
fashion, turn to the left...
Tuesday, January 09, 2007So I have this little problem. It's sort of a snowball effect. I am normally a very reasonable person when it comes to buying clothes. I don't go shopping all that often and try to stick the sales. Also, I usually only buy practical pieces that I can use a lot. (I just got a brown pair of pants from Old Navy for 14 bucks.) Labels: retail therapy
It all started with needing a dress for a March wedding. I'm not really sure why but I decided to look on jcrew.com which is way out of my price range. Of course I found the cutest dress and immediately started planning shoes, purse, and jewelry.
I knew there was no way that I could spend $170 dollars on a dress no matter how cute. The final cost of that dress would be much more than that after I found shoes and all the "additionals".
This dress I'm obsessing over has turned into a huge clothing obsession. I can't stop "window shopping" online.
I'm really liking shirt dresses which I've learned has come back into style. I love this one from Banana Republic . I think the only reason I want one is because my mom had one when I was growing up. I remember thinking she looked so pretty in it. Now it's like, Oo...look at these pretty shoes. Look at this cute top. What about this skirt?
I admit I have a problem. However, I will say that I found bought absolutely no clothing in the past week. Well, except for the brown pants on clearance...
shopping
Tuesday, December 19, 2006Last night I ran into town to see if I could finish up my Christmas shopping. I didn't finish but I'm pretty darn close. I have a couple things to pick up and then shop for Josh. Sometimes it's more fun to have a few things to get right before Christmas. Labels: christmas cheer, retail therapy
It was so funny how many men were shopping last night. I saw the cutest guy in Bed, Bath, & Beyond. He was probably in his late 50's, silvery hair, very tall...examining all of the baking sheets. I then saw him later debating each one with a worker. It makes me smile to see guys out shopping looking obviously clueless but so determined to find a nice gift.
Gosh, I love this time of year.
one less christmas present
Tuesday, December 12, 2006Labels: all you need is love, christmas cheer, retail therapy
Yesterday the UPS guy delivered a box to me at work addressed to my husband. The big black sticker on it read "Russell + Hazel". I called Josh to tell him what had happened and that I knew he got me the Audrey Tote. We were both disappointed that I knew.
My parents had planned on getting me the Audrey Tote for Christmas but everywhere they looked they were sold out. Delivery was not expected until middle of January. Josh heard about this so he emailed Russell + Hazel! I guess they were really willing to work with him and promised him the first black tote with black handles that they get. Wow. Unfortunately there was a mixup between the billing and shipping address and the tote got sent to our apartment instead of my parent's house.
Josh asked if I wanted him to wrap it up and give it to me for Christmas. Uh, no way...I'm using it! It's perfect and I love how much effort he put into getting it. I think that makes me like it even more.
all i want for Christmas
Thursday, December 07, 2006Labels: christmas cheer, retail therapy
alena hennessy blue floral on charcoal scarf [link], sheila d reversible corduroy school tote [link], audrey expanding file file tote [link]
hancock gourmet lobster co live maine lobster [link], small things itty bitty necklace [link], Russell + hazel recipe binder set [link]
I made up a little Christmas wish list for Santa last night with things I have found on the Internet. Some are ridiculously expensive (ie. the lobster) so I'd probably actually be upset if I received it. But I thought it would be fun. Plus I really want that scarf so I thought it would be a good way to remind my husband.
new TV
Tuesday, December 05, 2006Josh's parents are getting us a new TV for Christmas. (Ours is about ready to bite the dust.) Actually they're giving us money for a new TV. His mom had been looking at them and felt completely overwhelmed by all the choices. Believe me, I understand. Josh picked us out a TV that was $1 less than the amount they were giving us. And it fit almost exactly in our entertainment center. Labels: christmas cheer, moolah, retail therapy
Cindy told us that if we get it before Christmas that they would give us the money before Christmas. Of course, that meant that Josh wanted to get it last night! We went to Best Buy and started looking at all of the televisions. We found the one we had picked out. Instead of just getting that we started looking at the nicer ones. After waiting for 15 minutes for someone to help us, we were just ready to get out of there. I finally tracked down someone. That darn blue shirt swayed us towards the more expensive one, dangit.
Josh and I got it home, hooked it up and well, weren't that impressed. I mean for another hundred dollars (and that's after a big discount) it should be a lot better than the initial TV we picked out.
Very frustrating. We were both kind of mad at ourselves for not going with the one we picked out. Josh packed it all back up in the box and he's going to exchange it this evening.
black friday
Friday, November 24, 2006Today is the mother of all shopping days. To be honest, I love it. Not because I love the deals or to spend money. I absolutely love being in the mall at Christmastime when it's busy. As long as I can take my time and there isn't something I have to get, I really enjoy it. It's kind of become tradition for Josh and I to shop on the day after Thanksgiving. Last year I got this awesome purse. Although I'm not looking to buy anything for myself this year, I will keep my eyes peeled for any good deals. We have to get a couple gifts for the Knight family Christmas/Thanksgiving that's in Wisconsin tomorrow but other than that...there's nothing specific. This way I can enjoy the hustle and the bustle. Labels: christmas cheer, retail therapy
sometimes all you need...
Friday, August 25, 2006is a night out with your hubby, a new haircut, a little shopping, and some ice cream. Labels: retail therapy
i like paper.
Thursday, January 12, 2006So I love paper. Anything to do with paper...journals, stationary, construction paper! The first place I go usually in Target is either the purses or the stationary aisles. Borders: I make a beeline for the journals and cards. There is a ton of cool stuff online and I'm getting quite the bookmark list. Labels: inspiration, retail therapy
I'm drooling just thinking about Kate's Paperie. This mint journal...yummy. The whole section dedicated to paper.
I really like Lotta Jansdotter. Really cute stationary and some funky bags I love...
Of course there is always Paper Source. Someday I will blow a ton of money there, I just know it. I bought the paper flower kit and made one for each of my bridesmaids. It was hard work but I LOVED IT!
Elum Designs is so clean and pretty. I love their letterpress designs.
Heidi has some cute note cards as well. Jenni Bick has some cool handmade photo albums.
And some fun cards...check out:
debutante riot
Knock Knock
Sidepony
sugar lily
uncooked
Potion Brand
And then there's russel+hazel...semi paper related...the best looking office supplies you'll ever see. Working girl chic is what they call themselves. The new Audrey collection...if only I had $48 to spend on an expanding file tote. See Jane Work is another good one for cute office supplies.
The pretty paper sucks me in everytime.
Boots, Boots, Boots
Thursday, December 22, 2005I am terrible in the snow. I have fallen on my butt one too many time (already once this year). So I'm on the hunt for black snow boots. I kind of like Ugg boots but don't want to spend that much. I found some knockoffs on Amazon for only $29 but they didn't have black. Anyway, I found some really funky ones. I think for a couple I actually thought, "Yikes!". Just thought I'd share them with you for a laugh or two. Labels: retail therapy
Top Row: N.Y.L.A. Women's Mittens Knit Boot, Wanted Shag Boots, Leopard Print Suede Boots
Bottom Row: Camel 311, Minnetonka Women's Hardsole Boot, Lonestar Silver - Two-toned Cowboy Boots w/ Rhinestones
Christmas shopping
Friday, December 16, 2005I finished up my Christmas shopping last night. Whoa. That's a good feeling. I think what makes me feel even better is that I made a budget and I actually stuck to it. No credit card debt this Christmas! When it comes to buying gifts for other people I have a really hard time controlling myself. Christmas is usually the one time of the year that I can spoil my mom and she lets me get away with it. This year Josh and I got everyone really nice gifts but we just didn't go overboard. I didn't even know it last night when I was on my way home that I was completely done shopping. I looked at my list this morning and woohoo, it's complete! Labels: christmas cheer, retail therapy
Okay, I just realized that I have to get Bebo a Christmas present. Whoops. I didn't mean to forget the little guy. Here's Bebo and his favorite scarf last night:
Has nobody heard of a Pashmina?
Thursday, December 15, 2005"It's a pashmina." Labels: retail therapy
"A what?"
"A pashmina!"
This was a conversation with one of my friends this weekend. And she's not the only one who has never heard of one. When I asked the sales girl at Old Navy where the pashminas were she looked at me like I had a second head coming out of my right shoulder.
Maybe I only have heard of a pashmina because of that Friends episode. You know the one... Reese Witherspoon is Rachel's little sister who goes out shopping when she's suppose to be finding a job. Ross tries to help her out by saying the bag was his.
Ross: Oh, I got this!
Rachel: A Pashmina?
Ross: Yeah! Oh, I-I love these babies!
Rachel: Really? Ross, whats a Pashmina?
Ross: It's a rug.
I got one from Old Navy and love it. It just looks so classy. I love my "rug".
My new purse
Thursday, December 08, 2005I love purses. No, I mean I LOVE purses. I love the funky ones, traditional, practical, impractical, boring, weird... Okay, you get the picture. Surprisingly I don't have a ton of purses. Basically because I'm too practical and/or stingy to spend a lot of money on them. I usually drool over the funky and impractical ones but purchase the practical black or brown ones. Labels: retail therapy
I completely fell in love with a leather purse from Wilsons Leather. I try not to even go in there because it's usually too pricey for me. But I was weak and the pretty leather jackets pulled me in. The purse was $60 so of course, I set it back on the shelf and sulked out. Not too long after, one of my co-workers had to show me her new purse. Yep, the one I loved from Wilsons. But ray of hope...she got it on sale for $30! I had to drag Josh in to look at it but still could not spend the $30.
The day after Thanksgiving Josh and I braved the crowds at the mall. As we were discussing the massive sales it dawned on me that my purse might be on sale. I pushed my way through the people to Wilsons. There on the shelf was my black leather purse which looked to be glowing with a light from heaven. ON SALE FOR 19.99! "Josh, do you care if I get this!?" He, of course did not...although I'm sure he was thinking, "Does she really need another purse?". I cradled the purse up to the cash register. The wonderful checkout lady informs me that everything is 20% before noon. Oh happy day! It was before noon! My new purse rang up for around $18.
Now the story does not end there. Yesterday I was getting ready to leave work and I realized the side seam on my purse was coming out! It's not just a minor seam either, the whole purse could fall apart because of it. I was so upset. I mean, technically this is a $60 purse. I was headed to the mall last night so I took my purse in to Wilsons Leather. I wasn't really sure what they would do, if anything because I didn't even have the receipt. The guy took one look at it, walked over the display and gave me a brand new one! I was so happy. Now I have my wonderful purse back and new found respect for Wilsons Leather. You can bet I'll be shopping in there more!
Mine's black:
I found some shoes
Wednesday, October 19, 2005I've been looking for a pair of casual shoes that I can slip off and on. I think I found them. Labels: retail therapy
Katapult by Steve Madden
Retail Therapy
Thursday, October 13, 2005I've been feeling rather down this week. I'm bummed because this weekend Josh is going down to see my brother for a "guys' weekend". I'm craving interaction with people my own age so now that I'll be alone this weekend... I think that I need to do some shopping and get some serious retail therapy. It has been SO freakin' long since I've actually gone shopping that I don't know what I'd do. Unfortunately we still can't afford it so I'll just dream of my purchases: Labels: retail therapy
Green Suede Satchel from Target
Tootsie Roll Scarf from Fred Flare
Timeless Heels from Anthropologie, only $368!
Green Photo Storage Box from The Container Store
Turquoise Cord Peacoat from The Gap
Low Platform Bed from West Elm
Magnetic Spice Rack from Uncommon Goods
Can't concentrate on one thing
Wednesday, October 05, 2005I came down with a pretty bad cold this weekend so things are kind of foggy. I'm having a hard time concentrating or even understanding things. Not fun! Randomness to follow: Labels: retail therapy
I'm looking for slip-on shoes to wear to work. I had this awesome pair of blue-gray bowling shoe type mules but they were getting pretty worn out. Then Bebo decided to chew one of them up. These shoes here are similar to what I'm looking for but I don't want to spend a lot of money. Any ideas?
I am currently obsessed with the song Everything is Alright by Motion City Soundtrack.
If you seen the movie "The Shining" then you have to watch this recut preview. Hilarious.
Tea cups at Uncommon Goods. Aren't they so cute?
My Bright Green Trench Coat, technically it's not mine yet
Tuesday, September 20, 2005Not that I have been obsessively checking or anything but Target finally put my coat online. The green is not as nice as in real life but you get the idea. I really want this coat. Hey Mom, just click on the picture and it will take you to the site to order it online. (Isn't that handy!?) Labels: retail therapy
I want one
Tuesday, September 13, 2005Labels: retail therapy
iPod Nano by Apple
I am seriously lusting over one of these. It makes me want to say "Screw credit card debt. What's another $250?"
Josh informed me that we spent a third of that on gas yesterday since we were both on E. Yeah, thanks a lot.
Let's talk outerwear
Wednesday, August 31, 2005I love, love, love jackets and coats. When I walk into a store I am instantly drawn right to them. Maybe this is why I like fall so much. I have a ridiculous number of winter coats but I always wear them all. This year though my desire for a new coat is out of hand. I don't NEED one but good grief, there are so many cute blazers this season! Labels: retail therapy
I found this awesome trench coat at Target. It's an excellent shade of green. Only $40 but unfortunately $40 I don't have. I can't find it online but the color is a lot like these rain boots.
This one is from American Eagle. I love the color.
Check out this cashmere jacket from J.Crew. It can be yours for the low, low price of $650!
Now if we want to get into winter, here's a coat I found at TJMaxx. It's called the Wool Blend Princess Coat. Um, yes please! I would totally feel like Jackie O.
Just had to share
Tuesday, August 23, 2005Labels: retail therapy
I got this little container of Ben & Jerry's on Sunday. After shopping at Walmart with all the college kids back in town I needed a little pick-me-up for the ride home. Get this, it came with a spoon. You open the lid and there is a flat little scooper and then another lid. Heaven. Ben and Jerry are brilliant.
I am a slave to Target
Thursday, August 18, 2005Labels: retail therapy
I am completely obsessed with Target. I love that store. I could live there. Seriously, right there on that fake bed displaying the latest comforter. Every time I go in there I walk around forever looking at all of their stuff. This summer when they had the huge Bazaar section of gardening things, I would spend a good half an hour just in that section. I live in an apartment! I don't have a garden or even really a backyard to use that stuff! I couldn't help myself.
I love their website too. How about furniture under $50? I can't help but look through their college room items. Isn't this a cute throw?
I found a blog that is specifically for people like me. It's nice to know that I'm not alone in my obsession with Target. Check it out: http://slavetotarget.blogspot.com/
I'm lucky that Josh is so accepting of my love for Target. At least he knows how to make me happy...just take me to a Target.
Shopping
Saturday, June 18, 2005I can't remember the last time that I bought that many clothes in one day. I have been putting off shopping for honeymoon/summer clothes and then I realized this week that the wedding is only 3 weeks away! Since Josh is still laid up I headed into town got it done. I actually had good luck which was surprising. I found a cute pair of khaki shorts and bermuda shorts, an outfit for the rehearsal dinner, a swimming suit, and some new shirts. I also got a couple "special" things for the honeymoon. It was weird shopping for that stuff but actually pretty fun. I was so worn out! I still need shoes for my rehearsal outfit though. And I'd like to get one more special thing and a pair of jean capris. Then I'll totally be set for the summer. That is awesome and a huge relief. Now we just have to get some stuff for Josh since he also has nothing. Labels: retail therapy, wedding
I finally rented the centerpieces for the reception today. Nothing like putting something off... But I think it's going to look really nice. We got a few more RSVP cards in the mail so there is now 206 people coming to the wedding. Although still about 30 total guests unknown.
Josh is feeling a little bit better but now he's trying to be macho and hold off on the vicadin. I had to make him take one when I got home from shopping because he wouldn't. He could barely get off the couch otherwise. I'm praying that he'll be doing even better tomorrow. I'm tired of him not being able to do anything, as I'm sure he is.
And last but not least, my best friend Jess (my maid of honor) called me this morning... Her and her boyfriend, Tommy, got engaged this morning! I'm so excited for her. They're talking about getting married next May. I think that is a good length for an engagement. Anyway, congrats Jess!
Shoes
Friday, April 22, 2005Tonight I went shopping with my cute little momma. We haven't done that in such a long time. It was good to spend some qt with her and do a little shoe shopping. We went to Bergner's shoe section first and found a really cute pair of pink shoes. Of course the smallest they come in is 6 1/2 which is too big for my mom's little elf feet. They could order them in a six but it was going to cost $9 in shipping. So we kept looking and ended up at JCPenney. They had the same pair of shoes but only the black one in size six. My mom tried them on to see how they felt. Of course then we had to go through the "if they're cute" routine. My favorite was when she said, "Do these make my toes look too big? Like they're just hanging out there?" I actually laughed out loud and then said, "I'm so blogging that." She didn't want me to and yet here I am... Anyway, then the nice salesgirl, Abbey, came over to see if we needed help. I asked if we could order the pink ones in a size six. She said sure so my mom asked about shipping and handling. Abbey informed us that there would be no shipping fee. My mom exclaimed, "No charge!?!?! Are you sure?" Abbey replied, "I'm sure." To reiterate, I asked if there was a charge to get them shipped to my mom's. She assured us there was not. Of couse this went on for five minutes because well, my mom and I are a little nutty when we shop together. She was a good sport and we all joked about it the whole time. My mom was so excited about the nine dollar savings! As was I... So little Karen Elaine has shoes for her beautiful Mother of the Bride dress. On the way home she was telling me how excited she is to get dressed up and how she'll feel like Cinderella. She then backtracked and said, "I know, it's your day and you'll look gorgeous but I want to look pretty too." I said, "Well how about if you're Cinderella's mom." Yeah, that's a great idea! We got really excited about that until we realized that Cinderalla's mom was actually the evil stepmom. Hmmm...so I decided that in our story Cinderella's mom is still alive and she's beautiful...just like my mom. Labels: family matters, retail therapy
Coat I'm currently obsessed with
Monday, March 28, 2005Too bad I don't have the money for it. Maybe I'll take up a collection. It's just so darn cute and I love the fifties look. It's from Banana Republic. Labels: retail therapy
"Tuxado" shopping
Monday, March 14, 2005Saturday was tuxedo shopping day. Of course all I could think of all day was Franc from Father of the Bride saying, "Tuxado..." We walked into Ducky's and Brian, our fashion consultant, asked the lady right away if we could interchange jackets with pants. She says, "Well it depends...". And then looking at Josh, "When is your prom?". Josh was so surprised that he didn't really know what to say. Finally he stammered that he was getting married. We all kind of laughed and Brian points to me and said that I was his prom date. Yeah, FOR LIFE. We didn't hold it against her and picked out our tuxes there. It was great because Tony, Josh and Brian could all get fitted. Another thing to mark off the list. Ooo, and I started addressing invitations which was fun for about the first 3. Labels: retail therapy, wedding
Ah, my favorite day of the week...
Friday, February 11, 2005Josh had to work this evening so I had supper with my family, played with my puppy and watched Jersey Girl. I also did some "window shopping" on the Internet. There is so much cute stuff out there! Labels: retail therapy
These are the cutest shoes. I found them at Anthropologie and they're $128! Man, it would be great if I had that kind of money to spend on shoes. I don't have that kind of money to spend on groceries!
Speaking of groceries, my mom and dad went to Dave's tonight to get some. My mom was soooo mad at me before because she was trying to get me to tell her what I need. I asked her to pick me up some milk and bread. She was really frustrated that I wouldn't give her a list! But I mean, they do SO much for me already that I can't ask her to do that just because Josh and I can't afford groceries for a week or two. It's not like they never do that. I mean, my mom is constantly picking up something that I need for me and I'm never expected to pay them back. I think those little things are the most meaningful though. She dropped my milk and bread over this evening. Of course she couldn't just leave it at that...she included toliet paper ("Because you always need that"), a pound of hamburger and buns ("so you guys can have hamburgers for lunch one day") and two cans of soup. She's so thoughtful.
They're calling out for coffee!
Thursday, February 10, 2005Check out these mugs from Uncommon Goods: Labels: coffee talk, retail therapy
Obviously I'm the innocent bystander and Josh is the troublemaker.
I love Uncommon Goods. It has the coolest stuff. If they had a wedding registry, I would totally register there.
My paper addiction
Friday, February 04, 2005I guess if I have to be addicted to something it's a good thing. I got some new stationary from Borders a couple weeks ago. It's this brand called Lotta Jansdotter and it is all so cute...I wanted to buy more! Labels: retail therapy
I seriously could just buy stationary, cards, or stuff to make my own everytime I go shopping. The last time that Josh and I were snowed in I made a bunch of cards that turned out really cute. I'm not sure if anyone else appreciates them but I would sure be excited to get a homemade card that took some thought and effort! I absolutely love going to the mailbox and actually having something other than junk mail!
I've decided what I want for my birthday (even though it's six months away). I would love to take a trip up to Chicago and go on a shopping spree at The Paper Source. I don't know how many times I find something really cute on the Internet and look where I can buy it...yep, The Paper Source. Aw, it's like my dream come true. The mothership is calling me home. I think that I would just go crazy. I should start saving my money now!
