tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60339032024-03-06T22:13:55.941-08:00LORISPEAKLorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.comBlogger997125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-55494299132099859442012-04-19T22:45:00.000-07:002012-04-19T22:45:28.642-07:00Busy times! Party like your 92 year young self!It's starting to hit a major busy/cray cray time. So I'll be posting more sporadically over the next month.
Hopefully, I'll pop in with a few photos now and then. Here are a few from my cousin's wedding in Minneapolis a couple weeks ago.<br />
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My favorite photo is this first one with me and my 92 year young Grandma! It
I really cherish spending time with her, and I hope I am as healthy and happy as her when I'm that age.
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-17qKEpWCw4E/T5DvKf-lGZI/AAAAAAAAT6o/cWNqId2VPtE/w500/GrandmaLori2.jpg" /><br />
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Daddy pic!<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-JbTtJ9-qCo8/T5DvMG7PSqI/AAAAAAAAT7I/1XVkCdcHRqw/w500/dadJonisWed.jpg" /> <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQGi4XFZ5grZl1BlP91QyFzybMehQEOV6R3kKqin3AGRuPd9pFvOv79owvAzyEVusF9QwelmFMkBGV6qRyktIRRJWKswJudyQDuv_0hizM2yyBs_R8J5FcLld2kpECsxQHZ10N/w500/IMG_2558.jpg" />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-k5K5wluyGp8/T5DvLncXjRI/AAAAAAAAT7A/dGPXMBFmGJA/w500/IMG_2912b2.jpg" />Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-41796547393428711522012-03-31T22:16:00.000-07:002012-03-31T22:16:20.864-07:00Texas Tuxes, Weddings on ATVs, and NewsSo of course <a href="http://www.lorispeak.com/2012/03/slow-cooker-eggplant-aloo-baingan-spicy.html">I mention that I have exciting news</a>, and then I go quiet for a little bit :) <br />
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There's actually a bunch of news. <br />
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I've set my oral defense date. <br />
My bro-in-law got engaged! <br />
My conference symposium was accepted. <br />
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But also, I'm moving to California... for the summer! I'm really excited that I just accepted an offer to work at a company in the Bay Area (hint: rhymes with frugal). The project sounds super fun, and I think I'm going to learn a lot! <br />
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<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9xo15OnzRkM/TzHpyfVZx6I/AAAAAAAAR5M/NqInlYtSTuI/w500/1052edit.jpg"><br />
I had a few photos backed up from Ev's cousin's wedding out in Missouri. It was a wonderful wedding - definitely the first time I've ever seen a bride and groom ride off... in an ATV (how fun!)<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-BD429jfeSps/TzHpzWa1IwI/AAAAAAAAR5U/Rw5-GNcpCcM/w500/IMG_1069edit.jpg"><br />
The bride's father was so photogenic. How could we not get a shot? And TBH, this is my first time seeing a Texas tux executed IRL, and I wanted to document the moment.<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ZYKMB-9DC4rCVbd9HphovTg6TKMmPRVBFLwUVdgOQ6V5pTCzSRhXgls4bQ04pIamMBeNDSUi4GVkG6Cw0GFYRnAEcxqnVUyvqcYG5R6tIC62_0P0xMq8913E7xV777YHPLTn/w500/1045edit.jpg"><br />
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Things have been pretty insane already in the first week of the quarter. I'm also teaching this quarter. So far, I love my new students. They're so engaged, eager, and sweet. Also, I have this one student who can say any word backwards. It's pretty entertaining.Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-70698830351030029012012-03-25T20:48:00.000-07:002012-03-25T20:48:47.188-07:00Slow Cooker Eggplant - Aloo Baingan - Spicy Punjabi Eggplant with Potatoes - #IndianFoodPalooza<img title="Eggplant_1" alt="Eggplant_1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGHZtvY0WrYo2sXriEtjtXjvAW72U5LGEK9uQV7JT2ZxeQuythjBmjoV54A1KoIDCX67FDRwI0uGzuLOt9XezcKoaSiWNB60xEnwtLtaQYxGqK3jBS8DI4gu5O9iZULyMpx6ja/w500/eggplant.jpg"><br />
I wanted to share this slow cooker Indian Eggplant recipe with you. It's from my absolute favorite slow cooker book. I've made a ton of dishes from it, and everything has been amazing. If you like Indian food, and want to use your slow cooker more, I couldn't recommend it more highly!<br />
<img title="Eggplant_2" alt="Eggplant_2" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wMShD1B8NsQ/T2gcuHNCEGI/AAAAAAAASgM/bIaTNLMW9NI/w500/peeled%252Bpotato.jpg"><br />
I made a few changes based on what I had. For example, I used sweet potatoes rather than potatoes. I prefer to use sweet potatoes in my recipes than regular potatoes due to the <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=64">health benefits</a>, taste preference, etc.<br />
<img title="Eggplant_3" alt="Eggplant_3" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidHug4E34Rg7i8HDDdHE8er6oYZiTzZebEbbOC4n9KNHxL7_S3mgn2PjzFrk6iuinkDWZZN7RabK5BVBEaD6-1kBbbl8bwLzZtc0zRIA5kkHRLdX9md3D8U2RuJ1kvnWzUsyik/w500/cumin.jpg"><br />
<img title="Eggplant_4" alt="Eggplant_4" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicpHhaEry28hu0P0QeXg5tr1bmkiSoliqbfn2l7BxcE4p3It0P072Jov26i4CM6zySfJRP5NJIQzTRqJuP-Ij8LfEAMJejH3Ld17tllf8McAO70DAkZcBbEv64OzIHZRXpu-4t/w500/crockpot%252Beggplant.jpg"><br />
<img title="Eggplant_5" alt="Eggplant_5" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-rW9bnvWzSek/T2gcv2L96iI/AAAAAAAASgk/fPaJLq1nXss/w500/crockpot%252Beggplant2.jpg"><br />
I'm linking this up with <a href="http://www.indiansimmer.com/">Indian Simmer</a>'s <a href="http://www.indiansimmer.com/2012/03/jalebi-recipe-announcing-indian-food.html">Indian Food Palooza</a>!<br />
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Have y'all tried making Indian food before? One thing that amazed me was how many styles of beans/lentils there were to choose from at my local Indian grocery!<br />
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What is your favorite slow cooker recipe?<br />
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<b>Spicy Punjabi Eggplant with Potatoes</b> (Adapted from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Indian-Slow-Cooker-Authentic/dp/1572841117/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332732520&sr=8-1">Anupy Singla's The Indian Slow Cooker</a>)<br />
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<i>Ingredients</i><br />
3 Japanese eggplants diced<br />
1 large sweet potato peeled and diced<br />
1 medium yellow onion peeled and roughly chopped<br />
1 inch piece ginger peeled and cut into 1.5 inch matchsticks<br />
2 Tb chopped garlic<br />
4 sliced serranos<br />
1 Tb cumin seeds<br />
1 extra hot red chili powder<br />
1 Tb garam masala<br />
1 tsp turmeric powder<br />
1/4 cup canola oil<br />
2 Tb salt<br />
2 Tb fresh cilantro chopped<br />
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<i>Directions</i><br />
1. Put the eggplant, sweet potato, onion, ginger, garlic, chilies, cumin, chili powder, garam masala, turmeric and oil in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 3-4 hours. (I did it longer because I looked at it and it looked like it needed to cook more before removing the lid).<br />
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2. Remove the lid and cook for another 2 hours. This supposedly helps dry up some of the moisture released by the eggplant (this wasn't an issue for me, I think because I used Japanese eggplants. But if you're using the larger more watery Italian eggplants, you should definitely do this)<br />
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3. Add the salt and cilantro. Serve with naan and rice!<br />
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Also, I got some exciting news recently. I can't wait to share it with y'all soon :)Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-87564885895384827562012-03-19T23:09:00.000-07:002012-03-19T23:09:42.270-07:00Braving Seattle weather in my BB Dakota Jacket<img title="BB Dakota Coat" alt="BB+Dakota+Coat" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tcH9v2zHoAk/T2gcs2ZzR5I/AAAAAAAASf8/qCNZoqZbIm0/w500/photo%25201.JPG"><br />
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I keep reading on other people's blogs about how warm it is elsewhere. But, Seattle hasn't caught up with the times. It's Spring tomorrow, but last week, Seattle had some seriously schizophrenic weather. We had a day that had snow, sunshine, rain, hail, AND <a title="Graupel" target="_blank" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graupel">graupel (a sort of soft hail)</a>.<br />
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I snapped this pic one cold day at the bus stop. I love this BB Dakota jacket for its graphic nature. I was so bummed I missed out on having it for last year's fall and winter that when it appeared in stock at Lulus.com at the end of last summer during a warm weather spell, I snatched it up!Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-18730658768466166862012-03-13T22:09:00.000-07:002012-03-13T22:09:39.230-07:00Wearing a Bubbly Statement Necklace and Eating Tasty Seattle Udon<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZ3Fro0L00HzQPir4KS3q0gyLgewwOkBbzwhS2B8yfhshqxHOK6mgAWjfQ4rWVl2HAn4azz4zIFDWDjTSRfl7tayGJ_UKDtb4ekCW0QFQ63OJRXolPWcDhfiPuhxU0OzUCcwB/w500/jcrew_bubble_necklace.jpg"><br />
My concentration face is scary. I'm trying really hard to aim the camera in my general direction... obviously, I missed me a little.<br />
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<em><a title="jcrew bubble necklace" target="_blank" href="http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/jewelry/necklaces/PRDOVR~92687/92687.jsp">J.Crew Bubble Necklace</a> (ebay)<br />
<a title="LE Canvas Cardigan" target="_blank" href="http://canvas.landsend.com/pp/the-heritage-cardigan~203167_-1.html?bcc=y&action=order_more&sku_0=::CAM&CM_MERCH=IDX_sale-_-women-_-sweaters&origin=index">Lands End Canvas Heritage Cardigan</a> <br />
Purple SopranoSopranoSoprano dress Sz M ($15; <a href="http://www.lorispeak.com/2010/09/ootd-and-oops-on-last-post.html">see summer styling here</a>)<br />
Purple F21 skinny belt<br />
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<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1DxMhDsMTg8/T1gT5rHWc5I/AAAAAAAASNc/bfqEMB4504k/w500/IMG_2335.jpg"><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHHOG1AvzHUTGo5hDR7kU8V9zf4Cw7SRhMvMFraD7JpZ6scMHMrN7Yqm7ghTpfsKeJBIf1vMt4QtEMl31MOPh5bod9HXyESGYZg1E62APgBbsVkRZGTQ9LjOnOP-jQd5JDuJNX/w500/jcrew_bubble_necklace_Lands_End_Canvas_cardigan2.jpg"><br />
My "bracelet"? It's a piece of fabric my cousin brought back from Uganda and used to tie up a present for me. I couldn't bear to toss the small brightly covered fabric. I ended up tying it in a bow for an impromptu bracelet!<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-mkxvSnUrEMY/T1gT4OwEYJI/AAAAAAAASM8/zzfRBY2wMtg/w500/IMG_4433.JPG"><br />
I wore this to meet my good friend Jeanny for <a href="http://freshudon.com/">handmade udon at U:Don</a> (yes, omg, there's an emoticon in the name! I love my restaurants to smile at me, hehe)<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsUEbj3Zrqghw-aHoEFkNjvVvaMcHFcYDoRBrjMp9IGDK8VTi3C3RPzNWR2ZXl7TN0w_ebiKpMKDT2sZpZ6TfxP4JEyT7k1Qu5ZtbJXpdXS9yowaQWs749sjhI2_PACw6eBDmY/w500/IMG_4439.JPG"><br />
I got the On-tama Udon which came with a lightly poached egg in the broth (yum!). At the end of the buffet line, you get to select tempura by the piece (mostly 99 cents each). The noodles were delicious. I maaaaaaay have over ordered on the tempura (all in the name of making sure this was a good place to recommend if you're ever in Seattle, of course). I especially loved the tempura kabocha squash and fish cake!Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-24479179589134200302012-03-11T12:11:00.012-07:002012-03-11T12:11:00.314-07:00My Low Carb Pasta: Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai<img title="Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai" alt="Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMimDQUj84PgfaLtzYsCZVUk1pAgWjoEX-HLr20bmNBzumb2qOy5wrE7_2uJI7dqKJiUYSaGXaw504USkjdrhukffiiVvLqIh81yI2xts5vBKD0wENNJOmukkLPSXqjqt0Jzg6/w500/IMG_4302.JPG"><br />
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I used this <a title="Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai" target="_blank" href="http://www.familyfreshcooking.com/2012/01/30/spaghetti-squash-thai-peanut-sauce-recipe/">recipe for spaghetti squash peanut sauce noodles</a> as a base. I ended up adding a bunch of toasted chili sauce, fresh squeezed lime juice, fresh little tomatoes, and tempeh. Yum!Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-89547137091923788442012-03-08T09:35:00.006-08:002012-03-08T09:54:40.501-08:00How to curl your hair with a flat iron + Hana Titanium ReviewIKR. My hair is straight. Why would I need a flat iron?<br />
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Did you know you can use a <a href="http://www.misikko.com/best-flat-iron.html">flat iron</a> to <a href="http://www.misikko.com/how-to-use-a-flat-iron.html">curl your hair</a>? I know. It sounds oxymoronic. But, for realz, I'm going to show you how.<br />
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I prepped my hair by combing mousse through it and blow drying it after my shower... and then I slept on it all night ;) Totes prepped!<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-FnuXTi-Uc1U/T1WhfZIiT0I/AAAAAAAASMU/7iwSaGOaXcE/w500/flat_iron_hair_curl.jpg"><br />
First, you need a flat iron.<br />
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The wonderful folks over at <a href="http://www.misikko.com/">Misikko.com</a> sent me <a href="http://www.misikko.com/hana-titanium-flat-iron.html">The Hana Titanium 1.5" flat iron </a>to review. It's plates are beveled at the edge making it perfect for using to curl your hair. <br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHaUZom83GxPScKBzTDnEI19hC3PJoeUd4SbAcKO3Nr3BgIzAcM8ERd5_Mt_xJxpGET1B5FdgBThict4hcoL4DafuhKu0Pib1cvVkqAYcBknhEqlpef99miarT35rk0_QD9-8/w500/IMG_4359.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJmrWlEa3d1rHRML5pXfXdkwnqeIEP5G9LoH2I_n8plas3Quy3famo23li3U6vgzTy8mbiXRt48NCA__hhGDW6KVzB7GoMn9t6japyWhd_N8H_I1lTY2OymS3TmJ0mWs_8CdDE/w500/IMG_4361.JPG"><br />
One of the nice things about this flat iron is that you can actually dial in the temperature. <a href="http://www.misikko.com/hana-titanium-flat-iron.html">The Hana Titanium flat iron</a> came with guidelines about which range of temps could correspond to what type of hair (from 140F to 450F). A few hair stylists have told me I have thick hair, so I started off at 400ish temps. BAD idea!! My hair started smoking!! accck! So definitely start at the lowest temperature you can and move on up to find the temperature that works best for you. For me, that temp was 302!<br />
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First, Take a small 1-2" section of your hair<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAgPl3Nk5ACKIeDymgXPTgCEdzGCJr_6cka563poC4v-kHhZZkC9mGVkN_WNqOiN5vP0QdRQgvpaZBO2A1x0hU55ad6rty7-YKTtTYm0FduvxsLkPdxeFxfhe8w3zjiigsBp8V/w500/IMG_4362.JPG"><br />
So here's the interesting part. <br />
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Clamp down on the iron toward the base of the sectioned off hair. Rotate the iron 180 degrees so that your hair partially wraps around the iron. (I like wrapping in-ward toward the face so that the curls kind of frame/hug the face).<br />
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Keeping the iron closed and at that angle, slowly pull you hair through the iron. This "irons" the hair into a curl shape.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Xu7m4TeW5nQ/T1WhXytopAI/AAAAAAAASLc/0xod42xT8Ko/w500/IMG_4366.JPG"><br />
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<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZTy10WHWY7Q/T1WhbZz2woI/AAAAAAAASL0/RQU4S5T9iMQ/w500/IMG_4377.JPG"><br />
This creates such a lovely curl. Much more ringlet-y than when I use a curling iron.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-8zDjuEn35s8/T1WhVZoZBQI/AAAAAAAASLM/xcTDVAIpBCU/w500/IMG_4364.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-XfjcDIom68Y/T1WhZhKpqoI/AAAAAAAASLk/SZUCwiHkZ_Y/w500/IMG_4373.JPG"><br />
hehe... half curly half straight!<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-rTFk2_kHljk/T1Wha5f4gqI/AAAAAAAASLs/sNPlUjjHQKg/w500/IMG_4375.JPG"><br />
After curling all sections of your hair, twirl your hair up into a bun, and give it a few shots of hair spray! <br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A-6mAZXbHXE/T1WhcMEdghI/AAAAAAAASL8/MH5CKjDOEmg/w500/IMG_4386.JPG"><br />
Ha! It totally looks like I'm trying to show off my non-existent 'guns' here, lol.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--qFD9mIzWAY/T1WhenrH8jI/AAAAAAAASMM/YyJTKnTnAuk/w500/IMG_4395b.jpg"><br />
Tousle your hair, and voila! (yes, I also finished getting dressed, hahah)<br />
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Verdict: fun! The curls I got were much nicer than the ones I get with my curling iron. It currently takes only 5ish min for me to curl my hair with a curling iron. This was more like 10 min. It seems like after I get the hang of it, I will be able to do this fairly quickly. The plates are made of a smooth titanium. So your hair glides right through - quickly, and with no snags! If you have coarser hair and need to use temps in the 400F range, be forewarned that at these temps I found the iron became fairly hot to handle. But then again, if you're using it to straighten rather than curl, you might not be touching the ends where the heating plates are quite so much.<br />
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I'm also excited to try more styling with the flat iron. <a href="http://www.misikko.com/">Misikko</a> has a <a href="http://www.misikko.com/how-to-use-a-flat-iron.html">great page with tips on how to use a flat iron, including video tutorials</a> (one of which taught me how to curl my hair like this using a flat iron!)<br />
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The Hana Air also came with a Travel Pouch, Heat Proof Silicone Mat & Tin Case. Love the heat proof silicone mat. Great for the counter since the iron does get quite warm during use. I also love the thick leather travel pouch. You can stick the hot iron right in and pack it up when you're done with you're hair! If you don't need titanium plates or curved plates, Misikko carries the top flat iron brands, so you can find the <a href="http://www.misikko.com/best-flat-iron.html">best flat iron</a> for you.<br />
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For those of you who use flat irons, do you have any tips on their use? Has anyone else tried curling or putting waves in their hair with a flat iron?<br />
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<em>Disclosure: I was given the opportunity to review the Hana Titanium Flat Iron from Misikko. All statements and opinions expressed here are my own. I was not compensated in any other way.</em><br />
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lorispeak.com%2F2012%2F03%2Fhow-to-curl-your-hair-with-flat-iron.html&media=https%3A%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2F-FnuXTi-Uc1U%2FT1WhfZIiT0I%2FAAAAAAAASMU%2F7iwSaGOaXcE%2Fw500%2Fflat_iron_hair_curl.jpg&description=How%20to%20curl%20your%20hair%20with%20a%20flat%20iron%20via%20Lorispeak" class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal">Pin It</a><br />
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-78724729215961797042012-03-06T06:31:00.002-08:002012-03-08T09:53:10.048-08:00Quirky Things: A Girl and Her Bicycle<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Jv5ZzttiURE/T0ns_iyqzLI/AAAAAAAASHo/nrloqZvAPFY/w500/IMG_4303.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-mWLLJABLkCE/T0ns-IU7wEI/AAAAAAAASHY/frJjy5fQnm0/w500/IMG_2286sm.jpg"><br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fVk6Xrvt9-o/T0ns-3l60FI/AAAAAAAASHg/BZtLIK8SLOU/w500/IMG_2289shoes.jpg"><br />
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<a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/shopsale-jewelry/20758546.jsp">Anthropologie Ten-Speed Necklace</a> <br />
Anna and Frank silk green shirt (thrifted)<br />
Dockers Pants (thrifted)<br />
The Heritage Cardigan Lands End Canvas Harvest Pine<br />
Cole Haan suede penny loafers<br />
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It's funny. When I first saw this necklace at Anthropologie, I thought I'd look like a crazy/eccentric old lady wearing it. But, because it was on sale, and made of some neat materials (leather + wood), I brought it home anyway. I figured I could return it if I never wore it or changed my mind.<br />
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Ok, so call me a crazy/eccentric old lady! Turns out, I kinda LOVE wearing it. It can give just a fun amount of quirk to my outfit. I also like it's really long length. And, it always seems to garner compliments. <br />
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Is there anything you've ever bought that you were first iffy about and then later you liked so much it surprised you?<br />
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lorispeak.com%2F2012%2F03%2Fquirky-things-girl-and-her-bicycle.html&media=https%3A%2F%2Flh6.googleusercontent.com%2F-Jv5ZzttiURE%2FT0ns_iyqzLI%2FAAAAAAAASHo%2FnrloqZvAPFY%2Fw500%2FIMG_4303.JPG&description=Anthropologie%20Ten%20Speed%20Necklace%20via%20Lorispeak" class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal">Pin It</a><br />
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-67042781233794921382012-03-04T21:46:00.000-08:002012-03-04T21:46:30.330-08:00Currently wearing: Chinchilly + Mint Candy Apple Essie Nail Polish<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-GdJb1JCINCg/T1RSIi2uqhI/AAAAAAAASI4/BoW6vmopWeg/w500/nails.JPG"><br />
<br />
Essie Mint Candy Apple 702<br />
Essie Chinchilly 696Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-15785219588885401782012-02-26T05:42:00.003-08:002012-02-28T11:30:02.545-08:00Nook Soba noodles night: The magic of buckwheat noodlesHope you lovely people had a wonderful weekend!<br />
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If you live in Seattle, you should definitely try <a href="http://www.nook206.com/">Nook in the University District for amazing biscuits</a>. I've been a fan since my first bite into their humongous crisp & fluffy biscuits of joy. Also, seriously, the owners are so sweet. And I like to support good folks!<br />
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So when I heard that they were having a special soba night, Ev and I made sure we reserved a spot. Oh yah, this is what I wore for soba night:<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-rgmw3hEBzns/T0ntA-SRa1I/AAAAAAAASH4/JlC2PnXr6HE/w500/2297lomo.jpg"><br />
<em>Hawks by Geren Ford mini dress ($4.99 thrifted), Trina Turk for Hue purple tights ($6), H&M fake suede obi belt ($13), Black strappy wedge sandals ($15), United Colors of Benetton black long sleeve tee</em><br />
Yep, I have no idea why I decided to dress up like a grape! :)<br />
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We had soba tea, soba sushi (instead of rice there were soba noodles through the sushi rolls), oyster soba soup, and a mochi wrapped marscapone & strawberry dessert. It was TDF. I never knew soba could be like that. It was freshly made, soft and chewy... toothsome. Apparently, one of the owners friends had studied/trained at a soba place in Japan. So he brought his skills, soba flour, and even the <a href="http://www.wasara.us/">gorgeous Wasara compostable serveware</a>.<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihsbsP5SYiaa5pzH9HohspZB8_B2Bp9KQD99E90t8ONYuPOFmJ19KtLx6rkBYQPjE-n9D0O7DsMHERxVCC6wcYNYRYhslu8ErkhTb3rIvUhGKIZjRaHyjHmM-9osZcSDZCNHBA/w500/IMG_4312.JPG"><br />
I've been to way pricier meals where there wasn't as much thought or care put into the flavors, textures, and experience of the meal as there was at Nook's soba night. Some of the touches I loved: a) in the appetizer plate, we each got our own piece of fresh wasabi root and a grinding board to put as much wasabi into our dipping sauce (for the fried soba chips) as we pleased, b) the little puffed flower shaped puffed wheat in our salad (a hint of spring), c) eggplant tempura! why don't more people do this? Wonderful contrast of textures...<br />
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Anyway, if they ever do another pop-up soba night, I highly highly recommend it!<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ZfRQ9ZhzzNo/T0ntCuAIijI/AAAAAAAASII/r6oFxmnaBQg/w500/IMG_4319.JPG"><br />
<a href="http://s1247.photobucket.com/albums/gg621/lorispeak/?action=view&current=nook_Wasabi_Grating.gif" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1247.photobucket.com/albums/gg621/lorispeak/nook_Wasabi_Grating.gif" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-4Qhn7l05R9o/T0ntD0UHmJI/AAAAAAAASIY/f9HYlC4ssk4/w500/IMG_4329.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Z_cz9HD4Wjw/T0ntEcfGVKI/AAAAAAAASIg/JVORoxDxz40/w500/IMG_4335.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wK9St3HNU94/T0ntFO55pPI/AAAAAAAASIo/UmO0Ben-b7k/w500/IMG_4337.JPG"><br />
Find an additional review of Nook's Soba night at <a href="http://blogs.seattleweekly.com/voracious/2012/02/nook_pops_up_a_superb_soba_din.php">Seattle Weekly by the "Mein Man"</a>, <a href="http://gastrolust.com/">Jay Friedman, who also blogs his culinary Seattle adventures at Gastrolust.com</a><br />
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btw, when did biscuits become the next big specialty thing? I seem to hear about new shops popping up everywhere? Have y'all been to a shop specifically dedicated to biscuits?Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-42576676721026592722012-02-25T06:59:00.000-08:002012-02-25T06:59:00.525-08:00Fortune Cookie Words of WisdomI was highly amused when I got this snarky fortune. Someone at the fortune cookie factory is having waaaaay too much fun coming up with these<br />
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<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-8wZVl3ilERo/Tz8Tp0ChCZI/AAAAAAAASHI/rtFq5STirmY/w500/IMG_3878.JPG"><br />
<br />
If you've ever wondered about <a href="http://www.newyorker.com/archive/2005/06/06/050606ta_talk_olshan">the people who come up with the notes inside fortune cookies, I stumbled across this New Yorker article profiling one such note-writer.</a><br />
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What's the best/worst fortune you've ever received?Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-2904485383151173282012-02-21T06:17:00.002-08:002012-02-21T06:17:00.849-08:00Animal timesThought I'd do a quick post to update people on my furry children, particularly Budzor. Buddie has been doing well, he's got a lot of energy back (at least on his walks). His GI system still hasn't fully recovered from the radiation last year. He's on special food from the vet and seems to be doing ok with that.<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3438Jj8ekfjrSovygtLgI1ndV4zNuTBMWs-Qv1Z-7BNS54n4myDtWRc4hmU9bOnMNMR7FV2Shyphenhyphen-7zibhmOJTe741MmjBaw31ZO9ZfLfGoQolEZ_Qq3JggfctANpHR1iG_G4YO/w500/IMG_1986.JPG"><br />
Meanwhile, it's been great taking naps with Buddie<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0YIX_BFi3Gs/TzHqKMMIrMI/AAAAAAAAR-E/zl5JvkiAaYo/w500/EvBudzTired.jpg"><br />
Or generally cuddling with him!<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-iCRgeqJLJEc/TzHqKkShmsI/AAAAAAAAR-M/ruo0ld80mo4/w500/BudzTired.jpg"><br />
He makes really cute faces sometimes!<br />
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Not to be outdone, Tungsten gave the tongue-shot a go:<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-byqgHAF1QIk/TzHqHSzeccI/AAAAAAAAR9U/RkEkZNXs9b8/w500/tungstenLicks.jpg"><br />
Asha didn't give me a tongue-picture, but she did sleep with her squirrel, which made for cute kitty photographin'<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-RxXdsQQaUvY/TzHpscSuEyI/AAAAAAAAR4A/fbX6YpkEhsI/w500/IMG_0857.JPG"><br />
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I couldn't resist posting this other shot of my cousin's dog, Alfalfa, who came wine tasting with us over the holidays<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-dt3mbvn4h2k/TzHqCucId-I/AAAAAAAAR8Y/OkzIyRmQbRs/w500/IMG_1604.JPG">Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-25116663251119277792012-02-16T06:00:00.004-08:002012-02-16T06:00:13.121-08:00Cookbooks need a diet & advice on substitutions to make healthy recipes?I came across <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/weightloss/2008-10-06-recipescalories_N.htm">an interesting (frightening?) study</a> by Brian Wansink (researcher and writer on <a href="http://mindlesseating.org/index.php">Mindful Eating</a>) and Collin Payne (2009, <em>Annals of Internal Medicine</em>). <br />
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They analyzed recipes from The Joy of Cooking from the past 70 years (the book was updated every decade). They found that the caloric content of the recipes increased about 40% since the original publication, due to increases in serving size and ingredient substitutions.<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcpTtwdWc1XXz7rlfRPyBanRMpHbeeoG6G5l_8zQA87S_3uVmMRBF3i_F6CV-3bTkUXuRokrPBiJipybFDxFxq6uKoUl0XJoW16xYTjajH22W_RyhuS_DSQJAsOCWucOdVbhK2/w500/calorieIncrease.jpg"><br />
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Yikes!<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1e5HiU1a9Tg/TziT10br6mI/AAAAAAAASGc/lIVfzF15S6k/w500/whaaaaalori.jpg"><br />
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I mean, I guess I didn't make the healthiest recipes over the holidays. My cousin gave me a donut maker, so of course I made donuts (they're so pretty!):<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-asl22AeUwuc/TzHqGdPGgbI/AAAAAAAAR9E/ss8O9QXIFpg/w500/IMG_1806.jpg"><br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-bO5CffoL-uE/TzHqG-ifoAI/AAAAAAAAR9M/P8Gi6iXxG6k/w500/IMG_1811.jpg"><br />
I know right? I start off the post complaining about unhealthy recipes, and now we are looking at pictures of donuts. but they are pretty, right? <br />
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We been making lots of homemade pizza:<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Sp5E865EwwU/TzHqIxOgebI/AAAAAAAAR90/mqUszf3Ui3c/w500/IMG_1960.JPG"><br />
I love this pic because it looks like a screen shot from a horror movie!! Watchout doughball! The hand is gonna get you! (after I make dough, I put it in yogurt containers, hence the tubular shape)<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Ufuu2kOL3Gs/TzHqIZlm1HI/AAAAAAAAR9s/sfng7rU8Jgs/w500/IMG_1948.JPG"><br />
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and I even tried my hand at making crumpets (unsuccessfully... they came out more like english muffins):<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-8v0KaXAynM4/TzHqMcXxFcI/AAAAAAAAR-s/I9dFegOoh_E/w500/IMG_2113.JPG"><br />
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But, as I mentioned, I've been trying to lose weight. So I've been taking a closer look at what I'm eating and how I'm living. Since I love to cook, I'm now trying to figure out how to make many of the recipes that I like healthier (ideally without sacrificing a ton of flavor).<br />
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For example, I've heard of substituting applesauce for oil in baked goods (like muffins and quick breads). I also just read that we can <a href="http://everydayfoodstorage.net/2012/02/07/how-to-use-food-storage-beans-for-butter-andor-oil/food-storage-recipes">use beans as a replacement for butter and oil in recipes.</a> For those of you who've tried either of these substitutions, can you taste the difference (does it taste 'healthier' in a bad way)?<br />
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And beyond that substitution, I'm somewhat at a loss for how I can make a recipe healthier. What other substitutions do y'all use in cooking to make your dishes healthier?Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-21503247117548815682012-02-14T06:20:00.000-08:002012-02-14T06:20:00.303-08:00I watched with anticipation....but he made the right choice *wink*<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-iX7ncZDNFkU/Tzn81SQf9jI/AAAAAAAASGk/0t1fSzT1WBE/w400/ervylovebug2012vday.jpg"><br />
<a href="http://www.mooo.com.au/valentines">Tag via free Valentine's Day printable from Mooo</a><br />
Happy Valentine's day everyone!<br />
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Here's to the little things that we do for the people we love everday!<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-S9Y3J-ERz7g/TzHpqkIg4yI/AAAAAAAAR3o/RhQnsu0YV_o/w500/IMG_3810.JPG"><br />
when the erv wakes up to unexpected coffee making<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-IKN-xWN35h0/Tzn_BbrxMWI/AAAAAAAASGs/D4KNokR883o/w500/IMG_0208.jpg"><br />
surprise cupcakes and flowers when I'm feeling downLorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-85512808035616737622012-02-13T06:20:00.000-08:002012-02-13T10:25:30.745-08:00Color me brightlyThank you everyone on your weight loss tips and encouragement! I've now requested an invite to <a href="http://www.fitocracy.com/">fitocracy</a> (thanks for the suggestion <a href="http://myriadmuses.blogspot.com/">gck</a>!), following <a href="http://respecttheshoes.blogspot.com/">Lisa's</a> advice I've re-downloaded <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/">myfitnesspal </a>to my iphone (it has a waaaaaay more extensive food calorie counting database than the app I was using, LoseIt!), and I've been drinking lots of tea to try to curb my sweet tooth (fab suggestion <a href="http://thekimmiechronicles.blogspot.com/">Kimmie</a>!)<br />
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I also managed to get several exercise sessions in since the last post (I think publicly telling y'all I wanted to lose weight helped with my motivation ;) ). I did several <a href="http://www.nike.com/nikewomen/features/howitworks?locale=en_US">workout sessions from the Nike Training Club app</a> I downloaded onto my iphone. It's got tons of workout sessions doing <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-intensity_interval_training">High Intensity Interval Training</a> that I can do right in my living room! I love that it has videos showing me the exercise moves and the countdown/timer feature!<br />
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My friend Clara also sent me the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/08/dining/mindful-eating-as-food-for-thought.html?_r=1">NYTimes article on mindful eating</a>. So I'm also now trying to very consciously, mindfully, thoughtfully, eat. The idea is that really <a href="http://www.springerlink.com/content/uv31250423u72381/">focusing on the experience of eating the food will make you enjoy the food more (Hong, Lishner, Han, & Huss, 2011)</a>, and it will help you eat more slowly and pay more attention to your bodily signals that you're full. It's a tough one though because I tend to be working all the time, so eating has typically been something I multitask, but I'm going to make a concerted effort to pay more attention to my food while I'm eating it (and before and after).<br />
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<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Kon0YS0e0bM/TzdLw_2nOsI/AAAAAAAASF4/KXEzVj2l7ko/w500/colormebrightly.jpg"><br />
Wearing: <em><a href="http://canvas.landsend.com/pp/the-heritage-cardigan~203167_-1.html?bcc=y&action=order_more&sku_0=::BLA&CM_MERCH=IDX_sale-_-women-_-sweaters&origin=index">Lands End Canvas The Heritage Cardigan (Day Lily Orange sz XXS, bought on sale for $13.99!!)</a>, Banana Republic green v-neck tee (really old), Rave~Max~Turquoise Slim/Skinny low rise Jeans sz 5 (Ebay $5.24; similar <a href="http://www.beso.com/2699489359/detail?af_assettype_id=4&af_creative_id=5&af_id=51086&af_placement_id=1&rf=af1">here</a>, <a href="http://www.beso.com/4118258707/detail?af_assettype_id=4&af_creative_id=5&af_id=51086&af_placement_id=1&rf=af1">here</a>, <a href="http://www.beso.com/4081762979/detail?af_assettype_id=4&af_creative_id=5&af_id=51086&af_placement_id=1&rf=af1">here</a>), Brown suede Zara ankle booties (thrifted $7; similar <a href="http://www.beso.com/2687449658/detail?af_assettype_id=4&af_creative_id=5&af_id=51086&af_placement_id=1&rf=af1">here</a>, <a href="http://www.beso.com/2331780099/detail#?af_assettype_id=4&af_creative_id=5&af_id=51086&af_placement_id=1&rf=af1">here</a>, <a href="http://www.beso.com/2651609122/detail?af_assettype_id=4&af_creative_id=5&af_id=51086&af_placement_id=1&rf=af1">here</a>)</em><br />
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Yup. I'm still wearing bright colors! I can't remember if I mentioned how much I love LE Canvas Heritage Cardigans. They're a fabulous slim fit, come in a bijillion different colors, and when you catch them on sale, they're an amazing bargain. I only wish they made the same style in wool as well as cotton for added warmth during the winter. <br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9ovWBqqDZhfrGk4L1FFTO27G9GxZdgGAYkEo2SkK-yhE671rfRvUaElEJVxRpoqrIY7LqS3vU1LPKxH9Nb1bmKs28xDMK8fH1Mwh5PzQGCP8OMoJ3J7uJtmAn4nQ7eSTChNc/w500/colormebrightly2.jpg"><br />
I wore this over the weekend to run errands and then to an early Valentine's Day dinner with Evan. It's hard for us to go out to dinner during the week, so when we heard one of our neighborhood restaurants was offering their Valentine's day prix fixe dinner Friday through V-day, we scheduled a nice weekend meal.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Ha81YXXomww/TzdLxY1L8OI/AAAAAAAASGA/17C7fSJeYfE/w500/colormebrightly3.jpg"><br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ciPbxsIxgok/TzdLyPQtjiI/AAAAAAAASGI/PMawR-gogsc/w500/valentinesdayeatin.jpg"><br />
Enjoying an early <a href="http://thechefinthehat.com/luc/">prix fixe Valentine's Day at Luc in Seattle</a>Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-31701244142669187882012-02-07T20:22:00.000-08:002012-02-07T20:22:44.289-08:00Catch-up Montage SequenceSorry y'all! I've been gone so long! Too much to catch up on so I'll just focus on some highlights from the holidays in this post. Imagine this as a fast movie montage sequence. By the end of it, you should feel like you totally know how the whole months-long experience of my life went :) j/k<br />
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I found this <b>ridiculously awesome Paul Frank fleece adult onesie</b> to bum around the house in around the holidays. Bonus: it has pockets! It makes me so happy that I so don't care that Ev laughs at me every time he sees me wearing it.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-GWv_L3eZAzM/TzHp14hzjWI/AAAAAAAAR50/RPA7Zgh2JTw/w500/IMG_4036.jpg"><br />
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<b>Ev's Holiday party</b> was at the sci-fi museum (Cee Lo Green was the main entertainment). But I also totally geeked out at the Battlestar Gallactica exhibit they had going on. (Wearing Betsey Johnson dress I picked up <a href="http://www.lorispeak.com/2010/10/vip-treatment-betsey-johnson-meet-greet.html">when I met Ms. Betsey Johnson herself!</a>).<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWCjv_1JQatM71D46GrQAYUmBTPAuk3nOAtoFVkBgnFLHectGfBGQPJApoSaENAZJNpqx3wRydO80cGZ8yCt344tlqMDfN8pFk7L1u0JeHkbE1Z8ROhJhMHl2dZegJl5WnGQTB/w500/0328_lomo.jpg"><br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-u-MRuuORs5w/TzHp2nebaSI/AAAAAAAAR58/_ci9w9dDc1o/w500/0326_lomo.jpg"><br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kFiB38DAaXY/TzHp4dMUgQI/AAAAAAAAR6U/9eTCS1TF7cU/w500/0338_lomo.jpg"><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGEoGCDseA3XEUjbcfi4z-kF0KmoK1NgQI8k5q9wEy5X3iYADYjQvya1iKZViF28ehZdbkIuMGNEj6IXlGYLldPeNety9Q8XBBpB2aFBkLHv_iIENhJmC6lWiGFmpC0s_uoO3k/w500/0340_lomo.jpg"><br />
<br />
<b>Took funny family pics</b><br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Mb8WWuZxZco/TzHqEGWEaAI/AAAAAAAAR8s/Rjhkjgfqwd0/w500/IMG_1742.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-CgNbuWEz3MA/TzHqA_DkndI/AAAAAAAAR8I/KjTzQm4m8_4/w500/IMG_1301.JPG"><br />
I love seeing my grandma in these pics! I'm so happy she's still doing so great at 91! I really cherished the time I got to spend with her over the holidays.<br />
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<b>Caught up with some wonderful friends</b><br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Tt6YXwMzUV4/TzHp_TioEuI/AAAAAAAAR7w/9yDirpjqGI4/w500/IMG_1199.JPG"><br />
<em>I adore this toothy grin!</em><br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-09tqa_fNWtU/TzHp-gKvSOI/AAAAAAAAR7o/7Hu9aqNNipI/w500/IMG_1196ed.jpg"><br />
I miss my bestie so much since she moved to the East coast!<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFJTNWJZ7EEo8UTFrWuI-xhTx8qzZ-JOMLC7CsaI_9HVqgybE2a-gkP4eV-ChyWxdgiKRlCMtLcEkyP1_1nPd_Ujru4A1T2vWvPiNzdOgK4RNzcXXK7X1OHs-hfr0EGm1aV3E/w500/CloriReunite.jpg"><br />
<em>ha! This guy in back did an awesome photobomb</em><br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-8ffYsrAkuZY/TzHp7CQ-6yI/AAAAAAAAR60/YWaOSHpqyDM/w500/IMG_1159.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-FlRj8hIEa7w/TzHqLHr2EJI/AAAAAAAAR-U/2eHS_dJ1a_Q/w500/IMG_2017.JPG"><br />
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Last week, I got my very first bowtie! and I even learned how to tie it! I bought it for $2.49 (including shipping!) on ebay. Next I want a cute plaid one!<br />
here's an early morning shot at the bus stop. I was so cold (and pale... ok I'm still pale). And my lips were too chapped to smile!<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZIQ7c4QUNwk/TzH30DxfybI/AAAAAAAASAw/ukqze11VjUk/w500/bowtie1.jpg"><br />
I took this one at home when I got back. I gotta get my tripod set up again. For now, mirror pic!<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh79rsbIZNIP0x_fbpMmH5LwqJQ7jBIrkU1ICz0L5BqeqL8UGecjwBxopXPIQycoLWFEdoHsm5ByBfZerld2M4l3s8DIKIeO3JGoUSUhhcq6cfmYAymvyuY_cjvl1fUD5mSa_ST/w500/loriBowtie.jpg"><br />
<br />
I also have been crazy bogged down with writing. With the holidays and the lack of exercise, I've gained 10 lbs in the past six months! I'm still crazy busy, but I'm announcing it to y'all now that I'm gonna work those 10 lbs off (ideally by summer!). <br />
<br />
Anyone have any weight loss tips? I've tried keeping a food journal on my phone, but I'm bad at keeping up with it. I've fallen off in running (was due to cold weather, but now it's just due to lack of time and lots of inertia).Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-11233338483608889232011-08-30T22:12:00.000-07:002011-08-30T22:12:57.188-07:00Water, Fire and SmokeYup. So I was gonna have outfit photos from today. I swear. But then I woke up to this:<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-E00A2YN1crg/Tl21nctllgI/AAAAAAAAOsA/D63pVk2h_GQ/w500/burnedWaterHeater.JPG"><br />
<br />
Yeah. So our water heater decided to spontaneously combust last night and I woke up to a house full of smoke. :( Sux right? Well, at least nothing else lit on fire, and hubby has already fixed us all up with a new water heater.<br />
<br />
Anyway there was no time for outfit pics this morning. And I dropped food on my skirt at lunch... so no after work pics. But I do have the polyvore I put together for the outfit. <br />
<br />
<div style="position:relative;width:500px;height:500px;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/anthropologie_marisco_skirt_styling/set?.embedder=1832182&.mid=embed&id=36321639"><img width="500" alt="Anthropologie Marisco Skirt Styling" src="http://embed.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/cid/36321639/id/PLv7ROHR4BGnw-_AWXIF2Q/size/x.jpg" title="Anthropologie Marisco Skirt Styling" height="500" border="0" /></a></div><br/><br />
I love this Marimekko skirt (it was called <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=72001&navAction=jump&navCount=">the Marisco Skirt when sold at Anthropologie</a>). This piece is another one of my ebay stalking successes! The orange, brown and red stripes totally remind me of some sheets my parents had when I was growing up. Plus, those stripes on a blue background offer such visual POP. <br />
<br />
Of course what I love about the skirt - it's awesome graphic quality - made it hard for me to figure out what to pair it with. I came across the picture to the left on <a href="http://color-collective.blogspot.com/">the color collective</a> and I used it for some color pairing inspiration. I think the green cardigan here really helped tie the outfit together.<br />
<br />
I was really happy with the way this outfit turned out. I did make some changes this morning though. I ended up adding a brown braided skinny belt. I changed the tank top to a t-shirt and I wore brown booties instead of the flats because Seattle turned cold these past few days.<br />
<br />
Anyone else have this skirt? What would you pair this skirt with?<br />
<br />
<br />
I do have one pic for y'all. I've been meaning to post this for awhile, but I had the chance to meet up with Cindi from <a href="http://simplycindi.blogspot.com/">SimplyCindi</a> and <a href="http://www.cindiandchrisphotography.com/blog/">Cindi+Chris Photography</a> earlier this summer. We chatted about food, Seattle, jobs, schools. It was super fun. Cindi is such a beautiful and warm individual. I'm sure I say this a lot, but I love how the internet has helped me meet such wonderful people that I probably wouldn't have met otherwise. And seriously, check out her photography with her husband. It's stellar. I wish I had such magic with my camera lens!<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aKmS_4_DKzg/Tlxqgbs1yuI/AAAAAAAAOr0/updaLb2PEA8/w500/meNCindi.jpg"><br />
Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-10713465129112729172011-08-29T22:19:00.000-07:002011-08-29T22:19:02.599-07:00San Diego travel picsHey lovelies! Sorry I've been absentee bloggy-face! Things are a bit time crunched right now, but I wanted to post a few pics from my San Diego travels. <br />
<br />
We were busy travelers. Made it to the beach, the 1st California Mission, the zoo, the desert, Salton Sea (thought of as a preview to the apocalypse, check out <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otIU6Py4K_A">this short documentary on the Salton Sea</a>), and the largest US aircraft carrier museum!<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-2JyxDQuZm9c/Tkf_B23efII/AAAAAAAAOYY/E3ZtCMzdcYI/w500/IMG_0046.JPG"><br />
ginormous succulents everywhere. SO COOL!<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-rbr4Zxz6paI/Tkf_RaY5jvI/AAAAAAAAOZc/iKZzoWkyNpo/w500/IMG_0501.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UUCHzzfaUq4/Tkf_p9voZ4I/AAAAAAAAObU/US1lxCp5J70/w500/IMG_0565.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eZO_Yh6n5Uc/Tkf_cL2XiEI/AAAAAAAAOaM/CdyfFT5zIK0/w500/IMG_0530.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlXG62pVUs6pqvrWZ3h7bSsUQJduRsikauInd94bCgLcOy_imHvaOJhiwyNfsGzps9m85a4rmeBZRewdaesZNClGebBr-G5u3Pg1NV-C4MFIUsVpSY11OgrT5lcuSLuZOYfucn/w500/IMG_0640.JPG"><br />
The rental car agency upgraded us to this car... not necessarily great for the desert, but we did get a lot of commentary from people, like: <i>"Your car looks like a Terminator!"</i><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBbNwLHTEeePTPgJVPopTqRXGP0_Xmj2jQtvUYlHWH5TPLBLm_2PI28RsBN1yNiGujuDHm4JPJRczOAuKmK234nGvYEb4t6hGxWocM159xjZY-r2on7bAzroNDdqfj8aKGVdng/w500/IMG_0683.JPG"><br />
Here I'm hoping I don't land on a cactus!<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Dizp2QxWqDM/TkgAcijmv5I/AAAAAAAAOeU/2FygSuCJlkA/w500/IMG_0680.JPG"><br />
It got up to 111F!<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-awrg5pSTaRs/TkgBEzaQabI/AAAAAAAAOgI/iw3QXnheQu0/w500/IMG_3688.JPG"><br />
fishy massacre at the Salton Sea<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pIg11d-t_xg/TkgBnGJyDwI/AAAAAAAAOh4/NKZJ_KgOlDo/w500/IMG_0773.JPG"><br />
great signs at the zoo<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Jj_XYbKHhsw/TkgBeuv31bI/AAAAAAAAOhU/GZMIHrPYJDc/w500/IMG_0757.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitfm8D3V43jIEuLYQ9q4I5dbiIskgRPuJMBYX3_N9eM4MFHTcIBaXpFkGnSrsaLLi1vZy41xpJyi1A6KrmWgBUH2vQhyQPBaclrgih1CqIYM9lXXmLNgmbV0TaYiRyvY4ZI4pM/w500/IMG_3707.PNG"><br />
best food text ever<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-9Zq5-HSnTb8/TkgCHWVQTdI/AAAAAAAAOj0/FZhqez4uTf8/w500/IMG_0102.JPG"><br />
love the huge bullet motif<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-L7To4-HYspA/TkgCSgJ7diI/AAAAAAAAOkk/3V2zrAJz14w/w500/IMG_0132.JPG"><br />
so many dang dials!<br />
<br />
phew! Next time, I'll be back to regularly scheduled programming, I swear! :)<br />
<br />
xoxo!Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-10572714767405400242011-08-06T09:23:00.000-07:002011-08-06T09:23:49.130-07:00Marimekko - Wearing Art for my birthday suitHappy Saturday everyone! I'm now in sunny San Diego with Ev for a small vacay. Right now, I'm writing from the dining room of our cute bed & breakfast on Coronado Island. I'm looking forward to some beautiful beaches, the zoo, Sea World, and neat desert hiking!<br />
<br />
Thursday was my birthday. And, this is the outfit I chose to wear! I've been in love with Marimekko for a long time. I grew up looking at my parents' huge (wall-sized) Kaivo hanging since before I was born. And, I've fallen in love with their beautiful textile prints. So you can imagine how thrilled I am by their dresses with Anthropologie.<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl3zKpy_evyeU9f2x3Xj5lVdh1aQWo8M5K1qPpfPMOS9jASQGbJzfu0LPdgiu4N-yQDc9tujQnt4biEfY648TMa0Kh-5t06RdgTkzEcV8wCBjCbY8x8NQJ3SD4N1uz4bx8hXd7/w500/marimekkodress.jpg"><br />
I stalked Anthropologie's Gulls of Gamma dress for a while on Ebay. The graphic print and bold colors were so appealing! I finally won one at a happy price point.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-W-5RT4R_j8g/TjuhQGdSxBI/AAAAAAAAOW8/twPrlABul5M/w500/marimekkodress2.jpg"><br />
I've found the measurements on Marimekko clothing to run a tad small (or perhaps it's just TTS given the crazy vanity sizing I typically encounter). This dress is a sz 0 and with my wide rib-cage and broad shoulders, it is a bit too small in the bust for me. Definitely, a no-bra possibility kind of dress for me. Luckily, I'm fairly boobless so it just barely fits (ok so maybe it was hard to breathe...)<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiUVULr-B5pkugCnZB1s23aEH6AdLCpGHY2yDn3uTMVZO-wPGwF2EgUtyANEKaWNUmUzXPxJ0vDfLXfV5d-Pfh0i0x8A7723rYdfnRuxz1rfnwDADAPHIGiZFhUmlRWTg4pjDn/w500/marimekkodress3.jpg"><br />
I sent a preview picture from this post to my BFF, and she told me that it "looked like I'm wearing art!" That's what I love about many of the Marimekko pieces; they feel so incredibly special. Their prints are so graphic and visually interesting, I feel like I could look at them for ages. <br />
<a href="http://tinypic.com?ref=27zkduh" target="_blank"><img src="http://i53.tinypic.com/27zkduh.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br />
<i>Here's a rather poorly done cinemagraph. I didn't have a good piece of footage for looping this time. Live and learn.</i> Ok, I admit, part of the reason I love cinemagraphs is because they remind me of those moving pictures from Harry Potter. Somehow, cinemagraphs are partially magical when they're done right. I just gotta practice!<br />
<br />
On a completely separate topic, I wanted to show y'all my new lunch bag. (I know, I'm totally weird). Happily, it went so well with this dress I decided to throw it in a pic. This bag is one of my birthday gifts from my dear friends, and I love love love it! I knew I needed a lunch bag, because I had been toting my lunch around in ugly plastic film grocery bags (out of convenience). <br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-r09Rcf7FJEk/TjuhMdZ4-XI/AAAAAAAAOW0/yr9sxY0-AtM/w500/marimekkoAndLunchBag.jpg"><br />
If you are looking for a lunch sack accessory, the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Originals-Good-Lunch-Sack-Blissful/dp/B00472MNF2/ref=wl_it_dp_o?ie=UTF8&coliid=I2LAUS4D5MP4WG&colid=1WEVRKIYM9KYD">Originals Good Lunch Sack in Blissful Blue</a> is a BEAUTIFUL option. <br />
<br />
First off, I love the color. It's called blue, but it definitely straddles that lovely turquoise/mint green shade that I've been enjoying all Spring and Summer. Second, the simplicity of the design makes me really happy. The lunch sack comes in a so-very-soft cotton canvas. It's got a padded handle that's a pleasure to hold. The inside is insulated and water-proof, perfect for keeping your lunch properly cool (very helpful for avoiding an overcrowded work fridge). Since the outside of the bag is padded and covered in the soft canvas, there is no annoying crunchiness/crinkling noises when it hits your sides as you walk. It's also a great size. It comfortably fits one of my 5"x7" ice packs in the bottom, my packed lunch containers, snack, and a drink. Anyway, just thought I'd throw in my two cents about this lunch sack in case any of y'all are looking for one. I also eyeballed those insulated lunch purses, but I honestly thought the design of this was prettier than those :)<br />
<br />
<b>OOTD Specs</b><br />
Gulls of Gamma Dress by Marimekko for Anthropologie sz 0 - runs small - ($36)<br />
Anthropologie Caulerpa necklace ($10)<br />
Toms Shoes blue/white wedges (thrifted $6)Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-49277209398761857422011-08-02T22:30:00.000-07:002011-08-02T22:30:41.376-07:00Rubidoux Shift-ing Photos<a href="http://tinypic.com?ref=308jz1k" target="_blank"><img src="http://i54.tinypic.com/308jz1k.jpg" width=300 border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br />
Happy August friends! This week is my 30th birthday. Kinda crazy that I've lived that long, huh? It also means I get my 15% off from Anthro! This year the discount is for online shopping. Unfortunately, I haven't made it into my local store for a while, so I'll be relying on many of y'alls reviews (thanks so much!).<br />
<br />
A few posts ago, <a href="http://anthroclosetchaos.blogspot.com/">Laura</a> asked how I did <a href="http://www.lorispeak.com/2011/07/perpetual-student.html">the moving image in this post</a>. That was an old school animated gif. I just took multiple photos and used an online animated gif maker like <a href="http://picasion.com/">Picasian</a> or <a href="http://gickr.com/">Gickr</a> to put the images together into one animated gif.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, the picture above started from a movie and became a series of multi-layered masked image frames in Photoshop (<a href="http://www.tested.com/news/how-to-make-your-own-cinemagraphs-a-new-take-on-gifs/2253/">see a tutorial here</a>). It is still technically an animated gif, but lately they're being called cinemagraphs. If you haven't seen them, you should check out some of these AMAZING ones: <a href="http://cinemagraphs.com/">fashion cinemagraphs</a>, <a href="http://iwdrm.tumblr.com/">movie-related cinemagraphs</a>. They're really fun to play around with and highly addictive to make - so you may see a few more pop up on the blog now and then.<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZP-dBzm4PtQEwsetIDrbk0RwY4F2meggYHJI2sSGagxRPLu27o6dPXx9opAauFz38yAyloxVb8jNedTZi6Mi-Ry61n0PhZ_2Dv6mjiKpVK1VtsgCcTb52iEg5dCW630q76IQn/w500/NineWestSandals.jpg"><br />
It feels like everyone needs a good summery pair of beaded sandals. They go especially well with the whole Boho-chic vibe that's been going around. I found this Nine West pair at Marshall's for $20. I love the soft leather and the ankle straps that keep the shoes firmly in place.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-XEN4sqA4HBI/TjjSUuBvPLI/AAAAAAAAOWA/2FVX-IUb8EE/w500/rubidouxNeckline.jpg"><br />
The dress is Anthropologie's Rubidoux Shift. I found it at Goodwill, and I immediately fell in love with the neckline. It's like a magnified section of lace. So pretty! <br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-CicGXcpGF8c/TjjST9ysw6I/AAAAAAAAOV8/1Y-5aN62N_U/w500/rubidoux.jpg"><br />
I'm just not a fan of the shift shape on me. I need waist definition! So of course I belted the dress :) . To get back some of the length I wore it with a black lace slip underneath.<br />
<br />
<b>OOTD Specs</b><br />
Rubidoux Shift sz 4 (thrifted $5)<br />
Nine West beaded sandals ($20)<br />
American Eagle striped belt (thrifted 99 cents)<br />
black lace slip ($3)Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-11750630279526752342011-07-23T18:39:00.000-07:002011-07-23T18:39:00.297-07:00Pattern Mixing PrimerI'm still learning and playing with pattern mixing, but here's a few tips that seem to work for me.<br />
<br />
<b>1. Color match.</b> <br />
<br />
Two patterns in similar color schemes doesn't feel conflicted, because the eye can see the outfit as a united whole via the color scheme.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-85h6BjZZsXU/Tijsx73r8XI/AAAAAAAAOO4/NieNaI39D7s/w500/blair-blous-3.jpg"><br />
<i>Leighton pulls out the black on black pattern mixing</i><br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-q0V2sJpuTjw/Tijk8kVJsWI/AAAAAAAAOOc/M6Krb7kisEE/w500/tumblr_llm3l5Dbc11qjnwvko1_500.jpg"><br />
<i>A beautiful example from <a href="http://dreamingaboutsuits.tumblr.com/">All Day Long I Dream About Suits</a></i> <br />
<br />
<b>2. Style match.</b> <br />
<br />
You see this combination a lot with the 'ethnic' trend in clothes right now. Basically, any two/three/four/bijillion prints that feel 'ethnic' get thrown together. And, magically, it works. <br />
<br />
I think this tip was at work in my pattern play EBEW outfit yesterday. <br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-QfKSkb1rBU0/TijHVivbSCI/AAAAAAAAONo/kov9wWur4RY/w500/patternplayEBEW2.jpg"><br />
<i>Both patterns have a stylistically Swedish feel about them.</i><br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-jZDPmUebtkHmSOTugJek_zvPjxsVaGgSuAIgCDD5nuvpBgO8a5vK5UCAuzJlGHtne8TvRv0evJdEfzfcIcDee9gh_MLScmPVkJcCa1H91OY-UenjXRDYzOhhcPqrJiIXWgt/w500/suno-09-lookbook-1-600x442.jpg"><br />
<i>Mixed ethnic prints from <a href="http://www.sunony.com/">Suno</a></i><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ms4mG14-0aA/Tij2_bOJxsI/AAAAAAAAOPg/P4_A5DXn1gs/w500/jazzmine-berger.jpg"><br />
<i>two different flavors of florals photo via <a href="http://www.garancedore.fr/2010/09/27/flowers-colors-flowers/">Garance Doré</a></i><br />
<br />
<b>3. Use patterns in different scales.</b> <br />
<br />
Two big patterns compete more with the eye than a big pattern + little pattern. Think of the little pattern as an echo, or the backup chorus...<br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-VlN0-k5auEI/TNxLn4wkyuI/AAAAAAAAJ1M/-9gjHuzSWp4/w500/IMG_9275.JPG"><br />
<i>Big and little animal prints</i><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-O9iTkNVL0ZA/TijwUJwzM3I/AAAAAAAAOPU/eSM_X633OyE/w500/tucker.jpg"><br />
<i>Big print + Little print Tucker for Target dresses... I happily thrifted BOTH of these dresses from my local Goodwill</i><br />
<b><br />
<br />
4. <i>Feeling</i> match. </b> <br />
<br />
As in, match how you're feeling! Think of pattern mixing as your fashion <a href="http://www.jellybelly.com/fun_stuff/jelly_belly_bean_recipes.aspx">Jelly Belly box of recipes</a>. Two distinct flavors (lemon + coconut) when put together give you something new (lemon meringue pie). <br />
<br />
I also had a set of perfume once from Bath and Body works. Each one was labeled with a feeling - like "flirty" or "romantic" or "exciting". So say you wanna look romantic and professional:<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jxc2iLi8OSM/Tij4EM8yPOI/AAAAAAAAOPo/QfPUa9Bx0To/w500/floral-pattern-mixing-copy.jpg"><br />
<br />
I like to mix patterns like I'm mixing flavors. For example, a few floral (romantic) fashion flavor combos:<br />
<div style="position:relative;width:400px;height:400px;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/floral_flavor_combos_pattern_mixing/set?.embedder=1832182&.mid=embed&id=34385491"><img width="400" alt="Floral Flavor Combos: Pattern Mixing" src="http://embed.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/cid/34385491/id/5vrLBCG04BGwy08SvxX51Q/size/e.jpg" title="Floral Flavor Combos: Pattern Mixing" height="400" border="0" force="1" /></a></div><br/><br />
<br />
<b>Do you have any pattern mixing tips? You can share them in the comments!</b>Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-9688298570699373402011-07-21T19:09:00.000-07:002011-07-21T19:13:08.052-07:00Every Body Every Wear Thrift edition; A little bit Naut(ty) and Pattern PlayWhen EBEW posted that today would be thrift day, I had two conflicting thoughts.<br />
<a href="http://www.everybodyeverywear.com/challenges/view/thrift"><img src="http://www.everybodyeverywear.com/photos/iSgkAAA.png" width="200" height="50" alt="Thrift | Everybody, Everywear" /></a><br />
First, "FABULOUS. This theme is SO ME. 3/4 of my wardrobe is thrifted. I have to remember to do this EBEW."<br />
<br />
Then I thought, "oh. maybe it's not a special theme for me, since every outfit I wear incorporates thrifted pieces."<br />
<br />
But of course I gotta do it! In fact, I've thought about hosting a reader feature of fashion bloggers wearing their thrifty outfits. But, I didn't know whether there would be enough interest.<br />
<br />
On a side note, if you are interested in getting into thrifting, check out my <a href="http://www.lorispeak.com/2010/10/guide-to-thrifting-shoes-part-1-finding.html">Guide to Thrifting Shoes</a>, and <a href="http://www.lorispeak.com/2011/02/what-to-wear-while-thrifting.html">What to Wear While Thrifting</a> posts for some tips.<br />
<br />
Now, on to TWO EBEW themed outfits today. That's right, I gotta show some thrifting chops :)<br />
<br />
<b>EBEW Thrift Look#1: Professionally Nautical</b><br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-8aDC2XtNR_U/TijHdISn8EI/AAAAAAAAONw/Z_FriFVd7Fs/w500/nauticalEBEW.jpg"><br />
I wore this earlier this week. The dress/jumper, jacket, and necklace are thrifted finds. I love the cute little anchors on this dress. And although bright colors are my usual playground, navy-colored clothes take up a large spot in my closet. In fact, I like navy more than black. Black washes me out and makes me look super goth with my pale skin and dark hair. <br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-qGU2hs7xqqs/TijHjc-MpsI/AAAAAAAAON0/a6CVU9FVbBA/w500/nauticalEBEW2.jpg"><br />
Not one to forgo color completely, I thought the pop of the red necklace was great compliment to the nautical feel of the outfit. The blazer made the flirty jumper more work appropriate. I also added a smidge of length by wearing a lace-fringed slip underneath.<br />
<br />
For those of you not in Seattle, you may be confused by how I'm not getting heat stroke from the blazer and tall boots. Well, it's been rainy and chilly in Seattle this summer. So I've had to work on ways to dress summery-ish, but still stay warm :)<br />
<br />
<b>EBEW Look #2: Thrifty pattern play</b><br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-x7sx450VlX8/TijHZj9jM6I/AAAAAAAAONs/htznMrejJUA/w500/patternplayEBEW.jpg"><br />
When I thrifted this sweater, my husband was skeptical. In his mind there wasn't an outfit that could work with this pattern. So what did I do? <br />
<br />
I paired the pattern with more pattern. duh.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-QfKSkb1rBU0/TijHVivbSCI/AAAAAAAAONo/kov9wWur4RY/w500/patternplayEBEW2.jpg"><br />
Pattern + pattern = FUN. Y'all should definitely try it. Mixing patterns makes people think think you're some kind of style savvy chica... or something. <br />
<br />
I used to be afraid of mixing patterns. I'd gaze at Anna Sui runway collections in awe, and wonder how she knew such intricate patterns could go together. How would I know what patterns would work together? Honestly, I never really thought through my tactics before jumping in, but I think I've picked up on a few tips. Tune back in over the next few days for a Pattern Primer Post (always loved me some alliteration).<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_zar4WzQzQY/TijHSGV8TFI/AAAAAAAAONk/YX8rD19pO3k/w500/patternplayEBEW3.jpg"><br />
In this outfit, I thrifted the dress, the sweater, the belt, the necklace, and the shoes. BAM! Yah, it's the blue plate special of outfits.<br />
<br />
<b>EBEW Look#1 Specs</b><br />
Espada grey blazer sz 3 (thrifted $8)<br />
Chunky red necklace (thrifted $4)<br />
Xhilaration Juniors Swim Coverup Dress Anchor Print sz S (thrifted $4)<br />
Anthro's Navy Garland Slip by Eloise sz S ($30)<br />
White H&M divided t-shirt sz 8 ($8) <br />
Brown Franco Sarto knee-high boots ($25)<br />
Forever 21 Leatherette Bow Belt in dark brown ($3.80) <i>sold out online, still available in stores</i><br />
<br />
<b>EBEW Look#2 Specs</b><br />
Merona Collection Women's Printed Cardigan Sweater sz XS (thrifted $6)<br />
Forever 21 patterned lace applique dress sz S (thrifted $6)<br />
Butterfly locket necklace (thrifted $4)<br />
blue skinny belt (thrifted 99 cents)<br />
Forever 21 rosette hair clips ($1.50)<br />
Seychelles brown pumps (thrifted $6)Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-16904506488710526562011-07-12T05:22:00.000-07:002011-07-12T07:33:27.385-07:00Perpetual studentEven after going through my hooding ceremony, I'm pretty sure I'll always be ready to learn something new! In that way, I'm totes going to live my life as a perpetual student. <br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-y4AtPs4BQ_w/TeHb9hIYiyI/AAAAAAAANdE/PSiFnZtNvjQ/w500/nerd1.jpg"><br />
This outfit was fully inspired by that idea. That, and I felt like working out a preppy, nerdy vibe. The glasses and the child's sweater definitely take this outfit a tad over the top. But that's what's fun about it. Nerdy, fun and comfortable. This was highly appropriate given that I spent the afternoon in a coffee shop working on some data analyses. <br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-xAulxbVmVTo/TeHcCBgQWTI/AAAAAAAANdQ/vXoiaaGb3XI/w500/nerd2.jpg"><br />
I know that the Every Body Every Wear theme is yellow today. And this outfit looks more green than yellow. But, hey! Look! That is a large swath of yellow there in the middle of the sweater. So I call it good! <br />
<br />
Plus, now you can see how well yellow and green go together. You're welcome. :)<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-dzWLISsZqaU/TeHcAz-rqoI/AAAAAAAANdM/2TkqjKB57-s/w500/nerd3.jpg"><br />
<i>Other news</i><br />
* I'm now a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pescetarianism">pescetarian</a> nerd. I decided to keep eating fish because I've been making and loving ceviche every week. Fresh rockfish from the farmer's market has been AMAZING! Does anyone have any awesome seafood or vegetarian recipes they'd like to share with me? Pretty please?!<br />
* Ev and I celebrated 4 years of marriage last week!<br />
* I gave blood and found out I have A+ blood type. The nerd in me was excited because it sounds like an awesome grade. My dad's response? <i>"Not sure if I have A+ too but I think I have phi beta capillaries with Distinction."</i> LOL. Now y'all know where I get my kooky humor.<br />
* Budz had an oncology checkup and his ultrasound and x-rays came back clean (no cancer recurrence)! Woohoo!<br />
<img src="http://i.picasion.com/pic41/9e5a792c5c64a9025146d8d4c99d3b2c.gif" width="450" height="676" border="0" alt="create an avatar" /><br />
<br />
I scored these penny loafers off of Ebay. I've wanted penny loafers ever since middle school. One of my best friends wore some awesome leather ones to school. She had pennies in hers. Man, I just thought that was the coolest thing ever. Apparently, it was during the 1950's that people started slipping pennies into their loafers as a fashion statement. I don't know why it took so long for me to get my own pair. But, as soon as they arrived, I stuck pennies in them! So I missed the 1950's trend by like 60 years...<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Tc76f6jFIfw/ThuWgLb7HvI/AAAAAAAAOKs/CWLGgfLo6Mg/w500/IMG_3233.JPG"><br />
<b>Yellow/Green Nerd OOTD</b><br />
Gap kids cardigan (thrifted $4)<br />
Banana Republic green button up sz XS ($10)<br />
J.Crew jean skirt sz 0 (thrifted $5)<br />
J.Crew red-white gingham belt (thrifted $1)<br />
Cole Haan suede penny loafers (ebay $15)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.everybodyeverywear.com/challenges/view/yellow"><img src="http://www.everybodyeverywear.com/photos/iwwcAAA.png" width="200" height="50" alt="Yellow | Everybody, Everywear" /></a>Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-24788856782128067792011-07-02T21:18:00.000-07:002011-07-02T21:18:04.620-07:00Chicago weddings, Xoco, and art!Hope y'all are having a fantastic holiday weekend (if you're in the states!) This week has been a whirl wind for me.<br />
<br />
We went to Chicago at the end of last weekend for a VERY short trip. We did manage to go to Xoco, Rick Bayless' Mexi street food restaurant in Chicago the night we arrived. It was delish! I highly recommend if you visit Chicago. The Torta Ahogada was fantastic. Plus they make hot chocolate there by grinding the cacao beans on the spot. The hot chocolate is SUPER rich, but not sweet. Amazing!<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-xp1fAdL2s3E/Tg_QoK5iSrI/AAAAAAAAOHM/X3GDgW9u-Us/w500/IMG_9925.JPG"><br />
I wore last year's Dewpoint blouse while traveling. It was a recent score off of EA trade market, and I couldn't be more thrilled! Love its bright color and beautiful neckline detail. Plus, it's made of jersey, making it the epitome of comfort! It was perfect for stylish plane travel :)<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-_mXcDerLJLQ/Tg_QoxZB9YI/AAAAAAAAOHQ/8lnFOVf71fo/w500/IMG_9929.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QcyoEG2ny0o/Tg_Qp5pgQ1I/AAAAAAAAOHU/MbNTP1M9U5w/w500/IMG_9933.JPG"><br />
omg. I haven't had anything quite like this shortrib chile soup at Xoco. It's different, but in a good way. Very earthy and roasty delish.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-IDBdwfiu2TM/Tg_Qq9ozC_I/AAAAAAAAOHY/RgkETAT2xFo/w500/IMG_9945.JPG"><br />
The next day I spent a few hours at the Art Institute before heading to my college friend's wedding. There was much leaping...<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Pfr-KEHYKs8/Tg_Qr-Vh6rI/AAAAAAAAOHc/kwB3A1xuOjE/w500/IMG_9978.JPG"><br />
and much art contemplation...<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Xom6UmYkFeQ/Tg_Qsp8JlyI/AAAAAAAAOHg/L6gCxFyDePo/w500/IMG_0003.JPG"><br />
Then we headed to Newberry Library for a beautiful wedding, amazing dancing, and wonderful etouffee and corn muffins (YUM!). It was so great seeing my friends from college. It's neat to see where everyone is now. Three of us finishing up PhD programs, a couple people working in education and non-profits.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oz-68QUwiPw/Tg_QtfuKg9I/AAAAAAAAOHk/6QLBA4uu68U/w500/IMG_0149.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-tesf8ZCnx6Y/Tg_QuX3L_gI/AAAAAAAAOHo/sSxV8FEqCH8/w500/LoRoLo.jpg"><br />
Me and my junior year roommate (middle) and sophomore roommate (right).Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033903.post-36851633787155519992011-06-24T13:47:00.000-07:002011-06-25T00:16:23.548-07:00Happy Friday! This green cardi sure gets around... Lands End Canvas Cardigan ReviewHappy Friday everyone! I'm taking off for a good friend's wedding in Chicago this weekend, but I wanted to play a little catch up on some outfit posts.<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW1MYGiMxhEdhmBFHfCf7G_TvFYG0HZdRaxxEs331EanBYuNdqoTLn3QQHiDlfp_8xGLYPwY90m-1RgICrHcWrL5prJeCQFgChTPCRV0gIt6EkyvjR5B6hstnXNupxEDElcCmN/w500/sailaway2.jpg"><br />
I've found that this past year I've really focused on expanding my cardigan collection. As much as I like sweaters, cardigans are perfect for me since I feel like I'm constantly temperature regulating between warm buses, chilly outdoor weather, and warm or cold office temperatures. A cardigan gives me the flexibility of buttoning all the way up if I'm cold, opening up if I'm slightly warm, or easily slipping off the outer layer when I'm warm (and easily slipping it on when I get a sudden chill). I've been slowly whittling down my collection of non-cardi sweaters because I find them less versatile.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WfgRsF3F650/TgTohNwmTQI/AAAAAAAAN-M/am8mQxBP-tg/w500/sailaway.jpg"><br />
What I've found as I've grown my cardigan collection. 1) I really like cardigans from Anthropologie for very whimsical and different looks. 2) I love J.Crew and Lands End Canvas cardigans for basic good quality cardigans in wonderful colors. I seem to be collecting cardis in a multitude of colors. <br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-r5pwq93St5A/TgTolYQ6xfI/AAAAAAAAN-Y/90V_utuajaU/w500/lorisplitface.jpg"><br />
When we moved into Spring and Summer, I really wanted a lighter green cardigan. So I tried out the Lands End Canvas Heritage Cardigan. I found the cotton wonderfully soft and the fit is wonderful. It is a semi-fine knit that seems like it will hold up well. It's slim through the body and arms keeping me from looking like a bag. <br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt5W154HFHkKGFVfWezofpkmVRgc1mnn15TAvwmj91VGDjaBLwXp06UZGCk5hfeO1QrwfTimdJdN292e5LFGOMXOP80ArgWM0ovNh5Bew1kPPQKsaNflrNsZCwIYmx3typhokw/w500/colorfulDay.jpg"><br />
I got this cardigan in an XXS but I got other cardigans in XS to try out sizing. I found that both sizes had a great slim fit, but the XXS pulls a bit more at the buttons when I button-up. So I'd think I'd be more likely size up to an XS in their cardigans (For reference, I typically take XS in J.Crew cardigans too).<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-OzHmSlt7kkA/TgTr6LV0ohI/AAAAAAAAN_c/BBvI2689zXc/w500/colorfulDay2.jpg"><br />
This is the <a href="http://www.beso.com/lands-end/womens-cardigans/lands-end-canvas-the-heritage-cardigan/1877587024/detail?af_assettype_id=4&af_creative_id=5&af_id=51086&af_placement_id=1&rf=af1">Lands End Canvas Heritage Cardigan</a> size XXS in Dew Green. You can find the <a href="http://www.beso.com/lands-end/womens-cardigans/lands-end-canvas-the-heritage-cardigan/1877587024/detail?af_assettype_id=4&af_creative_id=5&af_id=51086&af_placement_id=1&rf=af1">cardi on sale here in various colors ranging from $21.99 (sale colors) to $39.50</a><br />
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<b>OOTD 1 specs:</b><br />
Anthropologie Seabound Skirt by We Love Vera sz 0 ($30)<br />
Anthropologie Winding Road tank by Little Yellow Button sz XS ($20)<br />
Lands End Canvas Heritage Cardigan in Dew Green sz XS ($25)<br />
Preview white sandals ($15)<br />
<b><br />
OOTD 2 specs:</b><br />
Lands End Canvas Heritage Cardigan in Dew Green sz XS ($25)<br />
Anthropologie Bright Bolts Sash sz S/M ($20)<br />
Anthropologie Caulerpa necklace ($10)<br />
Gap ethnic print dress sz XS (thrifted $7)<br />
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<i>[edited to add a few close-ups of the cardigan construction. I only just remembered I took these when I first got the cardi!]</i><br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gGiYTpM57fw/TgWKJ7lC3aI/AAAAAAAAOAQ/nPWaG6YhZ68/w500/IMG_8370.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq_Rb1mQobvdK6afTPXldxaWXVXDL5MzlPWIqlldWAgInUlNnkr1t8dqFWCkXecd7qmBtHe4F99RvP80DYkbXKpnt_uYClkRfdqj2J0RnP9SNOD9lpHZayY3LqrLIWwtvEZ4l3/w500/IMG_8371.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-5LtQlhIy7oI/TgWKLFHOeFI/AAAAAAAAOAY/6NqYtijWvIk/w500/IMG_8373.JPG"><br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wMxZ89MBtsM/TgWKLmKBD-I/AAAAAAAAOAc/LWmcK6lN17w/w500/IMG_8374.JPG">Lorihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18410225093251702448noreply@blogger.com8