juicenbootsCUBED

The Good, The Bad, The Uhhhhh – what are they wearing!??

2007-08-14T08:15:00.001-07:00

Insatiable Corporate Raider (NYC)
So this is a long overdue post from a fun filled friendly weekend in good ol’ NYC.
This particular weekend, Legal Eagle came up from DC and joined Lush-ess Lawyer in Training, Hipster Hobo In-flux, Ms. Queens Inspectah, and I for shopping, drinkin, and good ol’ people watching.
And one of the best places to people watch is the annual ADIDAS sponsored Corporate Soccer Tournament atop of the Pier downtown.
With the free beer flowing, beats blasting, and bbq grilling you couldn’t ask for more on a beautiful summer afternoon.
However, throw in a bunch of hot sweaty soccer players and the NYC “anything goes” fashion scene and there you’ve found the cherry on this sun filled day.

So yes, we may be horrible for snapping all these pics – but we couldn’t help ourselves, I mean afterall you don’t really go to actually WATCH the game.
So here is a sampling (click the pic to enlarge)– judge for yourself - as the title suggests there is good, bad, and uhhhhhhh....

Some of the trends we noticed that still seem to be “in”: Greek sandals (in all their many interations), large shoulder bags, open bags, patterns and flowy fabric, exposed backs, and white dresses (in many shapes and usually with little underneath) were all the rage for the girls on this rooftop.

For the boys we saw plenty o’ tight pants (white jeans being more common than expected), graphic tees, cut-off shirts, and polos.

Lots of these folks either opt for the super gel infused or the natural grease pomade to achieve their ‘dos.

But again, who are we to judge…seen here….we are just having fun!

Bring The Knights Back!!!!

2007-08-10T08:40:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist" (MD)

Somebody, anybody, help me! I'm trying to save my favorite show of all time from an untimely death along the lines of my other favorite show, Arrested Development.

Now, I totally understand how a picture like this might turn you off:

And that this one might make you exclaim, "Hell to the Naw":

But trust me when I say, this show is the greatest. Go to
abc.com, click on "WATCH ABC SHOWS ONLINE NOW", download the new viewing program, scroll through the shows to find Knights Of Prosperity,

and watch it. start to finish.

ok, ok. just try one episode on for size. trust me. i wouldn't plug just any old thing. you will want to continue....

There is something for everyone. I mean, there IS a hot chick:

and there IS one smooth brotha:

So if you're sitting down at your desk at work and you need something to do for 27 minutes to take your mind of the day, off the week, to propel you into the weekend... JUST WATCH IT!! During your lunch hour.

OK?? Please. And tell your friends.

Oh and, then WE can discuss.

Playing the part:

2007-08-02T21:44:00.000-07:00

Insatiable Corporate Raider (NYC-CLE-TOR)
I still haven't had time to post the Lakehouse pics (i know i know) nor have i gotten to update on the fabulous wedding of my dear Common Censical or post about the wonderfully hot ADIDAS weekend with Legal Eagle - all in all i am behind.

I will come back to all that great fun but will pick up at the Ritz Carlton in Cleveland where I was for a few days to meet with clients and enjoy the Indians/RedSox game. This is an awesome new stadium. Here is a pic from the loge behind home plate and next to the owners.

The best part of these games - well the loge experience (cause the actual game watching is exclusive feelin in the loge, yes, but not as fun as when in the mix) is the dessert cart! they have these two ladies that bring this cart around with all your sweet desires. The best are these chocolate cups they fill with your favorite liquer yummm - chocolate and bailey's what a treat!

All this travelling has now brought me to Toronto where I am living it up at the Four Seasons, eating fabulous food, laying poolside, and oh, yeah, working.
With the highs come lows living this fake-me-out luxurious life but I will not share that here that will be for another place and space.
Let's hope my bank account can cover all the extravagance I have been splurging on with hopes of getting reimbursed sooner than later. But it's all about playing the part, right?

With the semantics aside I will instead share how fabulous my first ever "mani-pedi" was today. My boss treated me for this spa experience because she couldn't believe I never had it and who am I to turn down a "first"!?

We went to Novo Spa in downtown Toronto recommended by the hotel.
oooooh man is all i have to say! I think walking the streets of Times Square to and from work by the packed nail salons with chemicals oozing out severley turned me off, well that and the whole 'letting someone touch my feet with tools that better be sterilized' thing. But, this..THIS was nothing like that at all.

A fabulous hand and foot scrub and massage, massaging leather recliner and bubble bath for my feet were definitely the treat! And to top it off with a fabulous freshly brewed cup of Rooibus tea? whats not to love!? i could get used to this, but let's hope i don't for my bank accounts sake.

We went to a few fabulous little restaurants for dinner this week:
The Boulevard Cafe - the most charming Peruvian spot in the university area with friendly folks and great home cooking - the outdoor seating with mural paintings and veranda are nearly impossible to top

Czehoski - for a more adventurous palette, fried brains + absinthe are an option in this charming rowhouse style restaurant with a cute outdoor roof deck and garden in the funky area of Queen Street West where Portland, Oregon meets the East Village

Michelle's - fabulous outdoor seating, and extravagant food choices in downtown Toronto where pets are welcome and is walking distance to the hotel
Outside of the nice dinner dining, I've been treating myself to a lovely breakfast in bed by the hotel that just can't be beat.

Here is what i've been managing to clothe myself with when not clad in the fabulous hotel bathrobe:

my super comfortable black Anne Klein Petities suit (courtesy of Hushed) which has seen its way on here before but pictured now here on my hotel room's concrete terrace.
the new purchase is actually the pink 3/4 sleeve BITTEN button down - at $9.99 this fabulously fitted and comfortable shirt makes Sarah Jessica Parker's Steve&Barry line all worth it.
additionally i recently scored these cheap Calvin Klein shades for $14.99 - far cry from the original $79 - thanks to my dear Filene and her Basement

Today i went a bit more comfortable with the usual loosey white Anne Taylor shirt which has also seen its way on here.
But, with the new gray below-the-knee DALIA pencil skirt (with a bit of a flounce on the back) which I also scored for a fabulous $9.99 at my dear Mann's of Loeh - this outfits also a steal from the original $115 - all pictured on the uber comfy bed which if you are so inclined can buy from the hotel at a mere $3,000 - ha! now that makes me smile even though I can't seem to in these pics

Toronto has been fabulous - its a great city - I wish I could stick around a few more days to truly explore - the ROM in particular is a place I would like to poke around in since I've passed it a few times - but tomorrow i head home to DC to catch up with some friends and fam - maybe i will try and check it out tomorrow.

thank goodness we don't take ourselves too seriously because this blog is just too much - oh how a girl can play!
* bisous *

oh i totally forgot i was invited to a rodeo - that would be fun...

Long Weekend

2007-07-22T21:25:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist" (MD)

Let's update this thing already!!

Well I do have some crappy no-flash self-timed pictures of me in my half-birthday celebration ensembles, but I haven't gotten around to uploading them yet so you'll just have to keep your britches on. And no, I don't know what that means either so don't ask me.

Here they are:

Brown Jersey Knit Dress from Conways in NYC: $20
Hot Turquoise Ipex Wireless: $25
Turquoise and Swarovski Crystal earrings: made specifically for me by my Godmother.

Considering that it is something that I literally threw on in 5 seconds, I was surprised by the insta-sexy that this outfit proffered. I wasn't expecting it, on a second date no less.... Anyway, I took myself to see Talk To Me featuring one of my mainstream favorite actors of all time Don Cheadle and one of my sleeper favorite actors of all time, Chiwetel Ejiofor. It is a DC story and I saw it in a real DC theater. What more could I want?

How about a turn-around date???? On Sunday I took myself to the matinee because the write-up alone made me want to see this movie, Broken English. I mean, how fitting, right? I kept it light and daytime pretty w/a super-cute babydoll dress that is way too short for my tastes, so I paired it with some shorts to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions:

Butterfly Babydoll by Xhilaration from Target: $12.58
Khaki Shorts from Guess: $14.99
Silver Flips from Conways in NYC: $1.99
Silver earrings from Urban Outfitters: $10 for 2 (I think)

Yes, I actually wore these ensembles in public. I know, I can't believe it either. I must be 27 & 1/2 or something.....

Seven Eleven

2007-07-11T21:49:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist"(MD)

I wore 2 dresses in 2 days to work, more than I've worn in the past 5 years combined.... Unfortunatly without the flash on my camera, I wasn't able to capture these historic occasions.... Today I just had to report about my $2.48 gauchos from Target.

TWO DOLLARS AND FORTY EIGHT CENTS, PEOPLE!!!!

Of course, I have to give credit where credit is due: Corporate Raider picked them out for me. Thank god, I love them, they are so comfortable, and they can go anywhere.

Calvin Klein Butterfly Sleeve Top w/Wooden Bead Detail: $12.50 from Macy's
White Tank by Mossimo from Target: $3.98
Moss Green Gauchos by Mossimo from Target: $2.48
Bronze Huraches by Steve Madden from DSW: $14.99
Capiz Shell Earrings from a Mall Kiosk: $3

I am shiny b/c it was hot as balls outside.

My only complaint about today is the fact that I was ogled. By a manager. It was rather unseemly and uncomfortable. At least I wasn't wearing a dress. But still.

2007-07-10T14:21:00.000-07:00

Insatiable Corporate Raider (NYC - MN - NYC)
Its been a long time coming...
Basically I’ve been a whirlwind from work for that last few weeks.
I am exhausted and it doesn't seem to be slowing anytime soon....

I fed myself today with some food I found in a conference room and this is what i wore today:

Anne Taylor Loft White flowy shirt on sale = $15
my cool airy drawstring crop pants and my $2 flip flops
Its HOT AS BALLS out but I digress...

Now here is the recap:
Work took me to Minneapolis for meetings.
I could go on and on about my hotel and sound like a complete snob but the point would ultimately be that if work is keeping you in another city for more than a few nights it should…blah what I am saying is one tends to get accustomed to a certain level of quality when travelling for work.
I typically stay at the Graves 601 or The Grand both of which are fabulous MN hotels, a city that is actually quite trendy. So when I got placed at the Hyatt because my previous two were booked due to the last minute notice I was slightly disappointed. The truth is when I travel for work the 3 things I look forward to the MOST are 1. the free miles from flying 2. the nice hotel + room service that I normally wouldn't be able to afford on my own 3. the delicious food I get to eat(that also I normally would not be able to afford).

And yes, I know exactly how I sound. Had I been traveling on my own budget the Hyatt would have been LOVELY – do I make my point yet? Yes ok I will stop now because I am a snob when it comes to work travel I suppose. (On a side note I should mention the Hyatt was hosting a world Blind Convention and while checking out i ran into this blind woman i used to see in my home town all the time - isnt that crazy?? how random)

Anyways I was in MN for almost the whole work week for essentially 2 (which later turned to 3) 45min meetings. It was very productive and if I do say so myself kicked some ass in the meetings. Ah well, needless to say I got a lot of work done in our MN office, answered emails from my hotel bed while dining on room service, and shopped at the Mecca of the bullseye. I ate well - there are some great restaurants in MN – I’d post all about it as I usually do but I am seriously craving caffeine and chocolate and can not manage to focus right now so just use your imagination.

All in all I like MN – it is a great city – although I wouldn’t want to visit in the winter given all the skyways aka gerbil tunnels connecting all the buildings to keep you out of what seems would be a cold as balls winter.

Anyways here are some shots of the view from my hotel room (along with a hilarious store I couldn’t help but take a picture of given the nature of this blog APPLAUSE CHEAPO hehe I am still not sure what they sell) and of my breakfast parfait along with my first day back digs.

I couldn’t manage work attire so I went for a prep look.
Heatherette turquoise Polo Shirt with embellishments = $15 (orig. $69) from Loehmann’s
Joe’s Jeans Dark denim = $50 (orig. $125) from Loehmann’s
Payless prep canvas slip on’s = $8 (oh how I love these)

Perhaps sooner than later I will post all about the fabulous trip to a lakehouse we took for the weekend of the 4th.

Prior to that I should mention that I have been in the middle of an apt. overhaul. I’ve been slowly selling all of my furniture to make room for the new furniture I’ve been collecting to go with my new boxes ! With the help of my mom, El Jefe, and Hushed I was able to make major progress this past week which was really the first time I've been home in a while. Please ignore the lack of fashion as we stain the shoe rack with my hol(e)y shirt and my matrix inspired kick outfit in the "Before" shot.

I LOVE my new furniture and can’t wait for the apt to be all done (a year after moving in of course).

sigh

I Saw Heat

2007-06-28T18:47:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist" (MD)

Heat. The movie. It came out like 9 years ago. I saw it and now I wanna talk about it. Jim Gaffigan.

Unfortunately I have even less time to update today and even less natural light (ie: none) so try and make out the Ann Taylor Loft cream silk V-neck, the Zinc olive board shorts, the Steve Madden bronze huraches in the darkness....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO LEGAL EAGLE - we celebrated at Cafe Saint Ex and hopefully she rocked out with some lawyers in bands at the Black Cat. I'm about to crash, I have a big weekend ahead of me. That'll move the chains.

Mexico City

2007-06-27T15:45:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist" (MD)

This morning I woke up feeling like I was in Mexico and I figured why not look like it too? So I paired my super-city gauchos with a peasant top and huraches to create the ultimate in business casual slash fiesta-wear.

White embroidered and embellished peasant top by Sugar Tart from Macy's: $24.99 (I remember on this particular shopping experience when I asked Legal Eagle for her advice, she seemed very put off by the price but agreed that if I liked it that much I should get it. I think it's really such a cute and versatile top and that I totally got my money's worth out of it....)
Chocolate Brown pin-striped gauchos by Tahari from Filene's Basement: $23.90 (originally $218 or some such nonsense!)
Tan huraches by Steve Madden from DSW: $15 (remember my espadrille story? I was on a similar mission to get huraches one summer when no one was making them. Out of the blue these babies were on the clearance rack and I got them in 2 colors! They remind me of my childhood and that's priceless:)
Gold capiz shell earrings from a mall kiosk: $3

Still rockin the natural light... Somehow I managed to have even more to update than I did yesterday, but no time or energy to do it. Was up til 3:45am playing with Shiba, my new lappie. But it is literally too hot to think around this piece anyway.... Lataz.

Code Level Hot Pink

2007-06-26T21:37:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist" (MD)

Today was hot and humid. Like, Malaria hot. 98% humidity and 102 degrees insane crazy heat. So naturally I started off the day with ice cream for breakfast. Ice cream for breakfast? Yes. Yoplait has decided to answer my prayers and make an ice cream bar and call it breakfast. I'm okay with that.

Also, to commemorate these first days of summer I cut up some watermelon, threw together some strawberries and blueberries, grabbed some pizza from Mamma Lucia's (Pepperoni, Roasted Red Peppers and Artichokes), picked up my most favorite cookies of all time from Giant (Soft Baked Ginger) and called it lunch:

There's way too much to report, not the least of which is this new laptop I'm posting with. And this only after spending about two hours too many "breaking it in" and messing with settings. I would take a picture, but that's another story....

I kind of took myself literally and was running around and doing things set to popular music this weekend rather than posting. So much, in fact, that I managed to drop my camera one or several times and now the flash doesn't work. Today's posts are courtesy of natural light:

Hot Pink August Silk top from Filene's or Loehmann's: $15
Chocolate Brown linen gauchos from Ann Taylor Loft: $14.99
Tan Suede espadrilles by BP from Nordstrom: $29.99
Accessories: all the same old stuff, search for it if you're really into it

Notice Kitty lurking in the shadows. She wasn't going to miss an opportunity to be on camera.

Last Thursday my laptop officially died. While I was trying to post about the "Best Week Ever". I can't really re-create the mood at this time, but this picture - predates the camera flash fiasco and as you can see I am in quite a playful mood - may be due to the ballerina flats, may be due to hours spent playing dance dance revolution at Dave & Busty's for happy hour, may be due to the margaritas, maybe due to the happy buddha on my shirt:

Happy Buddha super-thin T from Loehmann's: $20
Long Tank from Old Navy: $1.99
See-Thru Soul jeans from Nordstrom: $22
Ballet flats from Payless: $7.50
Super cute and fun attitude: Priceless. (still talked about to this day)

I feel like I've been on a bender the past few days, quite a doozy indeed. I don't have any of the details or the outfits documented, but let me just say once again: Best Week EVER.

An 8 year old boy did compliment me on a different shirt in the Laundromat. This was way better than the time an old senile dude complimented my fashion sense in a random doctor's office elevator.... stay cool.

A Doozey on a Tues'y

2007-06-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

"Insatatiable Corporate Raider" (NYC, OREGON)
Hold on to yo britches ‘cause this one’s a doooozey.
Last weekend I filled my tummy up on food from my TitaG with my Mom and Hushed – we are talking some yummy beef steak and vegetable something with the asian staple of rice.
We danced and ate and were summery in attire with Hushed in a pair she can describe and me in my usual green Urban Outfitter pants and flips with a lace tank from my Mom and my new short sleeved hoodie for $15 from Filene's.

With a box of Coconut water, hopia, and mangoes I was ready to start my crazy week…or was i???

Last week was arguably my busiest week of the year at work. I went straight from 9am-6pm in half hour meetings back to back with no lunch break. And these aren't your standard meetings these are intense rushed high energy meetings. After meetings I went straight to entertaining with clients. The week started out fresh until I went to a business soiree and had 2 glasses of champagne on an unsettled stomach and went home puking my brains out. This my friend did not start the week off right – not one bit.

Tuesday morning I woke up bright and early, picked up my suit from the drycleaners, grabbed an egg&cheese on wheat toast and made my way in a cab. I struggled through the morning as I sipped on ginger ale (read as "hin-her-hale") to settle my stomach between walking to each meeting. By the afternoon I felt fine but had little to eat until Trader Joe's Turkey Jerky (courtesy of a colleague) saved the day until dinner. I had to make an appearance at a cocktail hour in which I drank more hin her ale and ramped up energy for dinner.

Dinner was a big sit down with some bigwigs in the industry and was actually fabulously entertaining. Many of them were big sports enthusiasts and actually knew of my father and were eager to read his book which I always love to talk about.
We had our own private wine room at Valbella's the Meatpacking restaurant famed for carrying the largest assortment of wine in the tri-state area – rumored at 60,000 bottles.
We dined on yummy cheese and Jamon Serrano as we waited on the main course. The wine that was served was hard to deny coming from the CakeBread vineyard in Napa, regardless if it took a full day to neutralize my tummy. It looked absolutely delicious I couldn't not taste it (yes that is a double negative). After a delicious meal of a ginormous strip steak with melted gorgonzola cheese on top, the dessert literally took the cake! We grabbed our wine glasses and were ushered into the back kitchen where another large party was dining – a comparably amazing experience I'm sure. Anyways next thing I knew I had an apron and chefs hat on and was whipping the Gran Marnier Soufflé, torching the Crème Brulee, and drizzling the plate decoration for the Tiramisu. It was awesome!!!

Day 2 of the show (Day 3 of the week) was easier but still exhausting as dinner ran later than expected. Still no lunch but managed to down some disgusting convention center Chinese food – highly not recommended. I got to walk a little bit as I ran to the bathroom or waited on meetings. You can see a bit of it all below….later that night I attended the annual industry awards and made it as early a night as possible which meant another 11pm night.
Day 1: kept it simple with linen pants and a short sleeved button down (the shoes which you cant see are super cute BCBG beige open toe stilletos that I wore to my bro's wedding a few years back)
The bag is a DESMO whitish/grey leather buckle shoulder bag (orig. $399 marked down to $129 to $110 to under $40!!!! from Filene's and courtesy of my mom of course)
The bracelet is an ivory snake bracelet from my mom's 70's collection
Day 2: wore my fabulous summer suit that I believe was from Sears for under $50 – I get lots of compliments on this one – little do they know the cost!!
Day 3: busted out the new Anne Klein petite suit courtesy of Hushed which she got on super sale and then she sold to me – haha – for the evening awards I traded the pink sleeveless lace shirt (Conway for $9 – which I also get complimented on) for a satiny dressier fuschia beaded Calvin Klein blouse and a flower in my hair

You can see spattered throughout my obvious dorkiness as I got excited and had to take shots of 1. The new SpeedRacer car 2. The new Batman: Dark Knight batmobile 3. Optimus Prime from the new Transformers movie and 4. A supped up NYC taxi with rims that came to my waist!

With all the excitement from the show aside, and a successful few days of new business I now had to pack for an early morning flight cross country. I barely made the flight as they oversold it and had to nearly cry my eyes out to convince the attendant to let me on the plane. Next thing I know after a guy was willing to give up his seat for me a girl was deemed unfit to fly either because she reeked of alcohol or she was high on something but while unlucky for her it was lucky for me and I made it just in time for the wedding in Hood River.

How gorgeous is this place!!!??
Dress was a quick light green halter find at Filene's for $59 orig. $89 with a white shawl and an awesome snake skin cream and green wristlet from my mom's collection in the '70s with some gold strappy flats.
The rest of the weekend was amazing filled with great food and fun.

And here I start a new week back at work and while desperately wanting to unpack it looks as though I will have to re-pack for an early flight out tomorrow morning for meetings in Minneapolis.

Today after a failed attempt to wake up early and go for a morning rollerblade loop along the river (and good thing I didn’t cause the sun is blazing and the Ozone crucial today) I dressed in wrinkled, yes, but comfortable attire for my meetings today.

Monday's attire:
Basic white blousy safariesque button down courtesy of my Mommy
Some ol Buffalo jeans I got on sale at Loehmann's
For lunch I ate with El Jefe at Kati Roll – a yummy Indian wrap place in Times Square. Grabbed the Chicken Tikka Roll and the Aloo Spicy Roll and it was yumm in the tumm.

Today is the wrinkledness in full effect....
Top is an ol school summery top – one of my faves I got from Loehmann’s a while back
Pants are the new fave gauchos courtesy of my mommy from Anne Taylor Loft – Black with tie belt (orig. $44 now $15)
Shoes are the summer staple of black and straw open toe wedges (my Atlantic City purchase if you remember)
The bracelet I’ve been rocking is a white beaded elastic cuff that I love and took when I was at my mom’s...hehe

We will see if we shall venture outside for lunch today given the fact its Blaaaaaaaazin hip hop and R&B outside - perhaps a Jamba juice??

Far East Heat

2007-06-20T16:21:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist" (MD)

With temperatures soaring and thunderstorms looming, I want my pants and my feet to be far as from the ground as possible without being indecent. Got a little gaucho/wedge action going this week:

White tunic top w/black embroidery from Forever 21: $10.90 (circa 2003)
Black linen gauchos from Ann Taylor Loft: $14.99
Black strappy wedges from Ann Taylor Loft: $34.99
White capiz shell earrings from a mall kiosk (came with a necklace I never wear): $7

I made my lunch again and I must say that artichoke hearts make everything seem gourmet. Whole wheat pasta, tomatoes, orange peppers, artichoke hearts and parmesan cheese tossed w/olive oil and whatever spices felt right. Freshly cut up watermelon and strawberries. Various snacks and water. VERY GOOD. Note to self: Self, you need more protein.

Oh the humidity ;)

Africa Hot

2007-06-19T16:22:00.000-07:00

"Laser Beams" aka "Hushed Existentialist" (MD)

101 degrees before the first official day of summer is just not right. Getting a $218 pair of gauchos for $24? So. Right.

It was too hot to do much of anything today, including accessories. I tried to keep it as simple and breezy as possible:

Cream silk Ann Taylor Loft v-neck: $9.99
Chocolate brown striped Tahari gauchos from Filenes Basement: $23.90
Tan espadrilles by BP from Nordstrom: $29.99

Butted out to lunch for my 5th year anniversary with the great friends I've met and made at work. Went to Panera for old time's sake, where we used to go once a week when we all worked in the same office. It was hotter inside the Panera than it was outside, and it was BLAZING outside. So I got a little bit of summertime in a salad form:

Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad, doesn't that just look like summer?? It certainly did taste like summer. Only a little too sweet for me. Life is sweet enough as it is :)

Freakin....

2007-06-15T16:26:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist aka "Laser Beams"

Today had all the makings of a perfect day: it was fun jeans Friday, there were fun times in the morning, I liked my little casual outfit:

Pink waffle shirt by Halogen from Nordstrom: $13.90
See Thru Soul jeans from Nordstrom: $20
White Mossimo undertank from Target: $6.99
White Sparkly flip flops from Steinmart: $2
Silver hoop earrings: a gift from my mama
Silver necklace with real flowers set in resin: another gift from my mama ($6 at a festival)
Same Beadazzled bracelets: still $17 total (keep in mind one of those is real swarovski crystal that I made myself for $9)

But a weird nauseous feeling prevented me from being able to drink even a sip of water without getting chills, and walking around I felt like I was gonna fall out at any second. With some helpful suggestions: banana, ginger ale and a little bit of peppermint seemed to do the trick, at about 4pm I was finally able to partake in my hummus bagel sandwich splayed out below:

I had a few wheat thins, but I wasn't able to eat the fruit, the carrots or the cookies :*(

All in all, today was a wonderful day, despite feeling like my body was a turncoat.

Attenciyoyoyoyoooooon...

2007-06-15T12:52:00.000-07:00

"Passion Peach aka Insatiable Corporate Raider" (NYC)This has been a stressful week – lots of work and work to getaway if that make any sense.
Next week is our busiest week of the year which I am really starting to stress about it. I mean literally I am BOOKED in back to back half hour meetings from 830-5:30pm plus client dinners and entertaining which means up by 7am then talking ALL day only to talk some more all night and probably not getting to bed until midnight – sigh…I don’t want to talk anyone some days…some days I want to watch reality crap on television and veg out. I need a vacation.
Luckily I had a nice interlude from the stress yesterday when first we had an impromptu musical performance at our Staff Meeting and some new artist Nikki Flores (pianist with nice voice) performed for her upcoming album release this fall and then the highlight…Wyclef came on stage!!! That was a nice little treat.

Then I was treated to a break again last night when El Jefe took me to go see In the Heights off Broadway and I CAN NOT stop talking about it!! You can see some footage here . It’s SOOOOO GOOD and had me feelin good which i really really needed. Comparing this to Spring Awakening is tough. I can see why Spring Awakening got the acclaim it did but it was depressing and very German – In the Heights, conversely, was upbeat even with its highs and lows and kept a flavor and flow that kept me fully entertained and hummin tunes on the walk home. Best believe that when In the Heights moves to Broadway at the end of the summer they will rack up the awards themselves.

Anyhow, I was lazy this week with the pics so I have little to share…El Jefe purchased me these throw back Keds from Payless so instead of Keds they are Airwalk and I must say way cheaper and therefore much cooler and I love them. So I’ve been rocking them a lot – no wonder I loved them so much as a kid!

This is a sampling of what I threw together this week – again read LAZY since next week i will be in Suits all day every day.
Shoes: My new Airwalks – PAYLESS = $17
Pants: a pair of GAP linen cutoffs (which are really almost ankle length on me – FREE from something) and today a pair of black terry cloth sweatpants I rolled up (FREE from mommy)
Tops: A “Mrs. Squarepants” t-shirt and white hoodies (FREE from work and hoody) and today a PIMP pink rhinestone thermal (Loehmann’s $30)

Today I had a Yogurt Parfait from our coffee shop which is very reasonably priced at $1.99. The raspberries were nice and juicy like I like.

For lunch my boss and I went to Sushi Zen and dined outside. Never new this place existed considering I am in the area all the time and it was DELICIOUS. I had the house salad with ginger dressing which was homemade and yummy with some edamame to start. For the main course I had a yummy "Washington, DC" (funny, right?) roll (Cut Roll Only, Eel, Shrimp, Avocado, Tempura Flour, Kaiware, Cucumber & Scallion) and a "Autumn" roll (Yellowtail, King Crab, Asparagus, Lettuce, Kaiware)

Today we hit the road south for a friend’s housewarming/graduation party.

Yesterday/Today, as it all blurred into one, I didn’t mention as I haven’t posted but...Happy Father’s Day Daddy! – for a number of reasons – It hits like a brick when i realize - but it makes sense why one number in the musical last night touched me so much - it will be good to be home – I like to be around family this weekend every year

Hope ya'll get to relax...I'm looking forward to cruisin to some good tunes...

Thathy....

2007-06-14T17:07:00.001-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist" (MD)

Today was yet another fantastic day. Thankfully the sun came out, but it was still one of those days to partake in things you were saving for a rainy day. That means giggles galore and a new favorite outfit.

Brown knit shirt from Ann Taylor Loft: $9.99
Pink undershirt by Licorice from Macy's: Free from my former friend, current arch nemesis
Khaki lightly corded pants from Ann Taylor Loft: $9.99
Pewter flip flops by Kaleidoscope from Conways in NYC: $1.99
Brown and white capiz shell earrings from a mall kiosk: $5
Bracelets from Beadazzled: $17

Now for lunch I was too lazy to wash out my bento containers last night, so I packed leftovers instead. A delicious spaghetti and chicken combo using whatever I could find in the fridge/spice rack. There are some brightly colored animal crackers and whole grain wheat thins (to balance it out). And a bangin' fruit cocktail consisting of red grapes, fresh cut (by me) pineapple, and fresh cut (by me) seedless watermelon:

Thathy. That's sassy with a lisp.

Wilin'....

2007-06-13T16:23:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist" aka "Laser Beams" aka "Cube" (MD)

Today was a crazy day. It was dark, it was hot, and then the sky opened up and it poured down in a torrential monsoon that flooded the streets up to my ankles. Exactly at the same time as I had to leave for yoga. Fun.

But prior to that, everything was peachy keen!

Pink sheer shirt from Express: $7 (bargain bin find)
White Button tank underlayer: $3.99 from Conways in NYC
Beige Anne Taylor Loft pants: $19.99
Camel slides by Kenneth Cole: $29.99 from Victoria's Secret
Pink shell earrings: Gift from Passion Peach aka Juice aka Corporate Raider
Bracelets from Beadazzled: $17

I bento'd again today, even better than yesterday. I added tomatoes to my soup and doubled my hummus containers:

Good stuff. I can't wait for tomorrow.

Tryin....

2007-06-12T16:34:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist (MD)

Back from a long weekend, which was crazy. The parents came to town and I got to show off my new living space complete with Ikea shelves (the cause of all my bruising) and a new futon. Featured is my newest favorite patterned bedspread from Urban Outfitters, now on sale for $12:

Tryin to maintain is right. For a Tuesday, today was majorly eventful. I kept it simple in order to belie all the complexities brewing beneath the surface.

White Eyelet Top from Forever 21: $12.99
Charcoal Grey Pants from Express: $11.99
Black Strappy Butterfly Sandals by Liz Claiborne: $15

For lunch I packed my bento for the first time in months.... at the helpful suggestion of a friend who has put me on the Tuesday/Thursday schedule...

Baby Carrots, Cherry Tomatoes, Pita Bread and Hummus. Also a contatiner of my new favorite condiment: Sweet Chili Sauce. Some organic Corn Soup. Oh. And Water.

Maintainin...

2007-06-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

"Insatiable Corporate Raider" (NYC)
I did absolutely nothing this weekend, and I mean nothing.
I barely made it out the house.
Well actually, Friday night courtesy of El Jefe’s parents we went to see Spring Awakening the musical. Talk about teen angst! Especially placed in 19th cent. Germany, this play was intense. The music was great as was the staging, sometimes I thought I was watching a high school play but this could definitely be a great teen angst movie. And I can see why its such a hit its not your traditional musical as the music is very contemporary. It creates a bridge for Broadway and the young coming of age maybe not normal Broadway attendee.
I’ve also decided that I have no time to watch sadness or depressed people but that’s a side note.
This is what I wore:

Top: Black Vneck from BANANA REPBULIC = $whatever I said before I think it was like $25?
Bottom: GUESS dark blue jean skirt = FREE? courtesy of my mommy via craigslist
Shoes: Peep toe black shoes
Bag: COACH black leather buckle bag = FREE as a gift from a friend

On Saturday after a delicious breakfast courtesy of my Trader Joe’s shopping…I made a great omelette with sundried tomatoes, spinach, cilantro, sharp white cheddar, onions, garlic and a variety of seasonings. To pair with the omelette I cut up some DELICIOUS fruits as seen here:

Papaya, Blueberries, Mangoes

I finally made it out the house to go to Soho and peruse Pearl River Mart. I didn’t find what I wanted (window blinds)but I walked away with some great $1 trays for couch eating since I don’t have a dining table and a new Wok! This is what I saw along the way…

only in NYC man and maybe Miami. Those are some BIG tata’s on a mannequin no less.

Sunday morning, another fabulous brunch:

Whole Grain Pancakes with sliced bananas
Home fry potatoes with spinach, sundried tomatoes, cilantro, onions, garlic, egg and seasonings - garnished with fresh slices of avocado with a bit of salt and pepper
And another great fruit salad: Seedless watermelon, manoges, blueberries
Some OJ and ice coffee from the deli to wash it all down!

And for dinner a somewhat southern fare. I have a TINY kitchen and when you walk into my place you walk right into it so i made do the best i could:

Fried Chicken Breast, sliced into nuggets seasoned with red wine, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and a bunch of dry seasonings mixed with egg and flour. (DAMN that chicken was GOOD) I dropped these into my NEW wok that had a mix of oils, coconut, olive, veggie, and sesame
Side of SOYcutash and Potato wedges
And to wash it down tonight there was Limonata which i LOVE and some water

While i should have probably gone with Italian to commemorate the FINAL episode oft The Sopranos i had a cravin for some chicken fried style. The Sopranos, a moment of silence..........ok WTF!? i thought my cable went out but once I realized it didn't I actually enjoyed the ending to the series I loved so dearly. It made sense for me nothing else would have quite lived up to expectations...oh how i will miss them....

Today this is what I threw on…reminiscent of Friday although the only similarity is the jacket.

Top: Pink long tanktop from TARGET = $8
Bottoms: Black Sateen OLD NAVY pants = $25
Shoes: Black TAHARI pumps = $49 on sale at FILENES BASEMENT
Sunglasses courtesy of El Jefe

Now I'm starving - i was going to Bento because i thought i was going to have lunch with the new hire but that didn't happen so now i guess i will find something at the cafeteria...

Its beena long one...

2007-06-08T11:10:00.000-07:00

"Insatiable Corporate Raider" (NYC to ARK and back)
It’s been an exhausting week hence why you haven’t heard from me. And please forgive the all over the placeness of this post as I am currently suffering from the “itis” from eating TWO BOOTS pizza - yummmmm
Work has been stressful – I snapped at my direct reports preparing for this big meeting after they were so excited about something they were working on – I later apologized because that was unfair of me and I was simply cranky and its so rare to see someone so excited at work! Crankiness lasted for a while though until the meeting was through and I can now party like a ROCKstar cause we ROCKED that meeting.

Anyways, after spending a whopping $172 at Trader Joe’s (however we got over 60 items all of which were under $5) I now have groceries!!!! This is a good thing and what probably motivated me to buy some fresh food is this super wierd centipedal looking thing i found in my fruit cocktail over the weekend:

YUCK! super weird right??

So I began the week packing lunch. I haven’t bentoed in a while and here was my first attempt in a minute….i was proud and that sammich was BANGING.

Smoked Turkey + Sharp White Cheddar + Hydroponic Lettuce + Organic Tomatoes on Honey Wheat Bread = all from TJ’s all YUMMM
These chips are AMAZING they are the whole wheat tortillas lightly salted with TJ’s original Hummus
They also had a crazy sale on fruits so picked up these grapes and cherries (my fave)

It was when the “itis” sank in and the pressure or preparing for the meeting began to build that I got cranky hence the cranky face in “blues” outfit below.

Top: Lt Blue Tailored Button Down TED BAKER shirt = $? My mommy got it for me – or maybe I took it from her?
Bottoms: Dark Blue GUESS Jeans = $59
Shoes: the usual choco brown slingbacks
My hair? A mess cause I was hot and bothered!!!!

While in arKANSAS to visit a juggernaut retailer that shall remain nameless, I came across this fabulous sunset which I took from the gas station/sushi grill.

After a brief stint of shopping ( I will post my new finds at a local flea market later which I am very excited about) we headed to a long haul at the airport. Basically our meeting was over at 10:30am and the flight wasn’t til 5:35pm so we had a nice little relaxing wait at the airport where I caught up on emails.
Anyways here is the waried traveler upon returning home:

Top: I don’t remember but it’s a white ruffled short sleeved button down shirt = $? $10 I think again my mommy gave it to me :)
The rest of the outfit: Navy Blue White pinstripe ANNE KLEIN suit = $50 (orig. $150) crazy deal from Burlington Coat Factory

Today I have a dentist apptmt which if I begin to go into detail it will drive me crazy so I will refrain myself. So I am keeping it casual cool with the following:

Top: Pink button and bow t-back tanktop from GAP = $7
White 555SOUL motorcycle eyelet jacket = $15-$20 from crazy sale at URBAN OUTFITTERS
Bottoms: Dark blue JOES JEANS = $59 (orig. $128) from Loehmann’s
Shoes: Straw and tan flips from PAYLESS = $7

Don't i look so happy in all my pics? hehe oh well now that the deal is ready to roll i'm feelin less cranky so lets hope next week is better :)
off to a show tonight - have a great weekend!

Fun in the Sun

2007-06-07T14:08:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist" (MD)

Today we had a work picnic: a little sun, a little time out of the office, early day, life is good. Such a fun time playing frisbee and winning $50 for staying the whole time (hello, more shopping!!)

White w/Turquoise Embroidered Tank from Ann Taylor Loft: $9.99 (end of last season)
Polo Jeans/Shorts from Macy's: $22
Pewter Flip Flops from Conway in NYC: $1.99
Silver Hoops - a gift from my mama
Turquoise ball stud earrings from Urban Outfitters: $5 (2 for $10)
Silver Star Ring w/Sparkles - a gift from a friend

Chasing the Clouds Away

2007-06-06T16:22:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist" (MD)

After much ado about nothing late into last night.... I finally was able to pull myself together this morning, with a little help from my favorite stores:

Black Eyelet-Yoked Calvin Klein Tee from Macy's - $12.50
Shout-out to my White i.e. Tank from Macy's underneath - $0.88 (yes, cents)
White Khaki Finely Corded Pants from Ann Taylor Loft - $9.99
Black Sparkly Flip Flops by American Eagle from Payless - $3.50
White Capiz Shell Earrings from a mall kiosk - maybe $7 (came with a necklace)
Skull & Crossbones Bandaid to cover a catscratch and tie it all together? priceless.

Toes are polished with L'Oreal Jet-Set in Lightening Perle (102).

Oh yeah, and for the record? Today turned out to be AWESOME.

Sunny Days

2007-06-05T16:29:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist"

Today I woke up all hot and bothered. It was already well into the 70's and I was not feeling any of my work clothes. Keeping in the theme of Pink = Happiness,

Heathered Pink V-neck T by Calvin Klein - $7 from Lord & Taylor
Khaki Pants by American Eagle - $14.99
Pewter Flip Flops by Kaleidoscope - $1.99 from Conway in NYC

I had my favorite pizza from Mamma Lucia's for lunch: A slice of artichoke w/roasted red peppers and a slice of plain cheese. It really is the best pizza in the area.... and I would consider myself an expert.

Rainy Days

2007-06-04T09:29:00.000-07:00

"Insatiable Corporate Raider" (NYC)
Ok lots of stuff goin on in the city this weekend – I will leave it to the Hushed Existentialist to recap the majority of our journey but here is where I will begin. Its rainy today so my mood is reflective of the dark wetness outside…this is the first time I’m wearing jeans and kicks in a minute but I couldn’t pull off much of anything else with this weather so I am rocking the Black KSwiss and a black button down. No picture needed...
Anyhow the weekend began with margarita’s at BBQ’s ($6 TEXAS size Margarita’s) then BINGO on National Bingo Night (we won nothing although came close) and my niece’s bday on Friday (she’s 18!).

(BBQ Frozen Margarita overlooking Times Square)

On Saturday, Hushed came into town and we began the day at Nook (amazing as always!). Then we stopped at a block long garage sale in my neighborhood on West 44th St. btwen 9th/10th ave in Hell’s Kitchen. This is where I will pause and elaborate. I have desperately wanted new furniture.

You see, in college we had the dorm raided furniture and free sidewalk finds that Hushed and I furnished our off campus apt with (midnight moving at its best!) then we graduated and therefore we semi-graduated from the dorm look of furnishings. After a brief 8 month stint on my brothers couch when I first moved to NYC, my bro and I then moved into a 2 br. in the city where we decided for a uniform modern look but still within reason and so we turned where most budget furnishers in the city turn, Ikea. Pictured below is the coffee table I still have that my bro found in the trash and then became the inspiration for all other Ikea purchased furniture. This worked for a few years until my brother moved on and I moved into my own place. I’ve used the Ikea furnishings for the last year now well because frankly NYC ain’t cheap and that broker’s fee and renting costs to get into my new crib set me back a bit.

But, now since I can not afford to move into a luxury apartment I want to at least feel luxurious with what I bring in to my place. I want real wood! I want unique pieces! I want pieces I would want to carry with me through life! And so it begins, craiglistin, online shopping, and garage sale-ing it up (cause we are still on a budget) looking for just what I want. Problem is I want all types of different things and different looks!

I digress….Now, I really wanted to participate in the garage sale but that didn’t happen so I shopped it instead. Hushed bought some oils, El Jefe accompanied us and then I got sideswiped by what were my favorite toys growing up – boxes! We met “The Box Man” from Allentown, PA who makes a sh*tload of money by buying up old factory soda crates and liquor crates, refinishing them and then selling the new piece of work at flea markets and sales. Some may call it crap I call it a piece of our industrial history and I will even go there and call it art. He truly makes a living out of what he loves. And I couldn’t resist. After a long moratorium of indecision I went for it with the encouragement of my 2 cohorts. I started with a large coffee table type trunk that was complete with nail indentations and a brushed red coat of paint. I got that for $50 (even those it was priced at $65 and at an antique shop woulda ran upwards of $100). Then El Jefe said, well a nice compliment would be a little box – and I had my eye on this Dewar’s White Label Whiskey liquor crate with a guy in a kilt and red writing that was from 1961 I believe (the actual ship date was still imprinted). This, as Hushed exclaimed at the time, would make a great box for hanging files. So I contemplated this purchase a while testing out the box next to the red one, with other little ones etc. Pondering so long in fact that we got into a great conversation with the box man and before I knew it he gave me all 3 boxes for $80!!!! The best thing about all these boxes is the storage component! In NYC space in itself is a luxury so extra storage is always a great find! I fit my guest comforter and sheets int the new coffee table already!
So here are some pics:

the array of boxes...

Red Trunkish Box = $50 (orig. $65)
Dewars Liqour crate turned Box = $20 (orig. $45)
Small Dark Brown Box = $10 (orig. $25)

Getting to work!

Upon returning home, after many compliments from passers by as we toted the boxes home, Hushed helped me then stain the 2 shelves I bought recently to match my new wooden boxes. Satisfied with my purchases, the journey a la Lord of the Rings began as we trekked out to Brooklyn to chill at Media Masta Killah’s (there are some great pics of this that I hope Hushed uploads). Nevertheless we made it back to the city late night and just before the rain began but not after much travail. I will let Hushed elaborate…this is enough from me for now.

"Hushed Existentialist"

The Odyssey: Beginning from midtown Manhattan and ending in Prospect Park Brooklyn, starving all the way, in search of food, drink and dessert.... Shot down by one restauranteur, taken the long way by a "cabbie", making a plan to egg the first place, ordering everything on the menu from the second place..... Baking cookies, drinking half-assed margaritas with full-on Patron, listening to loud tunes in an echo-y apartment.... Trying on Dresses:

.... laughing hysterically to the point of muscle strain... inhaling food and drink and cookies..... watching a crazy documentary about Tragedy aka Tracy Chapman.... Trekking for miles in every direction and finally home.

NYC WAS A BLAST (oh, but I'm allergic to BK)

I'm a little loopy after a 5 hour busride. Whew, what a trip.... Me and my Umberella.... ella.... ella.... eh, eh, eh....

Feelin the Fridays

2007-06-01T12:32:00.000-07:00

"Insatiable Corporate Raider"
Today I really wanted to wear sweats or something comfortable of the sort considering our Summer Fridays policy is in full effect. I love Summer Fridays, I get 9 Fridays off this summer and the rest of the ones I have to spend in the office usually consist of loud music playing, the wearing of whatever I like, goofing around, cleaning up, long lunches, surprisingly lots of work getting done (actually more than I would on any other day due to the lack of meetings and distraction), and the ability to tell all my direct reports to leave when I leave which can be any where between 3-5pm depending on the day. It’s like a ghost town and I love it.
Anyhow a client called at 8am this morning to let me know he’s in town and ask if I wanted to join them for dinner – so I dressed slightly more presentable than I would any other hot Friday in the event I decide to take up his offer of dinner at Dock’s supposedly a yummy seafood restaurant on the east side. Although, as I am tempted by the free meal, after entertaining clients all week I’m not really feelin it at the moment. As much as I love these guys, I don’t really want to have to talk to anyone if I don’t have to - I am in a veg out mood. We shall see how I feel in a couple of hours…

For lunch Media Masta Killah and I met up for a $16.95 Lunch buffet at Utsav a really fancy looking spot in midtown cause I was craving some Indian especially some Sweet Lassi! Man, this buffet is BANGIN – they have everything I need and love even my favorite carrot dessert – I haven’t had Indian elsewhere in the city quite like it.
So I threw on something reminiscent of a country girl in the city or something (who knows what I am saying I think I am in food delirium.)

Top: White Crinkly button down JUST FOR GIRLS = this is old so I don’t remember but I got it from Loehmans and it was dfinitely under $20
Bottoms: Light Blue Jean Skirt from H&M = $8 on super sale I guess no one wanted this color
Bag: Tan Leather ESPRIT handle/shoulder bag = I don’t remember this is old too from the ESPRIT outlet store at Potomac Mills back in the day
Headband: Red graphic scarf headband from NORDSTROMS = $12? I love these things they are so cute
Bracelet: Ivory Snake Bangle = my Mom rocked this back in the day ‘70s style and I LOVE it so she lets me wear it hehe
Shoes: Tan Leather Strappy Sandals from ALDO = $25
My other shoes are my $2 Electric Turqoise flipflops from CONWAY – I don’t mess around with heels in this city unless I am walking short distances so I pack my flips!!

Fresh from Miami, Killah got a nice tan and is rockin some new threads!

Top: Tan Sweatery Scoopneck tee FOREVER 21 = $15
Bottom: Choco Brown corduroy EXPRESS skirt from back in the day = $40
Shoes: Fabric Gold Ring peep Toes = $75
Sunglasses: Purple tinted MARC JACOBS = $200
Bag: Blue and white pinstripe shoulder bag from URBAN OUTFITTERS = $50

Damnit, I just spilled sh*t on my shirt!!!!!!!!! ah, well - par for the course.

"Hushed Existentialist"

The only thing that got me out the door this morning was knowing that it was Fun Jeans Friday, something about the heat and lack of sleep was making it hard to motivate. But today? Turned out to be. The. Best. Day. EVER!!!! I honestly don't know what I did to deserve it....

Sheer Cream V-Neck by Tangerine (from Macy's): $5
Cream Cami with Lace Trim from Express: $3
Cute Guess Jeans (with g's on the pockets!) from Loehmann's: $22
Gold Sparkly Flip Flops from Filene's Basement: $6.99
Gold Hoop Earrings w/CZ by Carolee (from Lord & Taylor): $7.50

"Eating through lunch" again (today I got the bok choy and brussel sprout stir fry, which was sauteed in garlic, sesame oil and soy sauce -DELICIOUS) - still didn't get to finish half the stuff we started, nor did we anticipate the plethora of new editions [sic] to the myriad of things we are currently working on. All I can say is I'm very happy with the way things are going and excited to see what the future holds.

For dinner I am currently obsessed with this unlikely combination:

Looks strange, but is totes awesome. Tawesome.

Sugar Highs and Lows

2007-05-31T12:23:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist"

This morning I woke up early, once again, with a smile on my face. I knew it was going to be 90 degrees outside and I was ready for it. Baby pink was my muse, as I really wanted to pair these supercute and reminiscent of my childhood ballet flats with my new brown linen gauchos. I guess I am going through a nostalgic phase for all things that remind me of my little self....

Baby Pink Super Long Tank from Old Navy: $1.99
White V-Neck Flutter Sleeved Top from Ann Taylor Loft: $14.99
Chocolate Brown Linen Gauchos from Ann Taylor Loft: $14.99
Pink Ballet Slippers by Fioni for Payless: $7.50
Same 2 Beadazzled Bracelets: $17
Same Pink Shell Earrings from The Corporate Raider: gift

"Eating through lunch" constitutes a chicken salad sub from the cafeteria next door, plus LOTS of great conversation and, of course, snacks:

My newest obsession is the cinnamon goldfish, but they only come in variety packs!! I would eat a whole lot more of these if they came in full size packages....

"Insatiable Corporate Raider"
OK today I have been in ALL DAY meetings – and I mean ALL DAY as in this is the first time I am on my computer for the day with the exception of the powerpoint presentation I had to give. You would think I would be all suited up today with clients in town but as I saw them last night for dinner and because they are rather cool I opted for “business casual.” Speaking of dinner….it was pretty amazing. We went to Uncle Jack's which while in the shady area west of Penn Station turned out to be quite lovely. It’s a bit on the noisy side as the front walls are open to the street and the dinner tables are right near the bar, but definitely delicious.
We started with a toast of yummy champagne then quickly moved to the appetizer which was a tables worth of Seafood. Shrimp cocktail, Lobster tails and claws, and a whole bed of pure lump crab meat. I LOVE SEAFOOD like this and have been CRAVING it. Nothing like cracking a shell to the wonderful splendor beneath! If only I had a lil thing of melted butter to dip into it woulda been off the chain truly.
Then for the entrée as there were 5 of us and this place is known for their Steak (specializing in Kobe Beef upwards of $100) one of us still opted to go for the Sea Bass which turned out to be delightful. The remaining 4 of us split a 48 oz. Porterhouse which was quite the treat. They pre-cut this and then can cook to your liking which surprised us since we were all sharing one piece of massive meat. The juices in the steak were mouth watering and the meat simply cooked to perfection. This was a LOT of meat even between 4 people so much so that we had 2 HUGE doggie bags to take home.
On the side (as it is a la carte) we had their signature cream of spinach, which for me was not the highlight of the evening (too cinnamony) as the garlic mashed potatoes stole the show, and the asparagus Parmigiano wasn’t bad either especially all paired with a fabulous Red Amarone wine. Now the dessert which came out decorated with some décor courtesy of my clients that specialize in such décor was also amazingly delicious. While we tasted all the desserts, Pecan Pie, Crème Brulee, Mud Pie, and the Cheesecake. The cheesecake was by far my favorite. The best cheesecake I’ve had in a LONG time, so light and fluffy. The pecan pie was a close second. All paired with a nice Mint Verbena tea in a satin satchel.
These clients are just adorable and the dinner just delicious so it made for a great evening especially with the pleasant weather last night.

Now onto the Business Casual – a topic I will discuss at length another time…for now here is what I am rocking:
Top: Black V Blousy BANANA REPUBLIC petite shirt = $21
Bottoms: Cream Tie belt gauchos from DEGREE = $15 sale from Loehman’s
Shoes: Black STERMAX open toe micro-suede and straw wedges = $25 on sale at this cute boutique shoe store in Caesar’s Palace in Atlantic City

For lunch, outside of the ordering in from Cosi (their Signature Salad is my absolute favorite) since my clients specialize in sweetness I have gorged myself on cake, cake, cupcakes, oh and more cake. Now I feel sick…bleeech……

Temperatures Rising

2007-05-30T08:54:00.000-07:00

"Insatiable Corporate Raider"
Since the temperature is rising and the UV index is so high that you can get burned in just 15min. I opted for a psuedo safari look - call this Concrete Jungle - notice my "Oh, what's that out there - keep the sun out my eyes" pose - unfortunately it came out looking like a Salute of sorts - ha!

Dress: Cream linen with braided rope belt and wooden beads from H&M = $25
Shoes: Choco Brown peep toe cut out GUESS pumps = $35
Bracelets: Close-up of the Green&Brown Beads my mommy got me on SUPER sale in NYC
Sunglasses: My cheapo psuedo Tortoise Shell $2 find from Chinatown
For the Hair I opted for the Braids to keep the neck cool - oh and on the nails is another $1.99 find at Rite Aid a shimmery pink with glitter on top - cause i am cheesy

For lunch I am all about the Water and the left-over 'Maria burrito' from last nights dinner at La Paloma pretty amazing Mexican food.

For dinner I have a client in town so this should be interesting. They always like to pick the restaurant since they come in from the Mid-West so its always an adventure. Tonight we are going to Uncle Jacks Steakhouse - I'll give you the lowdown tomorrow.

"Hushed Existentialist"

Today I woke up at 5am with a smile on my face, feeling so rested and refreshed and generally loving life. So naturally, I chose the color Pink to express myself through fashion:

Pink Shell Earrings: Gift from The Corporate Raider
Black V-Neck with Tie, Ann Taylor Loft: $14.99
Hot Pink Linen Flutter Skirt, Ann Taylor Loft: $14.99
Hot Pink Sparkly Flowered Flip Flops from Steinmart: $3.50 (another great end of season deal a couple of years ago)
Same Two Beadazzled Bracelets: $17 total

I felt really flirty and summery in this outfit, my first time wearing a skirt to work in probably 2 years....

It's too hot to cook. I made some hummus roll-ups for dinner:
Hummus, Chives, Tomato, Sweet Peppers

I had to eat them fast because I have yoga in a few minutes. Let's hope this doesn't adversely affect my downward facing dog pose....

Memories of Memorial Day Distant now at work?

2007-05-29T08:45:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist"
Today I must have been channeling The Corporate Raider's thoughts because I broke out all the sumratimes' standards:

White Eyelet Blouse: Ann Taylor Loft, $14.99
Crisp Black Linen Gouchos: Ann Taylor Loft, $14.99
Suede Espadrilles: BP by Nordstrom, $29.99 (I got these 3 years ago when I was obsessed with espadrilles and no one was selling them, now they're everywhere and this is the first time I've ever worn them)
Swarovski Crystal Bracelet: got the ingredients at Beadazzled for $9 and made it myself
Jade-like Stone Bracelet: Beadazzled, $8
Capiz Shell Earrings (not visible): $7 (with necklace, not shown)

Toes: Ballet Pink w/Guest List Gold finish, both by Maybelline

Feeling like it's sumratimes, looking like it's sumratimes, generally happy with the world and with two fun things to consume:

(nifty gifties, eh?)

“Insatiable Corporate Raider” (NYC)
It is officially the Summer in NYC. The long Memorial Day weekend has come and gone, the sea of white that rushed into the city before the weekend has started to retreat to the large Navy ship docked on the west side, the opened toe shoes are out in full fashion and street fairs have begun. On the less glamorous side of the things, the smell of dog piss mixing with horse shit and garbage piled high on sidewalks, exacerbated by the temperature rising is always a dead ringer that the summer season has begun. While I mentioned white in reference to our nation’s finest seamen, and sea women - the rule of white until after Memorial Day no longer seems to hold true, wouldn’t you say? While researching this subject matter I came across this blog and I would have to say I disagree with their stance of strict enforcing on this rule. Perhaps NYC is the exception? White is a hot winter color here, and I would have to agree with this sites response to the question which basically is to use your best judgment - plus the history they give for the “rule” is quite interesting for you history buffs.

Anyways, I digress.
Unlike the many New Yorkers that escape the city this long weekend and opt for the Jersey shore or the Hamptons I stayed at home, and did...absolutely…nothing. It was fabulous. The amount of travel I do for work, it was refreshing to not have to pack or unpack, rush anywhere, and just simply sleep in. Friday night, after FINALLY doing my nails (I found a fabulous shiny red for $1.99 at Rite Aid) I made it out only to get food. El Jefe de Musical Money and I journeyed a long 20+ block walk down to a nicely regentrified part of 10th ave. in Chelsea where a number of trendy outdoor restaurants including the Empire Diner reside. We dined on Apple, Brie& Walnut Salad and a Lamb Burger. Now, we really wanted to enjoy the night outside so while this place has great outdoor seating, the food leaves something to be desired, although the onion rings were quite tasty. Perhaps we were just hungry and cranky but this place was no Nook (which I will get to later) although it tried. The Brie in the salad was in huge chunks and the Lamb was a bit dry. What really got us here was the fact that the drinks (1 Amstel Light & 1 Margarita) were outrageously priced at upwards of $14 for both of them! So, not the best place for drinks. I recommend this place if you have time to spare, want to sit outside, want to feel trendy, and simply people watch. It’s possibly a good place for breakfast (as the Belgian waffles someone was eating looked tasty) but I personally probably will not be going back.
Saturday night the two of us met up with Ms. Queens Inspecta Lady and an old friend from college that I haven’t seen in years. We met his fiancé and dined at the drink friendly Blockheads at Worldwide Plaza. Now this is a place for drinks (and maybe an OK tasting quesadilla). $3 for margaritas that leave you cool and can knock you on yo ass is a STEAL in Manhattan especially with the fabulous outdoor seating this place has and the unlimited chips and salsa. We stayed for hours.

For the margartia fest I went comfy with....
Dress: Hot Fuschia Deep V Knot Grecian style dress (Handmade by a local designer, I forgot the name)= $39 (orig. $59) from hot lil’ boutique store in Miami was a nice bday present from my Mom
Shoes: Gold & Cork semi-flats from DOLLHOUSE = $15 from that cheapo brand name shoe outlet Dallas in Cleveland (see i did my toes! and even my fingernails! so unheard of for me)
Sunglasses: Brown/Copper Aviators courtesy of El jefe = on sale at DAFFY’s for $15 (orig. $98)

On Ms. Queens Inspectah:
Top: White Deep V satiny ruffle buckle shirt with gold embellishments From HOTPOINT on Jamaica Ave. = $30
Bottoms: Dark Denim BUFFALO Jeans = onsale at Filene’s for $30 (orig. $150)
Shoes: Black Pumps from Filene’s = $25
Sunglasses: same as in my pic courtesy of El jefe
Earrings: Gold Drop Dangles on sale at JCPENNEY’s = $6
Necklace: From Ethiopia = Priceless
Seamen in the background? Perhaps also priceless?

Sunday we redeemed our tummies yet again by going to our faved spot The Nook. This is the best restaurant in Hells Kitchen and perhaps even NYC. I am a big fan. The food is simple, yet amazing and somehow always consistent. The staff is friendly as we know all of them and the music hot. This place is tiny so it’s a great place to chill bring a bottle of champagne (or wine as its BYOB) and play a game of Scrabble. Mushroom Cigars and the Egg Scrambles are what I would call their claim to fame!

After we walked about 3 mi around the city checking out the street fairs. I almost bought a nicely priced wallet at the one on 7th ave (pictured here) but they didn’t have the color I wanted! You also can’t beat the booths where all the accessories are $2 – they are fun and funky and serve the purpose of dressing up any summer outfit without spending loads of dough. I also want all new furniture but in a unique way so we headed down to the flea market on 39th street and while this one has the foot traffic its missing the “umpfh!” Not enough vendors with not enough nice stuff and the furniture guy who I like wasn’t there! They need to do something to this market – perhaps I should apply to be a vendor??

After a quick stop at the newly moved Gardening center in my hood to try and get my green thumb back, for the rest of the day I stayed home and organized. Similar to you my dear Hushed Existentialist, I too keep the labels of my clothes – I will grace you with a pic of that another time but I also collect matchboxes for every restaurant perhaps I will combine and post later. Here is a pic of my newly organized closet. I got the hangers at Ikea for cheap! I believe it was 8pk for $5 – not bad! These wooden hangers are great because they keep the shape of the clothes but aren’t as wide as traditional wooden hangers so they give you more room in confined spaces such as my NYC closet. I just need to get more as you can see I ran out. I also am a big fan of color coding types of clothes for quick locating.

As for the actual Memorial Day I opted for a rollerblading adventure, laundry and Thai food at Olieng – also DELICIOUS the papaya salad, Shrimp Massamun curry, and Mango with sticky rice hit the SPIZOT! Get that dessert while you can as mangoes only have one more month left in season!

Now that I am back at work...
Today I had to go a bit more corporate for an exec meeting.
Top: Josephine Chaus White textured Button down shirt = Courtesy of my Mom but I’m sure not more than $20
Dark Denim Blazer from H&M = $25
Bottoms: Navy Blue BANANA REPUBLIC PETITES (my new fave store) pencil skirt = $25 orig. $68
Shoes: Chocolate Brown ENZO ANGOLINI slingbacks from Macy’s = also courtesy of my Mom but these were on super sale around $20

Ok that was lengthy so I will stop. I will leave the discussion of Miss Universe to the Legal Eagle – but I must say I called it from the beginning, I knew Japan was gonna win – just thought it would be between her and Venezuela.

(P.S. - after re-reading this I realize that we may be borderline insane- ah well - par for the course)

Saturday Shopping

2007-05-26T15:10:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist"

Let me preface this post by saying that I won't make a habit of posting on a weekend - you know, the whole "should be too busy to post b/c I'm out there in the world doing things" thing....

And what I am usually doing on the weekends is shopping. It's what I do. And I do it quite well, so I've been told. But don't get me wrong, shopping is not synonymous with spending. I do not go out and blow $400 every weekend just for the hell of it. No. I go and I check out what's going on, see what's happening in my favorite stores by way of styles and sales. Keep my eyes on the things that I like and I know will eventually go on sale.... and that's when I pounce.

That brings me to the purpose of this post. I thought it would be helpful to provide some background info for this blog and maybe even serve as a guide for anyone out there who is wondering how we get these insane deals on our clothing. I don't think I've ever paid full retail price for any of my clothes and I don't think you have to either.

The key piece of information is this: Everything. Goes. On. Sale. Eventually. EVERYTHING.

If you see something on a mannequin that you love, you don't have to buy it off of her like it's the last thing in the store. Come back to it, you'll see. By next Tuesday that same little number is going to be on the "Reduced" rack and you will be kicking yourself if you paid full price. Not to mention the weekly coupons (10-20% off weekly if you are on the mailing list or read the paper), the after season sales, the family discount (if you are chatty with the sales clerk this will work 65-70% of the time), and, little known fact, if you are shopping at a Macy's outside of your home state? You get an automatic "guest" discount just for stopping by the customer service desk and letting them know. For DC that's an extra 11% off when you shop out of state just for talking to a complete stranger for 5 seconds!! And I am the last person in the world who wants to talk to a complete stranger for 5 seconds and would do anything to avoid it!! But this is a freebie!! Whew. As you can see, these kinds of things are exciting to me.

Bargain shopping requires a lot of patience, a lot of energy, a lot of re-hydration and a positive attitude. You need to have a powerful imagination in order to make it work for you. When there's snow on the ground, imagine it's blazing hot outside and you want to try on bikinis. When it's unbearably hot, make believe it's cold outside and try on cashmere sweaters. Trust me. You will thank yourself later.

You need to keep tabs on what's going on in your favorite stores. When are their annual and semi-annual sales? When do they put out new merchandise? When do they offer coupons and other in store promotions? Keep your eyes on what you like and notice where it is in the "floor priority rotation scale" - which is a term I just made up for when an item that starts out in the display window is gradually moved toward the back of the store, until it eventually/inevitably winds up on the (you guessed it) Sale Rack. If you pay attention, you too can get things that you love for 95% off.

This is what I like to do in my free time. And if you're wondering how I remember how much I paid for each article of clothing I wear? It's not because I have an eidetic memory like that - I just have this thing about keeping the tags on new clothes until the last possible second before I wear them for the first time. Then I cut the tags off and stuff them all in this random box where I keep most of my favorite tags. Yes, my favorite tags. I have always had a thing for tags - mostly the pretty ones that were designed with me in mind, the ones with pretty ribbons and baubles and dangly things.... Here are some examples:

I am totally not trying to name-drop with these tags, I just genuinely admire them....

Sometimes I take them out and admire them.... Especially the ones that I got on ridiculous sale. For example, today's outfit? My Free People clamdiggers were originally $148 and I got them for $8. I was scrounging around Filene's Basement in like, November in anticipation of sumratimes - they were on the $19.99 rack, but they didn't have the sales sticker on them and there was a storewide 60% off all sales sticker items promotion going on at the time. It was 8:55 and the lady behind the register really just wanted to go home for the night so she keyed in the necessary codes and Poof! Eight. Effin. Dollars.

Get there.

Free People clamdiggers with cute embroidery and other details: $8
Cream boatwear-inspired ruffle-sleeve tank from Old Navy: $7.50
Silver flip flops by American Eagle for Payless - $3.50 (2 pairs for $7)
The Kenneth Cole sunglasses, I think I may have misquoted in the previous entry. I forgot that I used a 20% Macy's coupon on them and they were already marked down on a store-wide sale, so I forget how much they actually cost - originally they were like $100 and I'd say the most I paid for them was $40. (still, probably the most expensive accessory I own)

Don't I look positively ecstatic amongst all of my recent purchases????

Oops. I keep forgetting to bring my bag with me in the pics:

Mariposa tote from Target - $7

And for the record: I understand that this is all frivolous and probably indicates a deeply-rooted psychological issue. But come on, there are way worse things....

Effin Friday Finally!!!

2007-05-25T08:35:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist" (MD)

Today is my day off and instead of staying in the entire day watching Netflix as I would have loved to do - I had to take this big exam that was four hours long :( The good news is, I got to roll out of bed and take the exam. The bad news is, it was blazing hot outside and after sitting in traffic for an hour I was not picture-friendly. Nevertheless:

Same Pants as yesterday: Army Green Khakis - Polo $17.99 (Macy's)
Mint Green Mossimo T from Target - $10
Jade-like stone bracelet from Beadazzled - $8
Green & Pink canvas belt from Gap - $2
Kenneth Cole Shades - $45 (probably my most expensive accessory purchase EVER, but so totally worth it)
Little Chinesse Slippers that remind me of my childhood - Priceless (actually $8 from Urban Outfitters - but seriously, I have been looking for these exact pair since I lost the originals when I was 4 years old.... They are not the velvet ones, they're canvas w/floral embroidery).

Oh yea, and that bruise is a remnant from my adventures with self-service shopping at Ikea.

After basically setting myself to toast in traffic on the way back from the exam today, I came straight home to pop open a tub of Edy's Nestle Crunch Dibs:

The recommended servings per container is 2.5, but I ate the whole damn thing. You do the math. Now I'm contemplating taking myself on an inaugural first date. With myself. Wish me luck!!!!

UPDATE:
I ended up taking myself out to see Waitress at the Avalon since I really wanted to see the movie and they were offering pie as a refreshment (because that tub of Dibs just wasn't enough - I had apple).

I clean up good:
Light Gray cotton dress: energie (they've re-vamped their label) got one in every color from Filene's Basement for $16.99 each
White sparkly flips: got these at Steinmart for $3.50, I kid you not. One of the best purchases ever (and if you're worried about white-soled open-toed shoes, taking a footbrush and scrubbing them with Tide w/Bleach works wonders)

I forgot to include my cute sporty little evening bag in the pic:

Puma evening clutch - $9.99 at Nordstrom Rack in LA

I wanted to keep it casual for a "first date", but still flirty and maybe even a little sexy? I don't know, with the bruise 'n all it's hard to take myself seriously.... but I did get the ego-boosting "honk!" and dangle out the window from a random truck driver when I was walking up the block, plus a mumble mumble whistle from the butcher when I stopped by the grocery store, so...... I'm pretty sure I'm locked in for a second date. Maybe dinner????

"Insatiable Corporate Raider" (NYC)
Today I am struggling – another day of hitting snooze repeatedly – carrying it.
This is mostly due to the fact that Media Masta Killah and I joined a friend from college at the Marquee to meet her new NFLing man and enjoy the night. Prior to this, however, I had a fabulous dinner in an open backyard of the restaurant Turkish Cuisine (9th btwn 44th/45th) with the “El Jefe de Musical Money.” The food here was AMAZING! We had Chicken&lamb Kebabs with Yogurt, pita, and rice + salad paired with a pair of their homemade Apple Ice Tea (absolutely REFRESHING!). The Spicy Hummus for the appetizer was truly a treat and if I may quote myself “something I will be craving on the regular.” The staff was super friendly and it seemed family owned - they loved that we loved the food and I love that. The backyard is in transition (so much more they could do with the space) but it felt like we were the only people there which was nice – quiet and still in the middle of Manhattan (especially in the midst of Fleet Week) with a fully grown tree hanging above is a rarity in this concrete jungle.

Anyways, on to the dessert - this was literally a whole NEW treat. We had these homemade chocolate and vanilla cotton candies with baklava – shown below. While the Baklava was again amazing, these cotton candies were an adventure in the mouth. They look like bizarre furballs or rolled up feathers (I know that doesn’t seem appetizing) but as you place them in your mouth they melt into a frenzy of WONDERMENT! Here is a pic with a close-up can you see what I'm talkin about.

Anywho, back to Marquee – while a nice layout (despite the fact that the tables make it hard to dance and maneuver) this often Page 6 referenced place is grossly overrated and pretentious. The DJ on the main floor left a lot to be desired with his cutting and pasting of songs with little to no flow or transition. Upstairs the DJ was mixing well and playing some hot tunes. The crowd there is the “I’m too cool for school” type which means you are like 16 with the latest threads on and stashing lots of cash getting wasted and waiting to be ‘spotted’ or you are in your mid-30’s and up with lots of cash wanting these young hot thangs. Either way, we were just not feeling it and didn't quite belong I suppose. It didn’t help that MMKillah nearly got into it a few times with the less than friendly staff and that I had to have it out with the security guard of the bathroom – I mean since WHEN is there security for a bathroom? And why does it need to be regulated velvet rope style!? It was unnecessary and a clear flaunting of unsubstantial penis power. However, being the girls that we are we had a good time.

Ok so that brings us to this morning – we were struggling because of course when we got home at 2:45am we had to stay up til 4am munching on late night food ol’ school style cracking jokes and wakin folks up. MMKillah wanted to get to work early but that clearly didn’t happen. Instead we slowly got dressed and hit up the corner bodega – the 5 Brothers Gourmet (47th/10th) – for an egg&cheese on wheat toast, a Smart water, and 2 Iced coffees – all for $6! Ya can’t beat that – I love that place AND they got cool folks running it.

It is BLAZIN outside today and while i really wanted to wear a skirt and some flips my toes leave a lot to be desired so i kept 'em covered. Here is what we pulled together today…

Top: Pink Kangaroo pocket Hooded T-shirt from PAPAYA - $7
White bra-top camisole underneath – this is old and has a hole in it so I don’t remember but its comfy and its all about comfy layers today
Bottoms: Light Green Cargo drawstrings from URBAN OUTFITTERS – on sale for $18
Shoes: Same as yesterday – rocking the gold KENNETH COLES - $9
Bag: Camo green from Target – bought this for the trip to Spain few years back – super comfy in this hotness and only around $8
Sunglasses are the usual $2 aviators from Chinatown to keep the sun out.
Of course I got the Gatorade in tow to keep hydrated.

"Media Masta Killah"(BK, NY)
Top: Brown VP Records limited t-shirt – FREE courtesy of me and likewise it was FREE for me
Bottoms: Frankie B Jeans - $180
Bag: Turquoise Boho from COMMANDER SALAMANDER - $50
Coat in hand: Cream BEBE trench - $160
Plastic bag – free (hehe)

That’s all for now…Have a great long weekend!!!

ThHersday

2007-05-24T11:10:00.000-07:00

"Insatiable Corporate Raider" (NYC)
I didn’t hear my 3 cell phone alarms this morning and it wasn’t until my Winnie the Pooh alarm clock went off for the 3rd time that I was able to get up. So alas, I was late for work. You would think though that I would be rushing out the house since I was late but on the contrary I sat, watched some Today show segments, ate some breakfast, tried to take my Rollerblade brake off, packed it up since that was unsuccessful then got dressed. I opted for the Sporty spice look since I was over the wearing of the heels, regardless of the fact that I have meetings today. I’m too tired and unmotivated to look presentable. With that said, I am actually digging my outfit, even if i had to safety pin my pants up 'cause they are too long!

Top: Cream scoopneck PUMA hooded light sweater with cool tonal graphic on back = $29 from Loehmann’s
Bottoms: GAP chocolate brown cargo drawstring pants = $15
Shoes: Gold REACTION Kenneth Cole Velcro sneaker flats = $9 my mom got from DSW I believe
Bag: Rocking the handmade pink/gold starry throw bag that was a gift from a west coast friend
Sunglasses: $2 from Chinatown – I love my Chinatown glasses ahaha

For lunch today I was treated by my dear friend "Media Masta Killah" (hailing from Brooklyn).
She is donning...
Dress: Black and white pinstripe from Urban Outfitters = $60
Shoes: Black low pumps from ARTURO CHANG = $45
Jewelry: Black jumbo bead necklace from NYC street vendor $30

We ate at Q2 on 9th ave. in the 50's. They have a great $6.95 lunch special! I had the Shrimp Pad Thai paired with a Thai Ice tea and she the Chicken Massamam Curry with a glass of Riesling. For dessert we had Mango Sticky Rice that was presented so beautifully and tasted delicious!

"Hushed Existentialist" (MD)

Today is the final day of the week for me. Could have worn jeans, but decided I'd keep up with the office code of only wearing jeans on Fun Jeans Friday... I was still feeling happy and pink, so I went with it. I like to pair a girly color such as pink with a contrasting non-girly color such as brown, charcoal gray, or Army Green.

Light Pink V-neck - Gap $2.99
Army Green Khakis - Polo $17.99 (Macy's)
Gold Sparkly Flip Flops - $6.99 (Filene's Basement)

For lunch, it is like 83 degrees outside, so I wanted to enjoy that while studying for the big exam I'm taking tomorrow. I went to La Madeleine and had my favorite menu item there:

Le Pot Pie

I am also a big fan of their free Seven Grain bread and blueberry preserves and plenty of lemons for the ice water. Reading my flashcards and dining in the sun turned out to be a fun tim!

Hump Day

2007-05-23T11:52:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist" (MD)

Today I was feeling happy and pink. But I had to go and balance it out with some gray, of course:

Pink Silk Wrap Top, Express = $10
Pink Tank, Express = $5
Charcoal Gray Pants, New York & Company = $12
Black Strappy Butterfly Slides, Liz Claiborne = $15 (I don't remember where I got these - probably Macy's on super-sale)
Charcoal Gray Cable-knit Cardigan = Handmade by my Mama, can't beat that price!

For a Hump Day treat, we butted "in" for lunch - choosing to brown bag it and sit at the picnic tables outside since it was SO NICE OUT.... My lunch was my old cafeteria standby - Chicken Salad Sub, Baked Lay's Original Chips and one of my favorite things of all time, Fancy Tea.

I am willing to pay upwards of $5 for a fancy tea. Here is today's choice, Fuze Healthy Infusion Tea in the Tropical Oolong variety:

"Insatiable Corporate Raider" (NYC)
These client dinners, while enjoyable (depending on the client) can get quite exhausting and over indulgent.
I have this problem that if I am in a nice restaurant and someone is picking up the bill I can not refrain from eating absolutely everything that is available to me!
So, at Buddha Bar last night, conveniently located in the non-heel friendly cobblestoned blocks of the Meatpacking district (good thing I brought my flipflops that were $2 from Conway to walk from the subway) is dark and moody and almost too trendy and themed. While the people there overall are trying a lil too hard, the waiters are nice and friendly which was refreshing, the DJ was spinning some cool Bhangra flavored tunes, and the food was luckily delicious.
I had a sampling of the following (i am not so ghetto as to whip my camera out at this fine dining establishment and take pics so descriptions will have to do):

* Started with a nice cocktail
– Buddha Lemonade (Svedka with Fresh crushed lemons with hints of guava, peach, apple) – quite refreshing

* Then after the Edamame we moved to sushi:
- Red Hot Crunchy Roll (Yellowtail, Served with Rice Crackers and Sudashi Sauce) – this was FABULOUS
- Crackling Shrimp Roll (Rice Cracker Crusted and Cummin Aioli Sauce) – Crackling indeed this may have been my favorite
- Maine Lobster Roll (Blanched Maine Lobster, Tobiko and Thai Chili Sauce) – not bad very flavorful wrapped in cucumber
- Buddha Bar Roll (Soft Shell Crab, Peeky Toe Crab & Sweet Tamari Sauce) – this one was a lil too salty for my taste as much as I love that sauce and soft shell crab

* And the main course:
- Lobster 3 ways (Grilled tail, Tempura Claw, on a bed of edamame risotto) – for not liking risotto this was DELICIOUS

* And for dessert:
- Warm Fudge Cake
- Buddha Bar cookies
- Coconut Blueberry Tart (this was AMAZING)
- Trio of ice creams

I must say I was definitely full when I finally made it home last night.
So today was a struggle to get up…here is what I threw together, and good thing I did instead of opting for the usual jeans as I was thrown into an impromptu presentation in front of my whole dept.

Here's the rundown - i look a mess in the pic and there is some wierd glare.
Top: Lace bra-top cami = $something cheap - I believe my mommy got
Lace Riboon Tie cover up from Target =$14
Bottoms: Brown twirly ribbon belted skirt by Liz Clairborne = FREE as it was a sample from a friend that worked there
Shoes: Brown leather peep toe pumps from GUESS = $35 on sale at Filene’s buy one get 2nd ½ off
Beaded Bracelets from my mommy

For lunch I was still craving the sushi from last night so I went with an eel/avocado roll and a seaweed salad from our company cafeteria that brings in a sushi chef on Wednesdays.

Now i'm really craving chocolate and ice cream as I just got out of the most frustrating meeting! ciao

Tasteful Tuesday

2007-05-22T14:49:00.000-07:00

"Insatiable Corporate Raider" (NYC)
Today I had a trade show so had to look halfway decent so here's what I'm rocking today:
Top: Pink cashmere Wrap shirt from CRIS (orig. $230 - got it on sale at Loehman's for $59)
UnderTop: Black lace camisole from cheesy store called Papaya ($2)
Bottoms: Black THEORY pencil skirt (got this for $12 at 'Clothes Encounters of a Second Kind' - a cute lil consignment store in DC)
Shoes: Black strappy FORNARINA heels (got these for $25 from awesome Designer shoe outlet in Cleveland, OH called 'Dallas')

My lunch today was grossly satisfying as I ate it much too late Crab Rangoon from a Chinese take out.

BUT i got these lovely flowers from my mommy today letting me know i'm a great "humalien!"

Going here for dinner tonight with clients - I'm looking forward to it!

"Hushed Existentialist" (MD)

Cute chocolate brown sheer sweater - $12 Cotton Emporium from Loehmann's
Really cute chocolate brown, cream and golden threaded pants - $25 Sigrid Olson from Lord & Taylor
Gladiator-style chocolate brown flat sandals - $15 Colin Stewart from Victoria's Secret Catalog

Today was all about butting out to lunch at Baja Fresh. The namesake Baja Burrito, served Enchilado Style is enough to feed a family of four, or me.

Just Another Manic Monday

2007-05-21T14:38:00.000-07:00

"Hushed Existentialist" (MD)
Working from home means working on home - notice the hammer, screwdriver and drill on the table, recently used to install the rod to hang featured drapes....

Also notice the kitty in the background, sleeping on top of files.

Working from home means casual attire, flippant attitude:

Top - Jeanstar $8 from Macy's
Jeans - Polo $22 from Macy's

And the ingredients for a perfect peanut butter n honey sandwich:

"Insatiable Corporate Raider" (NYC)
Getting over a viral infection from the weekend I had so I pulled myself together to make myself feel better - in a half ass way.

Sunglasses - Fake me out Black aviators becase i felt like it = $2 in Chinatown
Top – Banana Republic Petites deep v with fabulous rouching = $10 (orig. $48 - on crazy sale!)
Bottoms – Studio black fancy gouchos = $20(on crazy sale at Lord&Taylor)
Shoes – Nine West Black leather Peep toes with ribbon seams - $8 (my mom nabbed from a thrift shop brand new with tags still on them)

Bottoms and Shoes courtesy of my fashionista sale savvy mother!

Ate here for a 4hr client dinner this evening and this Crudo Antipasti in particular is absolutely FABULOUS if you can dig raw fish especially with their well-known Rhubarb infused Bellini...yummm

"Legal Eagle" (DC)
She is without a camera today so you will just have to wait until tomorrow...