This Love

New Job!

2012-01-27T19:42:00.000-05:00

Well, I did it; I've landed my self an amazing, full-time job with benefits that is actually relevant to my degree in family studies. I thought the chances of me finding something while 4 months pregnant in Michigan would be slim, but here I am- and it only took me a month. I am in utter shock that I received that phone call this morning, telling me what I'd been waiting to hear but deep down thought I never would.

I did it.

It's still taking me time to actually get used to the idea that I will have a desk with a picture of my beloved husband on it, in an office that is all mine. I am so giddy at the thought of being able to wear something other than a uniform to work. And nail polish- oh nail polish, how I've missed you. (You're not allowed to wear it in food service).

This past year and a half has been full of so many blessings that I can barely catch my breath. I went from being madly in love with Dave to becoming his wife, from being a college student to a college graduate, from pug-lover to Ugg-mama, and from a care-free lady to making and growing a baby girl. Now I've gone from a pizza girl to a foster care worker.

Everything just keeps getting better and better all the time. I am so blessed that I couldn't hold it in. I just had to share it with all of you.

Ugg the Pug

2012-01-25T15:22:00.000-05:00

I was just unloading a bunch of pictures off my camera and realized that around 90% of them were of our beloved pet-baby, Ugg. She's a pug and keeps us laughing every day. They really are ridiculous creatures. This is her first appearance on here, but I promise she'll be featured often.

How can anyone not love that face? There are pug-haters out there, but I just don't get it.

Weekend Round Up

2012-01-16T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend I found some delightful items on the internet and thought I'd spread the awesomeness!

/ This animal print cake on Pinterest /

/ This super-sweet anniversary picture idea /

/ This gem of a swimsuit from Popina Swimwear. It's my #1 choice for rockin' post-baby next summer/

/Jen Love's Kev's alternative to a Christmas letter/

Other bits of awesomeness:

// If you're considering anything along the lines of baby-wearing, see nothing wrong with buying things second-hand for your kid, and are wondering about cloth diapering, My Mother Wears Combat Boots is right up your alley. I know I love any book along the lines of "What to Expect", but this parenting guide was refreshingly real.

// This story about a gun-toting young mama who did what she had to do to protect her baby from an intruder. Seriously- don't mess with a mama. Don't even try.

Happy Monday lovelies! We're going to finish putting our bedroom back together today and I'll post some pictures once the process is complete.

What kind of awesomeness did you stumble upon this weekend?

Our Wedding: The Guys

2012-01-13T14:02:00.001-05:00

Dave is the youngest of five boys, all of whom are part of one of the closest families I've ever met. They we four of his groomsmen, along with his best friend from high school, Brandon, and his best friend from college/our old roommate, Huey.

/ Dave's older brother, Mark, helping him get ready/

/The eldest Estelle getting flashy/

When I envisioned our wedding, I never though we'd go as formal as tuxes, but Dave was adamant. Looking back at these pictures, I can totally see why. He was right- he did look pretty darn good.

Note: All of these photos were taken by our lovely wedding photographer, Kerri Banyas. Her website can be found here.

Our Wedding: The Girls

2012-01-12T15:41:00.001-05:00

I knew early on that I wanted to incorporate yellow into our wedding. I also knew that I didn't want to make my mostly-on-a-college-budget bridesmaids pay $150 for a dress they would never wear again. With that in mind, I let them choose their own dresses, in either a blush pink or a yellow color. Looking back at the pictures, I think my girls have some great style- and each on of them picked a dress that was so them, but it all went together so well.

The night before the wedding all of my girls helped me arrange the flowers they'd be carrying the next day. I couldn't have asked for a more helpful and DIY-capable set of gals to be on my crew that weekend.

Sigh. It was quite a day. I'm so grateful that I could share it with six of my closest gals.

Note: All of these photos were taken by our lovely wedding photographer, Kerri Banyas. Her website can be found here.

My First Estelle

2011-07-22T09:00:00.002-04:00

Being engaged, for me at least, has been stressful for the most part. But in the middle of all the chaos, I have little moments that remind me what's at the end of this journey. Like my first issue of Real Simple with my future last name on it. Geeked!

Love it. 15 more days! I'm getting so excited!

Master Cleanse Day One!

2011-05-29T09:00:00.006-04:00

With the wedding coming up so soon, I've decided I need to do something to get looking fabulous. The Master Cleanse is something I've been thinking of doing for a long time now, and this morning I decided to jump. If you don't know, The Master Cleanse is an all-liquid diet consisting of a lemonade drink. There are some amazing videos on YouTube from other women who have made this journey that ended up looking amazing, with clearer skin and smaller pants sizes, in a matter of weeks. Like so many before me, I'll be tracking my journey through the wonder that is YouTube. Hopefully that will keep me motivated to stick with it, because I'll be the first to admit I'm not a skilled dieter. So here it is: my video for day one.

A Recognizable Happy

2011-05-17T16:45:00.001-04:00

Today I was a lot of words:

lazy,

happy,

content,

curious,

silly

... and not one of my today words was "busy".

If you were to ask someone I know personally what I'm like, "busy" would probably top the list. Not today, though. Today I woke up at 11, way past my normal waking hour. I walked the dog. I painted my toes blue. I painted a frame pink. I rode my bike around town. I went and had some ice cream with friends. And in the middle of the day, in between frolicking, I looked down at my freshly-blue toes, up at the sky, and I was truly happy. And I recognized it. And that's the best kind of happy, you know, when you can actually stop in that moment and recognize that's exactly what you are.

Happy Happy Happy Day, friends.

You May Have Known Me As "Tinda Keelie"

2011-05-16T13:19:00.000-04:00

Some of you may be visiting here and wondering whatever happened to Tinda Keelie.

The decision to change the blog name has been a long time coming. I've been feeling for a while that Tinda Keelie didn't fit where my life was headed. It used to be me and my clothes and my apartment-decorating projects. Me, me me. Now it's Katie and Dave. And while the decorating is now more gender neutral, I can assure you that he doesn't wear any of my clothes. Okay, maybe the occasional hoodie is shared, but that's it- I promise.

This Love is really about what the title says- it's about this crazy love that Dave and I share. It's about all the places it's taking us. And of course, it's going to be about the outfits I wear while playing wife. I couldn't give that up if I tried.

So stay tuned! This summer alone is going to bring some great surprises leading up to the day I officially become Mrs. Estelle, which is the very-soon August 5th!

Thanks for sticking around through the change, and for those of you who are new- welcome!

Things I Love!: Decorating

2011-04-04T12:01:00.003-04:00

One of the best and worst things about my college experience is that I've moved so often. Since 2007 I've lived in five different apartments, and in a few weeks I'll be making that a six. This time it's different, though. I've lived in the dorms, a tiny apartment, a townhouse, temporarily with a friend, and in a duplex, but never have I ever moved in with someone I'm engaged to and never in a house all our own.

While I hate the heavy lifting and disorganization that comes with a big move, I do love the fresh start. White walls are my invitation to decorate, and every year I get a do-over. This time I get a whole house to decorate, not just one room that's my designated space. And now I have to worry about making things work for both David and I. It's going to be a challenge, but it's also so exciting! I have so many inspiring photos from years of scanning blogs and websites saved in my "Things I Love!" folder, and you know how much I love to share them!

Enjoy the interior eye candy and have yourself a happy Monday!

Weekend Wedding Feature!

2011-03-27T11:04:00.001-04:00

I've always skimmed through wedding blogs here and there, but ever since Dave walked into my life I've done it even more. Now that we're engaged and our wedding is coming nearer and nearer (a little over 4 months- what!?), I'm doing it with purpose. I get so inspired by the amazing photos of other peoples indie, green, and rustic nuptials that I find myself with a bigger picture of what The Big Day could be like for me. So, without further typing on my part I give you my two very favorite wedding blogs.

1) Ruffled

I absolutely love Ruffled. They make it so easy to find inspiration by categorizing their weddings and you can find me surfing the handmade and rustic wedding sections every day.

2) Green Wedding Shoes

This blog mainly focuses on California brides, but oh boy do those Cali girls have style! I find myself getting lost in their inspiration boards like this secret garden wedding one.

I can't wait to do another one of these posts next weekend! I just go gaga over weddings (and I know you do too!)

The Big Day DIY: Burlap Wedding Banner

2011-03-22T02:46:00.005-04:00

With Dave and I's wedding approaching in less than 5 months, I figure it's time to get down to details. And with a DIY, rustic theme in mind, boy... there a whole lot of details. I thought it'd be rude of me not to share what I've been up to with all of you, so I've decided to let you in on my current project to make The Big Day oh-so beautiful:

Burplap is the perfect material for a rustic outdoor wedding like the one I'm planning right now and if you love quotes like I know I do and have basic sewing skills, this is the perfect project!

I chose to quote one of my favorite songs, "Oh, It Is Love" by HelloGoodbye on this first banner, and soon I'll be making a "Just Married" version to go on the back of the getaway car on The Big Day.

This project is so very easy to make and burlap comes in funky colors like orange and red, so I just might make a set for my family members at Christmas to celebrate all the holidays.

What you'll need:

An hour of free time
1/2 yard of light-colored burlap
Scissors
Acrylic paint
Foam letters or stencils
Hemp/jute string
Sewing machine/ needle and thread

1) Select your saying (there's so many!)

2) Cut as many rectangles as your saying needs out of burlap. Mine were 7in by 6in

3) Stamp, paint, or stencil in your saying onto the burlap. Get festive! Add some hearts! Go wild!

4) Now it's time to sew the string onto the burlap. Make sure to leave a few feet of hemp/jute off the ends to allow for hanging. Also, decide now if you want your saying in one row or multiple rows like mine. Being that this is a rustic project, your stitches can be all messy (see above- ha).

5) Once all your rectangles are stitched together, it's time to celebrate what you've done (pat yourself on the back, you DIY queen, you), and hang it up!

Happy DIY Day!

Love Love LOVE!

The Turning Point

2011-03-14T12:39:00.000-04:00

I feel like my life goes in cycles. I'll have a semester where I'm on top of the world- where I actually use my planner and find time to see my friends while working full-time and even look fabulous while doing it, but then something happens and it all gets interrupted. I can't even find my planner, have a less-than-regular workout schedule, neglect my blog, and you don't even want to know what my laundry situation is like.

It takes me a while of living in my funk to realize what's going on. It's that subtle "off" feeling you get for no huge reason in particular, but a combination of smaller things. I'll look around and see the clutter, notice the extra pounds I'm carrying around, and recognize that it's been a month since I've talked to one of my favorite people. This is what I like to call "the turning point". And boy, am I there.

No more disorganization, no more eating crappy, and no more neglecting my favorite hobby (hint: it's blogging). Yes, I'm getting married in August, and yes, I've found my soul mate, but there are other parts of my life that are important to me too and I need to get back to paying them attention.

I know you've been in a funk before, too. Maybe it has something to do with winter, or maybe it's just what happens after we have a transition in our lives, but at some point we do have to wake up and realize that we need to get back on top. Whatever it is for you, whether it be starting to do yoga again, ringing up someone you haven't talked to in a few months, or reorganizing your house in a way that works better for you, I wish you luck in doing it. Because we all know that being in a funk just plain sucks, and life is too short not to be your very best self.

Love, love, LOVE,

Regional Dialect Meme Video

2011-02-16T08:00:00.001-05:00

I spotted Kaelah's version of this video on her blog (and one of my all-time faves) Little Chief Honeybee a few weeks ago and have been wanting to do it ever since. All this wedding planning has been eating up my free time, but today we had a snow day and it opened things up!

It's a regional dialect video, and I know from seeing Kaelah's that her part of the country had some terms I'd never heard of. I'm sure folks from other parts will think the same thing of my video, which makes it all the more fun! I've posted the words and questions below if you're interested in doing one yourself, and if you do I'd love to see it, so send me a link!

I'd also like to apologize in advance for me pulling the shoulder of my dress down first thing in this video. lol. I didn't even think of it as being suggestive at the time- I was just pulling it to where it was more comfortable! Oh brother.

Say these words:

Aunt, Route, Wash, Oil, Theater, Iron, Salmon, Caramel, Fire, Water, Sure, Data, Ruin, Crayon, Toilet, New Orleans, Pecan, Both, Again, Probably, Spitting image, Alabama, Lawyer, Coupon, Mayonnaise, Syrup, Pajamas, Caught

Now answer these questions:

What is it called when you throw toilet paper on a house?
What is the bug that when you touch it, it curls into a ball?
What is the bubbly carbonated drink called?
What do you call gym shoes?
What do you say to address a group of people?
What do you call the kind of spider that has an oval-shaped body and extremely long legs?
What do you call your grandparents?
What do you call the wheeled contraption in which you carry groceries at the supermarket?
What do you call it when rain falls while the sun is shining?
What is the thing you change the TV channel with?

Just have fun with it! And for my fellow Michigan bloggers, try and get out there and enjoy this weather! I've been working all week and haven't been able to! Sniffle Sniffle.

Ask Me Anything!

2011-02-09T14:47:00.001-05:00

Hello Lovelies!

Ever wanted to ask me a question? Well here's your chance.

Just stop on by the Tinda Keelie Formspring and ask away. I'll do my best to give you a true answer! In the meantime, you can visit the FAQ section to learn a little bit more about me!

Sometimes We Build Forts

2011-02-08T19:41:00.000-05:00

Lately I've been feeling like adulthood is coming at me full-force. With an impending marriage, loan payments staring me in the face, and graduation right around the corner, I'd say that I might be right. But one thing is for sure, I don't have to act like it all the time.

The other night amidst our usual night in, which includes us watching 30 Rock while I skim wedding blogs and bounce decor ideas off my husband-to-be, he looked at me and said, "let's go rent a movie and build a fort!" And this, ladies and gents, is why I am marrying this man.

Don't worry, we DO have clothes on! I was just wearing a tan tank, When we put this pic on facebook, needless to say we got a lot of interesting comments...

The Dress Hunt

2011-01-14T15:30:00.002-05:00

I have learned that planning a wedding in eight months isn't for those who can't handle stress. Back in 1985, my mother planned her wedding in four months without a hitch, but here in the 2011 anything less than a year-long engagement is considered a rush job to pretty much every professional I've talked to. Several of the photographers I've got my eye on have been booked for months and in order to have a gown to wear on my big day that fits in all the right places, it needs to be ordered by mid-February.

That means that January is crunch time. And honestly, I think I've been handling it pretty well, with only mini-stress moments finding me here and there. (Thank you, Dave Estelle, for talking me down from the moments where I use the word "elope") We have the date set. The wedding site and reception location are booked and ready to go. We have our wedding party all sorted out. The DJ has been paid a deposit and some other entertainment (a surprise!) is reserved as well. And I've found a fabulous photographer who is available for our big day. I'm hoping it all works out, because her work is amazing!

The hardest part so far has been finding a dress I'm madly in love with. I've been put into a couple that I adore, but there are details I'd change on each of them. If only they could all combine together and make that perfect dress. I know it's out there, and who knows- one of them may prove to the one if I revisit them. So, without further typing on my part, here's some of the dresses I've been inspired by:

All dresses below are from Allure

As you can probably tell, I kind of have a thing for lace gowns. I just find them so romantic and timeless! I've tried on a few other styles that didn't have any lace at all, and I couldn't imagine myself walking towards Dave in them. So, the hunt for the perfect lace dress continues! I don't have any school on Monday, which is when my Maid of Honor and I will be hitting up three different bridal shops. Call us crazy, but we've got a job got a job to do!

I'm so excited to find the one! Wish me luck!

2011

2011-01-05T14:16:00.000-05:00

I've never really been one to make resolutions before the start of the new year. By the time New Year's Eve rolls around, I'm still catching up with the fact that Christmas has already found us and I'm lucky to have even completed all my shopping. That's a true story.

This year was no exception, and it has taken me some time to recover and reflect over the last year and decide what I'd like to see happen in this one. Looking back, 2010 was probably the most eventful year of my life. I started this blog, honed in on my own personal style, and made some new friends. I ended a relationship of 2 years, moved in with three guy-roommates, turned 21, and had the most amazing summer ever. I lived in the woods for 4 days and saw some amazing sites, witnessed a truly violent crime, and had a hot and cold summer fling. I met and fell in love with the love of my life. I lost a job, gained a new perspective, and ventured to a country covered in the color green. I experienced the horrors of winter travel and ended my year with a perfectly imperfect proposal.

I can sit and list specific events that have happened in the past year, but that would be boring a pointless to get the big picture of what changes took place. I may have broke up with someone this year, but me finding myself and refusing to settle any longer is what made that happen. That change lead to me finding more confidence in myself and my worth, and ultimately to me finding David. If you would have told me this summer that I'd be engaged by Christmas, I wouldn't have believed you. I let myself fall madly in love with someone and didn't let the fear of giving myself over to someone new take charge. I trusted that "sometimes wen you know, you just know" feeling, and it happened to turn out amazingly.

For next year I have one goal, which pretty much sums up what's been off in the past year: be more organized. If I can tackle this, all my other problems will fall into place. Having a more set schedule will keep my laundry from piling up, my fridge from getting empty, my bank account from overdrafting, and myself from mixing up appointments. It'll give me a set time to work out, and ultimately lead to a healthier me. And more importantly for this blog, it'll keep me on track with posting. I find there's weeks where I post 5 times and others where I neglect to write anything, and I hate it. Becoming organized- that's my goal this year, starting today.

Hopefully this resolution won't fall out by the end of the month. I guess we'll see!

The Start of Forever

2011-01-01T02:12:00.003-05:00

The past 2 weeks or so have been a bit crazy. Some huge things have happened!

1) I had my first experience staying in an international hostel. It was... interesting.

2) I adventured around Northern Ireland and crossed one of the world's most dangerous bridges in a dress. Go me!

3) I came very close to spending the night in a New York City airport after my group missed our connecting flight to Detroit trying to get back home. Thankfully the ladies at Delta took pity on me and offered me a free hotel. Girl tears can go a long way sometimes.

but nothing compares to what I had waiting for me at the airport when I finally did get home...

Dave and I are engaged!!!!

After the worst travel experience of my life, I got off my plane and jogged across DTW chatting with Dave on the phone and trying to find him the whole way. When we finally met, we we're so relieved to be touching each other that I think we both cried a little. I was so eager to get my bags and leave airports far behind that I didn't notice he was trying to get me to stop and give him a chance to pop the question. After a few subtle attempts, he finally just said "Katie, you should really set your bags down", and this time I paid attention. Right there in front of lots of people and the baggage claim, Dave Estelle got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. And I said "yes", of course!

We're both so unbelievably excited to be where we are right now, and full of more love than we've ever known for each other. I'm going to thank you guys in advance for all the support I'm surely going to get from you. I'm only a week into planning and I know I'll be needing it!

Greetings from Ireland!

2010-12-18T13:17:00.003-05:00

Hi all! I've been busy constantly since I've arrived on the Emerald Isle, either doing group projects or exploring the city, but I thought I'd stop in and say "hello".

See you in a couple of days when I do an in-depth post about my trip (after I've given Dave a big fat long-awaited kiss and hug, of course). Until then, here's a little peak!

all photos taken by my lovely travel-mate, Chris Hopcraft

How To: Take Dressember on the Road

2010-12-11T18:00:00.112-05:00

Right now I'm up to my eyeballs in packing. It turns out that planning cute and functional outfits to wear actually takes some effort. Usually I just throw a bunch of pieces in that I think will work, but I've learned from experience that can be a gamble. To add even another twist onto packing, it's still Dressember, which means no pants or skirts unless it's absolutely necessary. Taking the Dressember challenge on the road with me is going to be a challenge in and of itself.

Here are my tips for traveling in only dresses, in winter, across the world:

1) Tights, tights, and more tights.

It's cold, but that doesn't mean you have to retire your favorite leg-decorators. My trick is to double-layer tights. If you combine two pairs of opaque tights it's almost as warm as wearing jeans, I promise. I like to put light colored tights under sheer tights and prints that need to show, while I put black under generally opaque tights. This is also a great way to use those few pairs of with little snags you have laying around. Just wear them under the pretty, intact pair! Viola! Speaking of snags, make sure to bring an extra neutral pair or two with you along with some clear nail polish for those "oops" moments. Nobody wants to be running to the local store for tights in the middle of their trip.

2) Skirts over dresses

The Dressember challenge clearly states in its rules that you need to wear a dress every day of the month. No skirts. There is a loophole, however, and that's wearing a skirt over a dress. Genius, I know. The bonus here is that us girls in the northern states are given an extra layer to keep us warm along with even more options for mixing up our outfits. Now I have to warn you that only slimmer dresses are going to work for this and be comfortable, so try out several skirt/dress combinations before you settle. I'm only bringing 5-7 dresses for 10 days of travel. Adding a skirt or two to my oufits will keep me from being bored with what I'm wearing.

3) Boots- (duh)

It might seem a little obvious, but boots are essential this time of year and Dressember doesn't change that. I'm limiting myself to two pairs of boots, one black and one brown, and a pair of flats for the dryer days while I'm in Ireland. The great thing about pairing boots and tights is the fun socks you get to pair with them to tie everything together. Just make sure you aren't wearing some complicated lace-up number to the airport. Remember, you have to take off your shoes and put them back on again while going through security.

4) The Dresses

Last, and most importantly, is planning out which dresses to bring. Some of us only have 4 hanging in our closet, but if you're a dress-a-holic like I am, you've got some thinking to do when it comes to choosing functional frocks for your trip.

First, there's the travel dress, the one you'll be wearing for the car-ride or the plane-ride, and probably both. My travel dress will be worn for 3+ hours of driving and a 12-hour plane ride. Needless to say, your travel dress should be comfortable and it can't wrinkle easily if you want to look decent. While I love tights, I have to suggest wearing leggings, which are usually less binding and more comfortable, for this part of the journey.

Every other dress depends on where you're going and what you'll be doing on your trip. For me, Ireland is wet, windy, and cold this time of year. My thin, cotton, summer choices aren't ideal to wear on their own, but they're perfect for wearing under a skirt and topping with a cardigan while I'm exploring Dublin. Just make sure that you take into consideration the climate of where you're going and if you need to bring a more formal type of dress for dinners and outings. Another tip is to bring neutral shirts to pair with festive frocks and patterned tights, shirts, and scarves to pair with your neutral dresses.

Wish me luck on taking Dressember with my on my trip to Ireland! I'll be sure to do some posts from the Emerald Isle this upcoming week!

Love Love Love,

Let's Play Mustard

2010-12-08T18:53:00.001-05:00

You're probably wondering to yourself right now, "how does one play this mustard she speaks of?" Well, it's quite simply, really. Playing mustard is what you do when playing catch-up just won't do the trick. Like when you're a few drinks behind all of your friends at the bar or when you have to post 6/8 dresses from the past week of Dressember. Just take a minute... okay... now you get the joke. Ha. I know you have a grin on your face, just admit it.

So, without further typing on my part, I give you Dressember Days 1-8.

Day one starting out strong- I pulled out the big guns with some mary jane heels that I haven't worn since high school.

You can see the more photos of day 2 in this post.

This was probably the coldest day we had all week. I was freezing, which I blame for the face. Ha.

On this day, I didn't get a good pic, but Dave and I did attempt Christmas photos in which I was wearing the dress.

More photos from day five can be seen in this post.

On day 6 I made stockings for Dave and I! I'll do a post about those this weekend!

Day seven had me wearing a skirt over a dress. I found out that's not breaking the rules and it's opened up so many more outfit possibilities!

And here I am today! As I type this I'm wearing this outfit in the library where I'm supposed to be studying for my three final finals tomorrow. I can't wait for this semester to be done done done!

(click to see the flickr where all the other ladies show off their frocks)

Happy Dressember!!!

Dressember Day 5/ Waiting

2010-12-05T23:48:00.001-05:00

With final papers behind me and exam week coming up ahead, that leaves little time for much else. But don't worry guys- I've been documenting Dressember every day, even if it's an early morning or late night shoot in my little bedroom. I plan on doing a round-up of my looks every Wednesday, but on the days I post I'll show you what dress I remixed that day. Here's day 5's look!

Lately I've been finding it difficult to balance living in the moment and looking forward to the future. I either miss out on the little moments or I end up feeling unprepared or impatient for what lies ahead. Waiting is one of the hardest things that we do, isn't it? There's some big things brewing in this little life of mine, and I find myself getting caught up in wishing and hoping I'm months or years away from where I am now. I should be content with what I have right now, right here, in this moment.

.Outfit.

Hat- Target $4

Sweater- Maurices $34

Dress- Tulle $9

Tights- Kohls $5

Boots- don't remember $60

Dave's the most amazing boyfriend I've ever had. He's the last boyfriend I'll ever have. And in these times when we're making plans for our future, I just have to remember to love the little things. Like the way his voice sounds in the morning, the look he gets in his eyes that says "god, I love her" without any words... his love is such a big part of my life. It makes me as complete as I can be, and for right now, that's so, so, so enough.

Dressember Day 2

2010-12-02T23:12:00.001-05:00

Dressember! Dressember! Dressember! We're only two days in and already I was tempted to put on sweats and run out the door this morning! My commitment to the project ran through my head, though, and surprisingly it only took me a few extra minutes to put a cute outfit together. I've been finding it amazing how much better I've felt these past two days by being dressed up. And I've already experimented with different pieces and found two outfits I'll be repeating even after Dressember has passed.

These pics are only from day 2. Between studying for finals and writing papers I didn't find time yesterday, but I'll be sure to do a round-up at the end of the week!

And here's a pic of Dave and I that I absolutely adore from today!

Happy Dressember!

It's Almost Dressember!

2010-11-30T17:49:00.000-05:00

Some of you may think I'm crazy. Hell, I'm even thinking taking this on in the cold state of Michigan might be a little nuts, but hey- I'm just barely young enough still to get away with these sorts of shenanigans. So what am I up to? Here's a (not so) little hint:

image:Blythe Hill

That's right, I'm wearing a dress every single day of December! No pants, no skirts, all dresses (except for when I'm at work- that's not breaking the rules). The most challenging part of this is going to be coordinating this with my trip to Ireland in two weeks. I think that just adds on to the craziness of me taking this on. I'm going to wear only dresses while traveling overseas and living in two chilly places. I see a lot of opaque tights and cute scarves in my future. Oh, joy!

I know a lot of you are involved in the 30 for 30 challenge right now, but if you're not and you have a closet full of dresses that aren't getting any love like I know mine aren't, you should consider heading on over to Blythe Hill's blog and participating in Dressember.

Wish me luck you guys!

And For My Next Big Adventure...

2010-11-18T20:51:00.000-05:00

I probably shouldn't be blogging right now, but hey, a girl's gotta have a break. I'm sitting on my couch, watching something about underwater amphibians (ha), and willing a stack of books and assignments to read and complete themselves. Oh, if only, right? As what I hope will be my last fall semester of college ever comes to a close, I can't wait for it to end. That's probably not the right attitude, being that I'm almost done and all, but I don't like going to a single one of my classes lately. It's terrible to pay so much for a class and feel absolutely no brain stimulation from it whatsoever. Hmph.

There is something amazing coming my way as soon as the semester ends, though. On December 12th I'm hopping my butt on a plane and:

I can't wait to experience all that the Emerald Isle has to offer! The first week won't be too crazy, since this is actually a volunteer trip, but after that portion is done we'll be heading from Belfast to Dublin to soak in the culture on our own free time. It makes me kind of nervous to be going so far away. I think it's the plane ride over the ocean... eeek!

-Outfit-

dress: Target $25

tights: Target $5

boots: vintage $30

sweater: PacSun $32

Wish me luck you guys! I'll need it- especially when I try and figure out what to pack!

-Katie

The Cutest Man Ever

2010-11-02T03:44:00.000-04:00

Sadly, I didn't attend any Halloween parties this year. We declared Friday a date night and stayed in together, and Saturday I ended up feeling pretty sick right after I'd completed my costume, so going out to the typical college party wasn't going to happen. Hmph. But Dave did end up going out and look how cute he looked! It made my night all better.

-Katie

I Kind of Have a Thing for Vines

2010-10-30T10:00:00.002-04:00

I think I just might have found my new favorite place to take outfit pics. One of the many things I have a "thing" for is vine-covered walls. Yeah, I have a "thing" for a lot of things, don't I? I hit the viney walls jackpot here and it was a completely random. incident I was on my way to a local park where I usually take outdoor pics and I spotted this gem of a building and I couldn't resist. The amazing thing is that I go by there all the time and had never noticed how pretty this spot is. It must be the burnt red leaves covering everything that caught my eye. Oh, how I love the leaves. It's so sad to see them go.

...

.Outfit.

Dress: Tulle $13

Shirt: Thrifted $3

Headband: Target $9

Shoes: Gift from Mom

...

I'll leave you guys with a pic of me looking like the girl from The Ring. I thought it fit, being Halloween weekend and all. Spoooooky!

xoxo

5 Things Friday: 10/29/10

2010-10-29T10:55:00.003-04:00

I'm nearing the end of my college career, which at the moment I'm ecstatic about. While I'm on my senior high, I'd like to point out:

1) Bad Professors

I'd like to say that about 1/6 of the instructors I've encountered over the years have been bad. Some have been downright terrible. You know the type- where you learn more from reading the book and might even be more entertained by it too. I've had all different levels of instructors and I have to say: some of the worst have had their doctorates and my all-time favorite was a graduate assistant. Some people just aren't meant to teach.

2) Registering for Classes

One of the most anxiety-ridden activities I've had do every few months for the past few years has been scheduling my classes. It's getting better because I'm getting to register earlier and earlier, but in the beginning it was frustrating, especially in my old major. If you don't get all the right classes you don't graduate on time. And at first you never get the right classes because they're all full. Somehow they failed to mention this on the brochure...

3) Buying Textbooks

Even though I've been buying mine online since sophomore year, it's still a pain in the butt and I don't like doing it. Who would like doing this? Enough said.

4) Those Girls and Tchotchkes

Hey, we've all been one at some time or another, but I think most of us grew out of it by the end of our freshman year. You know the type- where their facebook status always has something to do with "gearing up for Friday night" or "bitches and ho's _____" or on the female side of this, pretty much anything that discloses too much feeling or detail about their current relationship issues. Like I said, everyone's been there, but I'd be fine if I didn't see girls wearing ridiculously skimpy get-ups around campus daily anymore.

5) Being Absolutely Broke

I'm excited to get out of this inbetween I seem to be in right now. I pay for everything but car insurance and my phone, which has me working 38 hour weeks.I go nowhere with the funds, though, because it all goes to school. I know it's a sacrifice for my future, but I'd like that future to start happening sometime soon, thanks very much. I do have to point out that I really admire the creativity you develop to keep yourself entertained and looking good on a budget, which is something I think has shaped me in useful ways, but a little more money wouldn't hurt the situation all that much.

There's so many parts of college that I love love love, that I don't want you guys getting the idea that I'm a grump. I'm not, I just really won't miss these 5 things. Not one bit. Not at all. But they will be a part of my life until next December- oh boy.

-Katie

Wine-o's in the Making

2010-10-27T11:15:00.011-04:00

This past weekend a few of my classiest college friends and I jammed ourselves into a little car went up to Traverse City to do some wine-tasting. It's probably the most adult thing I've ever done. I felt like a such a little grown up ! At first I thought I wouldn't be able to afford to go (wine-tasting sounded ritzy), but it all worked out. Who says you have to sacrifice trips when you're on a budget? Between gas, the hotel, lunch at a deli, and the purchase of a bottle of wine the whole deal cost less than $50.

Before this trip I wasn't the hugest fan of wine. I've drank some white wine, and I'm a pretty big fan of Pinot Grigio, but I'd never found a red wine I liked until this weekend. I feel like such a wine-o in the making! One day a few of us will most likely make our way back to TC for some more tastings and I'm willing to be we'll be doing better than the janky Motel 6 we stayed at. The pool wasn't working because of an incident that had happened earlier. That's what the sign said! It seemed a bit odd- couldn't they have just said the pool was out of order? The whole "incident" detail makes you wonder...

That Naughty Red- it was delicious!

All of us girls outside the Grand Traverse!

Budget travel aside issues, it was a great trip! I love having adventurous friends, I really do.

xoxo
-Katie

We can live like Jack and Sally if you want

2010-10-26T02:57:00.001-04:00

Halloween is my favorite holiday. It falls during my favorite season and calls for creativity and outings and cooking and scary movies! What's not the love, right? Last year I didn't get the chance to carve a pumpkin because mine ended up rotting into the carpet before the opportunity arose. (It took a week to get the smell out of the apartment- yuck) But this year I carved my pumpkin the same day I bought it! It was a blast!

It was a gorgeous afternoon on Sunday so we figured we'd do our carving outdoors. Dave and I turned the tradition into a ridiculous "who can out-do who" competition where he made a Katie pumpkin and I made a Dave. We pretty much tried to make them look as stupid as possible. Oh, us.

Me half way through carving- it got a little serious.

Huey giving his pumpkin a lobotomy.

My new favorite picture of David.

After the carving festivities were over, the boys had to leave for soccer and I was determined to bake pumpkin seeds that night, so there I was hunched over alone in their front yard, picking through pumpkin guts! In the rain, nonetheless. I guarantee I looked like a crazy person. It was so worth it though, now that I'm snacking on garlic pumpkin seeds!

The finished products! I'm on the left and Dave is on the right. Can't you tell my bubble nose and his little smirk?


Even our pumpkins are in love <3

My first holiday tradition with the manfriend ended up being such a sweet experience. It makes me look forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas with him so very much. But I can't get too ahead of myself- there's still work to be done on my Halloween costume!I hope it gets a few laughs when I do the big reveal!

Happy Pre-Halloween!

-Katie

Fudgesickles!

2010-10-15T12:18:00.000-04:00

Hi fellow bloggers/readers of Tinda Keelie!

My dear, sweet blogger friend Sara let me know earlier today that my comments form hasn't been working lately. See, it's good to have blogger friends like that, because honestly, when was I ever going to try and leave myself a comment? ha.

I apologize if you were trying to leave some nice words and couldn't. I've been seeing how many of you have been visiting lately and was surprised that nobody stopped to say "hi!", but I guess it was my fault all along! So now's your chance if you wanted to leave a little message in the last week. It's all better! Promise Promise.

xoxo

-Katie

Umm.. Yes Please!

2010-10-13T08:20:00.001-04:00

How cool is this? Merl over at Clyde's Rebirth is having a giveaway solely for bloggers. In order to enter you must be a follower of her blog and spread the word to your fellow bloggers in a post. Then you're eligible for $100 store credit! And shame on you if you haven't seen her new lookbook. It's pretty fabulous! As much as I'd love to be the winner, I want all of you to have a shot as well, so make sure to check out the details here!

xoxo
-Katie

The Perfect Journal

2010-10-12T09:00:00.002-04:00

I was always trying to translate experience into words.
-Anthony Doerr

Whenever I'm generally sad or anxious, falling madly in or out of love, or my head is just full of ideas and thoughts that I need to work out, I always turn to one place: my journal. The numerous journals I've filled the pages of since I was in elementary school hold all of the deepest details of my life. They're a priceless account of who I was at that time in my history, an invaluable resource when I aim to look back.

I find myself nearing the end of my latest journal, a brown leather-bound gem I found in a bookstore a few years ago that's followed me from the end of my freshman year of college until now, which has been one of the biggest rollercoasters in dating and lifestyle changes I've ever encountered. It's witnessed the insanity that proved to be my best friend turned hellish roommate. It saw me through several sleepless nights and conversations with myself over what to do with a love that was dying. It was there to be filled with all the rantings of my broken heart when I finally let go. And as it nears to a close, it's been there when I finally found someone who loves me the way I'd been longing for in all the journals that came before it.

As the holiday season approaches and family and friends start asking me what I want for Christmas, I know one of the only items I'll be asking for is a new journal to fill with my future self's thoughts. After some hunting, I think I've found the perfect one, so hopefully those looking for just the right gift see this post (hint, hint).


I'm kind of a quote-whore, so I would probably customize this journal from in blue with one of my favorite quotes "Love, love here we are." and add the image of some birds flying away down the side (gosh, I love the customizing Esty offers). I can just picture myself in a coffee shop with a chai tea scribbling in this. sigh.

xoxo

-Katie

5 Things I'm Not Exactly Proud Of

2010-10-09T13:37:00.000-04:00

Best friend/Roommate extraordinaire, Derek

I have a confession to make: I am 100% a human being. Yep, I am. And with that comes a heap-load of flaws and quirks that make up some of the best and worst parts of me. Being sans car has put my life into a tailspin of disorganization that's made a few of those flaws rear their ugly heads this past week. It's also left me stranded at my house for hours at a time with no means of escape and plenty of time for journaling, which I'm definitely not complaining about.

1) I can be really, really mean when I'm tired. Okay, maybe not really mean, but I have barked at people on occasion and it's not something I enjoy about myself. Usually this happens late at night when I'm trying to sleep and someone is trying to talk to me and I let out something not-so-nice to let them know I'd rather not hear their voice. I don't know if this is something I can work on so much, since I'm half-comatose usually, but it's worth a try.

2) I break plans with people. And it's not rare. Someone will text me on a Friday night asking me if I want to go out to the bar on Saturday and I'll be 100% game, then an 8-hour shift on Saturday kicks my butt and I end up staying in and watching "Say Yes to the Dress" and eating Cold Stone. It's not the staying in that I mind, because honestly I just need it sometimes, but the fact that I made the commitment in the first place. I should know enough about myself by now to say "maybe, I'll see how tired I am after work".

3) I don't set aside enough time for my very best friends. This one has been bugging me a lot lately. We all spent the whole summer inseparable and it was by far the best summer I've ever had. Now that school's rolled around we're all extremely busy with our multiple jobs, internships, relationships, and classes. I mean, I live with Derek and we have to pencil each other in to get together for lunch even. All it takes is one person to pick up the phone and make a date, and I admit that person could be me more often.

4) I'm just generally disorganized. Open up my car, my purse, or my bedroom and you'll see evidence of this. The thing is, it's not papers or trash or anything like that- it's clothes (and change, and accessories-ha). Right now my backseat (though I'm not currently driving my car) has a rain coat and boots from when it rained weeks ago, along with other various articles of clothing and accessories. Half my laundry is folded, not put away, and sitting beside my bed while the other half is hanging out in front of the dryer. I'm good at washing and drying my clothes, just not putting them away. This has been a lifelong habit that I hope to break, but honestly a lot of it has to do with carting myself back and forth between Dave's, work, and home. I have to figure something out, though, because it weighs on my mind.

5) I don't see my family enough. I hate making excuses, but I think that's just the way we are and it saddens me. I live 40 minutes away from home and I see my parents maybe once or twice a month. I wish I had the kind of relationship with my brothers where we call each other and chat, but that simply isn't the case. And my extended family- well, that's pretty much restricted to holidays, birthdays, and the occasional visit from my closest Aunt and cousins. I would love to change this and get family together for no good reason other than just to see them. Again, all it would take is picking up the phone, which I admittedly never do. Now that I'm an adult I'm need to start.

I guess the reason I'm mentioning this is because when I take a minute to stop and examine my life from time to time, I can always find ways in which I can improve it. It's all part of the becoming the person I aim to be. I know myself, though, and I know that I'm okay with a quirk and flaw here and there. It's who I am, and as long as the bad outweighs the good I'm alright with that.

-Katie

A Little Bit of Pretty

2010-10-08T09:05:00.001-04:00

I feel like the by the end of every week we could all use a little bit of pretty, so that's just what I went ahead and did. Here's a peak at some of the gems from my "Things I Love" folder on the old notebook.

(Photo Cred: Dear Baby)

I love this simple little phrase carved into the sidewalk here. I seriously want to get it tattooed on me somewhere. And the cute little miss Everly from the blog Dear Baby isn't too bad herself, now is she? So darn cute!

( Photo Cred: Apartment Therapy )

I love the wallpaper in this bathroom. So, so much. If you guys haven't noticed already, photos of people's finely decorated homes are like my porn.

(Photo Cred: Apartment Therapy)

I would love to live in this color scheme forever. Wouldn't you? Gosh, I love saturated colors and strategically stocked bookshelves!

This has been saved on my computer for so long that I don't remember where it came from, but I'm in love with the random storybook feel of this photo shoot. I love cast-iron furniture, too. Sigh.

The same goes for this picture; I don't recall where it's from, but I love it nonetheless. I also have a thing for groupings of framed pictures, if you hadn't noticed that either. And I love brunettes with bangs, so there!

Photo Cred: Yes and Yes

Last, but my current favorite saying/image this week, is this lovely print from Yes and Yes. I hope it makes you as happy to look at as it does me!

That's all for me you guys! I wrote this earlier on in the week, so hopefully by now my car is all fixed up and ready to deliver me to work and class (and hasn't put me that far into debt- eek!). Have a gorgeous Friday!

xoxo

-Katie

It Happens

2010-10-05T06:51:00.000-04:00

Tonight proved to interesting. It's Tuesday, which means I work an overnight shift in the computer lab from 1am-7am. At 12:45 my boyfriend's roommate bursts into Dave's room where I was just waking and says "Dave's brakes went out and I just ran into your car, Katie".

Dave's brakes had indeed gone out earlier that day, but he was able to get his car home safely and into the driveway, where we thought it would stay until the next morning when he was to take it into the shop. Unfortunately, Pepin (roommate) hadn't been informed of this and backed Dave's car down a slanted driveway, only to realize he had no control and could either turn into my car or run into the neighbor's house. Looking at the moderate damage to my car, I'd have to say I prefer that over someone's home, especially since I saw them putting up all these cute Halloween decorations all weekend that would've surely been ruined had Pepin gone any further.

I wasn't mad at all, I was just happy everyone was alright and that all parties involved have insurance. It's going to be an inconvenient couple of days without a car to drive around or a boyfriend without a car, but I'm sure we'll all manage just fine. I think when situations like this arise I tend to stay more cool, calm, and collected because I've never seen the point in throwing a fit. It doesn't help the situation. It only makes you look like an ass an the person responsible feel like a bigger ass than they already do, correct? Well, there are some situations in which a fit is totally called-for, but this wasn't one of them. Because honestly, in the span of a life, what is one little accident where nobody got hurt and my car wasn't even near being totaled going to mean? Not a whole lot. The only thing I see happening from this is a good story and something to heckle Pepin over for the rest of the year. AND I'm going to be Dave's officially unofficial roommate until I have something to drive, due to the fact that he lives across the street from campus and I live across town in the boonies. Get prepared to see pics of us playing house!

Enough of me seeing the silver lining in this situation. Have a happy Tuesday!

xoxo

-Katie

Feeling a Little 1967 Today

2010-09-29T19:04:00.002-04:00

I don't know what got into me the other day, but I seriously think I was channeling 1967. I got mixed reviews on my headband, from "that's interesting" to "I love it!". Honestly, headbands like this one slip off my head unless I pin them down or wear them like a hippie! Even though I have a blog and I wear less-than-normal clothes on the regular, from time to time I still wonder if people think I look weird. Do any of you guys get self-conscious from time to time about your fashion choices? I think people have to be judging sometimes, especially in a place like the middle of Michigan. I guess it's a matter of not-caring after a while, right?

.Outfit.

skirt: wet seal ($10)

wrap: maurices ($22)

headband: charlotte russe ($5)

bracelet: cute little downtown store in Mt Pleasant ($10)

My apologies for the blur. Derek took my pictures and I didn't notice he wasn't holding the camera steady. I still heart him though!

Lots of Love! (Always)

-Katie

Listening to: Teagan and Sara- Back in Your Head

Under Construction

2010-09-19T15:01:00.003-04:00

Hey ladies and gents! I'd just like to take a second and warn you that over the next two days I plan on doing some recon to the blog, so please excuse the mess (and wish me luck in dealing with rewriting some code- eek!).

-Katie

Chicago and Coors, Oh my, Oh my

2010-09-17T22:46:00.003-04:00

Last weekend I ventured out to Holland, MI to visit my best friend in the whole world, Michelle. We had one mission; to get a sitter for the kids and head to Chicago and catch a Brantley Gilbert show. He's an up-and-coming country singer from Georgia who Michelle finds absolutely irresistible. It was probably one of the best times we've ever had together, and that's saying a whole lot!

me before the show... camera a little overexposed! oops!

Michelle! Gosh, I have such beautiful friends!

I'm not going to lie to you guys- we may have gotten a little sauced while we were in Chicago. Michelle insisted on getting there early, which ended up being four hours early and we were a couple of 21-year-olds in a bar for four hours. What'd you expect? Luckily Michelle's mother accompanied us to Chitown, so we had a safe way to get home. I think her presence made the situation that much more fun, though!

the evidence.

We loved the show so much that we're planning on going to another one on November 19th, but the artist that night will be Easton Corbin. Michelle and I just loved that venue so much, and any excuse to escape to Chicago is fine by me! Instead of making it a girl's night, it'll most likely be a double-date with Dave as well! I'm already excited!

Happy Weekend Everybody!
-Katie

Day Off Diary: Saturday, September 4

2010-09-07T18:21:00.010-04:00

As a new feature, I'll be documenting a rare occasion in my life: having a day off. Honestly, a day where I have no class, no meetings, and no shifts at one of my jobs happens maybe a few times a month if I'm lucky. I savor them and try to use them to their full advantage... mm how I love days off...

I started the day off at Dave's soccer game. He was in not even two minutes when he and the other team's goalie collided. They had to call an ambulance for the other guy. Dave limped away with a sore left leg.

Went home and tried to get a good self-taken outfit pic.

Rescued my plants from the freezing cold day.

Nursed poor Dave back to health. He could barely get around after the game :(

Made feel-better stuffed peppers, sauteed squash and mushrooms, and apple crisp. He was a big fan.

Ended the night with a trip to Blockbuster. We went with "Diary of a Whimpy Kid". Not a typical Katie choice, but it was cute.

I feel so relaxed for a change going back to school today. It was a good four days off. Hope your weekends left you feeling just as refreshed!

-Katie

Now listening to: Set Fire to the Third Bar- Snow Patrol

Love, love here we are

2010-09-03T13:00:00.011-04:00

As I'm typing this, I'm letting out an enormous sigh. Oh, the feeling of typing my thoughts as I stare at the Blogger screen. Oh, the joy. Siiiiiigh. It's like feeding an addiction, one I haven't given into for a while. The camera charger for my backup camera has finally arrived! Sadly, I haven't taken outfit pics yet. My only excuses are laziness and lack of a willing man/tripod to get the job done. I'll do better. I promise. Moving on...

You guys- something HUGE happened to me this summer. Enormous! Life-changing! And it took until the end of this glorious season for me to see what was right in front of me from the beginning of it. Since I don't have an outfit post prepared for you, I thought it'd be fitting to introduce you to the love of my life, Dave Estelle. (let the "aww's" ensue)

I spent pretty much my entire summer doing the single thing. I went on dates. I hung out with boys. I made a lot of new friends. And one of those new friends was Dave Estelle. I remember the first time I met him, all the way back in May, he got out of his car while I was blowing up an inner-tube and I pretty much just thought "damn... this guy is going tubing with us!". Being that it was the beginning of summer and floating down the Chippewa River had just gotten started, there were a lot of trees knocked down across the river and obstacles galore. Every time a log was in the way, Dave got out of his tube and helped all the girls across. I was impressed- "nice guy and cute as hell- wow." Being that I just went through a hellish breakup, I didn't give it another thought. According to Dave, at this point he didn't either. He just thought I was a cool friend of a friend.

I'm sure a few of you remember me mentioning that you'd be meeting a guy who'd been taking up a lot of my time earlier on in the summer. Confession: Dave isn't that guy. I kinda sorta got wrapped up with someone who was a huge waste of time and energy, which is probably why it took so long for me to notice Dave. But as it turns out, Dave noticed me all the while. I hosted a ton of bonfires this summer, and according to him at one of them something started to stir and he thought "that Katie Boshans, wonder what's there".

Flash forward a few months of friendly/flirty hangouts, bar trips, conversations, and all-day texting later and you have us a few weeks ago. Waste-of-time guy was out of the picture and I was doing my thing, when who but Dave Estelle calls me and asks if I want to go out and watch the meteor shower happening that night with a few of his friends. I had already had plans to go watch it with my friends, but when they ended up bailing I went out with Dave. Little mix-ups like that make me believe in fate. A few of us laid on the hood of my car and watched the stars for a few hours and talked and talked and talked. When a girl we went out with had to go home, we left and headed to meet some of our friends at a local spot, O'Kelly's. The whole time we were there Dave and I were just kind of looking at each other until he text me "let's get out of here and go watch more meteors". I dropped the drunken roommates off and Dave and I headed back out there.

That's when it all clicked- sitting on the trunk of my car watching the stars in Dave Estelle's arms. Just when I started to think that guy didn't exist anymore, in walks Dave. And we've been inseparable ever since. He took me home with him less that a week later where I met the folks and two of his four (crazy, I know) brothers and that night we realized that we're madly in love with each other, so why not make this official? And that's how it happened...

So here we are 2 weeks in and I'm happier with him than I have been with anyone else in my entire life. As soon as we told our friends, people were like "I never would've thought of it but you guys are meant for each other" and "earlier on in the summer I saw you two together and I just knew you'd end up a couple". Every time he introduces me to someone I didn't know, he always say "this is my girlfriend, Katie" with such pride... and so far his friends have all said "this girl is perfect for you!" The way I feel about Dave is the way people always describe the way they felt when they met "The One". That whole "sometimes when you know, you just know" feeling... well we've got it. It's both intense and comforting at the same time. He's got everything I always felt was missing and we feel like we've been together for a really long time. Hopefully life is kind to us, because this here is something special. And I'm really excited to share our story with you guys!

Well, I hope you got your fill of lovey-doviness for the day. That's all she wrote. Time to open some books and get down to learning (the fall semester has started, you know).

Love, Love, Love
-Katie

Listening to: Sufjan Stevens- All Delighted People

Fill In The Blank Friday: Part 3

2010-08-06T08:11:00.005-04:00

Here we are with another version of Fill in the Blank Friday, courtesy of The Little Things We Do.

1. Today for breakfast I ate nothing substantial.... I did try and chow down half a powdered donut on my way out the door but it was quite stale. So I downed some chocolate milk and was on my way.

2.My go to/never fail recipe Potato enchiladas- they never fail!

3. Something I eat that other people think is weird is I always get mixed responses when I combine corn and applesauce.

4. My worst cooking disaster ever was I've forgotten about boiling water and burned pans before (Lauren, you're not alone!) and another time I couldn't find my easy bake oven extractor tool thingy, so I put a metal pan with the mixture in the microwave for 12 minutes. The house filled with smoke after about 5 minutes and I now realize how lucky I was to not set it on fire. eek!

5. If I could only eat one flavor of ice cream the rest of my life it would be Cherry Garcia! And preferably the FroYo kind.

6. One food I hate and avoid at all costs is Hmmm.... I'd have to say this ginger dressing from a Japanese steakhouse my family loves. It makes me gag.

7. What's your favorite meal? Breakfast, lunch, or dinner? Dinner for sure- but I do like breakfast for dinner. haha.

You guys have a marvelous Friday yourselves, and I have a lifestyle post coming up here in the next couple of days. I'm still camera shopping and I'm looking at a mega upgrade. I'm sick of point-n-shoots breaking on me!

-Katie

Currently listening to: Eric Hutchinson- Ok, It's Alright With Me

Music of the Moment: Summer Edition

2010-08-02T10:11:00.003-04:00

Hello fellow bloggers! I'm still without a camera and working on getting that situated, but in the mean-time I thought it'd be a good idea to update you on what's been in my ear buds lately.

Favorite lyrics: "Well, diamonds they fade. And flowers they bloom. And I'm telling you these feelings won't go away."

I love the intro to this song...and that voice on Citizen Cope- wow. There's actually a version with Santana that I enjoy 10 times more, but it wouldn't allow me to embed it. Anyways... every time I hear it, I have the urge to make out in the rain. Someday...

Favorite lyrics: "I aint settlin' for just gettin' by. I've had enough so-so for the rest of my life"

Yes! I listen to country sometimes! And this song has been my anthem lately. It's about not knowing the difference between "right now" and "forever" boys and not settling for less when you're looking for more. As far as anthems go, it's a pretty good one in my book!

Favorite lyrics: "I don't wanna run. Just overwhelm me"

One of my all-time favorite bands is Snow Patrol. This song is actually the first part of a 15 minute epic song at the end of their latest album. It's just... powerful to me. The first few times I heard it I got chills.

You guys have a glorious Monday, ya hear?

XoXo
Katie

Modcloth Game: Round 2

2010-07-29T10:00:00.001-04:00

Ladies and gents! It's time again to play my favorite game: "Fill Your Modcloth Basket With Gorgeous Clothes and Pretend You Can Afford Them"! I play this game a couple times a month, thinking the whole time that when I get out there in the real world and start making those bucks, pieces just like these will be mine! Until then, one can dream.

Painted Roses Skirt- $54.99

Why do I love thee?:
If this skirt were in a bar, I'd be flirting with it hard core. That's how attracted to it I am. It's just so... right. Look at the colors! Beautiful! The high waist- perfection!

How would I style it?
I can picture wearing it with a white bodysuit and a black boyfriend blazer... maybe with some black patent oxfords.

Where to wear?
Gosh, if I owned this skirt I'd wear it to class, to the library, on a first date... everywhere.

Lavender Hill Dress- $28.99

Why do I love thee?:
I don't think it could get more feminine unless it was a floral print. It's a beautiful color and I love the detail.

How would I style it?
I have pale pink heels that are just dying to be paired with a dress this cute. Throw in a classy cocktail ring, maybe a small charm necklace and you're out the door.

Where to wear?
I'm picturing a cute dinner date or a walk in the park. And of course an outfit shoot!

Rehearsal Dinner Dress- $47.99

Why do I love thee?:
This dress is so sweet and stunning, while doing something I love: making it simple. The print on that skirt is so precious... and the belt! gasp!

How would I style it?
I'd have to go with some black flats, a black bowler hat or some milkmaid braids, and a blue cardigan with chunky silver jewelry.

Where to wear?
I'd wear this to class, study sessions, a coffee date with friends, or to open mic night (and probably get complimented everywhere)

Alright, that's enough lusting for one day. I feel like I'm in really going for feminine frocks nowadays and my selection today backs that up even more. I'm short and finding the right length of pant is a pain in my butt, so skirts and dresses seem to just be easier, but they're also more stylish and girly most of the time! Win-win. I'm sure I'll play the game again soon enough. Until then- back to Goodwill and dreaming ; )

Love Love Love,
Katie

Pictured Rocks

2010-07-26T12:22:00.001-04:00

Here it is: the blog post about my epic adventure to Pictured Rocks!

Way back in March I saw a photo on a friend's facebook of a day trip he took to Pictured Rocks in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It sparked an idea in my head that lead to research, which lead to making plans for an epic backwoods camping adventure! A few months later there I was, standing in the very spots I'd seen pictures of, looking at the sights with my very own eyes... magical. This isn't going to be a fashion post, because well guys- cute clothes, makeup, and the wilderness don't exactly mix.. but I hope you enjoy it just the same!

Here's the gang! I'm sure you guys remember my roommate/best friend Derek! The lady in yellow is my best friend/old roommate Jessica and beside her is her friend Kaitlyn!

The place where we went hiking is called The National Lakeshore Trail, at the very top of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It's 42 miles long in its entirety, but we figured since it was our first go we should only do half. In the end I believe we did about 25 miles of hiking in 4 days and I'm grateful that we didn't do the full trail. We were exhausted when we got back to the car. The whole time you're on the trail you're either looking at Lake Superior or less than 20 feet from where you can see it. Lake Superior is so beautiful and clean and just... endless. I think Tieka from Selective Potential has mentioned before that The Great Lakes are really like oceans because they go as far as the eye can see- and she's right!There were all these mini trails that lead you to special places, too. One of them lead to a sandy cliff-top beach that had wild raspberries growing on it! I think that was my favorite.

The view from the back of our caravan!

left- view from the cliffs/ right- Derek looking so cute on one of our many breaks

left: Kaitlyn looking so adorable @ the beach/right: a sign we didn't listen to

Beaver Lake- gorgeous to hike!

I'm a true Michigan girl in that I love to get out and do things like this! Yes, I slept on a raft in a tent for three nights. Yes, it took about an hour to boil water at night and cook my Ramen. And yeah, you bet I washed up in Lake Superior... and it was amazing! And when I say that we "hiked" I mean we busted ass. We were going at a pace faster than I maintain when walking to class in a rush- with a 40+ pound pack on my back! My calves ached for days after I got back from the trip. And it was all so worth it to say that we did it! If you're into this kind of thing and you live in Michigan, I can't recommend it enough! It'll be a trip filled with those moments... you know... where you're looking out over the water and everything just falls into place and you feel at peace. Yeah, those moments- the ones you live for.

left: Jess and I @ Chapel Rock/ right: sunset @ Mosquito Beach

our packs!

On a sad note, this trip is responsible for my lack of outfit posts as well. Somehow my camera broke at the beginning of day 3, and now I'm sans working point and shoot. Hmph. I'm working on getting a new one here soon, or a new charger for an old standby I have laying around. Let's hope it's real soon because I'm having posing withdrawals!

Until next time,
Katie

Listening to: The Decemberists- The Hazards of Love 4: the drowned

The Last Two Weeks

2010-07-19T20:27:00.010-04:00

It's been so long since I've posted that I almost forgot how! Well... there are several reasons why I haven't been blogging lately guys. And to be honest, none of them are good. In the last two weeks I've experienced things I never thought I would and they've changed how I look at life. I'm glad I'm such an optimist, because I probably wouldn't have made it through some of this stuff in one piece if I weren't. So here it goes...

A week and a half ago, I went to the hospital with abdominal pain. This is not the first time this has happened. Actually, it's the third time this year. It turns out my appendix was inflamed, but not infected, and therefore did not need to be removed. Since it's the third time this has happened, but the first time they've actually found out what's wrong with me, I kind of hoped it was the time it'd be removed just so I can get it over with. Not this time, though. While I was there they found some other things potentially wrong with me and that was the scariest part of all. The "c" word came up. Scary, scary, scary. Don't worry guys, it turns out that everything is fine with me, but something in me kind of woke up. I realized that hey- I'm 21 and anything could happen to me. I realized I have a lot of living left to do... a lot more hours I could spend with friends instead of in front of the TV, that I should take more time to call my mother throughout the week... that I should love without bounds.

And that takes me to the second life-changing event that's happened to me recently. Last Tuesday I went to a local bar called The Cabin for their long islands that I'm so fond of. My girlfriends and I sat outside until the mosquitos started eating our feet. We decided to move our get-together inside at that point. I chose a table in the middle of the bar and hadn't even set my drink down at 10:45 when a man in a red shirt walked up to a booth not ten feet in front of my face, pulled out a gun, and shot a man four times.

It's like a mini movie running over and over again in my head. I remember the noise- which at the time I thought was the loudest dropping of dishes I'd ever heard. Once everyone realized what had happened there was screaming and scattering. My friend was hysterical, but somehow we got outside, climbed a fence, and ran across the road where I proceeded to call a friend to come get me. And then I sat in his house, not knowing how to react for a few hours. For a few minutes of my life I thought I might be shot. I literally ran for my life, dodging people who were crouched down behind tables. And I never thought I'd ever write about this. Not ever. But it happened.

The man who was shot four times died. The man responsible took off in his car, crashed it, and then proceeded to kill himself. Inside his car they found more guns and ammo, along with a bullet-proof vest, so police think he meant to have a stand-off inside the bar. I can't express enough how grateful I am that didn't happen.

Two days later I went on a camping adventure in the UP with two of my closest friends and one of their friends. It was just what I needed after my hellish week. It gave me time to reflect and reevaluate. I saw some beautiful sights and worked harder than I have in a long time. We hiked almost 30 miles in four days up steep terrains, cooked our food over the fire, drank water from Lake Superior, journaled while watching the sunset, and bathed in nature. I get to cross something positive off my bucket list now and for that I am thankful. (I'll post pictures of this adventure in another post soon)

In ending this post, I'd just like to say that I'm grateful for the life I live and even for these experiences that have opened my eyes to all that I should improve upon within it. My thoughts have been with the other people who experienced what I did and worse last Tuesday, and I hope they're all finding peace with what happened. Here's to better days and hopes that when we find ourselves in the thick of the fog, we can all find our way out again.

Love and hugs
-Katie

Fill in the Blank Friday pt 2

2010-07-02T07:56:00.002-04:00

Hi Hi! I figured since I had so much fun participating in The Little Things We Do's Fill in the Blank Friday feature last week, I might as well keep on keeping on. So, without further ado, here it goes!

photo cred: The Little Things We Do

1. This weekend for The 4th of July I'll be going to at least one friend's cottage on a lake in Michigan for some quality time and some sun.

2. Fireworks are are overrated, just like parades and marching bands .

3. Nothing says summer like bonfires and floating down the Chippewa River!!!

4. My favorite summer memory is sitting on a sand dune in Ludington, MI, journaling, cuddling, and watching the sun go down.

5. My favorite thing about summer is the feel of the sun on my skin, the perfume that flowers bring to the air, the ease at which I can run at night, having my sunroof down, thunderstorms (mild ones), bonfires, cook-outs... there's a lot I love about summer.

6. Summer in a word is living (because i feel like in summer you're truly alive in a way that you aren't any other time of year in Michigan) .

7. If I could choose to have summer or winter year round I'd pick I would actually choose fall, but since that's not an option, summer indeed. Mainly because I HATE and I mean HATE driving in the snow. My car sucks at it. And the feeling of cold, blowing air on my face- makes me wish I could grow a beard.

Thanks for reading! Make sure if you haven't already done it yet to stop by The Little Things We Do and participate! It's a lot of fun, I swears it :) Have a happy Friday- and like I said on Memorial Day... don't eat too many hot dogs this weekend!

-Katie

If Derek Jumped off a Bridge, Apparently I Would Too

2010-06-29T10:34:00.013-04:00

I'll bet you guys are curious about the title of this post. Well, I'll just jump right into that right quick... yesterday I jumped off a bridge. Okay- it was only about 30 feet above a river, and yes- I've seen other people do it, but yesterday I did it. And let me just tell you guys- it will be the last time I'm peer pressured into doing something juvenile. After much convincing from my bestie, Derek, I agreed to the task, blaming him and the sudden appearance of what little sense of adventure I posses. The minute I hit the water my suit top was over my head and my ears felt like they'd been jabbed with screwdrivers. Not fun. I then spent the remainder of the evening complaining, putting alcohol in my sore, water-logged ears, and blow-drying them in hopes of getting rid of the pain. Finally this morning I feel better, but my hearing isn't 100%. Bah... So when your mom says "if he jumped off a bridge, would you do it too", apparently for me the answer is "yes". Oh, what a cliche!

In order to get my mind off the unfortunate event, I got dressed up all cute and had Derek take some outfit pics around downtown Mt Pleasant. And let me just tell you guys- it was a blast! I'm sad I ever doubted my guy's photographer abilities. He can point and shoot with the best of them. (ha) I'm sure you'll be seeing a lot of Derek in the future. Not only is he my best friend in the whole universe, but he's also my roommate. I may just do a post dedicated to my love of all things Derek one of these days. And if this becomes a regular thing, you bet I'll be submitting our story to Selective Potential for her Guy Behind the Camera feature!

(DEREK!)

And now to acknowledge my outfit: Every now and again the Goodwill gods part the heavens and deliver to me a piece that is so perfectly me that I just have to go "geeee" when I see it. This dress, my friends, is one of those pieces. It's perfect! No stains, no rips, barely worn, and so very Katie Boshans' style. In fact, everything that I wore on this shoot is either from a thrift store or vintage from Ebay! I feel like that's the first time I've put together a completely recycled outfit! Go me!

(dress- Old Navy from Goodwill- $4, boots- vintage $30, belt- Goodwill $2)

Well, that's all for today. I must say- it feels good to do an outfit post again. Who needs tripods when you've got Derek! We seriously had so much fun! Anywhoo... I've been thinking of how much I miss my blogger friends and want to try and plan a trip for some of them to come have a day up here in Mt Pleasant! You know- have a day-long float down the Chip River, grill out, get some outfit pics, and then bonfire! More to come on that! Have a wonderful Tuesday!

-Katie

Now listening to: Whatever It Is- Zac Brown Band

The Little Things We Do's Fill in the Blank Friday

2010-06-25T08:31:00.004-04:00

I'll admit it: I've visited The Little Things We Do almost every day for a year and have yet to participate in her Fill in the Blank Friday feature. Shame on me, I know! So I thought I'd remedy that here and now.

1. If I could choose my last meal it would be my best friend, Jessica's grilled chicken pesto pizza. it's simply the best.

2. My favorite person to share a meal with is my girlfriends because, we're the kind of girls who pass around plates and drinks like germs don't exist. Just last night I made a huge Mexican dinner and we were passing around our Jarritos sodas so everyone could have a taste. Love those ladies!

3. The best meal I've ever had was the dinner my high school boyfriend made me when I was sick. It was a simple grilled cheese, but it was made with love (the best ingredient).

4. The one food that makes me feel instantly better when I'm having a bad day is I'm actually an emotional food-abstainer, not an emotional eater, but I will say that mango sorbet lifts my spirits.

5. My absolute specialty in the kitchen is I make the best potato enchiladas. People hear me say I'm making them and sign up for spots at my table.

6. The city that has the best food is I haven't been that many places, so for me where I live right now has the best food- Mt Pleasant! haha and my favorite restaurant there is China Garden. I kind of have a thing for Chinese food.

7. My favorite healthy snack is low sodium triscuits with monterey jack cheese slices. yummm.

8. In my opinion the nationality which has the best food is Italian. All the best comfort foods seem to fall into this category: pizza, pasta, canolis... mmmm.

9. If I could learn to cook anything in the world (and be really good at it!) I'd choose cakes. I would love love LOVE to be able to whip out an amazing wedding cake or birthday cake, but alas, it's not in the cards for me friends.

10. The most outrageous dessert I've ever had was some sort of flaming apple pie thing with ice cream on the side. It was intense!

Now I know you guys must think I have a huge zit on my nose or I've gained 20 pounds or some other crazy thing is keeping me from being in front of a camera, but honestly it's the combination of being very busy, having no tripod, having a limited selection of clean laundry, and the fact that my days have been filled with the cutest boy that I'm sure you'll all meet soon enough. But I've always said "blogging over boys", so I'll get my priorities straight soon enough. Haha. I've never said that, but maybe I should start, eh?

-Katie

Things I Love: This Room!

2010-06-23T10:59:00.003-04:00

Oh blog, how I've missed you this past week! Sorry guys- I've been doing grad parties, working my butt off, settling into the duplex (still, I know), and I've kinda sorta been going out on quite a few dates with a certain gentleman friend of mine. Life is good, but I miss taking outfit pics, so hopefully I get around to that tonight.

Until then, I wanted to share with you one of the prettiest pictures of a room I've seen in a long time. When I have a kid, I would love to give them an inspiring space like this one. I can just imagine folding all the little origami cranes with them... sigh. Maybe one day, years and years from now. Until then I can be inspired, right? ENJOY!

-Katie

A Little Game...

2010-06-15T19:36:00.003-04:00

Good afternoon, Lovelies! I have some sad news- I am without my trusty tripod, or rather, Nick's trusty tripod. The old "let's exchange our things" tradition commenced this week and that was part of the deal. So now every time I look cute as a button I'll be asking one of my ever-so-eager male roommates to take photos of me. Let's just say I'm a little concerned about what the outcome will be, but hey- maybe one of them will have some hidden photography talent! We will see.

Until then, I'd like to introduce you to a little game I like to play. It's called the "Put things you love into the shopping bag at ModCloth and pretend you can afford them" game! Sounds like fun, doesn't it? Well it is- until you realize how broke you are paying for stupid things like tuition and cable. I'd much prefer buying all the pretty things in my basket, but alas- such is life.

"Beach Blanket Bingo"

I've had my eye on this one-piece for a while- and I still might buy it. I think it's just perfect in so many ways! I can just imagine pairing it with some red heels and lipstick, all Bettie-ed out!

"Arabian Tights"

You guys might not know this about me, but my favorite season for dressing is fall. I loooove boots and tights and sweaters! And these tights make me think of all the outfits I could add some lacy texture to!

"In Stitches Heel"

And last but not least, my feet need to look pretty- and they would indeed in these gorgeous yellow heels. Sigh. Not only do I wish I could afford them, but that they were actually back in stock as well. I would wear these with everything!

I won't bore you with all of my lusted items, but I thought I'd give you a taste! I should probably be shopping around for a new tripod, right? See you guys soon, and have a wonderful Wednesday!

-Katie

Listening to: Come On Get Higher- Matt Nathanson

She & Him Michigan Blogger Meetup!!!!

2010-06-10T07:51:00.004-04:00

Hey everybody! I bet you're all wondering how the She & Him blogger meetup went. And in a word- FABULOUS!

I met up with Sara, Lauren, and Kat before the show for some vegetarian pizza at the Royal Oak Brewery, where Sara's lovely man Kyle was so kind as to take some group shots of us all. Thanks Kyle!

SARA!

LAUREN!

KAT!

The concert was AMAZING! Zooey was so cute and M.Ward... do I even have to say it? Okay, I will- he's a little indie hottie. I honestly didn't expect their show to be as lively as it was, their music being a little more laid-back and all, but it was festive! They did a lot of covers and Zooey surprised me with all of her jumping around and tambourine shaking. I'd definitely go to see She & Him again, as long as I can be promised a spot that's not behind a freakishly tall guy. I swear that always happens to me!

And as for blogger friends, these girls are as good as they come. I love the instant connection you make with some people, and I have to say that Sara and I have it. It's like we've been friends for years and years, when we've actually only seen each other in person twice. And I can't believe I met Maria of Lulu Letty after the show! We went to a bar and got some beers and talked shop. It was fabulous!

Have a fabulous Thursday everyone! And don't be too jealous that I was in the same room as Zooey this weekend ; )

-Katie

Reunions... and hot dogs

2010-05-30T20:12:00.006-04:00

Hey guys! I hope you're enjoying your Memorial Day weekend! I know I am! For one, my older brother is home from Iraq and visiting the family. And I've been floating down the Chippewa River all weekend long getting my bronze on. Tonight it's a bonfire back home with old friends and tomorrow is more of the same. I wish every weekend was this awesome- and this long!

(dress- thrifted $4, belt- thrifted $2, shoes- Target $25, bangle- Forever 21 $5, Sunglasses- lost & found $0) Total outfit cost- $37!

I picked up this little H&M dress from a thrift store in Holland for $4! Come to think of it, this belt is from a thrift store as well. Pretty soon I'll be able to throw together a complete outfit from thrifted pieces- if only a size 6.5 wasn't so hard to find in shoes!

Have a wonderful weekend, ladies and gents! Don't eat TOO many hot dogs!

-Katie

Listening to my current anthem: Carrie Underwood- Undo It

Music of the Moment

2010-05-26T10:03:00.005-04:00

Hey guys! Since I haven't had time to dress myself attractively in the morning due to my INSANE schedule, let alone take outfit pics, I thought I'd introduce you to some of my favorite songs of the moment.

These babies have been playing on my "shower" playlist all week. Yes, I have a playlist for when I take showers. Don't you?

I have a feeling this one's going to be playing in my car (and my shower) all summer long.

They disabled embedding for the legit music video for this, so here's the link to the better version, but for blogging's sake- here's one version.

I think I have a thing for songs with clapping in the background and guitar strumming this year. And you can never go wrong with Iron & Wine.

And alas, every summer this song finds its way into my ear buds. It's just so... breezy?

You guys have a glorious Wednesday, ya hear? And for the record- shower playlists are perfectly normal ; )

-Katie

Moving-On Town

2010-05-22T12:27:00.004-04:00

Hey guys! Long time, no post, eh? Sorry about that... I'm taking 6 credits in 3 weeks, so my life has been all reading, group projects, and naps. Trust me, I'd rather be blogging. But I did manage to snap a few outfit shots Thursday. They're at my new duplex on my brand new porch in my brand new back yard! Can you tell I'm a wee bit excited? And look!- I even whipped out the old green thumb and planted something pretty! Gosh, I love summer and new beginnings!

(blouse- Target $20, shorts- JC Penney $34, shoes- Goodwill $4)

So you know that ache I was talking about in my last post? Those pangs of rejection that kept finding me no matter what I did? Well guys, worry no further: I'm happy to announce that they're officially gone- and have been replaced with a level of pissed-offness that only someone who's female can fully understand. How does the saying go... "hell hath no fury like a woman scorned", or something like that?

I'm not revenge pissed off or anything like that. No, no- I'm not pulling a Carrie Underwood and slashing tires or carving my name into someone's seats. I generally try to play nice. Honestly, deep down I find that I'm a little grateful when people behave in a way that makes it so unbelievably easy to not miss them. I should probably send out a "thank you" letter, I'm so grateful. Sign him up for the wine of the month club or something. Any suggestions? <--- That was a joke, guys.

I'm hoping this will be the last post EVER that I even mention my situation with he-who-shall-not-be-named, but I know that sometimes life throws us curveballs and you never know what's coming. For now, all I can say is I've merged off heartbreak highway and into moving-on town. It's a real fun place to be after you've been on the road so long, let me tell you. ; )

-Katie

The Breakup

2010-05-15T01:45:00.005-04:00

Well guys, I'll bet you've been wondering where I've been lately. I haven't legitimately posted anything on Tinda Keelie in about two weeks, and with good reason:

It was exam week, I'm in the middle of moving, and worst of all- Nick and I broke up.

Don't worry, it was mutual at the time. And the reason I haven't posted is that, well guys, quite frankly I've been a mess. Instead of blogging, I've had straight-out-of-the-movies break up syndrome. I've never, ever been this heartbroken before in my life. But last night I had an epiphany that changed my attitude about this situation completely:

I miss him very, very much, so much at times that I've ached all over, and there's no getting around that, but I'm not living my life based on the hope that we'll get back together. It just can't happen any more. It's not getting me anywhere positive.

Yes, it will be lonely at times, and yes, it might even begin to suck, but I'll do this every day knowing that I'm doing what's best for me and that I'm one step closer to finding that great kind of love again (whether that be with someone new or found again with Nick). Who knows what the future holds? Definitely not me- and that feels both terrifying and liberating at the same time.

-Katie

Just a Friendly Reminder

2010-05-12T15:07:00.000-04:00

Hey everybody! Just reminding you of the Michigan fashion meet-up scheduled for June 6th!

There's still tickets available for the She & Him concert, but if that's not your thing and you still want to come on out, we'll be meeting up for some photos before the show and then going out for drinks afterward.

Come on- you wouldn't want to miss the chance to hang out with Sara of She Is Sara, Maria of Lulu Letty, and myself, now would you?

Email me for information @ bosha1ks@cmich.edu :)

-Katie

SALE!

2010-05-03T14:26:00.004-04:00

Hey guys! No, it's not an outfit post (sadly). I have exams this week, so I've been living in some form of athletic clothes and surrounded by books for the past few days. That's not going to change until Thursday (can't wait).

So instead of an outfit post, I have for you an announcement: Tulle is having a huge sale tonight!
I'm talking amazing clothes for $3.

"What is this 'Tulle' you speak of?" some of you may be asking... Well... it's this store I'm kind of obsessed with that features vintage-inspired pieces. Every so often they have Tulle's Days with mad sales and this one is supposed to be the best yet. I seriously bought 7 things for under $40 last time this happened. For us in Michigan, the sales open at 3 am, but if you're on the West coast it's midnight. The clothes that are on sale aren't revealed until that magical hour, but it's always good stuff.

Enjoy! (and you're welcome)

-Katie

The Last 5 Movies I've Watched

2010-04-26T23:20:00.008-04:00

I saw this on Ebony & Ivory's blog and thought I'd answer her question: What are the last 5 movies I've watched?

1) Sex, Lies, and Videotape

Honestly guys, I didn't really like this movie. Netflix recommended it and they were wrong. It was really slow-moving, and I think overrated by the critics. I do love James Spader's refreshing role as something other than a villain, and I could stare at Andy MacDowell's locks for hours, but I probably won't watch it again. I'm on the fence.

2) Pretty Woman

An old favorite- I grew up to this movie. It was on TBS the other night, so I decided to watch it (with limited commercials, I might add). It makes me happy, what can I say?

3) Love Story

I don't know if I believe the whole "love means never having to say you're sorry" bit, but the rest of the movie I dig. It's not the greatest love story ever told, but it gets tears from me every time and I just love Jenny's character. Go rent it (or watch it streaming on netflix like I did- and grab some tissue).

4) She's Out of My League

I loved this movie (for a comedy, anyways). It made me laugh and that was it's job, but it didn't do it in a gross-out, guy-humor sort of way. My roommate and I got some one-liners out of it like "go shit in your hand" which is the true test of a good comedy. One critique- the character who played Marnie is reminiscent of most of Zooey Deschanel's mainstream roles- sassy and sarcastic. It makes me wonder who I like more, Hmm...

5) The Way We Were

The names, the story line, a female-activist character... *sigh*... I kinda liked this movie. I love Barbra Streisand's acting and I love looking at Robert Redford in his dress whites, so that's a plus! However, the story is a little slow, then quick and you miss out on their relationship developing. Then he leaves at the end without ever seeing his kid and you're left wondering why he couldn't be a dad even though he wasn't with her anymore. Mild irritations, but otherwise a great movie with a phenomenal score.

I don't usually have so many chick flicks in my lineup. I guess it's just been one of those months, eh? And none of my favorite films are on the list. Interesting indeed.

So, here I am forwarding it to you: What were the last 5 movies you watched?

-Katie

Brilliant!

2010-04-25T15:36:00.003-04:00

I think this is just brilliant! I was carousing through the apartment therapy site (when I should've been doing homework) and found a post on this bad boy. I'm picturing it in my room and thinking of all the possibilities- a scrap-booking space, somewhere to use my sewing machine, work out bills, journal, use the laptop. And it's only $160 at overstock.com. I mean, I already have a desk but this one is just too cool! I can't get over it. I don't plan on living anywhere with too much space for a while and this desk is the perfect answer to a small floor plan. AND it'd be so easy to move from place to place, as opposed to the big one I have now. I don't think I'll buy it, but it's nice to dream.

-Katie

A Little Bit of Streakage

2010-04-21T20:47:00.004-04:00

Drum-roll please....

and now presenting my sorta-kinda new hair-do:

not the picture I wanted to use, but my 'puter died @ work before I could post any more to photobucket

a bit better view of my new streakage

You might be wondering "where on earth is Katie taking her photos today?". Well, I had 3 roommates, then one of them moved out and left this empty glorious space! (I was a wee bit excited to see her go) I don't know what she did to the door to get it so black and dirty, but I suppose it's interesting to look at.

By the way, I took these pics before I took off for work and decided to take a chance and keep the red lips rolling. Now every few people who come up to ask me for prints look at me like I'm crazy. I guess the just don't appreciate my vintage flare. (giggles) At least I have you guys. Ha.

(dress- Tulle $8, shoes- grandma's $0, belt- thrifted $2, necklace- thrifted $2)

Oh yeah, back to the important topic: my hair. I walked in and they were having a special on foils, so I went with some streakage instead of all-over color. I don't know if it's enough yet. We'll see. I was hoping for more of a drastic change, so if I still feel the same way in a week or so I might visit the beauty school and get some more done.

What do you guys think?

-Katie

New Hair Time

2010-04-20T22:49:00.001-04:00

Alright guys, it's become painfully clear to me that this hairstyle I'm rocking at the moment just isn't working for me. I've colored it myself for some time now and I think I've reached a point where I need professional intervention. Badly. So tomorrow I'm going down to my trusty hair salon and getting a new Spring do. These pictures are my inspiration:

I'm thinking that I'll go with a light brown base and maybe throw a few blond streaks in here and there. I'm indecisive about anything hair related (which is why it usually ends up having nothing done to it), so the final product will most likely be nothing like that. Gosh- the last time I dyed my hair I said it'd be that last time. I guess that went out the window.

Oh yeah- and then there's the whole 'bangs' thing. Grow them out? Keep them blunt? That's an even bigger debate than color. Ugh. I guess we'll see in my next post. And thanks for your input/ letting me rant about hair! Love you guys :)

-Katie

Katie and Nick's Butterfly House Adventure!

2010-04-18T00:49:00.001-04:00

I'm going to let you guys in on a little bit of a secret: even though I like to act like I'm all adult-ish, I'm really a little kid on the inside. I still like to twirl and hop around like a rabbit, sing 'I'm a Little Teapot" and watch "Enchanted"- and I'm also quite fond of butterfly houses. I've gone to Midland Dow Gardens every couple of years since I can remember to visit their butterfly house in the Spring and this was the first year that I was able to share it with Nick. We took Wednesday off to have an "us" day to go see some butterflies and explore Midland- and honestly, it was the happiest I've been in a really, really long time.

{it was us, a few seniors, and busloads of kids visiting the butterflies- she was so cute}

{a hungry butterfly}

{on the Tridge in Midland- one of my few serious outfit pics}

{Nicholas taking pics- isn't he cute?}

{being silly @ Dow Gardens}

{our attempt at self-timed photos}

{Nick scaring the crap out of me/ attempting/failing to climb that tree}

{I seriously want to frame this pic of our feet. It's so cute- btw that's fake blood from a zombie walk we did around Halloween, not real blood (in case you were wondering). haha}

And that concludes my 'Katie and Nick's Butterfly House Adventure" post. I'll end with saying that days like this one only help to remind how wonderful of a boyfriend I've ended up with. We're a perfect match- it's safe to say he's still a bit of a kid inside as well, which helps me remember I still am too. Thanks babe

-Katie

21st Birthday Recap

2010-04-14T16:44:00.005-04:00

So, it's taken me a few days to recover from my 21st birthday, but now that I have I thought I'd share some of the pictures. It was an AMAZING party that Nick and his roommates threw. AMAZING. I'm still hearing good things and it happened Saturday night. A photojournalist who graduated from CMU last year happened to be there and got some awesome shots. You should check out her blog here. I think the pictures will tell the story of how it went, so this is where I'll stop typing. Okay- I lied- I'd like to tell you all that I didn't get waaasted on my birthday. I was mildly intoxicated and actually had to assist drunker people to bed. So yeah. Points for me. Now onto the photos:

(one of the DJ's, Joe Hertler)

(random graffiti)

(Nicholas blowing some UV bubbles)

(my friend, Katie, blowing some bubbles- awesome shot)

And now onto pictures taken by some not-so-skilled people.

(my first drink in a bar- Rum and Coke)

(Nicholas and I- look how raved up we are! He wins)

(my bestie Jess and I dancing- Brandon in the background being, well, Brandon)

(this was a fun moment- that guy there pulled us down on the couch thinking it'd be funny. we didn't find it so funny- but hey- we didn't spill our beers. haha.)

Thanks for the birthday wishes guys! 21 is for sure going to be a fun-filled year, I just know it :)

-Katie

Happy UnBirthday to ME!

2010-04-09T17:09:00.006-04:00

(blouse- Old Navy $12, skirt- Maurices- $33, sweater- TJ Maxx $14, shoes- Journeys $40)

Hey Hey! So I don't know what's been going on with this Michigan weather, but it better stop! It was closing in on the 80's last week, and yesterday it was snowing. Not happy, weather- clean up your act! I guess the main reason why I want it to get nice out is because tomorrow is my 21st birthday! We're going out to the bar at midnight so I can get my first taste of legal alcohol consumption, then tomorrow night there's going to be a rave party at Nick's. I'm so excited!

I just went out and bought a massive amount of glow sticks, neon hair color, neon nail polish, bright green wings, and a neon yellow shirt that I'm going to hack up and make special. I think I might have gone overboard... well I haven't found the perfect tiara yet. Maybe then I'll have gone overboard.

What else did I do today? Oh yeah, I went on a job interview. Today's outfit post is what I wore to the gig. I think it went well, but I guess we'll have to wait and find out, won't we? I shouldn't leave out todays biggest accomplishment: Nick and I went to this diner called "The Pixie". It's one of our traditions to play Connect 4 when we go there, even though it's intended for little kids. Up until today, he was winning by a landslide. When I say "landslide" I mean that out of all the times we've went I've only won once (and we've gone there A LOT). But today I won 3/3!!!! Go me!

Nick making his move. I looooove that mustache- and he's thinking of shaving it off! ee

Me, amazed that I had actually won. haha.

Have an AMAZING Friday everyone, and if I'm not too busy recovering Sunday I'll post my birthday pictures : )

-Katie

She & Him!

2010-04-08T13:53:00.003-04:00

Hey everybody! You may be wondering what all the She & Him craziness is all about. Well.... they just happen to be performing in Michigan on June 6th and I'm going! And so is Sara of She is Sara and Maria of Lulu Letty! Since we already have three bloggers in the mix, we decided we should arrange some form of a get-together and make it a blogger date!

So here it is!

Just to tell you- this is isn't just for bloggers! Feel free to bring/spread the word to any fashionably-inclined friend you may have as well! We aren't sure where we're meeting in Royal Oak yet or where we're going after, but we DO know that we're going to see She & Him in the middle, so... if you would like to purchase tickets, they set me back about $35 and you can get them here: (tickets).

I'm super excited because it combines a few of my favorite things: blogging (check), She & Him (check), and Royal Oak (check)! I looooooove Royal Oak. It's where I want to live after I graduate- hands down! It's the cutest hip little town. *Sigh* So yeah, I'm excited!

If you have any questions or need more info or ANYTHING, feel free to contact me @ bosha1ks@cmich.edu : )

-Katie

I'm ALIVE

2010-04-03T21:32:00.004-04:00

(dress- TJ Maxx $14, boots- vintage $20, hat- Forever21 $8)

Hey everybody! That's right, I'm alive! I bet you were all worried sick when you checked back day after day to see that I hadn't added anything new. I did make a rule that I wouldn't go a week without posting and tomorrow makes a week, so it was time. You're welcome.

my camera effed up, but I really like this pic.

I got all ready to go out and take some stellar outfits pics and what do you know- it started raining. Ugh. Good thing I found this gazebo on campus that kept (in order of importance) my camera and I dry. It didn't block any of the wind though, which you'll find evident in my photos. I'm just ticked that I spent time on my hair when I ended up wrapping it into a hat anyway. Oh well, such is life.

So hey- check out my boots! They're vintage riding boots- yeah, but they big bummer is that they're also too small around my calves. I've had a minor case of chunker legs since, well, birth. But hey- I think they look awesome the way I wear them, and if I keep on losing this weight-I'm back in the 120's, btw!- then they might just fit the conventional way sometime soon. Go Me!

Alright guys, I'm outtie. But I will leave you with this pic that my best friend, Jessica (the person in the picture that isn't me- haha) says 'captures our essence'.

-Katie

a day to do nothing

2010-03-28T15:56:00.006-04:00

It's 4:00 in the afternoon and I'm still in my pajamas. I love days like today. Don't worry people, I have to work from 6 to midnight, so I'll get outside eventually. On days like today I usually catch up on my laundry (check), watch wedding shows on TLC and those annoying but captivating doomsday specials on The History Channel (check), and I guess now that I have one- blog (check check).

I have a folder on my computer entitled "things i LOVE" where all the little images that inspire me, whether it be with fashion or decorating, end up. I figured today when I'm not even making an effort to look good would be the perfect opportunity to share some of my favorite things with all of you. Feel special.

I have a bucket list. On that bucket list, item #5 is to get a tattoo. I've been hunting for the perfect image and phrase for a long time now, and I think I'm finally starting to get somewhere. This is it. And the phrase: Find Joy.

I'm moving into a new apartment in mid May. When I move I invent all these DIY projects to do with my new roommates so we can bond and such. Well, this time I'm moving in with three guys, so I'll probably be flying solo on this one, but I'm doing it anyways!

I actually found this on the blog Dear Baby, where I also go the idea for my tattoo phrase "Find Joy". It's amazing how much inspiration you can get from blogs, I swear.

You know all those trays you see at thrift stores? Well, this is just a bunch of them with chalkboard paint in the middle of them. Awesome, right? I'll probably be adding ribbon to hang mine- and post the outcome right here on my blog!

You see that wall behind that guy? Know what it's made out of? Paint samples! That's right- paint samples! The little color sheet thingies you can get from Home Depot. This is simply GENIUS for people who are renting and aren't allowed to paint their walls- and it looks awesome from far away. I just might have to steal this as well for my room next year. I found this one on Apartment Therapy, a website that I check daily.

Alright, I think that's enough of a peak inside my "things i LOVE" folder. I'm sure I'll be inviting you again in the future, no worries :)

Happy Sunday!
-Katie

Please Excuse the Wrinkles

2010-03-24T21:29:00.006-04:00

When I woke up this morning I promptly drove myself down to the police station to battle the ticket I found on my car at 4 am (I get off work then- I'm insane, I know). The whole drive there I was thinking "Please be a guy. Pleeeease be a guy"- and it was!

I pulled the old "but it was night and that was the closest lot and anyone could be out there and I weigh like, 120 pounds" *wink* technique. Worked like a charm. See kids, sometimes lying about your weight and shamelessly flirting does pay off.

The shots I took today were at the park I always go to, but due to the weather and the fact that the work day was over, it was hoppin' more than usual. I ended up hiding away where the youth of Mt Pleasant obviously go at night to do, well, whatever it is they do. I swear I sat in a spot that smelled like it was used as the night-time potty. Ugh. The things I do to get a good pose, I swear.

You stay classy!
-Katie

Here's Looking At You, Kid

2010-03-23T22:22:00.005-04:00

^ I didn't know what to name this post, so I reached far into my big bag of quotes and out came this classic line from Casablanca. I still haven't seen the whole thing. Shame on me, I know.

(scarf- Old Navy $12, sweater- Maurices $30)

I woke up about 20 minutes before I needed to be out the door and this is what I came up with for an outfit. Oh yeah, and I didn't get to shower. All day looong. Katie-0 Life- 1. It's days like today I'm overjoyed deodorant was invented. It's all good, though, because right after I took these shots my roommate and I went for a long run in preparation for the 5K that we have yet to choose. I guess we're just overachievers like that. Katie- 1 Life- 1. That's right- suck it Life! Oh wait, we're tied. Shucks.

See you on the flip!
-Katie

Just a few things...

2010-03-22T22:58:00.003-04:00

1) I'm going to go She & Him in concert on June 6th! I swear I'd go gay for Zooey Deschanel. Anyhow- Sara of She Is Sara and I are planning on doing a Michigan blogger meet-up. I'm sure you'll be hearing about it in the future.

2) I'm adopting a kitty! His name is currently Ziggy and he's fat and orange. Kind of like Garfield. I had planned on adopting his house mate, but she didn't like me that much. I fell in love with him instantly, though. I guess some things are just meant to be. Oh boy, I'm becoming one of those cat ladies.

(my Ziggy!)

3) My roommate and I made a plan to run a 5K. We're going to pick one out and give ourselves 2 months to train, then do it up. It is on my bucket list, after all, and I'm assuming some of this poundage will shed in the process : )

Speaking of shedding poundage, I'm down 4 lbs! Yipee! All those delicious snacks at the KCAD fashion show did me in a bit, but I got back on track today.

-Katie

KCAD Fashion Show

2010-03-22T01:48:00.005-04:00

It's been days and I know you've all been just dying to hear how the KCAD Fashion Show went. Well, I guess I'll be nice and relieve you of the suspense.

I met Tieka of Selective Potential, Andrea of Blonde Bedhead, and Sara of She Is Sara before the show! It's a new experience for me to meet people in 'real life' that I've met through blogging. It's like you already know them, so they're not complete strangers, but I was still my usual first-meeting shy self. At one point I couldn't believe I was standing next to Tieka. She's a lot shorter than I thought she'd be! She told me that she felt the same way in NYC when she met Delightfully Tacky and Rebecca from The Clothes Horse. I guess a lot of us bloggers are short! Andrea was so awesome when she was taking outfit pictures, making everyone comfortable by saying things like "sooo cute" and "sexy bitches". I giggled- a lot. It was the very first time I've had outfit pics done by anything other than a tripod and my little kodak. haha. And Sara- aww, what a sweetie. It felt like meeting someone I've known for years- and we're already making plans to see each other again in the coming months.

Onward to today's outfit pics! Nick and I went out to the park for some together time and a few pics along the way. This was the very first time he's taken them, and I loved it. We'll have to do it again. Although, it wasn't all joy and sprinkles. He did manage to delete all the pictures from the first half of our day together and all of them from the fashion show, but I decided after a few almost-tears that shit happens. : ) Come to think of it, it's kind of been one of those weekends. My best friend's dog ate my retainer too, so now I have to buy a new one and have achy teeth until then. Not at all fun. Blerg. (Complaining over)

I will now leave you with this picture of two people in nature who are madly in love. *Sigh*

HAPPY MONDAY!
-Katie

Packing, Packing, then Packing some more

2010-03-19T02:54:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow is a big first for me. It's my very first time meeting other bloggers out in the real world. How exciting, I know! I get to meet Andrea of Blonde Bedhead, Tieka of Selective Potential, and Sara of She Is Sara. It still amazes me how the internet can bring people together.

I've been rummaging through my closet for the past hour or so trying on different looks, attempting to find the perfect outfit for such an occasion. I guess you'll see the final result in my next post. Alright, Nick is getting mildly annoyed that I'm paying more attention to my computer than I am him. Haha.

Listening to: Rilo Kiley- Silver Lining

Peace Out!
-Katie

Kiss Me! (I'm Pretending To Be Irish)

2010-03-17T20:38:00.003-04:00

I've never been to Ireland, but I can tell you this: I bet they aint got nothin' on a college town on St. Patrick's Day. I think it's part using any excuse in the world to drink and part having no other responsibilities to attend to at noon on a Wednesday that makes us turn St. Patty's day into an undergrad's Christmas.

(dress- Old Navy $15, tights- Target $2, shoes- vintage $13, coat- Tulle $8, sungless- lost/found @ work= free!)

I woke up to see people on top of the roof of my apartment complex drinking already- at 8 am. I guess that's nothing compared to the people I saw already celebrating yesterday at 6 at night. A little premature, but like I said- some people will use any excuse to drink.

The Boyfriend lives at the start of the busiest street in town- you know, the one with all the frat and sorority houses lining it that every college town has? Yeah, that one. So we had front row tickets to watch all the shenanigans go down. And may I just say that it was gorgeous out today!?! I had to take a break from the beautiful weather to work a short shift, but I'll be back out there later tonight I'm sure ; )

(left- friends Lisa and Adam, right- Austin and a guy who dressed up as a Leprachaun and walked the streets)

Listening to: Assassin by John Mayer

Oh, Shenanigans-
Katie

I'd settle for a slowdown

2010-03-13T01:04:00.006-05:00

First off, I'd just like to say that it is soooo, so good to be home and not have this as my view for hours upon hours. I've been driving all over the state of Michigan this week and it's been tiring to say the least.

(Coat- Tulle $8, Dress- Forever21 $8, Shoes- Vintage $12, Tights- Target $2)

After I went to go visit my best friend in Holland, I drove to the other side of the state to see Nick for our 2 year anniversary. I can't believe it's been that long since we were laying in my little dorm bed at 4 in the morning and he was like "so... wanna make it official?" and i was like "umm... okay". Yep folks, we're really complicated, wordy people indeed. haha. We celebrated by going to Detroit to the DIA (Detroit Institute of Art) and got our culture on. Then we hit up Greektown and got some kick-ass pastries and some of the best gyros I've ever had. Yum. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.

Now I'm back in Mt Pleasant. The town is dead because it's Spring Break, so I did what I always do on days like this and set out with The Boyfriend's trusty tripod and got some shots. I just got this bright yellow rain coat/trench in the mail from Tulle and I've got to say that it was just in time for this foggy and rainy weather. It brightened my mood, mm hmm. And it was only $8, which makes it even better!

Now Playing: I Want To Know What Love Is- Foreigner

Until we meet again,

Katie

Going to the West Coast

2010-03-08T11:20:00.003-05:00

This post is going to be uber short and most likely uber lame, but I told myself I wouldn't go more than a week without posting and well, today makes a week since last Monday. The lack of posts can be blamed on midterm week (aka HELL) and the fact that I've been working nonstop all weekend.

I'm about 5 seconds away from jumping in my very dirty Saturn and heading to Holland, MI to visit my very best friend in the entire world, Michelle. YAY! I haven't seen her since New Year's Eve which is horrible on our parts, but I guess life happened. Mmm... I really want a smoothie- must stop and get one on the way : )

So this is me saying "ciao!", I'm headed for happy reunions!

Contemplating...

2010-03-01T00:53:00.008-05:00

Today I contemplated quitting my second job at Cold Stone. Then I looked at my bank account and thought of future expenses and decided against it. Oh, but one can dream *sigh* That second job is the difference between just getting by and having a little extra to buy something nice or pad my savings account. I feel like such an adult saying that. I'm not sure if I like that or not.

As for the Chicago trip, I don't think it's going to happen. One of the main reasons I was thinking of quitting is because my boss scheduled me to work March 11th (my anniversary), even though I'd requested it off waaaay in advance. So, I wouldn't be able to go, even if we could afford to. Blerg. How lame is it that everyone else will be in Florida or Cancun and I'll be stuck in Mt. Pleasant peddling ice cream? I vote very, very lame.

(skirt- target $15, blouse- target $15, shoes- journeys $55, tights- kohls $4, sweater- tj maxx $24)

Who knows? Maybe one of these days I'll grow some and quit that awful job. Until then, you know where to find me.

Listening to: Coconut Records- "West Coast"

Lots of Love!
-Katie

Happy Birthday Mom!

2010-02-26T06:53:00.005-05:00

Yesterday my Mom turned 39 (again!). Haha. Oh jokes. I guess you can tell from the picture how old she is now. We spared her the experience of blowing out 49 standard birthday candles and stuck with the numbers instead.

Nick and I left after classes were over for the day and drove to Saginaw. One of the things I love about going to college only an hour away from home is that I can make it for things like Mom's birthday in the middle of the week. We walked in an Dad was preparing the best dinner I've had in a loooong time:Crab legs. Steak. Shrimp Scampi. Scallops. I know your mouth is watering.... And yes, it was delicious!

My older brother, Beau, is in Iraq so obviously he couldn't make it, but he did manage to send Mom flowers- so sweet! She was so happy!

It was absolutely freezing today, but I did make an effort to take some outfit pics. When I say freezing I mean freezing. I'm usually fine with winter weather as long as the wind isn't knocking me over, which it was today. Grumble, grumble, grumble... My hands were frozen after about ten minutes, so this is all I got. Oooh- and check out my new hat! Only $9 at Kohls and I've been wanting a cloche all season! Score!

Stay Classy,

Adventures in Blogging

2010-02-24T19:09:00.002-05:00

As promised, today I went outside to do an outfit shoot. My last outdoor photo shoot went really well and I had a blast, so I thought I'd go to the same park and do it all over again. Oh boy, was today a different story! I rushed to the park lookin' fly, tripod in tow, thinking of all the different shots I was going to get. By this time it was 5:30, leaving about an hour of good ol' Michigan sunlight for me to use. I turned on my camera and it died. Rookie mistake. Arghhhh! Sooo... I had to rush home, charge my camera, and rush back to the park in order to take advantage of the little bit of remaining light in the sky. When I went back there was some sort of event going on and people were staring at me, but all is well- I got my shots! Lesson learned: make sure my camera is charged before I set out into town. Got it.

(Sweater- thrifted, Dress- Old Navy, Beret- Target, Shoes- Target)

I don't know what came over me when I got dressed today. It's a toasty 31 degrees in Mt Pleasant, but I chose to wear flats, a summer dress, and sheer tights. I think I'm just getting impatient for Spring to come so I'm just going to dress like it's here already.

Chicago Dreamin'

2010-02-23T23:49:00.005-05:00

Spring Break is coming up in a few weeks, and right smack dab in the middle of it is mine and Nick's two year anniversary! I can't wait for a week free of school (sigh). I can't afford to go anywhere far away or for an extended period of time, so originally I was planning on doing nothing but work my butt off all break, but I'm starting to reconsider. I was thinking of places that are close enough to drive to, but far enough away to be considered a trip, and I remember there's a little old city called CHICAGO just a few hours away from me. (Okay, Chi Town is about a 6 hour drive, but still...)

There's only one problem: we aren't sure if we can afford to go. We are broke college students after all. Since he paid for the surprise trip to Ann Arbor last month, I'm thinking I'd foot the hotel bill this time around and then we'd figure out the rest of the details as they come. I love going on trips with Nick and going to Chicago would kill two birds with one stone: a Spring Break trip AND an anniversary trip. I just hope he says yes...

The week has been hectic thus far, so I honestly haven't looked very stellar as of late, but I do have a weekend update for you all- complete with photos and everything! Oh boy! I know it's Tuesday, but better late then never, right?

My roommate/best friend Jess is always talking about making a rice crispie replica of the Stanley Cup (she's a Red Wings freak), so Friday night we did it. It was the most fun I've had doing good girl things in a long, long time.

Saturday night my friend, Lauren, and went to a techno party. It was the best party I've been to all year. The girl to guy ratio was even, the decor was inventive (check out the simple neon computer paper), and there was glow paint! You can't go wrong with glow paint. I danced for hours. Don't be surprised if you see me steal this idea for my own birthday party in April!

And Sunday I slept in late and hung out with The Boyfriend. It was a swell end to an awesome weekend. Hopefully I'll get an outfit post out tomorrow, but if I don't- Forgive me : )

Listening to: Vanilla Twilight by Owl City

Be Better

2010-02-16T22:12:00.008-05:00

my fellow cheerleaders and I, posing in front of the mirror before a game, senior year of high school (2007)

My New Year's Resolution for 2010 was simply this: Be Better. I just looked at my life and said I wanted to be a more wholesome person by:

Improving my style.
Being a better girlfriend.
Calling my parents more often.
Being a better student.

So far I've been actively trying to do all of the things on that list. I started this blog when I wanted to improve my style. I think that if you put out into the blogosphere that you're going to do something and then you publish it, it holds you accountable. Nick and I are better than ever, partially because as we get nearer and nearer to the 2-year mark, I know all those little things about him I thought might change aren't going anywhere and accepting/loving that. I do call my parents more often. Momsy Poo and I talk once or twice a week. And up until last week, I didn't miss one class period, which is a huge accomplishment coming from the girl who loves to skip class if I can just read the book instead. Damn cold ruined my streak.

And now I'm adding to that list;I want to skinny up. Right now, I weigh 137 lbs, which is my all-time high. That's not a lot on some people, and honestly it's not a lot on me either, but I'm only 5'1'' so the extra poundage doesn't wear well on me. I mean, I had to buy wide-calf boots because nothing else would fit around my chunkers this fall. I laugh because now I get catalogs in the mail from the plus size store I ordered them from, and I'm a size 5/6. I don't want to seem shallow or like one of those girls who thinks they're fat when they're not, because I don't consider myself to be fat, just a few pounds away from my ideal self. My plan: I'm following Weight Watchers and working out about 3 or 4 days a week. It's only been 5 days and I already feel better. I'm never bloated or tired and I feel like my engine is well oiled or something. The first couple of days were rough. I was always hungry trying to fit into less than 20 or so points of food a day, but I have a feeling that it's all going to be worth it when I see that number go down into the low 120's.

So this is my committment right here. I'm putting it out into the blogosphere for all to see: I, Katie Suzanne of Tinda Keelie, am losing weight! Pretty soon, with some hard work, I'll be able to fit back into my old cheerleading uniform. Haha- yes, I was a cheerleader in high school. A long, long (well, not sooo long) time ago.

Wish me luck!

Now Playing: Need You Now- Lady Antebellum