One Closet, One Year

Broken!

2011-06-13T23:14:00.000-07:00

As if things weren't crazy enough, Charlie had to go and break his arm! Right before we were supposed to drive cross-country for the summer!

I honestly don't know if we will make it now. We'll see what the orthopedist says on Thursday. On Saturday, we enjoyed what was probably the best baseball game of Charlie's entire season. Charlie and his novice crew, were pitted against a very organized and skilled team of bigger kids. There were also twice as many of them as there were of us. We had 7 players to start, and one left in the middle of the game!

Charlie's team was outmatched, but they were hitting balls, stealing bases, and seemed blissfully unaware that they were getting hammered. Or maybe they knew and they were just having fun. God knows we parents were! We were laughing and cheering and I'm sure the other parents couldn't figure out why we were so darn happy that we were losing.

Who would have known, after our last game of the season, that just a few hours later we would be with Charlie in the E.R., waiting to have his Condylar Fracture repaired. Richard stayed with Charlie in the E.R. for over 8 hours, letting me leave when the doctor told him that Charlie would have to be sedated and have his arm reset. Richard also missed poker night. He never misses poker night.

HaHa channels he inner Richard Simmons!

Ahhhh... The stuff of life!!! Good times!

When I was downloading pictures from my camera, I found this photo Leo secretly took when I wasn't looking. He loves to take surprise pictures!

Making the Post of It!

2011-06-03T23:55:00.000-07:00

Richard told me that I needed to post, and you all know how I do EVERYTHING Richard says!

The main reason I haven't been posting is that I have been preoccupied with trying to figure out what path to take in the next few months. I usually have such a strong sense of what feels right, but in this instance I am truly confused. What is the universe telling me? What is my own gut telling me? For the first time I can remember in a very long time, I really do not know.

The other night Richard pulled "the universe" language out of his "hat" (to put it politely), and I knew he was just humoring me, trying to make me feel better. At least I have that.

As for clothes, I still have NOT bought any new clothes in retail, although I did pick up a few great things at the good 'ol GW (Goodwill, for those of you who don't know me well)! I also got rid of MORE stuff, which makes me feel good.

HaHa picked up a slip I had in a basket to be mended and wanted to wear it, so I have included some photos. She also put together this very "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" outfit today. All on her own!

HaHa Style 4!

2011-05-20T13:55:00.000-07:00

This is a "vintage" HaHa photo. NYC 2010.

My little "Re-fashionista" continues to create outfits that I would wear if I could. She's pretty adept at putting an outfit together for the ripe old age of two, but she also has the luxury of being a kid, which means she pretty much looks cute in everything. I guess it's like supermodels; they can rock a potato sack if they have to!

HaHa had her first preschool visit day, and I was completely aware of how ready she is to move on from the nest. She needs to start hanging out and exploring with peers and teachers rather than with me all the time. I truly think she is bored being with me all the time, as demonstrated by her constant requests to go to "Ildiko's house" (her daycare provider and patron saint of generosity ) and "Tay-Tay's House"(her amazing caretaker and cousin/aunt). What can I say? I'm her mom, and therefore am boring by my sheer abundance in her life. Familiarity breeds contempt, right?...

Now don't get me wrong: I know my little sparkle pup HaHa loves me, and does have fun with me, but even she needs a break from our daily routine every now and then...

This week we got to go on the Sony lot to dine with one of HaHa's favorite aunties, and she did get to go to Ildiko's! Lucky girl. She leads a charmed life!

HaHa adores her big bros!

Wearing her beloved "sparkle skirt"

On Sony lot with fashionable Auntie Eek-o!

Divorce Chickens!!!

2011-05-15T22:54:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned earlier, we inherited some chickens after a co-worker of Richard's got divorced. I had been longing for chickens for quite some time, so they came as welcome guests to our humble abode. However, as they came to our house, so did flies galore, poop-fest 2011, and a ridiculous amount of self-induced stress as I worried that all the predatory animals in our neighborhood were sitting at our gate, wondering when they would have the chance to devour our brood.

That said, the chickens have grown on me, and I've grown accustomed to their care. However, my cousin is getting married in September and she's having her reception in our backyard. Somehow, I just can't picture the reception with my feathered friends pecking about the yard, or frolicking in their fly-filled chicken run. So they have to go. There are other reasons too, but the wedding is the foremost in my mind.

We will have chickens again, but when we do, we'll make sure there are no foreseeable formal activities planned in our backyard!

P.S. If you or anyone you know wants 5 chickens and a coop, let me know! Otherwise, they're going on Craig's List!!!

Outfit:

Richard and HaHa enjoying The Misfit.

Wore this to meet Richard for lunch at The Misfit. His company generously provided lunch there for their employees!!! How's that for perks?!

Skirt: High school favorite.

Floral dress: New Year Goodwill find.

Tee: Worn inside out. Gift from friend.

Shoes: These are some of my favorites, bt they are falling apart. I'm hoping to find a similar pair soon!

Blogger Buzz!

2011-05-13T12:45:00.000-07:00

I got a message from my mom this morning asking if I had removed my HaHa Style 3 post because of some comments she made about my tantrum-ing as a child. I did not.

When she left the message I went to my blog to see what she was talking about and sure enough, no HaHa. My last entry gone.

Unsure about what happened, I went searching on blogger and I found this page: Blogger is Back.
It made me think that I should try to print my one year project lest it be lost in space one day...

It was a lot of work, and I'd love to have a hard copy to peruse when I am old and gray!

Here are HaHa's photos again!

Have a great weekend!!!

HaHa Style 3!

2011-05-11T23:04:00.000-07:00

So HaHa has taken a turn for the worse. She is moody and whiny and belligerent... Could it be that spending too much time with me has made her cranky?

Could be.

A few days ago HaHa asked me, "Mommy, what's your problem?" I think I just stared at her because I was surprised she asked me that. "My problem is coughing", she said. She had just been coughing a few minutes before, but where, oh where, did she get that language?

When HaHa saw this picture of herself on the ground with her baby she said "I look mad, MaMa." She does. Perhaps the "terrible two's" have finally taken hold. Or perhaps, as I said before, I am killing her exuberance with my own stank attitude. Uh-oh, Mama, time to get with program and snap out of it!

Keeping out of the sun!

A tender moment with her bro.

Fascinating.

Mother, Mother!

2011-05-08T23:37:00.000-07:00

Last night I was at a party and I asked another mother what she was doing for Mother's Day. She said, "Nothing. I just want to lie around and do nothing and be alone." "Exactly!", I replied. "That's what I really want for Mother's Day- a day without my kids!"

Ironic, no?

Of course, I didn't get that. I got a day without two of my kids, which really defeats the purpose if you ask me...
But, I had a good day nonetheless. Yummy brunch cooked by my BFF and Bad Advice Giver, hanging out with my painless family (her family), and a little window thrift-shopping.

Then I came back home to the place where I literally became a mother; Charlie, Leo, and HaHa were all born downstairs in our humble abode!

I thank my kids, and Richard, for making me a mom. I can't imagine life without this complicated and celebrated role! Although, I wouldn't mind a kid-free day every now and then!!!

Happy Mother's Day to all y'all moms out there! I hope you had a wonderful day!!!

HaHa Style 2!

2011-05-04T23:58:00.000-07:00

HaHa has been my comic relief during this trying time. She truly is a hilarious little bean. Take this moment, for example:

Richard and I are watching T.V. in the back room. HaHa has been asleep for a few hours, but she has since awoken and found her way down to us. She climbs in between Richard and me and begins to snuggle. It just so happens that as soon as HaHa sits down, a commercial comes on. We don't let the kids watch commercials, so I tell Richard to "pause it". However, Richard hesitates because it is the commercial for The Green Lantern and he can't resist. HaHa's eyes widen and I tell Richard again to "pause it". Richard protests and I give him some options. I say, "You can pause it and watch it later ,OR, you can take HaHa back upstairs and put her to bed". Without missing a beat we hear our little HaHa say, "Or you can leave me alone!" Richard and I crack up and HaHa is very pleased with herself. (The re-telling of this moment doesn't really do it justice, but I promise it was funny at the time!)

Three more HaHa self-styled outfits. All clothes hand-me-downs from Auntie Kimberly and the lovely Lourdes!!! Thank you for the wonderful clothes ladies!!! Actually, The blue leggings and striped legging were gifts. The necklace is mine!

That's my girl!

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes!

2011-05-01T23:43:00.000-07:00

I am in the midst of some life-changing, very painful, but potentially liberating stuff. I can't really talk about it here, but I've been thinking about it ad naseam.

Literally.

I'm still not sure how things will turn out, but a very wise and lovely woman told me to listen to my body. She said that while our minds can rationalize and talk us into or out of anything, our bodies let us know how we really feel. Really. She's very smart. I will be paying attention to my visceral responses in the weeks to come...

Leo had a class presentation on Friday, so I threw together this outfit. I recently received this lovely and delicate blouse from my friend The Freshmaker. She gives me the most awesome cast-offs! Thank you, Freshy! The yellow is so spring-y and light!

Outfit:

Camisole: Goodwill. Express.

Shirt: Hand-me-down. Banana Republic.

Pants: Cousin hand-me-down. Gap.

Jacket: Goodwill. Theory.

Shoes: Mossimo.

HaHa Style!

2011-04-27T23:16:00.000-07:00

HaHa has already developed a very strong sense of personal style. This comes as no surprise. She has a strong sense of many things...

Tonight she put a shower cap on and said, "I'm a cooker, mama!" I really love that she and Leo call me mama. It's very sweet.

Here are three outfits that HaHa put together on her own, shoes included. She is really digging her gold sandals right now. She calls them her "Sparkle shoes."

I wish that I could write about some of HaHa's evening antics, but I can't do them justice right now...

I am too, too tired right now! Everything HaHa is wearing is handed down except for the Cheongsam and the striped leggings. Those were gifts. Her flower headband was made by my oh, so talented cousin, Taylor!

That's it for edition one of HaHa style. I gotta get some shut eye!

7 Ways!

2011-04-25T10:24:00.000-07:00

I went to my 20 year high school reunion and it was quite lovely. Sweet and sentimental. Taking that walk down memory lane was quite fun, and it was truly great to see everyone.

As I said I would, I wore my Seven Ways Dress. I got many a compliment on it, and I was quite comfortable in it. It really is a gem.
Thank you, Aunt D!

Richard says I have to post twice a week now, so I was thinking of having a weekly post that is dedicated to HaHa's fashion. She has a very strong sense of personal style, and is very particular about what combination of items she wants to rock. Look for HaHa's closet on Wendesday. I will post up several of her outfits from the last few weeks. They are very, very, cute, and the majority of them are hand-me-downs!

I hope Easter was full of eggs, chocolate, and love for everyone. We spent the day at Pan-Pacific Park, and a good time was had by all!!!

Hippity-Hop! Hoppity-Hip!

Outfit:

Dress: This 7 ways dress was a gift from my wonderful Aunt Diane!

Tube top: Very old. A New York special.

Shoes: American Eagle.

Chickens, Children, and Clothes!

2011-04-14T00:39:00.000-07:00

Now that I am not obligated to post daily, I think about posting more than I actually do it. I could go back to daily outfits, but it's too much commitment . Although, I am happy to report that I have NOT gone clothes shopping since my first couple of Goodwill trips. No retail clothing for me in 2011 so far! That said, I have been the recipient of some stellar "hand-me-downs", and 1 brand new Seven Ways Dress that was a gift from my very sweet and generous Aunt Diane. I have worn the dress at least three different ways, and I will certainly find many more ways to wear it! I consider it a worthwhile challenge. Actually, I think I'm going to wear it to my 20 year high school reunion this Saturday. I will post some pictures of the dress for sure!

I have still been trying to "mix it up" everyday, and think outside of my wardrobe box. I've been playing with my "new" old clothes, and having a great time!

The kids continue to amaze, confound, surprise, infuriate, and inspire me. I made it through spring break without harming myself, or them, so I am giving myself a "high five"! In truth, they are really delightful, and I am very lucky to have them in my life. They are abundant joy.

We also now have chickens in our backyard. 5 of them. I have been wanting chickens for a while now, and we received these chickens through a divorce. They are very cute, but they are a lot of work. (Sound like anyone you know?) I am still not sure about whether or not these visitors will become family members, but they are in a coop in our backyard for now!

Outfits:

Some of my outfits from the past few weeks. One of my very favorite items is a rad vintage Talbot's belt that my friend's mother gave me. This is the same friend's mom who gave me the clothes I donned in my Vegas post. Thank you again, Nancy!!! She also gave me the black skirt, pinstripe button down, and cream skirt shown here. Mustard sweater, blue shirt (top), and striped tee are all hand-me-downs from friends!

Also, Don't forget to send all of your pressing questions to the awesomely written column "BAD ADVICE FOR GOOD PEOPLE".

And, finally, I've included some photos of the kids because I've had some requests!!! Peace to you all! Thank you for stopping by!!!!

Rusty and Co.

HaHa talking on a mirror.

Siblings swing!

our new guests

Angels on Angel's Flight!

Cuties on a cart!

What Happens in Vegas...

2011-03-29T02:52:00.000-07:00

This weekend, Richard and I stole away together alone overnight for the first time in seven and a half years! Well, for the first time for more than 14 hours... A few years back, 6, to be exact, we flew to Vegas to see Prince 's closing show. We left at 6 in the evening the night of the concert, and flew back to L.A. at 6 a.m. the following morning. Leo was a baby, so I couldn't bring myself to stay overnight. I also think I was nursing at the time, and that was a huge factor. At any rate, Richard and I have never been away together from the kids overnight until this weekend. Crazy huh?

Actually, come to think of it, December was the first time I had been kid-free for more than a few hours since Charlie was born. I was away for THREE days. And, we all know how that turned out; HaHa hospitalized upon my return... Mom punished for abandoning children...

Anyway, back to Vegas. We went to celebrate the wedding of my lovely cousin Dee, who is half of the reason Richard and I met. The other half, Richard's dear friend Brian, welcomed his baby daughter to the world on the same day that Dee and her beloved Paul got hitched! Coincidence?

We had so much fun at the wedding, and the reception lasted long enough to kick off Richard's birthday! It was a perfect first weekend away from the kids! And, my wedding outfit was comprised of hand-me-downs courtesy of one Nancy Bryan. Thank you, Nancy!

By the way, if any of you reader's have a burning question you should check out my friend's new site Bad Advice for Good People. Anonymous questions are welcome!

Congratulations Paul, Dee, Brian and Jill!!!

Outfit:

White Jacket: Macy's. I had been wanting a white jacket after I saw an outfit in Vogue, et voila!

Black dress: Banana Republic. The black lace peeking out is from a slip underneath.

Shoes: American Eagle.

Flower: My cousin gave this to me. It's from Anthropologie. The perfect accent!

Peep Out!

2011-03-08T23:36:00.000-08:00

I have been sitting at my computer for awhile trying to figure out how I want to frame this post. I guess I am having some writer's block. I also worked all day, drove home with the children, had a visit with my visiting-from-Thailand-brother-in-law, went out to vote, and came back home to put the wild boys to bed while Richard ran out to vote with HaHa. So, I guess I'm tired. Go figure.

As I was sitting here, in front of my screen, I yawned and sighed a bit. HaHa looked me in the eye and said, "Wake up, Mommy." It made me laugh. She is really turning into a funny and charming person. She sings little ditties that she makes up, runs around in plastic heels, tells me every day that my cousin Taylor's cat Lola "scratched" her, and she is so, so, very sweet.

So what does this all have to do with peeping out?! Nothing. I realized recently that not blogging keeps me from being on top of the awesome blogs I follow. I'm not on the computer as much, so I forget to check in. These bloggers are my peeps, and I love them so!

Outfits:

These outfits hail from January 18th and 19th, respectively. They also hail from clothes I bought for other people that didn't work out for them.

Jumpsuit: This was a Salvation Army find that I got for my Fresh Friend, and it was 50% off (so it was all of 3 bucks!) It didn't fit her well, so I tucked it away and tried it on after the new year!

Striped tee: Pollyanna hand-me-down.

Star shirt: This shirt was for Pollyanna, but she didn't want it. I got it at the same Salvation Army sale. It was going to go to the last clothing swap, but I tried it on and decided to keep it!

Polka- dot skirt: I got this from S.A., along with a few other items, for Sheena, the woman who did The Uniform Project. She, (or her people), never got back to me.

Yellow sweater: This is a post-New Year's hand-me-down from, yet again, my Fresh Friend. H&M.

My HaHa girl!

Today!

2011-03-03T00:48:00.000-08:00

I have been putting off posting for a number of reasons, and a lot has happened since my last post. Of course it has. It's life, right? Some things I can talk about, and some things are far too profound to discuss on a blog about not shopping.

First of all, the day I finished my job as a long term first grade substitute teacher, I came down with strep. Of course, I did not know that I had strep until four days into my illness, but it was strep, and it was horrible. It started when I was cleaning up five months of papers and lessons and other stuff that had ended up on my desk. I had not wanted to clean up, as my last day had been so emotional, but I needed to move my stuff because the other teacher was coming in on the weekend, and she needed a clean slate.

As I was filing papers, and replacing staples, and moving all about the classroom, I started to feel wonky. At first I tried to dismiss it, but by the time I gathered the boys and got into the car, I was positively feverish. Luckily, my mom and my aunt were at my house with HaHa, so after I made dinner I took a burning hot bath and crawled into bed.

I stayed there the whole weekend, lost six pounds from sweating, and only got out of bed on Monday because I knew that the pain in my throat was too horrible to be anything but strep, even though Richard was mocking me and calling me dramatic.

At any rate, being sick and missing my class were just two of the things that derailed my follow up posts.

I still have not bought any clothes in retail, and I have not been Goodwill shopping since my first couple of trips. I went to a clothing swap where I got rid of over a dozen items, and brought home only two.

I did but a new pair of Earth sandals because I wanted a walking shoe. I lost one of my Fit Flops. These Earth shoes are pretty ugly, but now that my daily posting is over, and I'm a full-time SAHM , I don't need to look my best. I can go back to my mom jeans and bon-bons!

Today's Outfit:

Yellow sweater and green scarf : Fresh friend hand-me-down from last weekend. As I have said many times before, I am very lucky to have stylish and generous friends!

Grey sweater: Clothing swap!

Jeans: Goodwill.

Shoes: My new Earth monstrosities!

The shirt in the photo with the kids was also a newly handed down item! This was a few days post strep and I had a giant cold sore which is why I'm making a weird expression.

P.S. Forgive my shaky composition, it's been awhile.

P.S.S. This post is dedicated to the lovely Pollyanna, my posting coach!

Gifts!

2011-01-19T23:25:00.000-08:00

After Richard's sneaky surprise post, I was at a loss for how to proceed with my own posting. Garment Bag Outfits? Goodwill finds? Dressing without drama?

And, of course, by drama I mean the preoccupation with not repeating outfits, and, having to photograph said outfits daily...

So, now I have no obligations. At least in blogging I don't. And this leaves me in a bit of a quandary.

To Post? Or not to post?

How 'bout post? Briefly.

I have received many gifts since the end of my year of no-shopping, no swapping, new outfit every day.

Here is a "new" outfit comprised of two handed-down garments.

A lovely seventies style peasant dress, and an incredibly warm and awesome coat!

Shout out to the two ladies who passed these on!

Oh! I can't forget to mention the nearly-new Seychelles flats I nabbed at the G.W.!

And my collar! This was an accidental gift taken by me and made by a very talented friend! Love it!

Thanks to all for my "new" rags! And thank you, Richard, stealth blogger, for the last post!

Collateral Damage!!!

2011-01-17T19:02:00.000-08:00

Hi all. This is Richard.

Shelayna has slowed her posting schedule, so I thought I'd stop in and talk about what has been going on since she completed her project.

Here is a picture of our bedroom from this afternoon.

These are all of my clothes.

For some reason, a year of only wearing the clothes that are on her side of the closet has made Shelayna very introspective, and today she decided that I had too many clothes. Did I ask for this munificent behavior? No. Did I get it anyway? Yes.

Since I work in technology, my normal clothing is a polo shirt, and jeans. Dressing up means wearing a white button down shirt... and jeans. However, I do have some seldom worn clothes that I love - my suits, my party shirt (buttons optional), that sweatshirt I used to wear all the time in 1999. All of them went into the out pile. Now, I'm going to have to go clothes shopping for myself - something I really dislike. And I'm going to be really upset if I see my favorite patterned shirt on some homeless guy.

Even poor Jordan got pulled into this craziness, and was forced to do a fashion show of his old jeans.

Anyway, I'm significantly clothes poorer, and Shelayna has been to Goodwill twice this month. Maybe this is a subtle move to get more closet space?

Blog-Drawl!

2011-01-08T23:44:00.000-08:00

So I have gone one full week without posting! It feels very strange. For the first few days after my last post I felt as if I had a phantom limb that had been lost at sea... (Does that image make sense?) Coming home after work, and not taking photos of my outfits was surreal. It was also otherworldly not getting dressed without thinking about repeating. It still feels weird sometimes.

I also went shopping for the first time in a year! At Goodwill! My Fresh friend gave me a Christmas gift o' cash in order to go shopping at the G.W., so, of course, I had to go. However, I Still haven't bought clothing in retail.

I got four things:
           A creme sweater with metallic thread.
           A cap-sleeve jacket that also has metallic thread.
           A pair of black cargo pants.
         A navy mock-turtleneck long-sleeved shirt with gold sequins!

I wore the sweater with the jacket on my first day back to school, and I wore the sequin shirt with the cargo pants on another day. I also broke into the garment bag so generously bestowed upon me by my lovely friend's mother! I made an outfit from her hand-me-downs, including an awesome belt, that I thought was very cute! I did wear my own sweater with it though! I am thinking of maybe doing a "Garment bag" series of outfits. I have included a few photos of the aforementioned outfits. You can tell me if they're cool or drool! There's also a photo of HaHa in a handed-down cape-let, and plastic heels she got for Christmas! So cute!

I hope the first week of January went swimmingly for you all!

Here's to a happy second week!

Happy New Year!!!

2011-01-02T00:10:00.000-08:00

This was the dress I saved for New Year's eve, but forgot about! My aunt bought it for me at a yard sale from my neighbor across the street. It was five dollars! It had a bunch of gathering that I took out, and now it hangs a bit awkwardly. I safety-pinned it in the back, and put my trusty flower-brooch from my cousin over the pin to "hide" it! It makes for a "bustle-like" effect in the back that I rather like. I am sorry I did not wear it to dinner last night, but I had fun wearing it today!

Front

Back

I hope that you all enjoyed the first day of 2011. Please, please, let it be a sweet year!!!

The Last Outfits!

2010-12-31T13:27:00.000-08:00

I wore two outfits today. One I put together in complete haste and was not happy with, and the other I was completely happy with. Both outfits were donned in order to enjoy meals. For brunch, we went to Roscoe's, and for New Year's Eve dinner I went to my amazing friends' Josh and Brady's.

As I was talking and toasting in the New Year with my mom, my aunt, my mother-in-law, HaHa and Richard, my aunt reminded me that I was supposed to wear this lace dress she gave me last year. The dress was from a yard sale my neighbors across the street were having. I put the dress on for Christmas, but decided that I should save it for New Year's, but of course, I forgot.

So, I may wear the dress tomorrow. It is still a "special" day right? First day of 2011.

I will have several follow up posts. Not sure how often they will come, but they will be posted.

One of these posts will be devoted to the contents of this garment bag I was given by the very sweet mother of my adorable friend. The bag came with a note that said "Do Not Open Before January 1". I also received some other "gifts" this week that I feel obliged to show. They are all very awesome!

Who knows, with the contents of the garment bag, and my other gifts, I may not have to shop in 2011 either!

Time will tell...

Happy, Happy, New Year to you all!!!

Outfits:

Day: Shirt: Cousin hand-me-down. Forever 21.

Dress: Friend Hand-me-down. Ann Taylor.

Dress: Goodwill.

Skirt: salvation Army.

Night: Sequin Jacket. One of my beloved friends gave this to me in high school. She had great taste.

Wife beater: Target. I got these when I was pregnant with Charlie. They were a pregnancy staple!

Pants: Express. These pants were bought for a friend's wedding.

Shoes: Thrift store. They have sequins, but they are not so comfortable for long wear. They may be in the "out" pile!

Birthday Gumbo!!!

2010-12-30T13:30:00.000-08:00

Tonight I had the honor of attending a birthday party for one of the sweetest and most stylish ladies I know! A true beauty and gracious hostess, she served us a magnificent and delicious gumbo, as well as a bevy of tasty treats and libations!

It was a fabulous party. The guests were delightful, the conversations were intriguing, and the music, was on point! I am so glad I got to go, because the rest of my day was pretty hectic.

At said party, I was given a new moniker by my BFF, Pollyanna. I am now going to be known as "The Swirl"(as in down with the...), when I order cappuccinos and do karaoke! I like it so very much!

So, it is 1:42 a.m. I think I have only gone to bed before midnight once this whole break. I have also not woken up before 10:00 a.m. more than once...

Maybe my next project should be about getting to bed early...

One day left!!!

Outfit:

I have a "day" look and a "night". I took the boys to the optometrist today, so I opted for basic "mom" gear. I jazzed it up at night for the party!

Day: Shirt: Cousin hand-me-down. Mossimo.

Pants: Goodwill. Mossimo.

Shoes:Wanted.

Night: Under Shirt: Goodwill. Isabel Marant.

Jacket: Some thrift store long, long ago. I couldn't resist the sequins! A. Buyer.

Pants: Same.

Shoes: Goodwill. Jelly Beanz.

Three More No Repeat Days!

2010-12-29T23:28:00.001-08:00

Okay people this is one of my final three outfits!!! Final three! Awesome, dude!

I took a page out of HaHa's book, (which was really my book, of course), and decided to go poncho with my skirt. Why not, right? This is all about experimenting and mixing it up. So, that was my inspiration.

Interestingly, when I was enjoying my 15 minutes of kid-free time of the day, leafing through a much appreciated copy of Vogue brought to me by my mother-in-law, I found a picture of a woman wearing a look not quite unlike mine and HaHa's. So, my fashion instincts are not so wacko after all...

I was going to write about the gift I was given today in a garment bag with a note that says: "Do Not Open Until January 1st", but I'll talk about that tomorrow!

I gotta get some sleep!

Outfit:

Skirt: Salvation Army. High School purchase. This is probably the seventh time I've worn it this year. (I can't wait to see if I'm right!)

Sweater: Cousin hand-me-down. Tulle.

Skirt: Thrift store. Another oldie-but-goody!

Boots: Fresh friend hand-me-down. It rained again today!

Three Days to Go!!!

2010-12-28T12:24:00.000-08:00

Can it be possible?! Do I really only have three days left of thinking about whether or not I've worn two or three items of clothing together already? Three more days of taking pictures of myself where 99% of them are horrid? Three more days of posting? Three more days where I am forbidden to shop?!

Heck Yeah! Three days to go baby! Boo-yah! I am almost at the finish line!!! Yippee!!!

I will probably have a few follow up posts, as mandated by Richard. Maybe tomorrow I'll let him post for me. I must say, I have found that the blogging of this project, as well as the support and attention from my lovely readers, really, truly, kept me honest and motivated. I don't know if I would have kept my promise if I had just made it to myself. In fact, I believe I tried not to shop the year before last and I fell off the wagon pretty quickly. So, I really, really, thank you all for giving me the time of day!

Today, while driving to pick up my lovely mother-in-law at the train station, I got forced onto some carpool express way with no exits! I think it was going to LAX. After about 6 miles of driving (that felt like 10), I saw an exit for the 710 freeway, which happened to be ending. I was in Alhambra! All from one bad right turn.

Lucky for me, the train was late. So, I didn't have to feel horrible for making my mother-in-law wait in the dark, cold, night!

Outfit:

This outfit is so much better in person! So delicate, yet strong. I waited until the last minute to take my photos, and the light was not good. I then took them inside before dinner, but I was distracted. I was going to take them again right now, but I don't have the energy. At least you can see it's not a repeat!

Shirt: Goodwill. Isabel Marant.

Skirt: Thrift store. I got this many, many years ago. It was a dress, but I cut off the top. It was very frilly and not my style when I cut it, but I probably would wear it the original way today if I could! I think it is homemade.

Dress: Thrift store. Another ancient find. Joan Leslie by Kasper.

Shoes: Haha picked these out for me, and I rather like them with this. I probably would have chosen differently! Goodwill. Jelly Beanz.

Four to Go!

2010-12-27T23:22:00.000-08:00

Four more days! Four more days and then?... I have a few ideas!

Today our pediatrician called and said that Leo's throat culture from LAST Monday cam back positive for strep. So that's a whole week Leo's been around other kids and people, giving him many opportunities to infect them! Yay! I guess the rapid strep test has around a 5% percent chance of a false negative. And here I thought that Leo might just be one of the lucky folk who are immune to the streptococcus bacteria.

So, could this be what I've been fighting? I don't think so, because my throat doesn't hurt, but I'm going to call the doctor tomorrow to see if I could be carrying strep even if I don't have symptoms.

Why am I so interested in finding out, you ask? Because one of my dearest and loveliest and most creative and amazing friends is moving across the country in three days with her family, and I would hate to get them sick, even if I feel like I'm fine...

Outfit:

Since I'm not at work this week I don't have to worry about what I look like! I really only have one goal: Do Not Repeat! I think I'm in the clear, but I shouldn't jinx myself!

Dress: Thrift store. This was a puffy, ruffled, shoulder-padded dress that I deconstructed.

Pants: Thrift store. Bottom half of an adorable jumpsuit I cut in half for some strange reason.

Jacket: Goodwill. Ann Taylor. I have promised this jacket to a lovely lady up north who adores it. I like it fine, but I am not super attached to it!

Shoes: Capezio. These are dance sandals I bought when I was playing Eve, as in the first woman, in a show seventeen or so years ago. Frightening! I was in college. Seventeen years ago... I'm old!

HaHa is attached to her skirt. I convinced her to wear it on her shoulders so that it wouldn't get destroyed in the park!

Staving off Sickness!

2010-12-26T12:43:00.000-08:00

I started feeling a little achy last night, and woke up feeling bad. I stayed in bed a long time, made some chicken soup, and am nursing a hot toddy as I write.

I feel better than I did earlier, and with a little luck, I'll wake up feeling back to normal. With all of the sickness that has been through our house of late, I'm surprised I managed to last this long

Maybe I was waiting for Christmas!

Teena Marie passed away today. She was a major musical presence in my house growing up! For a thoughtful tribute read, r.i.p. lady t.

She will certainly be missed.

Outfit:

Sweater: Cousin hand-me-down. Mossimo.

Pants: Goodwill. This is the Express "Editor" pant. I like the cut, but I feel that these are slightly tight. Richard said they look "fine", and that I just "need different underwear". I guess by that he means a girdle. Maybe they will fit better after the holiday season is through!

Still Rockin' the skirt

Shoes: Friend hand-me-down. Nine West.

Merry Merry!

2010-12-25T12:39:00.000-08:00

Santa came to our house last night! I thought he might only leave a bunch of coal, but he surprised me. What also surprised me was the joy I got from watching the kids open their gifts. While I'm not the biggest fan of Christmas, I am a fan of children getting excited about Santa!

I must thank the lovely and generous Santa's who supplied the kids with very thoughtful and lovely gifts! the children were delighted, and I know they will use and love them for a long time.

HaHa got THREE babies and a tea set! I was amazed at how adept she was at serving and sharing her "tea party" with us. How did she learn about tea parties?

I'll have to ask her!

Outfit:

Perhaps I was subconsciously inspired by "Black Swan", which I saw last night. There is a little bit of a dance feel to this outfit...

Dress: This was a give away that my best friend gave to me years ago. It used to belong to a T.V. actress!!! Ooh -La-La! Ann Taylor. In truth, it is the perfect shape for my body type (pear).

Sleeves: I made these many years ago by cutting off the sleeves of a leotard and attaching them in the back with a piece of elastic. I haven't worn these in many years. I can't say that I'll wear them again, either.

Shoes: American Eagle.

HaHa enjoys a tea party with her new friends.

HaHa got this lovely skirt today!

Flower: My cousin gave this to me on Thursday. I love it!

Dear Santa!

2010-12-24T13:58:00.000-08:00

A lovely day. A lovely night, and, I saw a movie in the theater for the first time since May!!! Yay!

Thanks mom!

Without Jacket!

Charlie left a few notes for Santa. Three of them on behalf of his stuffed friends Alvin, Weather Bear, and Pouncing Puppy. They were very sweet. I'm glad my humbug spirit hasn't worn off on my kids!

I am actually looking forward to the kids reactions when they wake up in the morning. We told them we were hopeful that Santa would not leave them coal, but we weren't sure what would happen. Charlie's response was that "Diamonds are made from coal". Always the optimist, that one!

Anyway, for those of you who celebrate Christmas, I wish you a very MERRY one!!! Ho-Ho-Ho!!!
Outfit:
Tank: Friend hand-me-down.

Khaki shirt: Cousin hand-me-down.Converse.

Jacket: Salvation Army. I got this in high school. I love the print so.

Skirt: Thrift store. Another high school find.

Shoes: These bad boys were a hand-me-down from my FRESH friend. American Eagle.

Charlie's Letters:

Winter White!

2010-12-23T14:10:00.000-08:00

I put on a completely different outfit this morning, but I decided to change because I though it was a little bit too fancy for today. I decided I would save it for Christmas. So stay tuned!

I opted instead to wear this mix of creams and white. Perfect for the day, and risky because I was surrounded by red wine and chili this evening. I also made a little Christmas punch, and, of course I spilled a few red drops down the front of my shirt right off the bat. But that's what life's all about, right? Red stains on a white shirt.

I had an amazing evening seeing friends and family that I just don't get to see enough. I also got to tell my dear friend Tony that I am a jerk and very sorry for missing his birthday! In my defense, I was still in the hospital with HaHa on his birthday. However, that is really no excuse.

I hope to never forget Tony's birthday again because he is a truly amazing and talented person and I am very lucky to know him! So, happy belated birthday Totoro!!! You're the best!

Outfit:

Long sleeve shirt: Goodwill. James Pearse.

Sweater(Under): Old Navy.

Sweater (Outer): Cousin hand-me-down. Mossimo.

Skirt: Goodwill. This is a dress I cut off.

Skirt (Under): Salvation Army. I believe I got this in high school.

Shoes: Kenzie.

Battle of the Babes!

2010-12-22T15:06:00.000-08:00

It's a good thing that toddlers are so small. If HaHa were he same size as me, and we were in a battle, like we were just a few hours ago, she would absolutely win. First of all, she refused to put on her pajamas. Then she screamed when I told her she had to take off her five necklaces before bed, and insisted on sleeping with an old bill she seized from a book I was reading. She also was having melt-downs about not having enough toothpaste, which is like candy to her.

After all of this, she finally settled, but then changed her mind and decided that she wanted to "go downstairs" to see grandma and Aunt Janine. I spent the next half hour holding her still while she tried to escape my clutches. It was horrible and I was glad when she finally gave into sleep.

We have also been having a lot of battles over clothes. Believe it or not, HaHa has a very keen sense of what she will and will not wear. Usually, every outfit battle begins with a "bathing suit" (an actual bathing suit or a pair of bloomer-like bottoms). It's amazing to me that she is so enamored with bathing suits, because I would do anything to avoid getting into one! I guess that's the joy of being a baby; your world view is minuscule. Societal pressure means as much to you as your mother saying,"It's time for bed". Body image does not exist. You are the perfect expression of presence in your body and your body is full of joy and cuteness!!!

Ah... to be young again!

Outfit:

Had very serious outfit deja-vu, but think I am just being paranoid... Ah well, only eight more days that I have to think of this stuff!!!

HaHa in a victory pose after getting her way!

White shirt: Gift from friend.

Sweater: Cousin hand-me-down. Old Navy.

Skirt: High school find. Salvation army.

Boots: Friend hand-me-down. Outside wear.

Shoes: American Eagle. Inside wear!

The Midnight Shuffle!

2010-12-21T23:30:00.000-08:00

Oh-oh-oh...
I'm doing the midnight shuffle.
Staying awake.
I love the late-night bustle.

Staying up all night,
Is the life that thrills me.
But when I see the morning light,
Oh- It kills me...

Thankfully my mom and aunt are here and they've been letting me sleep in!

I don't know why I decided to write that little diddy. It has a tune, but I am not tech savvy enough to upload it here. I'll hum it for you when I see you!

Outfit:

Basic black with a flair.

Top: Goodwill. I bought this when I was pregnant with HaHa, and I've only worn it once before, with a baby bump in tow. It is more summer worthy, but I haven't worn it this year, so I decided to throw it on! Si'en.

Sweater: Cousin hand-me-down. Tulle.

Skirt: Forever 21.

Shoes: Friend hand-me-down.

Aman-About-Town!

2010-12-20T13:39:00.000-08:00

Tonight I went out to celebrate my very sweet friend Aman's birthday! His party was at a cool little spot on the Sunset strip called Libertine. There was an awesome band and they played some great songs including a rockin' cover of MGMT's Electric Feel. I really love that song. It is good.

So, after a lovely night out, I arrived at home at 1:30 to a room full of men playing poker in my living room. I went into the back room to do my post, and I promptly fell asleep. Now it is 2:37 a.m. and I have to decide: decent post, or bed?

I think I am going to go with bed. I am so, so sleepy. Long day at The Espy compound.

By the way, at this time, 2:47 a.m., the boys are STILL playing poker. And it's a work night. Oh, well...

Tomorrow is another day!

Outfit:

Top: This is a vintage dress I found in a thrift store long ago. The hem is a little short for my taste, so I decided to throw a skirt over it.

Skirt: George.

Shoes: American Eagle.

Give 'em the Slip!

2010-12-19T22:58:00.001-08:00

I have had a longstanding love affair with vintage slips and nightgowns. The delicate fabrics, the lace, and details have always made me swoon. I really, really adore them. However, I can't really go around town wearing my slips and nightgowns for all the world to see.

I can however, wear my slips and nightgowns all around my house. And I do. Sometimes. More often I can be found wearing sweat pants when I'm hanging at home on a Sunday. But today, 12 days before my final non-repeat-outfit, I am taking advantage of my slips, as well as my need to not repeat!

The rain made for lovely accompaniment to the day. I love the pitter-pat upon the roof.

Outfit:
I am wearing 3 slips all together, but you can only see two.

Under slip: Thrift store. Calvin Klein.

Pink tank: Old Navy.

Half slip: Thrift store.

Sweater: Cousin hand-me-down! Mossimo.

Shoes: None.

Mi Familia!

2010-12-18T12:23:00.000-08:00

Today we had our annual "Festivus" party on my maternal side of the family. I must say, I have a truly awesome family! We had a wonderful time catching up, reminiscing, and eating copious amounts of delicious food.

My cousins, my aunts, my uncles, my little cousins, mates of cousins, are superbly entertaining, and sweet and beautiful and lovely and we had a wonderful day!

I also got a very sweet phone message from a friend I've known for 28 years! She is the best, and I'm glad that I can still call her friend after such a long time!

HaHa stayed up until midnight. Could she be genetically programmed for late night shenanigans?! It is 2:55 a.m. right now and both Richard and I are typing away on our keyboards, finishing business we should have completed long ago...

I do know that writing when I'm in this state is not so hot. At any rate, family, I love you!!!

Outfit:

Going for a Christmas palate!

Shirt: Goodwill. I love this shirt. The print has birds in it!

Skirt: Goodwill. I love this skirt. It has sequins!!! Forever 21.

Shoes: American Eagle.

Fallin' in Soup!

2010-12-17T12:48:00.000-08:00

Tonight I made soup. I often forget how lovely a soup can be. I rarely make it for the family, but I am thinking it is something I should do more often. Soup is good food.

I had a wonderful day at work. The kids were so excited and sweet, and the morning started with a fabulous concert!

Who could ask for more?!

Outfit:

Sweater: Goodwill. Lux. I seem to like things from this brand...

Shirt: Cousin hand-me-down. Mossimo.

Pants: Cousin hand-me-down again! Gap!

Shoes: Mossimo.

The Uniform!

2010-12-16T14:17:00.000-08:00

As you can see, I've worn jeans three days in a row. This, in addition to wanting to expand my wardrobe horizons via my own closet, is one of the reasons I started this project. I'm sure many of you appreciate the ease and accessibility of denim. You can dress it up, dress it down... It's comfortable. practical, fashionable, but it's a trap. The denim conspiracy pulls you in and makes you weak.

So, I am going to try to avoid jeans for the remaining 14 DAYS OF THIS CHALLENGE!!!
14 days left!!! I can't believe it! Almost done, almost done! I still have to put up a photo stream of each day, and I wanted to do a tally of my most worn items and such.

Right now, however, I want to get some shut eye. what else is new? Maybe I'll start a sleep blog next.
Or lack of sleep blog...

Outfit: I decided I would go basic today. This is an outfit you would normally find me in, minus the pink belt. When you work with first graders, denim is the go-to fabric!

Shirt: Gift from Richard. It's a thermal, for the cold day.

Tank (under layer) Urban Outfitters circa 1993. It is totally falling apart!

Jeans: Cousin hand-me-down. Gap.

Belt: Friend hand-me-down.

Shoes: American Eagle.

Baking in the Night!

2010-12-15T22:51:00.000-08:00

Tonight I am baking, so that will leave me at another day of not being able to write anything of interest. However, I will still do my obligatory post and list the items I am wearing.

I am making brownies for the kid's teachers, and I am on my fourth batch so I am a little wonky. I did not get enough sleep yesterday, and I really want to go to sleep this instant, but I have to shower, and make lunches, and get HaHa down, and you know how one thing builds upon the other and the next thing you know hours have passed...

Two more days before winter break. The kids are absolutely nuts. It's amazing how wound they get. Makes me wonder about year round school. By the way, wearing a jacket and pumps, is a sure-fire way to get compliments!

Okay. Enough. Outfit:

White shirt/vest: Thrift store. Max Studio.

Dotted Shirt: Thrift store. I took the very puffy long sleeves off this shirt long ago.

Jeans: Cousin hand-me-down. Gap.

Shoes: Carlos Falchi. I love these shoes, but they are on their last leg!!!

3 Hours 'Til Dawn!

2010-12-14T15:18:00.000-08:00

It is very, very, very late... Or perhaps it is early. 3 hours away from dawn. What else is new?
When Richard and I are up at the wee hours we often wonder how many other parents are out there like us. We decided that if there are other parents up at two and three in the morning (not wrangling ill or non-sleeping children) (and not in rock bands), they are probably meth addicts or insomniacs. But we are neither. We are night owls. Plain and simple.

Oh, how I would love there to be two shifts at school. I'd take the 10 to 5 shift with all the little night owl babies! That would be swell. Alright, I do need to get a little shut eye before school!!!

Good Night!!!

Outfit:

Dress: Goodwill.

Sweater: Cousin hand-me-down. Forever 21.

Pants: Given to me by my lovely cousin Taylor!!! Gap.

Boots: My Fresh Friend's mom gave these to me!

Clindamycin!

2010-12-13T23:39:00.000-08:00

How could it be that so close to the finish line I am faltering? In part, I think it is because I am still experiencing the fallout of last week. Oh, and Charlie has strep throat, so I'm pretty sure that that is what HaHa had, but I have to wait to get her blood test results back to know if my hypothesis is correct. Apparently, it's going around...

Wash your hands!

As I mentioned yesterday, HaHa is in some crazy PTSD state, so I have been in constant stress mode. And now, as I sit here I realize I must wake her in mere moments to pour two and a half teaspoons of clindamycin down her throat. Oh well, I guess it's time to wrap it up!

Outfit:

When I threw this on, I kept having that nagging feeling that I've worn it before. Of course, that's understandable seeing that I am 17 days away from the completion of One Closet, One Year!!!
In actuality, I wore almost the same exact thing, but it was my gray striped shirt that I wore with this skirt. So, I did NOT break my rule! Ha!

Shirt: Friend hand-me-down. Forever 21.

Skirt: Goodwill. Forever 21.

Shoes: Goodwill. Kenzie.

Exhaustion!

2010-12-12T23:14:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when you're exhausted. My outfit and pictures are lacking. I just didn't have the energy to keep taking photos. I had a rough day, and it seems to be turning into a rough night. HaHa is experiencing some sort of PTSD, and refuses to sleep alone. She wakes up every time we put her down, so she's tired, and we are too.

The boys are also suffering because right now, they're an after-thought, and I'm cranky.

I know this too shall pass, but right now, it's exhausting.
I am including some photos from the beginning of the saga that I just got from my phone. You can really see how horrible HaHa was.

Outfit:

Shirt: Old Navy.

Pants: Gap.

I am including some photos from the beginning of the saga that I just got from my phone. You can really see how horrible HaHa was.

Me and HaHa in the ER.

HaHa being transported to UCLA.

The next day at UCLA. This is how she looked when I arrived.

Highs and Lows!

2010-12-11T23:56:00.000-08:00

Today, I must say, I experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. My day started at 5:00 in the morning with a nurse telling me not to allow HaHa any food or drink because they wanted to give her a CAT scan in a few hours. I did not know why they wanted to perform this test, but it was so early that I simply went back to sleep. At 7:30, a new doctor came in to talk to me about the scan. I asked a few questions, and found out they had felt a rather large lump in the back of HaHa's throat. They had taken an x-ray, but it was inconclusive.
At any rate, the following 4 hours of not letting HaHa drink or eat while we were waiting for our pediatrician, the attendings, and the radiologist to decide whether or not a CAT scan was warranted, were a series of low moments. I won't even get into the fact that this whole ordeal could probably been avoided if HaHa's doctors listened to us more carefully, and didn't misdiagnose her in the first place (but that's another very long story).

Now the highs. HaHa did NOT get a CAT scan, we were discharged, and I got to celebrate my fabulous friend Jaime's birthday! Even though I was exhausted, I would not have missed the chance to celebrate this amazing woman! She really is the best! Her party was also the best and I got to dance and revel in the glorious company of humanity!

Another low: Seeing a limping raccoon with a missing tail run down my friend's block.

Another high: Richard and HaHa were awake when I got home at 1:00 a.m.!

Outfit:

Yesterday Richard brought a few jackets for me to wear so that I could avoid a repeat.

Shirt: Emma & Sam (same as yesterday).

Jeans: Goodwill. (same as yesterday).

Shoes: American eagle.

Jacket: Goodwill.

For Jaime's party I decided to go all out with my leisure suit madness. After all, it was a special occasion!

Suit: Goodwill.

Shoes: Patricia Field for Payless. I got these bad boys for 12 bucks!

Still Here!

2010-12-10T22:46:00.000-08:00

Still in the hospital. Still exhausted. We hope to be home tomorrow. HaHa is definitely on the mend, as evidenced by the photos. Seeing her brothers for the first time in three days was very healing.

Some sweet little and big angels stopped by and kept me company today.

Thank you, Angels!

And thank you to all of you who reached out to us, sending love and prayers, and well wishes!!!

I feel very blessed!

Outfit:

Last night when I realized I would not be going home I was sad because I was going to have to repeat by default, but then I realized that I had thrown a purple shirt in my bag yesterday because I was going to wear it under the purple sweater! I also had my gray striped striped shirt in my bag because I was going to wear it under my mauve button down blouse a few days ago.

Anyway, I was saved by my obsessive need to have "enough" stuff. I am a total bag lady and can often be found carrying abundant amounts of many things.

Striped Shirt: Friend hand-me-down. Gap.

Purple shirt: Emma & Sam.

Jeans: Goodwill. Gap.

Shoes: American Eagle. Charlie threw up minutes after this picture was taken. He made it to the bathroom, thanks to my maternal instincts! Good save!!!

Don't Panic!

2010-12-09T23:20:00.000-08:00

This is Richard, subbing in for Shelayna tonight.

Hollis is fine. She had an infection, and had stopped drinking. She was very dehydrated, and needed i.v. fluids. She's back to normal, but we have to wait for the results of the bacteria cultures to make sure she gets the correct antibiotic before she gets to come home.

Thanks everyone for your concern.

Here are the blurry, iPhone under fluorescent pictures for tonight.

Outfit: Not a repeat.

Shelayna is worrying desperately!

Hollis is paying no attention, because she has chocolate ice cream.

Hollis on the phone saying, "It ain't no thing!"

Ha Ha in Hospital...

2010-12-08T22:40:00.000-08:00

I can't really post now. It seems ridiculous and utterly impossible. My brain is heavy with worry and I can hardly breathe.

I don't know anything yet. HaHa is being fed fluids through an IV and being tested. Please send her your thought and prayers, and send her home fast.

Outfit: Not a repeat.

Still Sick HaHa!

2010-12-07T23:35:00.000-08:00

So the rash that I thought I saw developing last night on HaHa's cheeks, was all over her torso today. After having an argument with Richard about what a "rash" was, he agreed, after looking at her, that HaHa did, indeed, have a rash. So we called the doctor.

As I was speaking to the doctor, I could hear screaming children in the back ground, so I thought she was at the ER or something. As I was telling her my homeopathic treatment remedies I have used in the past she said, "Excuse me, for one moment", and put down the phone. I heard her walk away and give her kid a "time out" for making such a racket while mommy was "on the phone". Her kids are 3 1/2 and 1 and 1/2.

I guess mommy doctors know the clarion call of toddlers too!

On a completely different note, I just found out that two of the most stylish and amazing women I know are writing about "Clothes Stories" here: http://theclothesstory.blogspot.com/

The outfits I have seen them wear over the years are to die for, and I am so excited I get to see some of the outfits I've missed! (Like Holly's Silver Stella McCartney Jumpsuit).

Outfit:

Sweater: Cousin hand-me-down. Mossimo. Very soft.

Skirt: Cousin hand-me-down. Ralph Lauren. Thank you cousin! See said cousin perform on Friday night! Very funny!

Shoes: American Eagle.

Sick HaHa!

2010-12-06T22:30:00.000-08:00

I have given HaHa antibiotics, something I really hate to do, especially after reading the many side effects, most of which HaHa would not be able to tell us about. I am also freaking out a little bit because it looks like she is getting a rash on her cheeks, one of the "serious" side effects listed on the Patient Prescription Information. Or maybe I am just thinking that she has a rash because I am a Nervous Nellie. I'll wait until Richard gets home and see what he says...

At any rate, I've got to go. I have to go stare at HaHa.

Oh, I have a new equation: Sick HaHa + Nervous Nellie= Lame outfit and pictures.

Outfit:

Sweater: Clothing swap. J.Crew.

Shirt: Gift. Loupilou.

Pants: Cousin hand-me-down. Gap.

Shoes: Mossimo.

Poor Baby!

2010-12-05T22:10:00.000-08:00

It is really horrible to watch your child suffer. I cannot imagine having a child with a serious illness. It must be the worst. HaHa spent the entire day in Daddy's arms, and now she is in mine. She cries at every move and touch, and she has had a fever since Friday.

Richard is taking her to the doctor's tomorrow. Mostly because she is just not herself. I am hoping her fever breaks tonight, but I don't think that's likely.

I took the boys to a birthday and commiserated with some moms about the challenge of raising two boys close in age. Apparently, I'm not alone.

On the way home the boys and I made up songs and had a good time. They beat boxed and I sang.

Outfit:

Shirt:Forever 21.

Sweater: Friend hand-me-down. Alfani.

Pants: Cousin hand-me-down. Gap.

Leather jacket: Friend hand-me-down. Aldo.

Boots: Dansko.

Checking Out!

2010-12-04T23:15:00.000-08:00

Totally wiped after the inspiring conference, driving straight from San Diego to my writing class, and coming home to a sick child. So, I will keep it short and sweet.

It was great to be back home, safe and sound. Now I will go sit with HaHa!

Outfit:

This is a combination of Thursday and Friday's outfit.

Thursday's Skirt + Friday's Pants(and belt) = New Combo!!!

Shirt: Goodwill. Citron (Skirt).

Pants: Goodwill: Next.

Sweater: Hand-me-down from cousin. Merona

Shoes: Fit Flops (not pictured). (Hee-hee).

Small World!

2010-12-03T23:29:00.000-08:00

Another lovely day here at POCC! I ended up running into two women I knew by complete coincidence! One was an amazing woman I used to work with, and the other randomly sat down next to me and said I looked familiar. When I saw her name tag, and the school she worked at, I realized that she was the lovely women who hired the rockin' band I sing with for her son's Bar Mitzvah! This was five years ago! What are the chances? 3000 people at this conference, and dozens of workshops, and we end up at siting next to each other. Amazing.

I also got to see Earnest Green, one of the "Little Rock Nine, speak. His presence and presentation was a welcome reminder of how far we've come, and the work we still have left to do. Amazing.

After the day's business, I got to attend an "alumni mixer". We had good food, good conversation, and I was with people that I truly admire and love... A- Ma-zing!!!

Thank you universe!!!

Outfit:

Jacket: George.

Sweater: Goodwill. New York & Co.

Pants: Goodwill. Next.

Shoes: Mossimo.

POCC!

2010-12-02T23:41:00.000-08:00

I am at the NAIS People Of Color Conference. I had a really fantastic day and I am so lucky that the school I work for believes it is important for educators to continue to learn and grow!

As I have been saying everyday for awhile, I need to get some zzz's! I arrived at 2:00 a.m., went to bed at 3:00 a.m., and had to be at the opening ceremony at 8! Needless to say, I'm knackered! I did actually take an accidental nap which caused me to be late to dinner with our group.

I do hope that I can write a more engaging post one day. By the way, this is the first time I have ever stayed in a hotel by myself in 37 years! It is also the first time I have been alone overnight since August of 2008! Crazy huh?

Outfit:

Shirt: Goodwill. James Pearse.

Skirt: Goodwill. Citron. Third wear in the last month!

Shoes: Fit flops. I packed cuter heels, but I was walking a lot...

A diagram of "Microaggression" a topic I went to a workshop on today. Very thought provoking and insightful!

The view from my window!

San Diego Bound!

2010-12-01T23:30:00.000-08:00

I have to drive down to San Diego in mere moments, so this may be my shortest post ever. I got home very late, and Richard had a Clippers game to attend, so I am not leaving as early as I would like, but if I get there around 1:oo a.m., which is when I think I should arrive, it won't be much later than my usual bedtime, and I will NOT have to get up as early as I would if I were going to work. At least I hope not. I could be mistaken, however. I guess we'll see. I'll tell you all about it tomorrow!!!

Richard just asked if I was writing about my dread and trepidation at leaving the kids with him alone for three days. I told him "no". I just hope they eat at least one home cooked meal (I am making marinara sauce for them right now in the hopes that tomorrow Richard will make pasta to go with it!)

xoxo!

Not my shortest post ever.

30 day to go!!!!

Outfit:

Might I go out with a fizzle? I have been too tired to be inspired, but I am hoping to get my mojo back soon! Sorry about the horrible photos. It was a rush job!

Shirt: Forever 21. I got this when I was working in admissions. It was good at the time, but I think it doesn't fit me well. It's going on the out pile!

Sweater: Cousin hand me down. Forever 21.

Pants: Goodwill. Moda International. These I got right after I had one of the kids, and they also do not fit right. Out they go!

Shoes: American Eagle

Ouchfit!

2010-11-30T23:25:00.000-08:00

Today I really hated my outfit. Perhaps it is because I got dressed in the dark. My outfit was giving me grief, and I wasn't really comfortable all day.

That said, It was not a repeat! This dress is going in the out pile as well. I realized today that empire waist dresses are not so great on me. It is very important to wear clothes that flatter your shape. I learned this on "What Not To Wear". Just kidding. I learned it through trial and error. I am very grateful for clothing. Thank you clothing. You are great. I love you.

But not today's outfit. I don't even like you. Sorry.

Outfit:

Dress: Goodwill.

Skirt: Goodwill. Forever 21.

Shirt: Clothing swap.

Tank: Old Navy.

Boots: Dansko.

My glass vase that I found at The G.W. (I am going to start calling Goodwill the G.W.)

Free Fashion!

2010-11-29T23:47:00.000-08:00

My friend Ally, sent me this link to a group of people who have begun a "Free Fashion Challenge", wherein "15 Fashion Addicts Worldwide Stop Buying Clothes For One Year". I can honestly say, "been there, done that!" And, they are allowed to swap, so I think my challenge is a bit more challenging. However, they are committed to not consuming, so I guess swapping fits the bill.

I also would not describe myself as a shopping addict. In fact, I don't really care for shopping that much. Except thrift store shopping, when I'm in the mood. I know I've said it before, but for me the fun in thrift store shopping is the surprise and the hunt. You're not presented with a rack of ready to wear clothing, you have to find it, and it's fun!

Anyway, apparently there is something the air of late, that is leading people out of the stores, and into their own wardrobes for inspiration... Could it be recession? Environmentalism? Realization that one has enough?

I'm not sure, but I do know that I wish the Fashion Addicts well on their "withdrawal". They have 345 days left. There's a count down on the home page!

Outfit:

All my pictures were stinkin' up the joint today. But I really liked my outfit. I thought it was very "school teacher".

Print shirt: Forever 21.

Sweater vest: I got this at a little shop on Jay street in New York. Can't say what the name of it was! It was a long time ago.

Skirt: You've seen it many times this year! Salvation Army. High School purchase.

Shoes: American Eagle.

Dinnertime chez Espy!

Temptation!

2010-11-28T22:42:00.000-08:00

I went to Goodwill today to look for a chair. Really. Richard and I had gone to Ikea on Saturday to buy a new mattress for Charlie, and to replace a broken chair that we've been living with for too long. The mattress Charlie has been sleeping on the past few years was mine when I was younger, so it is at least 25 years old. Possibly older. Said chair kept falling apart after repeated gluing and hammering.

However, we did not find a chair at Ikea. So, I thought, "why not check out Goodwill?" When I walked into Goodwill, I immediately spotted some intriguing fabrics calling me from the shirt rack. "Shelayna!", they beckoned, "Come check us out." A purple shirt with macrame collar, a vintage Gap plaid shirt, an empire waist apple print, a metallic print shirt that was probably from the 70's. Ugh! So many treasures. Items too good to be true!

I couldn't help myself, so I browsed through the dresses. A little "window shopping" never hurt anyone, right? Oh, the dresses were magnificent! A vintage leopard print, eyelet shift, fabulous floral dress, and many more. I found two that I thought my Fresh friend would love, so I picked them up. After that, I hightailed it over to the furniture section so I could avoid any more lusting over previously owned garments!

Dresses for fresh friend!

I did not find a chair, but I did find a pitcher and a very cool bowl. I'll post pictures of them tomorrow. I also think that when I am allowed to shop again, I have to be careful when I go into Goodwill! There is temptation all around!

Outfit:

Sheer vintage shirt: Goodwill.

Striped shirt: Friend hand-me-down. Gap.

Jeans: Big Sunday. Blu by Malibu Jeans.

HaHa explores the park in a poncho!

Sweater coat: Goodwill. Forever 21.

Shoes: Wanted. They are completely worn out on the bottom, and they are my only sneakers!

Laundry!

2010-11-27T22:07:00.000-08:00

A few night ago I laundered my light "hand washables". I had been putting it off for a while, but once I washed them, I loved looking at them hanging in the bathroom, an array of creamy colors and delicate fabrics.

Oh, the possibilities! Yesterday's outfit, and today's, are the direct result of my domestic duty. It's nice to have some some inspiration as I head into my final days of One Closet, One Year. I was particularly fond of my outfit yesterday, but when I got a comment about it, I had outfit-deja-vu-panick! I checked, and I'm in the clear, but boy, I will be glad when I can get dressed without thinking about it first.

I hope I don't slip back into my jeans everyday habit!

By the way, this is day 331! I better keep my head in the game, and watch out for already worn combinations. Here's hoping!

Oh, I have to give a shout out to the amazing and lovely Pollyanna for putting my little HaHa night owl to sleep! Thank you, P! I owe you one!

Outfit:

Shirt: Goodwill. Mossimo.

Jacket: Friend hand-me-down.

Skirt: This is a dress that I cut into a skirt. I got it at a thrift store seven years ago.

Under skirt: Salvation army. Same as yesterday.

Shoes: Mossimo.

Beachy Keen!!!

2010-11-26T23:35:00.000-08:00

We spent the day at Malibu. Beautiful, placid, Malibu. It was lovely and fun and sweet and happy and I got to see some people that I haven't seen in too long.

Days have turned into months and- BAM, just like that, a baby I last saw when he was two months old, is one! Crazy!

I just started falling asleep while posting, so I am going to keep it short and sweet!

Outfit:

Shirt: Cousin hand-me-down. French Connection. I'm wearing it backwards!

Skirt: Salvation Army. High school purchase!

Sweater: Thrift store. J Crew.

Shoes: zoe & zack.

Giving Thanks!

2010-11-25T23:43:00.001-08:00

I am thankful for all of the gifts in my life. The good times, the bad times and everything in between.

I am thankful for my amazing family and awesome friends.

I am thankful for the wonderful people I work with. The adults and the children.

I am thankful for the delicious meal prepared for us by the extraordinary and kind chef Palver.

I am thankful that today I got to "unplug" and read magazines, listen to the radio and hang at home. I kept my cell phone off and tucked away my computer. I did laundry, I baked, and I barely ate anything, much like yesterday, so I could stuff myself with all the Thanksgiving foods I love!

This turned out to be a mistake. I think that not eating much in two days made my stomach slightly smaller, so I got full really fast. And, this is the first Thanksgiving I can remember ever, that I did NOT eat desert!!! Me not eating desert is a big deal. I'm not really sure why I didn't. I guess I was too full.

I will have some pumpkin pie tomorrow, though. Actually, pumpkin-sweet-potato-pie! Yummy!

Oh, I am also thankful for you kind souls who give my blog the time of day! Thank you all, so much! I hope you all had a wonderful and peaceful Thanksgiving!!!

Outfit:

Shirt: Salvation Army. I got this in high school. I love the texture and color.

Sweater: Fresh friend hand-me-down. H&M.

Skirt: Thrift store. Zara.

Shoes: Old Navy.

Missed Calls!

2010-11-24T12:32:00.000-08:00

Today I had a missed call at 8:35 a.m.. It was from my friend's husband and he didn't leave a message. I called him back, but he didn't answer. I called their house phone and left a message. Nothing. Twelve hours later and I still hadn't heard from him/them, so I started to worry.

What if something happened to my friend? Her parents?...

I started to really worry. I called them and it turns out that he was calling to let me know that he has Richard's jacket in his car. I'm trying to figure out what it is in me that expects bad news because I generally think of myself as an optimist...

Food for thought! Happy Thanksgiving!

Outfit:

Dress: Cousin hand-me-down. Forever 21. I realized today that this dress does not fit me well. It's going on the "out" pile!

Shirt: Goodwill. Mossimo.

Shoes: Old Navy. All three kids wore their Halloween costumes this morning. HaHa kept hers on most of the day. She actually wanted her bee costume, but I couldn't find it, so I gave her this one!

Thanksgiving Break!

2010-11-23T23:35:00.000-08:00

When you work at a school, there is an ebb and flow to things. Just when it seems that everyone's nerves are fraught and the kids are getting too cray-cray, there's a break! It almost always seems that every day off is perfectly timed. Or maybe the kids act a little wilder because they know there's a break brewing... I'm not sure. Chicken and egg, I guess.

At any rate, these last two school days before the break were breezy and fun. Everyone was excited and gratitude-filled. Thanksgiving is favorite holiday of many for good reason. I can't wait to give thanks this Thursday!

The sweet potato pound cake was a hit! I highly recommend the recipe. The people at work loved it! Speaking of work, I stayed at work late with HaHa, and it was a lot of fun. She helped me take down a block wall, go through my desk, and copy a bunch of papers. All the while she was cheerful and sweet, the perfect work companion!

Outfit:

Loving the relationship between green, gray, and metal!

Green shirt: Goodwill. Kenneth Cole.Third time I've worn it this year!

Grey sweater: Cousin hand-me-down. Mossimo. Worn a lot.

Velvet jacket: Forever 21. Third time wear.

Jeans: Goodwill. Gap. Lots o' wear in these bad boys!

Shoes: Wanted. I realized today that I only have three pair of casual closed toe shoes. None of them really went with my outfit. Oh well!

When we got home, HaHa decided to be "Buzz ight yee" complete with heels! She was very funny kicking and punching and studying herself in the mirror!

Sweet Potato Pound Cake!

2010-11-22T23:43:00.000-08:00

It is 2:45 a.m. as I type this post. I am waiting to take a sweet potato pound cake out of the oven! To be fair, I started making the cake after dinner. However, one thing led to another, and the next thing you know, I'm lying down near HaHa's side and falling asleep. Falling asleep was at 9:00 p.m. It's become a new ritual.
I fall asleep with HaHa at 9, and wake up at midnight. I Work from midnight to 3 a.m. and go back to bed until 6:30 a.m.! Believe it or not, it's a pretty good strategy for getting enough sleep, and getting the stuff I need to get done, done!

Because we have never sleep trained HaHa, and because her sleep habits are pure, unadulterated evil, I have decided that it's better to lay down with her at a reasonable hour, rather than wait until it's 11:00 p.m. to deal with her madness. I am hoping that once I am not working full-time I will have the energy and will power to do the stay in bed face-off. Trouble is, she has been climbing out of her crib since she was 15 months or something like that. (It's here, somewhere on the blog, but I can't find it.)

Anyway, the point is, we can't stop HaHa from getting out of her bed and coming downstairs. Much to our chagrin. So I guess what I really need to work on, when winter break comes around, is making HaHa love her own bed so much that she never wants to get into ours. Easy as pie, right?!

Outfit:

Green shirt: Goodwill. Lux.

Jacket: Goodwill. Ann Taylor.

Jeans: Big Sunday. Blu by Malibu Jeans.

Shoes: Goodwill. Kensie Girl. They're white. And it's after Labor Day!

Parties!

2010-11-21T22:32:00.000-08:00

Today we went to a birthday party for one of the sweetest boys in the whole world! It was a perfect party filled with friends, food, and fun!!!

We were up in the Palisades, over-looking the ocean, and the view and scenery was stunning!

It is Sunday, so I am taking the day off. Everyone deserves a break now and then, right?

Outfit:

Dress: Cousin hand-me-down. I tied it in two places to make it shorter. See original dress here:

Skirt: Goodwill. Forever 21.

Sweater: Clothing swap. Express.

Shoes: American Eagle.

Aunt D!

2010-11-20T22:29:00.001-08:00

I had a wonderful day with my family in celebration of my amazing Aunt Diane! It is so wonderful to be with people who have helped take care of you, influenced you, and inspired you in a myriad of ways. People who love you no matter what, in spite of, and just because. People who understand you, who make you laugh, and people who rock! I am lucky to have many of these people in my life. Blood relatives and friends alike!

On a different note, Richard ate so much garlic yesterday that when I walked into the back room upon arriving home, it smelled like a deli! And he was upstairs! Frightening. The stench that emanated from his body was so horrible that I had to sleep in a different room. I'm not kidding. Hor-i-ble. This was first time since we've been together that I have opted to sleep in a different room. Actually, it might be the second time. I think I slept in a different room when I was sick once. Once. Okay. On that note, let me get to my outfit!

Outfit:

Dress: Forever 21.

Skirt: Goodwill. Forever 21.

Shoes: Mossimo.

Sweater: Clothing swap.

Belated Props!!!

2010-11-19T23:30:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, while I was rattling off trivial facts of the day, I forgot to mention the most important fact of all!!! It was my Aunt Diane's, the brilliant and beautiful matriarch of our family! I'm sorry Aunt D! I thought her birthday was today. What can I say? I have yet to get my i-Cal together.

Anyway, Aunt Diane is the best, and I am so grateful she was born because our family would not have been the same without her!

Happy Belated, and many more! See you tomorrow!!!

Today was a real TGIF day. After a very busy and crazy week, it is nice to have a couple of days to get my sleep on!

I had a kindergarten parent dinner that was lovely and fun, and, amazingly, the group of parents I was sitting with, and I, did NOT talk about our kids!!! There were a few kid comments, naturally, but they were said in passing. We talked about New York, the seats in Disney Concert Hall, FIDM, Sondheim, and some other topics I can't get into right now...
It was a lot of fun though! And the food was scrumptious!

Outfit:

Black Sweater: Cousin hand me down.

Leopard wrap top: Le Chateau, circa 1997. I wore this 10 days ago.

Skirt: Goodwill. Zara.

Sweater coat: Goodwill. Forever 21. One of the last things I bought before I started this project!

Shoes: American Eagle.

Pajama Day, Hey!

2010-11-18T23:39:00.000-08:00

It was Pajama Day today. This gave me the opportunity to not have to get "dressed" today, which, of course was a nice breath of fresh air. I wonder what would happen if the whole world went to work in their pajamas for one day...

By the way, today it is Mickey Mouse's birthday! I guess he was "born" when he debuted in "Steamboat Willie" on this day, in 1928.

It is also Great American Smokeout Day! Although it sounds like a day for pot heads to gather and celebrate, it is actually a call for smoker's to quit for at least a day. It is the 35th anniversary, and according to statistics smoking is on the decline! I wish someone would tell my two-pack a day father that!

On a completely different note, my neighbor, along with her sister who is visiting, was kind enough to to bring me a plate of the most scrumptious and amazing brownies ever! Thank you, lovely ladies! They are dee-lish!!!

Outfit:

Nightgown: Thrift store. I have a weakness for old nightgowns and slips! I bought this years ago!

Robe: A gift from Richard. Courtesy of the Los Angeles Clippers.

Shoes: Fit Flops.

For the Birds!

2010-11-17T23:45:00.000-08:00

I love this skirt very much. I get compliments on it whenever I wear it, and I found it at Goodwill! It was made by a company called Citron, that makes very beautiful clothing. I have a few other items from Citron that I've received as gifts. They all have exquisite fabric and lovely detail. That said, I would have bought this skirt whether it was made by Citron or Old Navy. I just really love the print.

The other day when I was at school, I saw a women wearing a red jacket with the same crane print! She's had it for years, and its one of her favorites too!

I wore this skirt in it's regular form on November 4, for the first time this year. I saved this skirt for the end of this project because I was going to wear it everyday for one week, in 5 different ways (weekend excluded, of course). I decided against it because I didn't want kids asking me why I was wearing the same thing everyday. Today I had a little girl in my class eye me, then ask, "Is that a skirt?". I asked her how she knew, and she remembered me wearing it awhile back.

Anyway, I may or may not wear this skirt another way before my year is over, but, one thing is certain: this is a skirt I will keep!

Outfit:

Sweater: Cousin hand-me-down: Mossimo.

Skirt (worn as dress): Goodwill. Citron.

Boots: Dansko.

Menopause?!

2010-11-16T23:51:00.000-08:00

I don't know what is going on with my body, but tonight I had the thought that maybe I am going through early menopause! Physically exhausted, irritable, hot, (and I'm usually always cold)... When I lay down to read to the kids, which turned into Leo reading to me before I read to the kids, I put my head on the pillow and felt super relieved and comfy.

Now, I must admit that the three proceeding hours included three major melt downs from the three kids, and driving home in L.A. traffic. These things could make anybody irritable right? I think so. Or maybe it is my pesky hormones going cray-cray after seven years with three pregnancies and 4 years and 8 months of nursing that continues despite my efforts to discourage any partaking of "bah-bah". I tell HaHa no, and she persists, squeezing every last drop she can out of my sad and exhausted mammary glands. She actually tells me when they are "done"... Anyway, qqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqq

I am tired and I needs to get some zzzzz's. Case in point, see the above qqqqqq's! (made by mistake as I was drifting)(honest!)

Outfit:

Top: Forever 21. This was in impulse on sale buy, and it's going bye-bye after this year is through!

Sweater: Cousin hand-me-down. Forever 21.

Pants: Isaac Mizrahi for Target!

Shoes: American Eagle.

Late Again!

2010-11-15T23:29:00.000-08:00

We got invited last-minute to dinner because there was a broken freezer and food that needed to be cooked and eaten. Of course that means that we got home late and now I'm off schedule and I have sworn that I'm going to get to bed early, and now it is 11:04 and I have to cook shrimp so that it doesn't go bad and I have to make lunches and shower, and I feel my early bed time slipping away as I type...

So, on to outfit!

Outfit:

Striped shirt: Friend hand me down. Gap.

Pants: Goodwill. It has a matching jacket!

Belt: Goodwill. My friend's daughter called it a "whale belt".

Jacket: Friend hand me down. Aldo.

Shoes: Fit Flops.

Tay-Tay and K.K.!

2010-11-14T23:22:00.000-08:00

A little angel, named Aunt Janine, let me sleep in until 11 today!!! Yay!!! I got to bed at 1:30 a.m., after my rockin' night, and I was pooped after a hectic past few days.

Sometimes I am so tired I can actually feel fatigue in my bones...

Anyway, It is the birthday of two of the loveliest ladies I know! My sister, Kim, and my genetic half- sister-a.k.a.-cousin Taylor! They were born on the same day in the SAME year! Some qualities they share, besides being related to me are:

Beauty, intelligence, kindness, humor, courage, and just down-right amazing-ness!

I could write a book about all of the things these ladies have done over the years, because they have done a lot! Oregon Shakespere Festival, a one woman show, moved to Japan, single mom at 23, gone back to school (they both did that one). For the rest, you'll have to guess!

Can't write a lucid post, of late. Writer's block, or post-traumatic-post syndrome?...

Happy Birthday little sisters!!!! You're the greatest!!!

Outfit:

Print shirt: Friend hand-me-down.

Under dress: Goodwill. Old Navy.

Skirt: Salvation Army. High school purchase!

Shoes: American Eagle.

Rockin' the Bat Mitzvah!

2010-11-13T23:36:00.000-08:00

I just got back from a fabulously fun Bat Mitzvah! I love Bar and Bat Mitzvahs. They are good times. Before our rockin' hora extravaganza, there was something called the "Havdalah", which was very beautiful. It almost made me and Maura, the other female singer in the band, want to convert.

It was a great crowd, which always helps, but my favorite moment of the night was when a young boy came up to the band and asked me, "Do you know any Ke$ha?" I answered very matter of factly, "We're too old."

He gave me a funny look, but I spoke the truth.

Two outfits for November 13:

Day:

Shirt: Thrift store: Clio.

Jeans: Clothing Swap. J.Crew.

Shoes: Fit Flops.

Night:

Shirt: I got this in New York at least 15 years ago, and I have no idea where I got it. Someplace down town on Broadway.

Pants: Express.

Shoes: American Eagle.

Jacket: Goodwill. Jones New York.

The venue was very dark, so I couldn't get a good shot. I took my photo in our "Green room" behind where we were playing...But at least you know it's not a repeat!

Done II!

2010-11-12T22:18:00.000-08:00

After two days straight of writing, I am finished with my reports!!!!! Yay! Actually, it wasn't two days straight. It was two days of trying to write while watching the kids, which means I stayed up all night writing, and finished today only because I let the kids watch more episodes of Shaugn the Sheep, than I care to think about. They probably lost a few brain cells.

What can I say? I overestimated my kid's ability to take care of themselves, and I underestimated the amount of time I had. Or is it the reverse? I don't really know because I am am knackered.

Richard, my brave and shining knight, is at The Clippers game with ALL of the kids right now. He really is my hero! I asked HaHa if she wanted to stay home with me, but she said, "I wan go with Daddy." So lucky me, I may get to bed before 11 for a change!!!

Outfit:

Kept it comfy as I was home all day.

Cream sweater: Cousin Hand-me-down. Forever 21.

Print Shirt: Forever 21. They do have some amazing prints!

Pants: Thrift store. It used to be a jumpsuit, but I cut it in half for some strange reason!

Shoes: American Eagle.

HaHa put a band aid on her nose because she bumped her nose! She is funny!

Oops!

2010-11-11T01:54:00.000-08:00

This is the first time I almost went a day without posting! And why, you may ask? I am still knee- deep in progress reports, and they are progressing nicely, if I do say so myself! Thus, I am going to keep it short and sweet.

Oh. I just saw the craziest infomercial ever. It was for Pajama Jeans, the "Hot new fashion sensation!" See what you can stumble upon when you stay up late?If you have a few minutes to spare, check them out. I think they may be a new fashion low, albeit an understandable one... Yikes! I love the line that says "It's a struggle to get into ordinary jeans." Okay, Pajama Jeans, I hear you!

Outfit:

Dress: I threw this on as I had to rush out of the house. I have not worn this dress since I attended the wedding that I bought it for. Five years ago! It was a few months after Leo was born, and I guess I didn't have anything else that fit me. I actually wore it as a skirt at the wedding, with a floaty lavender top. At any rate, I've kept it for five years for some reason, but I think it will have to go if I don't thnk I'm going to wear it for another five years!

Sweater: Hand me down from cousin, who rocked her show last night! Congratulations little cousin! Mossimo.

Vest: EMS. Courtesy of a gift certificate I was given more than ten years ago!

Shoes: Fit Flops.

Band Practice II!

2010-11-10T23:40:00.000-08:00

I just crawled through the front door after getting up at the crack of dawn, working all day, and going straight to band practice. We have a gig on Saturday. I think everyone in the band must have been tired, because we were sloppy and not as together as we usually are.

Whatever the case, all I want now is to get in a hot tub and go directly to bed.

I missed my awesome cousin's comedy show tonight. Big bummer! I am actually wearing two of my cousin's hand-me-downs today. I am lucky that she has great taste. Thank you!

I am falling asleep as I type....Night-night!

Outfit:

I recently saw a jacket cinched with a belt, and I realized I wanted to try this with my clothes.

Jacket: George.

Belt: goodwill.

Shirt: Hand-me-down from cousin, Forever 21.

Skirt: Hand me down from cousin.

Boots: Dansko.

Progress Reports!

2010-11-09T20:23:00.000-08:00

Howdy. Glad you stopped by. By the way, I have 52 days left! Pretty crazy, huh?
Almost a year has passed.

Just like that.

Outfit:

Maroon shirt: Goodwill. Antik Batik.

Leopard Wrap top: I got this many, many years ago at a store called Le Chateau on the Corner of Bleeker and Broadway in New York. My co-workers gave me a gift certificate for my birthday.

Jeans: Goodwill. Gap.

Sweater: Friend hand-me-down. H & M.

Shoes: American Eagle. I was going to wear heels, but it just seems so impractical working with first graders...

Sick Day!

2010-11-08T22:57:00.000-08:00

It's a hop, skip, and a jump from happy, fun, music-time, to waking up in the middle of the night feeling horrible, terrible, and not very good.

I will spare you the details, because I don't think you'll want to hear them, and I will keep my post short today because I have to write reports on the children in my class.

Better to save my writing mojo for the kids. Or, rather better to use what little energy I have on the reports instead of my blahg...

Wish me luck!

Outfit:

My primary concern today was comfort without repeating. I think this outfit fits the bill, uneventful as it may be.

Shirt: Clothing swap.

Pants: Goodwill. Mossimo.

My little bear remained a bright light in my day!

Band Practice!

2010-11-07T23:01:00.000-08:00

Nothing warms my soul, or gets my blood pumping, like music! Music, music, music! It's the best! Tonight, my Montecarlo Band-mates and I had rehearsal for a bat mitzvah we are playing for next weekend. We played some new tunes, including Katy Perry's "California Gurlz", Estelle's "American Boy", and Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'", current teen favorite thanks to the show Glee.

They are all fun songs, although the prude side of me thinks that California Gurlz is a little risque for 13- year-olds, but pop lyrics brimming with sexual innuendo is nothing new. I remember "Like a Virgin" playing on the radio when I was a youngin'. I used to sing "Like A Vee-Jo", because I was too embarrassed to say the word virgin. I'm not sure why. I guess because I was aware it had something to do with sex.

We also rehearsed our 10 minute Hora extravaganza! I almost hyperventilated while I was doing it, but it was fun!

Outfit:

Dress: Goodwill. Forever 21.

Bodysuit: Goodwill. Star Cody.

Sweater: Friend hand me down. H & M.

Shoes: Zoe & Zac.

On the Porch!

2010-11-06T23:53:00.000-07:00

Just to be clear, dear readers, I do not think it's okay to leave a 5 year old child outside on the porch alone after 9:00 p.m., or before 9:00 p.m., for that matter. Even though some people have assured me that the chances of a child getting abducted are the same as getting hit by a meteor, I don't think the chance is worth taking. I know that most children get abducted or harmed by people they know, but leaving a child unattended makes it that much easier for a predator to prey. And, unfortunately, though it is painful to think about, there are people out there looking for vulnerable children.

So my poll was my attempt to find out if I am paranoid for thinking it's a bad idea to leave my children outside without an adult around, or if I am making a sane decision.

Based on the answers I got today, I would say that I'm in the majority. I think it is sad that our children are not safe outside their own homes, but let's face it; many times they're not even safe IN their own homes. Children because of their size and naivete, will unfortunately always be victims.

I have seen so many stories of children being harmed that it almost makes me want to never let my children out of my sight. But one can not sanely live like that, so one prays that life will be kind, and that one day humanity will evolve so much that no child will ever be harmed.Come to think of it, while I'm praying for evolution, I realize I should pray that one day NO human is ever the victim of violence.

It seems impossible to imagine, but one can always dream!

Outfit:

Sweater coat: Goodwill. Forever 21. This was one of the last things I bought before I started this project. I thought it would be a nice addition.

Shirt: I Heart Guts.

Dress/Skirt: Hand me down from Fresh Friend. Laundry by Shelli Segal.

Boots: Dansko. I bought these right after HaHa was born, and this is the FIRST time I've worn them.

Belt: Thrift store.

Chez Cray-Cray!

2010-11-05T23:14:00.000-07:00

It was another crazy night here at the Espy house, but what else is new? I won't go into details, but my evening involved my cell phone dying, Leo peeing in a cup, and me thinking my friend was in danger. She was fine, (Her cell phone was tucked away in the back seat, and she was late due to a pooping child and L.A. traffic), and we ended up having a fun night with our five kids.

After she left, I wrangled the kids into bed and promptly fell asleep with HaHa. Now I'm blogging at 2:00 a.m... Yikes!

Anyway, lovely readers, I have a favor to ask.

Can you please take the non-fashion related poll on the right? Also, please feel free to leave any comments! It would give me some insight, and perspective.

Thank you! I can't wait to see the results!

Outfit:

Brown print shirt: Cousin hand-me-down. Forever 21.

Under shirt: Forever 21.

Pants: Cousin hand-me-down, Gap! Thank you, cuz!

Shoes: Mossimo.

Playback!

2010-11-04T22:52:00.001-07:00

Often, and I think I've mentioned it before, so forgive me, I walk out of the house in the morning feeling quite confident in my outfit of the day. I am happy, comfortable, and feeling my style. And then, I see my photos. They do not capture the beauty of the fabrics. The textures and the colors. They simply do not measure up. Or it could be that my outfit wasn't that great to begin with. I'm not sure.

Case in point. Today I got a lot of compliments on my outfit. However, I got home late, and the flash photography doesn't really do the outfit justice. The colors look much better in natural light, I think.

Or, it just wasn't as great as I thought. What-evs...

So. After a five-hours-of-sleep night I arrived home cranky and miserable. I made dinner, sent Charlie straight to bed, (apparently he was lacking sleep as well), and dealt with the other two. I also dropped a wooden and metal post on my foot, which hurt like hell. When Richard still wasn't home by 9:00 and HaHa was running around being a crazy toddler, I was certain I was going to lose it.

I walked to the front of the house and opened the door in the hope of rescue. Two cars rolled down our street. HaHa walked outside. A few moments later Richard pulled into the driveway. Thankfully, he put HaHa to bed.

Outfit:

Shirt: Forever 21. This was a pregnancy purchase.

Skirt: Goodwill. Citron. The fabric and print on this skirt is so, so lovely.

Belt: Also Goodwill.

Shoes: Mosimo. I was going to wear my gold sandals, but they were upstairs where HaHa was falling back to sleep this morning, and I couldn't risk disturbing her.

Matricide!

2010-11-03T22:34:00.000-07:00

My daughter is killing me. One late, horrible, not-going-to-bed, at a time. Take tonight for instance. I had the boys in bed by 8, I had HaHa bathed and dressed and sleepy. I nursed her, which she still demands,(another way she kills me), and I lay down with her, sang to her, and still, no dice. 9 o'clock, 9:45, HaHa awake. My work is not getting done. My patience is worn thin. So, tonight, I decided that I was putting my foot down; HaHa was going to fall asleep on her own, in her own bed, no matter what.

Well, the no-matter-what was pretty awful, and it lasted until 10:45. There was screaming, blood-curdling shrieks and thrashing about. There was jumping on the bed, and "Mama's!" so pitiful, it took everything in me not to cave and pick her up. Everything.

It's not her fault. It's ours. From the time she was born she was in somebody's arms. And getting dragged about town in her car seat. No regular sleep schedule. I thought daycare would work out her sleeping kinks, but it didn't really change much. She's still a sleep demon. Or maybe I should call her an avoiding sleep demon. Whatever the case, these are the parts of motherhood that I could do without, but that is the stuff of life, I suppose. You can't have the sweet without the bitter...

Oh, and by the way, HaHa goes right to bed when Richard puts her down. Guess our mother-daughter stuff is starting early! Also, if they made baby cages, I would have put her in one!

And, now that it's 11:39, I guess it's another late night Chez Espy! Richard's still out too!

Outfit:

Still rocking the summer outfits, unfortunately. I am dreaming of chilly fall days, but it was 90 degrees today!

Tank: Old Navy.

Green shirt: Goodwill. Lux.

Pants: Salvation Army. Mossimo.

Shoes: Zoe & Zac.

Kendie Everyday!

2010-11-02T23:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, in the comments section Claire told me about a fellow style blogger who is doing The 30 for 30 Fall Challenge, starting next Monday, November 8th. Her name is Kendie, and she has a very stylish and professional looking blog. Here is her premise: "I take 30 items from my closet (shoes included) and mix them into 30 different outfits over about a month period." She says it's a way of "learning" her closet, and basically is doing it for the same reasons I started my blog. She has also added a no shopping for 30 days to her challenge! 30 days, Ha! Try no shopping for 306 days, Kendie! Not even underwear!

Luckily I have an ample underwear supply provided by Richard, courtesy of Costco. They're not glamorous, but they do the trick, and they keep me from having to do laundry as often as I might have to otherwise!

I took the kids with me to vote after work, and Richard took them with him this morning, so hopefully we are planting the seeds for future! They were absolute troopers considering how tired they were. Sometimes they really surprise me!

Outfit:

Better prepared for the elements today!.

Shirt: Hand me down from cousin. Old Navy.

Skirt: Thrift store. Vintage. This is another dress I'm wearing as a skirt. Eventually, I'll have it turned into a skirt... One day! You can see how I started out the day at right, but it seemed awkward, so I put the shirt over the waist.

Shoes: Goodwill. Kenzie.

The kids waiting for me at the polls!!!

Hot Peasants!

2010-11-01T23:13:00.000-07:00

When I woke up this morning it was chilly, and it had been chilly when I was out last night, so I decided that I would don a real fall outfit, and layer it on. I started with textured tights, and the shirt I wore yesterday, and added a velvet cap sleeved jacket. All I needed was a skirt. I tried on a few, but none were quite right. Then I thought of turning this dress into a skirt. I've only worn it one other time this year.
It's got a great texture, and I figured it could work.

So, after tweaking and tying, I headed out the door, feeling like a Russian peasant. It's not a look I usually sport, but I am supposed to be mixing it up, right?

Imagine my dismay when the sun started to come out, and my all-black fall outfit seemed wholly inappropriate. And hot. Literally hot, not awesome hot.

No one commented on my ridiculously dark outfit on such a sunny day. Proving once again that people really aren't thinking about us as much as we think they are!

Outfit: Goodwill. Anne Klein.

Dress as skirt: Thrift store.

Jacket: Forever 21.

Shoes: American Eagle.

Halloween!!!

2010-10-31T23:42:00.000-07:00

Another busy day at Casa Espy. But are we different than any other urban family? I think not. We are living in a city of industrious and connected folk. They have plans, obligations, families, friends. They get around, and so do we.

We had two parties today. Both were lovely. We had a good time. The kids came home late, so we'll see how they fare in the morning. I skipped out on the trick-or-treating this year because I had some work to do. I went with the kids the last two years in a row without Richard, so I figured it was his turn. I missed out on HaHa's first trick-or-treating, though.

Oh well, I guess that's life in the big city!

Also, I promise to write about my writing class soon!

Outfit:

When I looked at my photos, I realized that I unconsciously dressed like a bumble bee, I think. I guess I was inspired by HaHa!

Shirt: Goodwill. Anne Klein II.

Sweater: Thrift store.

Pants: Big Sunday. Bu by Malibu jeans. I am going to have to get rid of these when this project is over. They really don't fit well.

Shoes: These were a hand-me -down from my friend's mom! Lucky me!

Movin'!

2010-10-30T23:29:00.000-07:00

I had a busy day. I took a writing class, and then I helped my Fresh friend move. It was a good work out! We walked up and down her flight of stairs at least a dozen times!

Anyway, I wanted to write about the writing class and all of the numerous moments of the class when I was laughing so hard I had to hold back tears, but I am dozing as I write this. I have to sleep. It's 12:40 a.m. Tomorrow is another day, and another post!

Oh, someone is using my American Idol costume to wear to a party. Imitation is the best form of flattery! And, it is an easy and fun idea! Happy Halloween ladies and gents!

Outfit:

Tunic: Goodwill.

Green shirt: Goodwill. Kenneth Cole. I think I will have to give this shirt away because the fabric is too difficult to keep clean.

Jeans: Friend hand-me-down.

Shoes: Miz Moos. I had to wear different shoes to go moving because I stepped in dog poop on my way out of the house.

This is not one of my favorite outfits, but sometimes I just need to go with flow!

Pre-loween!

2010-10-29T22:27:00.001-07:00

We had a lot of Halloween fun today at school. It started with an all-school parade that is one of the annual highlights. Richard brought HaHa, so she was able to experience the glory and the madness. It was a bit overwhelming for her, but she was a trooper, and she even played with some of my first graders. They were very sweet to her.

I thought of a Halloween costume the night before, and Richard was kind enough to make it for me! I never figured out what the numbers he printed on my contestant sign. If you have any ideas, please let me know!

Spending the day with children completely giddy from their costumes and the ritual of Halloween was a lot of fun. They get so excited. It's very sweet.

Outfit:

Floral shirt: Clothing swap.

Under shirt: Friend hand-me-down. Lux.

Jeans: Clothing swap: J. Crew.

Shoes: zoe & zac.

In A Flash!

2010-10-28T23:44:00.000-07:00

While I was scanning through my photos to make sure I was not in danger of repeating an outfit, I came upon a photo uploaded from Richard's i-phone. It was a photo of Hollis, minutes after she was born, lying on my mother's quilt. Our first birth was well documented. The second was filmed and made into a short film by Pollyanna, and HaHa's, little HaHa, got four photos on the i-phone! That's it.

I have come to terms with the fact that the third child does not get the same things the first child gets. HaHa has spent most of her life being schlepped around in the car fetching her brothers. I went back to work full-time when HaHa was four months old. Charlie was one when I went back full-time, and Leo was 18 months. I did not want to go back when HaHa was four months old, but I had to, and I took off last year to make up for that. I am happy I had that year with HaHa, but the reality is that we spent much of it in the car en route to the boys' schools.

Anyway, this photo, along with kids I used to babysit who are now in law school, on Broadway, and about to graduate high-school, makes me realize how quickly time passes past the age of 30. Now, I feel like I am living in warp speed. This speed is illuminated when I see that I am almost done with this project. The time has flown. 10 months to be exact. And yet, if I close my eyes, I almost feel like I started yesterday.

By the way, I'd like to give a shout out to Claire in South Africa! She is the fourth person over seas who has connected with me in the comments. It's pretty awesome, and I thank her, as well as all the lovely readers who give me the time of day! I really do appreciate your stopping by. It means a lot to me!

Outfit:

Floral Shirt: Goodwill. Ann Taylor Loft.

Brown Shirt: Cousin Hand-me-down. Mossimo.

Pants: Cousin hand-me-down. Gap.

Shoes: American Eagle.

Fashion Risks!

2010-10-27T23:53:00.000-07:00

Okay. I think everybody knows by now that I have sleep issues. I cannot say that I am very different from most Americans, so I'll shut up about my sleeping (or lack thereof) from now on. For the remainder of One Closet One Year, it's style and gossip! Or something like that.

In the era of Flashdance...

Now, I'm sure you've noticed that I love to layer. In fact, my friend Pollyanna dubbed me the "longest-serving current head of the state of Layer-dome". I have been layering as long as I can remember, and I have photographic evidence. You can take a look at my outfit from the 6th grade, and see that I really thought about it. This particular outfit was the result of Pollyanna and I deciding we were going to "dress crazy" for a day. We wore these outfits to school. We were not afraid to put ourselves out there fashion-wise.

Two girls dare to make a statement!

I still love to experiment with my clothes. Skirts as dresses, clothes worn backwards, pattern-mixing, and whatever else strikes me as interesting. By the way, one of my fashionably gifted friends told me that The Huffington Post had an article about Michelle Obama wearing her sweater backwards! That's my girl! The First Lady getting her style on by rocking a look in reverse is awesome!

Outfit:

Print Shirt: Goodwill. Lux.

Jacket: Forever 21.

Skirt: Thrift store.

Dress (under skirt): Goodwill. Old Navy.

Shoes: American Eagle.

Early to Bed!

2010-10-26T22:48:00.000-07:00

After my mom wrote: "You need more sleep!" with a dozen exclamation points in the comments section today, I realized that, maybe, even though I am a 37 year-old woman, I should listen to my mother...

I wonder if, when my children are adults, they will listen to me. Heck, I wonder if they will listen to me tomorrow!

It will be very interesting seeing how it all turns out.

In thinking about this, I do know, that teenagers are monsters. I don't look forward those days. The attitude, the moping, the smell...

When my kids turn into teenagers I am moving to Paris. And I know Richard won't search for me because he will only go to the city of lights if it's free! Lucky me!

Outfit:

Brown shirt: Clothing swap. Old Navy.

Pink tank: Old Navy.

Floral Skirt: Goodwill. To The Max!

Coral Skirt: Old Navy.

Shoes: American Eagle.

Sweater: Cousin hand-me-down. Merona.

Bad Habits Win!

2010-10-25T23:39:00.000-07:00

In the battle of good and evil, evil has a way of rearing it's ugly head and giving good a run for it's money. I'll keep it personal. I went to bed at 3:00 a.m. last night. Evil. Evil. Evil. And, I looked evil when I arrived at work. Tired. Bedraggled. Sloppy.

Getting dressed when I am tired and late is rarely pretty. At least, I don't feel pretty on these days. Every time I happened upon a mirror today all I could think is: "You look like a tired mess." And I was. However, I held it together for the most part.

Next time I'll wear blush.

And by next time, I mean tomorrow. As I type this it is midnight o' eight. What am I thinking?! Why do I do this? Nature. Stupidity. Necessity. Last night I was up working. Now I am doing my post. These are things I have to do, and I have to do them now because at other times I am doing other things I have to do. I also realize that these wee hours are the only time when I am alone. No kids. No Richard. Just the hum of my broken computer, and the click-clack-click of the keys.

Outfit:

Print Blouse: Goodwill.

Sweater: Clothing swap. Express.

Skirt: Forever 21. One of my pregnancy purchases. Versatile, stretchy.

Shoes: American Eagle.

Math!

2010-10-24T23:22:00.000-07:00

I had a fine day, but I really can't write about it right now because I have hundreds of math papers to correct and file. Literally. So, I will put up my pics and list my outfits, and tell you again that I have 297 days under my belt and 68 days left!!!

I can't believe it! I am almost there! So close, yet I still have 68 days to avoid repeated outfits. I gotta keep my game face on, and my eye on the prize!

It is raining! I love the sound!

Outfit:

Top: Old Navy. I think it's a little too maternity. I may have to ditch it in a few months!

Jeans: Big Sunday.

Shoes: Zoe & Zac.

Jacket: Goodwill. Allegory.

Antidisestablishmentarianism!

2010-10-23T23:22:00.000-07:00

The political party went on without a hitch. That is, Richard got acquainted with some alcoholic beverages, told people his ideas about the ballot measures, and proceeded to provide what I hope was insightful entertainment and discourse. I am not sure if he did because I had to drop Jordan off at a party, and I was hanging out with the kids for most of the party. I make myself scarce at these things because I tend to get prickly when Richard starts getting tipsy...

Politics aside, the highlight of the day was seeing our long lost friends! Now that we're older and busier and married-er, we don't see each other as often. A couple of our friends brought a bottle of homemade organic wine! And my brilliant cousin made these delicious lemon-coconut shortbread cookies. Yum!

There were babies and newlyweds, parents-to-be, and grandparents, new friends and old couples, and two crazy little boys! There was a mass exodus at 6 o' clock, but a few people stayed to discuss ALL of the ballot measures and candidates. The most disheartening thing is that the candidates are so disappointing. Maybe one day we'll have more options than the two-party disaster we have now.

And, Charlie successfully spelled "Antidisestablishmentarianism"! I owe him a dollar.

Outfit:

Tank: Clothing swap. Express.

Pants: Hand me down from cousin. Gap. Same as yesterday.

Sweater: Clothing swap. Plenty.

Shoes: zoe & zac.

Voter Information!

2010-10-22T23:02:00.000-07:00

Okay, It is 3:00 a.m. I just took a 4 hour "nap" on the couch while Richard read over the propositions for the upcoming elections. He is the "Master of Ceremonies"for a party we are having tomorrow. It is a "Political Party", where friends and family come to discuss the content of the voter information guide, as well as the various candidates running for office.

Diverse opinions are welcome, and it is very helpful to hear other people's opinions before going to the polls. It also is an effective way to actually get through all of the material in an amusing way. We've had confrontations, drunken displays, and insightful political discourse at these events, and, usually, a good time is had by all.

Tomorrow will certainly be interesting. The voter guide is thick this year, and the candidates are "interesting" to say the least.

Oh well, I better get to bed so I can wake up in the morning and prepare for guests. And, if I can offer one piece of voting advice, it would be: "If you don't understand something on the ballot, vote NO." Complicated language is a smoke screen for questionable proposals! Oh. One more piece of advice: Vote!

As it is 3:19 I am not really editing this, so forgive me if there are grammatical errors!

Outfit:

It was raining when I left the house today. It stopped by the time I got to work, so I looked rather dubious waddling around in rubber boots all day. However, in my race to get out the door in order to drop Jordan off at school, I forgot to bring extra footwear.

Shirt: Forever 21.

Jacket: Goodwill. Allegory.

Pants: Hand me down from Cousin! Gap.

Boots: Friend hand-me-downs.

HaHa and Papa! I include these photos for Grandma!

294 Days Down!

2010-10-21T22:35:00.000-07:00

I have 71 days left! If I can avoid making a careless outfit repeat, then I will have achieved what I set out to accomplish! I can honestly say that whether or not I repeat, I will NOT shop before 2010 is over. I can also say that when I do shop again, it will probably be secondhand. I think I can commit to avoiding retail unless I have a very specific need, or unless I see something that I am absolutely in love with.

As for footwear, I will avoid crazy shoes that I buy on sale, and will be on the lookout for classic and comfy well-made shoes. I am looking forward to new shoes.

I will be getting rid of a lot of clothes when this is done. I have so many hand-me-downs, and things that don't fit right, and clothes that I've been hanging on to that I have lost the love for. Time to let go. Edit. Move on.

Outfit:

Print Shirt: Forever 21.

Brown Shirt: Friend hand-me-down.

Skirt: Salvation Army. I got this in high school... Maybe this should be on the out pile!

Shoes: American Eagle.

Jacket: Cousin hand-me-down. Mossimo.

Bedtime in Hades!

2010-10-20T23:18:00.000-07:00

I cannot begin to tell you how horrible bedtime is at my house. Correction, I cannot begin to tell you how horrible bed time is at my house when Richard isn't home, which is most week nights. The boys, are tired and wired, and so am I. But, the worst is HaHa, who literally jumps all over me demanding "Bah-bah! Bah-bah!" It is very difficult to read Harry Potter to your children while a two year-old banshee writhes all over you.

Tonight, after my polite pleas for her to wait until I finished reading for Bah-bah were ignored, I told her to go get chocolate from Jordan. Really. (That is my stellar parenting tactic). She leaped off the bed so fast it appeared as if she had wings. I'm not proud of it, but it did get her out of the room for a good five minutes. Jordan gave her three chocolate chips. And two more when she went back downstairs.

Unfortunately, the peace the chips brought to our bedtime reading lasted about as long as a chocolate chip.

I pray Richard makes it home before bedtime tomorrow!

Outfit:

Another rainy day, and another quickly thrown together outfit with the primary inspiration being "Don't repeat!"

Gold sweater vest: Thrift store.

Dress: Gift from friends.

Jeans: Friend hand-me-down. Express.

Boots: Friend hand-me-down.

HaHa and Lee-Lo have a pre-bedtime moment.

My Body!

2010-10-19T23:35:00.000-07:00

I have to be honest. For the past few nights, when I've put HaHa to bed, I've fallen asleep. I've been putting in really long days, and my body has had enough. Tonight, after our evening routine, I read to HaHa , cuddled with her, and promptly dozed off with her. Of course, HaHa does go to bed after ten... I do have the foresight to set my alarm, so I wake up an hour or two later. However, then I just end up staying up too long again... And I right in a cloud of fog.

If HaHa would learn to go to bed at a decent hour, my little late night escapades would be done!

Oh, another "honest" tidbit: I'm growing a dreadlock!

Unintentional, caused by lack of hair brushing.

Outfit:

Shirt: I pulled out one of my classic re-fashioned thrift store tees. It says "Quiet" on the front and "Antonioni" on the back. I don't know if this refers to the film maker or what, but my first graders love it when I point to the quiet and give them "the look"! Salvation Army. I got this in high school.

Jeans: Clothing Swap. J crew.

Sweater: Cousin hand-me-down. Forever 21.

Sweater coat: Goodwill. Forever 21. I got this a few weeks before I started my challenge.

Boots: Hand-me-down courtesy of my Fresh friend.

Ou est Logique?!

2010-10-18T21:28:00.000-07:00

This morning as I was driving to work, a story came on NPR about France. Apparently they are having their fourth strike since September. It seems that union workers are upset about a government plan to increase the age of retirement from 60 to 62! When I heard this, I chuckled.

First of all, as people are living longer, this increase seems completely reasonable. Second, does anybody think of 62 as "old" these days? Third, I am sure that France, just like California is going to have difficulty keeping up with the payment for all these pensions as people DO live longer, and, in the case of many California's state workers, retire earlier. The numbers just don't add up. At some point it will be fiscally impossible to pay these pensions. But hey, let's not think about fixing it. Let's protest and complain until we can't afford to pay anybody.

I am amazed, that in the face of our ever-changing world, logic rarely wins.

Outfit:

Plain dress: Many years ago, my friend came over one day with a bag of clothes her boss gave her. I plucked a few items, although this is the only one I still own. Ann Taylor. First time I've worn this as I just got it out of the dry cleaner not too long ago!

Floral dress: Goodwill. Limited. When this project is over, I am giving my talented Aunt D this dress so she can turn it into something lovely.

Sweater: Cousin hand-me-down. Forever 21.

Shoes: Mossimo. Been wearing these a lot. They seem to match everything!

Realization!

2010-10-17T23:05:00.000-07:00

Last night as I did another "excuse post", I realized that I would have never been able to start this project if I had been working full time. I just wouldn't have had the time or steam. Also, it took me awhile to learn how to take, upload, and edit my photos. I wasn't so savvy with the posting either. However, I do think my early writing was much more enthusiastic. I was excited, and it was new.

Now, after I get the kids to bed I have more to do than before, and, often, the last thing I want to do is write. But I do. And, lately, it has been lacking. Sorry, lovely readers. I promise to do better as I reach the home stretch. I love the idea of going out with a bang!

That said, I'm giving myself a gold star for perseverance!

All of our plans for the day were canceled on account of the rain. It was a blessing in disguise. I think the boys would have been exhausted by the day. All we did today was drive Aunt Janine home. Aunt Janine was also kind enough to sit in the car with kids while I popped into Trader Joe's.

Outfit:

Keeping it simple.

Sweater: Cousin hand-me-down. Old Navy.

Shirt: This was a gift from a first grade class. The kids each made a leaf, and the amazing art teacher hand painted them along with a lovely tree! American Apparel.

Jeans: I think these were from a clothing swap. Gap.

Boots: Fresh Friend hand-me-down.

To Trails and Back!

2010-10-16T23:58:00.000-07:00

We left the house at 10:00 a.m., and got back at 7. What a day! Hanging out at Griffith Park. Birthday party after that. Old friends, new friends, and very delicious food. So tired am I, I will do a post in pictures.

My camera is acting wonky, so my outfit photos are not so hot. Also, my battery died while I was taking my photos. I guess I took too many shots of HaHa eating cake. Excuses. Excuses.

Guess what?! I got 75 days left people. I've been doing this for 290 days! That's 290 different ensembles and NO shopping!

Outfit:

Sweater: Goodwill. Lux. I love the flower detail. HaHa wore it when she spilled water on her shirt today.

Long sleeve sweater: Cousin hand me down. Forever 21.

Body Suit: Goodwill. Star Cody. I folded the top down so that it extended the waist of the skirt!

Skirt: Walmart. George. I got this skirt when I was visiting my mom. It was 5 bucks!

Party Favors.

Hair

Shoes: Mossimo. I wore my fit flops for our Griffith Park hike.

Fri-Fri!

2010-10-15T23:45:00.000-07:00

It was a crazy day. And a long day.

The highlight was celebrating my "big sister's" upcoming birthday and seeing my Aunt Janine, and watching HaHa run happily into Wendy's house so that she could be dropped off by her at daycare, and watching Leo in a school presentation, doing reader's theater with my students, and eating really delicious food!

I guess there were a lot of highlights.

My "low-lights were the stress of getting all of the kids and myself ready this morning and dealing with the commuter traffic, sitting for 20 minutes waiting to turn onto Barrington to pick Leo up (it was the first time I ever saw Charlie get upset about traffic), and, rushing from Brentwood back to Santa Monica in order to not be late for HaHa's pick-up.

Note that all my"low-lights" have to deal with L.A. traffic...

Oh, one more interesting thing about my day: I spent time with a pretty well known adult film actress. She's been in over 1,000 film, and she is pretty great to talk to, and very smart. She had an interest in being a nurse-midwife too! That's my secret dream job also!

Happy weekend!

Outfit:

Sweater: Goodwill.

Skirt: Goodwill. Zara.

Shoes: Jelly Beanz. I also wore my Mossimo shoes. Couldn't decide!

Here are some vintage barrettes my friend, the master of thrift store shopping, gave to HaHa! Thank you!

Technicalities!

2010-10-14T23:50:00.000-07:00

I felt like I was cheating a little bit today. I was wearing an outfit that was identical to another outfit I wore, except I wore a different style of jeans, and a different shirt. However, both shirts are black, and the shoes and the jacket are the same. I did go without the jacket for quite a bit of the day, so maybe I can think of my outfit without the jacket, which would then be a "new" outfit, and make me feel better. Technically, it is different. Right? Maybe I'll do a new poll.

On another note, I had to take my pictures inside today because it's my late day. I hate it when I take inside pictures now because they just don't look right. I need a more sophisticated camera for the pictures I want to take.

I have to get going because I need to get ALL the kids ready tomorrow morning and be out the door by 7:00. Richard is flying off to South Bend Indiana to see Notre Dame battle Western Michigan. He won the tickets in a contest. Lucky me! I won a single mom weekend!

Thankfully, I have my lovely friend Wendy and my Aunt Janine to help me out in the morning and tomorrow night when I need to go to my lovely friend Leseley's birthday party!

Outfit:

Shirt: Goodwill. Forever 21.

Jeans: Big Sunday.

Shoes: Falchi by Carlos Falchi.

Jacket: Salvation Army. I got this in high school!

See the original outfit in Whoops!

A Mess!

2010-10-13T23:06:00.000-07:00

Oh. My. What has wearing a different outfit everyday turned me into?

A person who experiments.

A person who has to think about what they wear.

A person who looks ridiculous.

I have had many a day up here where I look at my photos and say, "What was I thinking?" (Today, anyone?)

However, I do have to admit that I've been pretty pleased with some of my outfits. And, I would like to reiterate that most of my outfits are "new". That is, I've never worn them before...

I guess my primary thought is, "Did I wear this combination yet?"

And not shopping? It's pretty easy, especially since I can't. And, contrary to expectations, I have not channeled my shopping urges into sprees for HaHa or the boys. They have closets full of hand-me-downs too. And, like me, they're fine with it!

Outfit:

Shirt: Salvation Army. I got this in high school. I love it. It had big huge shoulder pads that I removed. Shoulder pads and I do not mix. Chaus.

Skirt: Friend hand-me-down. Ella Moss. Dress worn as skirt.

Shoes: Capezio. However, I wanted to wear these lovely heels. Working with first graders, I just can't wear heels all day!

HaHa sitting with Daddy in the back room! She's my smile bear! I asked her to say cheese, and she obliged!

A Late Post!

2010-10-12T23:25:00.000-07:00

Oh, boy, am I late to post tonight. And, it's a school night! I need to try to post right after I put the kids to bed. However, we got home late tonight and after I made dinner and dealt with Charlie's injustice inspired melt-down, I fell asleep nursing HaHa.

Yes, she is still nursing. Much to my dismay. I don't offer, and I do refuse as much as I can, but she still is very dedicated to "bah-bah". I am thinking that it has only to do with the comfort aspect. I really thought she would be done when she started daycare.

Oh, well. Maybe one day.

Outfit:

Shirt: Friend hand me down. Sweet pea. This particular friend got rid of a bunch of perfect condition clothes because she got her colors done and they were not in her "spectrum". Lucky me!

Pants: Cousin hand me down. Again a lucky score. Brand new from the Gap, tags still on!

Shoes: Mossimo. My old stand-by's!