Wisdom Comes With Age...Later in Life

A little while ago I told you I got my wisdom teeth pretty in my early teens. And I know I said in jest that I liked to think they made me that much smarter but I gotta tell you, they did not. Sure I brought home 90s, aced pop-quizzes, made the honor role and even brought home the occasional award. But sometimes...I was just downright dumb. Granted, I don't think it had anything to do with the teeth...

One Christmas Eve after a fight with my mom the night before, I decided I'd runaway forever. Yet I didn't even bother to pack a single thing. From the bus station I called my best friend. I told her I had runaway and that I needed a place to stay. She told me to hold on while she asked her parents if I could spend the night. By the time I got there her parents had called mine. But both parents agreed that I could spend the night and celebrate Christmas Eve with my best friend. That night I watched my best friend and all her siblings open pressie after pressie. My best friend's mom felt sorry watching me just sit there empty handed so she went upstairs and came back with a present for me. Imagine my excitement as I opened my brand new(?)...towel. Best Christmas ever? Not so much. 15 and smart as a whip whipped cream.

 

{via Google Images}

About a year later, I remember asking my mom to sign something from school. A permission form allowing me to participate in some fun activity, more importantly get me out of class for the day. My mom told me she was "too busy" at the moment but that I should remind her later. Being impatient helpful I asked if she'd like me to sign it for her. Confused by my offer, she asked me to clarify. I then proceeded to to tell her that I'd gotten really good at forging her signature. In response she looked at me with shock, awe, bewilderment and pride(?). So of course I had to add, "but forging dad's signature is even easier." 16 and sneaky. Just not smart enough to keep my mouth shut.

Any dumb moments you'd like to share?


Have a fabulous weekend!!!
xo Ela
p.s. In case you're wondering, I did not take my towel pressie home.

Addicted to Molasses

No, it's not the name of a cool indy song, it is however, the truth. These darn Molasses Spice cookies have me climbing the walls when I can't have one. I'm obsessed with having some in the cookie tin at ALL times and the minute I see that we're I'm running low, I immediately bake more. Like drop what I'm doing and bake more. As though something terrible should happen if one lone cookie stays in the tin, all alone without any cookie friends to keep his cookie goodness company. Have I mentioned, I'm obsessed?

Who knew molasses was so darn addictive? Before these cookies I thought molasses = ick. Molasses is dark, sticky and smells like bark. Or something. But I picked up the carton from the store and it was sealed and everything so I know it hasn't been laced with anything. Right? Right??? Because if it were, it would explain the *mild* obsession I am having with these cookies. I'm cooky for cookies. And suddenly sound like a cereal commercial. Oy. I need to be stopped. Seriously. But just in case it's not such a bad thing, I thought I'd share the recipe with you. Then you can obsess right along with me.

Ingredients (Makes 36)

• *2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• **3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup molasses

* I add an extra 1/2 C to make them fluffy.

** I use salted.
Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a shallow bowl, place 1/2 cup sugar; set aside.
2. With an electric mixer, beat butter and remaining cup of sugar until combined. Beat in egg and then molasses until combined. Reduce speed to low; gradually mix in dry ingredients, just until a dough forms.
3. Pinch off and roll dough into balls, each equal to 1 tablespoon. Roll balls in reserved sugar to coat.
4. Arrange balls on baking sheets, about 3 inches apart. Bake, one sheet at a time, until edges of cookies are just firm, 10 to 15 minutes (cookies can be baked two sheets at a time, but they will not crackle uniformly). Cool 1 minute on baking sheets; transfer to racks to cool completely. Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.

A few other things I'm addicted to these days:

- Hershey's Eggies ("Hershey's Eggs" in the US) They're egg-tastic! I could eat my weight equivalent. Even better than Cadbury Mini Eggs. Trust.

- Hawkins Cheezies Crunchy orange sticks have never tasted so good. I'm pretty sure I'm retaining water like a wishing well but I really don't care.

- Pickles The whole sour dill kind in the big jars in the refrigerated section, NOT the ones in the condiment aisle.

Are you at all concerned about what I'm eating? 
Don't be. I promise I eat "real food" in between.
Anything you're addicted to these days?

Oh and thanks to all who entered the Orient Watch Giveaway. I nearly went bananas when I found out the winning comment (via random.org) was lucky no. 8...congratulations, Mayra!!!

xo Ela

"Be Ready in Ten Minutes"

Those were the words out of S's mouth when he called the other day letting me know he was on his way home and that he wanted to head right out so we could grab a quick bite to eat. The eating part I like. The getting ready part...I like hearing those words almost as much as I enjoy being asked, "is that what you're wearing?" Um, seeing that it's on me and I'm about to walk out the door, yes, I think it'd be safe to assume that is what I'm wearing. Thankfully I can count on less than two fingers the number of times S has posed that question.

Although, being asked to be ready in 10 happens more often than I'd like. Well, at least S has come to know: you can't always get what you ask for. Asking me to be ready in ten minutes is like asking me to sneeze with my eyes open. Pretty much impossible. At least for me. Especially when I get the call as I'm mid-swing on the elliptical, sweating up a storm glistening just a tad and smelling like someone...who could use a shower. Never mind that having a shower, blow drying my hair so I it doesn't freeze when I step out the door, getting dressed, running down the stairs, finding my purse, and my keys, grabbing a coat, playing hide and go seek with my boots, and gloves, and running back upstairs to get my b-berry takes 20 minutes. At least. Am I alone here? Or is getting ready in 10 minutes actually the norm?

 Sweater - Dex, Boots - Zara, Gloves - Ugg

Leather Bomber and Jeans - 7 for all Mankind

When I bought this sweater a few years back, it had little boils balls of yarn sewn all over it. I'm sure the lovely folks at Dex thought it added "whimsy". I thought it made my sweater look like it had warts. I detached the little nubs soon as I got home. Had I left them perhaps you'd be asking "is that what you're wearing?"

Bag - Thrifted

So in love with this bag I picked up last year, I've no idea why anyone would want to get rid of it. The leather is buttery soft and it's the perfect crossover length. Plus it cost me less than my usual Starbucks order {a lemon poppyseed loaf and a tall hot chocolate}.

Is it just me or is this post awful random and all over the place? A little bit like my thoughts before bed. Which reminds me, thank you so much for all your tips on my last post. Just in case you didn't know...you guys are AWESOME!

Have a great weekend lovelies!

xo Ela

p.s. Giveaway's open till Feb 28th, do enter if you haven't already!

I Need Sleep

No really, I do. I've no problem taking a nap on our couch on any given Sunday or catching some zzzzs in the middle of S telling me a very interesting story as we drive in the car or sleeping through at least a third of any movie that is longer than 105 minutes. But lately, when it comes to getting sleep at night...in a bed...forget it.

Dress - Winners, Floral Necklace and Belt - F21

 Logo Tights - Chanel, Mary Janes - Via Spiga (via 90s)

I'd love some good old uninterrupted sleep, to not have to get up in the middle of the night because I suddenly remember we need to buy potatoes, or because my bladder thinks it's 6am when really it's only 2am, or because the big lug next to me decides to see how perfectly his elbow fits in my eye socket{I feel you Tiffany}.

And please don't say "at least you don't have a crying baby keeping you up." Cause then I'd have to slap you that would be music to my ears. Yes, I'd still want sleep but at least getting up in the middle of the night would be purposeful. This however, has no purpose. Other than to give me puffy sullen eyes and a cranky disposition.
 

Actually, I'm getting ahead of myself. Yes staying asleep is hard but falling asleep is the hardest part. What's keeping me up, you ask? Nothing. I'd love to blame it on S and his snoring but 97% of the time I can tune it out. 2% of the time it's actually somewhat soothing. Like listening to static. And 1% of the time, I want to stick a pillow over his face but instead I stick one over mine.

Truth is, mostly, I keep myself up. My mind just won't stop. Thinking. I'm not trying to memorize the first 3,000 digits of pi. Nor am I trying to solve world peace. I'm just stuck on thinking about things that really shouldn't be keeping me up at night. Like what my ex-boss' daughter's name is. Or why in the world people like egg salad. Or how S can think Richard Gere and Harrison Ford are the same people. WTHeck. Not even close, right? Which leads to me wonder how much Calista Flockhart weighs. Which makes me think, "for sure I weigh more". Which makes me wonder what my BMI is. Then for a split second I forget what BMI stands for. Then I make up what it stands for. Then make myself giggle. Quietly, to not wake the hubs. Which makes me look at him and get jealous of how well he's sleeping. And how loud peaceful he is. Which makes me want to poke him and ask "are you awake?" Then I wonder if there's anyone I can call who would be awake. Then I realize it's 2:46am and everyone else is sleeping. Then I start to freak out because I imagine how hard it'll be get me out of bed in just a few hours. Sigh.

Any tips? And no, I won't be taking any pills. Drug-free suggestions only please.

xo Ela
p.s. If you haven't already, do enter my Orient Watch Giveaway!!!

iPhon't Think So

For the last year or so, S has been trying to convince me to get an iPhone. Scratch that. He's been itching to buy me one. But you see, I refuse. I don't want it. The thought of not having a tactile keyboard does not work for me. Never mind that the darn thing doesn't even register my finger half the time. I *press* things and I tell you, NOTHING. HAPPENS. 

S says it's cause I'm "not human". Sometimes he softens the blow and blames it on my "dead skin". Frankly, I'm not quite sure which of his theories paint me in a better light, so I just blame the phone.

How do I know I detest this phone when I haven't even given it a chance, you ask.

I borrowed it for the day a few months back. But only because I had left my cell phone at home. And the thought of not being able to communicate with people people that I like for a full 8-12 hours was not an option. So he set up my email on his phone to keep me connected. Between me not knowing how hit the right keys and iPhone's auto complete, I was hopeless...

instead of "DimSum" I got "dumdum" NOT okay.

instead of "drolly" I got "frilly"..."dolly" I could understand. But frilly? Um ok.

Luckily, I double checked before hitting send but making the corrections...brutal.

Imagine how intelligent caveman like I must've looked typing hacking away with one finger. Brows furrowed, lips contorted mouthing the words as I went along and practically breaking a sweat trying to put together a 5 liner. Hard to feel pleased with yourself when 5 sentences takes 14 mintues to type. I mean come on, it's not like I've got flippers. I've been told my fingers are slender and dainty. I don't see why they're not compatible with the iPhone when S' grubby little paws just dance away on that thing.

Did I mention that when I answered the phone I hung up on my best friend's husband?

Once because I pressed the wrong *button*.

And a second time while he was on the line and my cheek pressed against the phone.

Did I mention he was calling to let me know why my BFF was in the ER?

Can you say panic and frustration.

Thankfully, I figured out how to call him back and everything turned out fine with my girl. Side Note: I headed over to the hospital to keep her company while she sat waiting in the ER.

But I can't have a cell phone disconnect a call simply because the *buttons* can't be pressed. Or because my chipmunk cheeks press slightly against its surface. So it won't take my fingers but it'll take my cheeks??? Am I the only one that thinks that is stoooo-pad?

I'm married to man who LOVES gadgets. But seriously, I'm not quick to embrace them. I don't need shiny and new all the time as long as I've got something that works. So me say "yes" to an iPhone? iPhon't think so. I didn't even want a Blackberry when he got me one. Of course I love it now but that's besides the point.

fell in love with the leather insets of this thrifted vintage fur

love the fun lining of this coat

Belt - Chinese Laundry, Dress - Winners, Boots - Diba/Bronx

Have I mentioned I don't even own an iPod?

Gasp.

Though I do know how to use one. I just don't need it.

At this rate, perhaps S isn't so far off when he says I'll be like one of those old people who refuse to learn how to use a computer. But seriously, just like they do, I'm sure I'll get by.

xo

Ela

p.s. Don't forget to entery my Orient Watch Giveaway!!! GET TO IT!!!

Apparently I Like Being Told What to Do

Okay fine, that's a big fat lie. I don't like it and probably never will. But I AM loving the recipe calendar I picked up late last year.  A new recipe each and every day. And though I haven't gone all Stepford on the hubs, I am loving trying 2 or 3 different recipes each week so we're not stuck having heck knows what for dinner night after night.

 

[via amazon]

I'm thinking I need a calendar like this for all aspects of my life. Of course I wouldn't do everything it told me to, but it'd be nice to eliminate some "hmmm, what should I do?" moments. 

Like when your girlfriend's 1 yr old wants to stick the drooly plastic stick he's been chomping on, into your mouth. Because he doesn't know you're the BIGGEST germaphobe ever. Or does he? I mean do you a)Smile and let him stick it in your mouth and say "nom, nom, nom" b)Politely decline and get him to stick it back in his mouth or c)Smack it out of your face and say "heck no". 
C of course is not an option. 
But it might be if a calendar told me so.

Or when family members tell you you've gained weight. Then wink. Do you a)Smile and say "thank you(?)" b)Cry because you're not pregnant but your dress makes you appear as though you are or c)Tell them their hairlines have receded since the last family BBQ. 
Of course B and C aren't options.
But they could be...

Or when the driver in front of you decides to drive 40km/h in a 70 zone. Do you a)Pretend he has a bumper sticker that says "Honk if you Love Dogs" b)Get out from behind him, siddle up and ask if he'd like to drive a donkey cart instead or c)Pull over and walk home. It'll be faster.
Of course A, B or C aren't options.
But they could be...

I kid. I couldn't do it even if a calendar told me to. But catch me on a bad day...

Embellished Tunic - F21, Leggings - Aritzia, OTKs - Guess(2008)

With my type A personality, I like order in my life so I tend to stick to what I already do or know. But maybe, in doing so, I've missed out. Maybe not on the drooly stick. But I kinda dig this trying new stuff. Is it weird that I'll take dinner suggestions from a calendar rather than just have S tell me what he'd like to eat? 

I suppose it helps that the calendar won't make a sad face if I say "no".

xo Ela
Hope you had a fabulous weekend!

Sweet and Sour

S is always teasing me about having a "refined palette". He says I like "bland" food. I say, I enjoy subtle tastes. I also just need one bite in order to appreciate flavours. He however, needs a mouthful to savour the tastes. We eat the same amount but go about it differently. For example, I eat one chip at a time. And one popcorn kernel at a time. Partly because I enjoy it best that way...and partly because I know it drives S mad. He on the other hand, shoves a handful at a time so he can "actually taste" it.

Apparently, he's not that great at detecting "sour"....

S: [Chuckles to himself] That's funny.
E: What is?
S: Sweet and Sour Chicken.
E: Mmmmkay....if you say so.
S: [Stink eye] It's not really sour...
E: Uh, sure it is.
S: No. It's just sweet.
E: No it's not!
S: YES it is.
E: Fine. It's not "sour" per se, but there's definitely a tang to it.
S: Tang's not one of the four tastes.
E: But it's a type of sour...and there's five not four.
S: Five what?
E: Tastes
S: [Eyes bugged out. Insert heckling here] Name them.
E: Sweet, sour, salty, bitter and...
S: HA!
E: Give me a sec...I've got mushy brain [pause] Spicy!
S: Bwahahahahahahahaha. That's not a "taste"!
E: You can taste it can't you?
S: [Pause] No...it just burns.
E: Sweetheart, for people with taste buds, spice is a taste.
S: [Sad puppy face] But it just burns...
E: I don't know what else to tell you, hon....just eat your "sweet" chicken.

Leather Moto - Ralph Lauren (circa 2002), Plaid Top - Winners, 

White LS Tee - F21, Leggings - Aritzia, Boots - Lucky Brand {being sold here}

Gotta bundle up!

Scarf - via sample sale

Please excuse the bedhead, pale face and um...lack of eyebrows HAHA - hair/makeup to be done in car, hence the sunnies (YSL). Lipgloss was on though.

Well, since rehashing our convo. I've come to learn that I'm wrong. Shhh...I haven't told him yet. In 2002, they did indeed introduce the fifth taste: Savory. However, if you go by the ancient Chinese Five Elements Philosophy (according to Wiki), spicy is the fifth. Since, I'm Asian (oh and 1/8 Chinese btw) I think that makes me partly right, no?

Happy weekend, loves!
xo Ela

Clearly

First things first, I've been a bad blogger this week, missing out on reading and commenting on my favourite blogs. Clearly, I'm a stinkasaurus, I know. Don't hate me. I'll be back soon. With a vengeance. Spamming leaving you insightful comments. And HELLO :) new followers/readers, leave me a comment so I know where to find you...some of your picture thingys, that's the technical term, don't link back to your blogs.And I wanna see your digs ;)

Have I mentioned that S is not a fan of unnatural curls on Asians? 

Clearly, I don't take that to heart. Though I don't curl my hair often when it's short because it makes my lollipop head look even bigger I'm more likely to burn my neck with my flat iron. Yes, flat iron. 

This week I:

• Bought my dad....two combs and....THE END. Um...Santa, please help me cause clearly, I have no idea what to get the man.
• Got the battery changed on one of my watches, woot! Is it wrong that this excites me? Clearly, I need to get out more. Trust.
  
•  I found a red hair. In my head. Attached to my scalp. I kid you not. S is boggled by this. The blonde one he shrugged off {found another blondie btw} but now with the red...he's convinced I'll find a purple one next. Clearly, I am turning into a clown....root-doot-doot-doot-doot...or Rainbow Brite. If any of you know of a rare condition that causes this, please enlighten me.
• Came this close to throwing out my b-berry. Darn piece of junk decided to stop receiving emails. It also takes about 45 seconds to enter a phone number. Clearly, I'll be needing a replacement. Very soon.
• Had one of the bathroom shower taps fixed. The hot and cold were reversed. We just discovered this a few weeks ago. We've been living here for over a year. Clearly, we don't shower use that bathroom.
  
• Made these for S. Because clearly, I was a jerk and had to make it up to him without spending a dime nothing says "sorry" "love" like heart-shaped pancakes. They're far from perfect but he forgave me ate them just the same ;)
  

• Tried to darken this photo because it was super duper bright but instead, now it just looks BLUE!!! Clearly, I've no idea how to use Paint.NET.
  

Button Down-Zara, Wool Blazer-Vintage, Jeans-Mavi

Is it wrong that I wish it weren't Friday? I'm probably alone on this one. 

But seriously, I could use an extra day {or two} this week.

 Happy weekend, loves!

xx Ela

Wandom Weekend

No I don't really talk like a toddler. Well, sometimes I do. There, now you know.

Friday night S went to go see 2012 with the boys. I stayed home, caught up with some shows online and gave myself a manicure. Is it too much to ask for a manicure to last me more than two days?

Fast forward to Sunday, the first nail I ruined was the one on my thumb. I was in a daze cutting onions and got careless with the knife. I suppose I should be grateful I did a base coat, two coats and a top coat. Clearly my manicure saved me from actually hurting myself.

The second one I lost - yes "lost" - was on my ring finger. It popped right off while I was in the shower.

And sitting in the kitchen -  yes just sitting - I discovered I lost another one. On my middle finger. Wtheck??? Just so we're clear, the polish was painted onto my nails, I have no idea why they are popping off like fake nails. I've been using OPI forever and doing my own nails for even longer and this has never happened before.

Clearly, I have no intention of putting an end to taking showers or sitting so I imagine more will fall off throughout the week. I can't be bothered to take the polish off the rest of the fingers right now, I'd much rather spend the time complaining about it, and who knows when I'll get to repaint them, so here I am with 7 1/2 fingers manicured. Perhaps, I'm just ahead of the trend.

Jersey Knit Infinity Scarf - Winners

Rewind to Saturday night when S and I finally saw New Moon. My favourite line from the whole movie..."What a marshmallow." Mmmm...marshmallows. At some point in the movie, S turned to me and said he'd like to be a wolf. Great, take the side that can't even afford shirts on their backs. I'd rather be a vampire, with clothes, a car and look like a 20 year old when I'm 104. And can someone please tell me what's up with the Bellya aches??? Why did Bella keep clutching at her side throughout the entire movie like she had a insane case of cramps? And don't think I didn't notice that she had to touch Jacob's abs every chance she could get. Edward who? Sparkle what? Stinkin' crazy abs.

S challenged me to a game of air hockey at the movie theatre right after the movie. I won. But bruised myself when I hit my hip on the table doing my victory dance as I accepted my win graciously.

Tee - F21, Sweater Vest - Ann Taylor Loft, Grey Jeans - Juicy Couture, 

Studded Boots - BCBG

Is it just me, or is my thumb looking ridicously long, like ET long?

Sunday was filled with Church, visiting friends, nap time on the couch, eating steak and chocolate cake, and cooking three lasagnas,  because we're pigs since two are for Monday's dinner...we like to start the week off with lots of carbs we're having people over.

What'd you guys do?

xx Ela

p.s. Thank YOU for sharing what you love about yourselves, I really enjoyed reading all your comments. And am pretty sure they made me heart you, even more ;)

Too Fancy for Pants

Hope y'all had amazing weekends! We attended S' company Holiday party on Saturday. That's a story on its own...I'll save that for another post. But here are some pics for now...

  Wool Sweater Coat - Vintage, Scarf - Winners, Satin Clutch - Prada

Since I knew S wouldn't let me post a photo with him in it, I did the next best thing and I found someone else who'd hold my hand....

Yes, I'm a dork...

Anyway...I recently met up with my friend K...remember the one I met at the Jimmy Choo for H&M launch, that snagged a bag for me? This time we went for dinner. And didn't even have to wait in line :)

We went to a resto chain that recently opened. It's not new but new at that location. The food was awesome, especially the dessert - a warm white chocolate brownie topped with whipped cream and served with vanilla ice cream....unbelievably good. But the girls that worked there, seemed...um...a little *underdressed*.

No, we didn't hit a shady wing joint. And it certainly wasn't a 5-star resto. But *classy* enough that you'd spend about $35-40/person without drinks or dessert. Yet management seemed to think it'd be a good idea to establish a dress code that left you wondering time and time again, "Um, why isn't she wearing...pants???" The Servers wore pants but the resto also had girls prancing around, mostly just walking back and forth...perhaps igniting fights amongst couples on their first dates. And occasionally bringing dishes to your table. One girl came to our table with a huge dessert plate asking if we'd ordered it...um, we were just about to take the first bite of out of our entrées - poor thing was utterly perplexed when we told her we hadn't ordered it. Too cold to think clearly? Perhaps.

Right now it's friggid cold in Toronto. My glasses have already started to steam up when I get indoors from being out in the cold. Minis are one thing. But stretching and pulling a top down, no matter how much you fidget with it, still makes it a top. All K and I could think was "Where are your pants?" or "But, why'd you leave your pants at home?" or "I can't take my mother here". She'd love the food but the *scenery* not so much.

Anyhoots K and I had a really good time. 2 1/2 hours flew right by. And we left with our stomachs full, and hurting just a little from all the laughs. We are definitely meeting up again.

Seeing as some of these girls looked young enough to still be living at home, another thought that crossed our minds was "There's no way in heck your parents let you leave the house like that". Which brings me to this question: growing up, did you ever leave the house then change into something else that you knew your parent(s) wouldn't approve of?

I di...I'll tell you my answer in my next post ;)
xx Ela

Cinched

Full Skirt Trench and Skirt Underneath - Winners, Belt - Versace (via eBay)

Boots - Diba/Bronx 

Whoever invelted the belt was a genius. It was probably invented to hold up pants, or wait is that suspenders? Regardless, I love belts because they add some definition to my straight figure, which by the way, Wiki defines as "Banana". Mmmmkay. Never quite thought I was built like a banana but then I found this [via Google Images]...

Yeah...I kinda see the resemblance. Besides, a certain banana I know is pretty cool so I'll take it ;)
I rarely leave home without a belt, especially when wearing flowy dresses or tops. I need to draw in that waist because there's nothing I despise more than hearing the words, "Oh my gosh!!! Are you pregnant?" 
Seriously, seriously??? 
Seriously, when I'm preggo, everyone and their grandmother will know. I'll be shouting it from the rooftops so puh-lease, get your hands off my belly and save your question for someone with an actual bun in the oven.

Awk...ward...moving on, the winner of my recent giveaway is Elaine from Clothed Much! Congrats, missy! I'll be sending you an email to get your info.
Thanks to everyone who entered. And I'll be having another giveaway  soon so stay tuned!

And I've also added some Gucci, Prada and Leather Goods to my online shop MyDesignerFinds.com so do take a peek! See something you like that's out of your budget? Make me your best offer and I may just take you up on it!

Happy Midweek Everyone!
xx Ela
p.s. Special Thank You to Clare at Clarabelle for the sweet shout out! BAH, forgive me for seeing this 6 days late. Thanks, hon :) And for those of you who haven't *met* Clare, you must! Get!

Hat Head

 

Fedora - Item (Boston)

 

Blazer - Vero Moda, Cotton Shirt - F21, Trousers - French Connection,  

Heels - Marc Jacobs, Bracelet - Vintage (via eBay), Faux Pearls - Thrifted

I'm pretty sure that one of the first times I ever tried on a hat, and considered buying it, was when I was 11 yrs. old. It was a big floppy purple one a la Blossom, do y'all remember that show?

I loved that show! Blossom was nerdy but cool and she was a good girl. I liked her. But I LOVED her best friend Six. I had never heard of numbers being names before, I thought she was soooo cool. Pretty much wanted to be her. Oh...and I also dug Joey, Blossom's brother. I'd actually let out an audible sigh at the very sight of him. And blushed just a little. Every time.

I remember watching the show and thinking how cool and "old" they were. How I couldn't wait to be as "grown-up" as they were. LOL, wtheck? Looking back, they were babies! Funny how things appear when they seem so far away...then you get there and realize, it's not at all how it appeared to be...

Anyway, I never did buy that purple floppy hat. Didn't think I could pull it off as well as Blossom. And knew I couldn't pull it off like Six could. I still think she's a cutie :)

Happy Weekend, loves!

xx Ela

If you haven't entered my giveaway, you still can till Sunday, November 15th!

Also, Friday the 13th is the last day to enter my SFAM's stachetastic contest! Go, go, GO! And it's our other SFAM's 29th+1 birthday this weekend! Harlot Johansson, please send Ryan over...NOW!

Cruella's Working on it

 

Faux Fur - Thrifted ($3.99), Faux Velvet Pants - Zara, Leather Gloves - Aldo 

Purse - Vintage ($2.50), Wedge Booties - Nine West

I tried these boots on, on three different ocassions before I finally bought them last week. I tend to be less impulsive with my shopping these days. Except when thrifting.

Which is probably why I quickly snatched up this coat that now makes me feel a bit like Cruella. And also gives the illussion that I have a pregnant belly. But for $3.99, it keeps me warm and cozy so there's no question, I'll be wearing it again.

Thinking of Cruella, got me thinking of my mean streak. I think we each have our shortcomings. I try to work on mine but just as I seem to overcome one, another pops up...why is that? S says I shouldn't be so hard on myself. But I think it's important to recognize your faults and work on them. Right now I'm trying to overcome giving the stink face. It's not even a stink eye - it's the whole face.

I should mention that there are many times when I do hold back on the face, and the verbage that tends to go with it...but sometimes, I regress. Like I did on one ocassion with a guy I'll call "Chump". 

Chump is a guy that on one occasion told me that I "looked nice"...then followed it up with "must be the makeup..." 
But I just shook my head and let that one go. Chump is also condescending and likes to have an opposing point of view just so he can argue with you. About anything and everything. He doesn't make the best arguments but he knows just what to say to get under your skin. And frustrate the heck out of you with mindless circle talk. He says bonehead things ALL the time but usually I manage to ignore them. However, on one ocassion, be it petty, I didn't want to deal with Chump's "words of wisdom".

C: It's so weird, I know you're Filipino and all, but wow....you look almost Asian.
E: [Blank stare]
C: Seriously. You do.
E: [Blinks]
C: [Chuckles] Weird right?
E: Wow, that is weird....considering Filipinos are Asian...with the Philippines being in Asia and all...
C: Huh. [Pause] Really?
E: [Ding, ding, ding!!! Insert stink face here]
C: Oh...I guess it's cause you're not Oriental....
E: I think you should stop talking now. [Insert blank stare]

Did I mention that Chump is Asian? Looking back, I'm a little embrassed at my reaction. But at the time I thought someone else should've been embarassed...or gotten an Atlas. I was having one of those days. Regardless, I should've been nicer. I should've just smiled and let the whole thing go. Sigh, don't hate me...I'm working on it.

Anything you're working on?

xx Ela
p.s. It's my SFAM's blogiversary today! Happy 1 yr, Krissy poo!
And my other SFAM's having a fanstachestic contest that you can enter till Nov 13th!
So stop by and show my loves some love will ya!
OH and if you haven't already, enter MY giveaway here!

Learn From Their Mistakes

I should've taken advantage of Summer's late sunsets. 

Nowadays it's dark before 6pm, which makes taking outdoor shots a rarity.

Boys Blazer - Thrifted, Ruffled Cotton Shirt - J. Crew, Booties - Fendi(via eBay)

I bought this layered R.J. Graziano necklace last year and wore it with a Rachel Pally Short Caftan dress to S's company Christmas party last year. Just found out they're holding this year's party at the end of next month. I'm thinking of semi-recycling my outfit...last year I wore the dress in Eggplant but I also bought the dress in Red, which has yet to be worn. So, I'm thinking the red dress with gold jewellery. I don't think anyone will notice. And even if they did...um, don't really care. I just don't know about wearing red to a Holiday party, it seems so cliche. Oh well, got another 4 weeks to think about it.

One thing's for sure, I know I'll be doing my makeup in the car. I always do. It's a terrible habit but it's so efficient :) I only do it as a passenger of course. There are however, two things I will not do in a moving car. I suggest you don't do them either:
1. Put on mascara 
2. Use an eyelash curler

"Why not?" you ask.
1. One day, one of S's HS teachers didn't show up to class. The school later explained she had been in a car accident. Sort of. She was doing her mascara in the car...then poked herself in the eye. We never heard what became of her, we only know that she never returned to the School. I can only hope the injury was not permanent.
I know we love mascara, but please don't put your vision at jeopardy. If I need to put mascara on, I do it before I leave or once I get to my destination. I hope you'll do the same.

2. Also in HS, I was watching Fashion Television and a model being interviewed was so happy to have booked her first job after a 6 month hiatus. A little over 6 months prior, she was in the backseat of a moving car doing her makeup. She was curling her eyelashes, when BOOM! The car gets hit from behind. She lunged forward and in doing so, pulled out her eyelashes. I may not remember all the details but that part I remember - very CLEARLY. Eek! Can you imagine how much that hurt???
On top of the pain, no one wanted to hire her after that - I guess she couldn't get by on falsies. 
Just like you can't put extensions on a bald head.

So, if you're like me and you do your makeup in the car, please be careful.

Happy weekend!!!

Have a safe and Happy Halloween!

xx Ela

Going Grey

My mom always told me I was "an old lady, stuck in a little girl's body". I grew up being around mostly adults. Being labelled the "favourite" grandchild, of my maternal grandparents, didn't exactly win me points with the cousins. So I hung out with all the grown-ups. My favourite word as a 3 year old was "actually" and I used it in almost every sentence, as I would tell it like it is. 

 Dress/Skirt - Winners, Boys Jacket - Thrifted, Boots - Feet First

 

Silver Necklace - F21, Faux Pearls - Thrifted, 

Vintage Bracelet and Versace Belt - via ebay

 

Growing up, a part of me always felt older than I actually was. But now, somehow as the years pass, a part of me still feels like I'm 25. Maybe it's denial, maybe it's because I've pretty much looked the same since I was 19. Actually, back then I think I looked older than I do now. Yes my loves, makeup was my best friend.
But I know that age is catching up to me when this happens:

1. I realize a $1000 handbag is completely out of the question for me but that a $5000 couch is money well spent. "Have a seat...on my purse" just doesn't seem to fly.
2. S and I avoid movie theatres when we know it'll be rampant with teenagers.
3. When ballet used to let me extend my leg straight up in the air and now bending to get my shoes on feels like I may just pull a muscle.
4. I can't tell you when the last time I was on a roller coaster or even stepped into an amusement park, BUT I can tell you about my last visit to my physiotherapist or when I had to wear a tensor band after I got struck with inflammatory arthritis. Not even lying.
5. When teenagers at Church, think it's "so cool" that I know how to text, being "so old and all".
6. When as much as I enjoy fast-food, my body seems unsatisfied unless it's had a "real" meal.
7. When the cheese plate on the dessert menu sounds just as good as the chocolate ganache torte. And sometimes, tastes even better. Cheese better than chocolate? Sometimes, yes.
8. I won't even try on something if it looks too complicated to put on. And sadly at this point - that includes a lot.
9. Sleeping in is waking up around 8:30am. A late night is anything past 11:00pm. When I was younger, I'm pretty sure it was closer to other way around.
10. When my body is now looking for fruits and veggies. I can feel it in my bones. But somehow the 25 year old in me wins...and tells the old lady to "shut up". Then I eat some Gummi Bears.

When did this happen? And where was I as the years flew by?

All those years I couldn't wait to get "old"...funny, now I'm not so sure.

Anything making you feel old these days?
xx Ela
p.s. I'll be away from the computer today but I'll catch up with you lovelies Monday evening :)