Euphoric Agony

Double goat roasted red pepper and onion pizza

2012-02-01T21:12:00.002-06:00

I love pizza. It ranks in my top 3 foods to eat. It is right up there with fresh bread and butter and really good homemade pasta and sauce. LOVE IT.

However, pizza is not the most waist friendly food. My issue isn't the actual calories, it's portion control. WHO THE HELL eats ONE slice? I don't care how much damn salad you have on your plate ONE slice is not enough.

A trick I learned a few years ago is to make pizzas out of pita or lavash. Not only is it a quick option but, it also provides for portion control. Cut back on the cheese and load up on the veggies. Instead of sausage use seasoned ground meat that you render the fat out of.

This month in our meat CSA we got one pound of ground goat. I seasoned it with salt, pepper and crushed red peppers and rendered it (fry then drain fat in a sieve) to make this delicious double goat pizza.

Ingredients
1 lavasha
3 oz ground goat (sub ground lamb, beef or turkey)
1/2 oz goat cheese ( I used Humboldt fog...because life is to short to drink cheap wine or eat cheap cheese)
1/2 oz mozzarella
1/4 roasted red pepper
1/4 onion ( I pre cook so they are tender)
1/4 cup tomato sauce
basil (chopped)

On one lavasha I spread 1/2 cup of tomato sauce. I then spread the toppings (I had extra points so I added a little extra cheese and meat). I bake it in the oven at 425 degrees until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy.

Delicious, 10 points (12 with my extra cheese and meat) and worth every single one of them!!!

B-12 needed

2012-01-31T22:43:00.003-06:00

My butt was up at 5 am to go to 6 am spin. LUCKILY I read the email sent by my friends that I was going to meet telling me that she wasn't going to make it. So my butt went back to bed for an hour. At 6 am I rose and joyfully skipped the gym (spring like weather in JANUARY will do that to you). I had a great spin class. After class as I pulled my clothes out of my bag and realized that I forgot a KEY undergarment, my bra. As I was contemplating how to freshen up my jog bra (baby powder and a blow dryer) I realized that I also forgot my laptop. So back home I went.

Then today, I decided to take the stair to a meeting and forgot my key card and phone at my desk. The stairwells are locked for safety purposes. While contemplating if I should walk down the stairs to the lobby, someone came down the stairs and let me in.

Then tonight, I made stir-fry and left out the red pepper that I specifically bought to go IN the stir-fry.

I really need to REMEMBER to take my vitamins. Clearly I'm lacking B12.

Worn to work
Dress- Rachel Pally (also seen here and here)
Shoes- Charles Jourdan (similar) (also seen here)
Necklace- Kendra Scott (similar)
Earrings- OLD, bought them in Mexico in high school

Year of the Dragon

2012-01-30T21:33:00.000-06:00

2012 is the year of the dragon. It is supposedly the luckiest year in the Chinese zodiac. Dragons are magnanimous, stately, vigorous, strong, self-assured, proud, noble, direct, dignified, eccentric, intellectual, fiery, passionate, decisive, pioneering, artistic, generous, and loyal. Can be tactless, arrogant, imperious, tyrannical, demanding, intolerant, dogmatic, violent, impetuous, and brash.

I am Ox...Dependable, ambitious, calm, methodical, born leader, patient, hardworking, conventional, steady, modest, logical, resolute, and tenacious. Can be stubborn, dogmatic, hot-tempered, narrow-minded, materialistic.

Well I'm defiantly dependable, ambitious, methodical and stubborn. (calm and hot-tempered ...opposites, no?)

What is your sign? Does is portray your personality?

Worn to work-

Skirt- Talbots (also seen here)

Sweater- Sweaterworks

Belt- Talbots (similar)

Shoes- Ecco

Earrings- Jade bought in China Town in San Francisco (similar)

Ring- Talbots (similar)

FIRE!!!!!

2012-01-26T22:22:00.002-06:00

After a productive day at work I came home this evening and started to make a nice dinner....

The menu:

pork jalapeno cheddar sliders

chili mac with chips and guacamole

So, I was cooking up a storm and then FIRE!!!!!!!

So I might have wanted to take a cleaning short cut, and I might have lined the broiler pan with tin foil (I hate cleaning the broiler pan). Well, the grease on the foil from the sliders caught on fire. I tried to put it out by smothering it with towel, no luck. I turned off the broiler,NO LUCK. So I ~~panicked~~ did what a smart person does when there is a FIRE ... I got the fire extinguisher out!

I pretty much unloaded the whole thing on the oven. (yes, that is smoke)

And, I rendered dinner uneatable. Oh well, in the long run, take-out is a hell of a lot cheaper than having to buy a new stove or or a new condo!

Worn to work
Dress- DKNYC
Blouse- Brooks Brothers
Shoes- Burberry
Handbag- Bottega Veneta (similar)
Tights- DKNY

Cashmere Monday

2012-01-23T23:35:00.004-06:00

Work
Board Meeting
Home
RHBH
Blog
Bed

In other words, a typical Monday .

I chose cashmere sweater in a bright color today. Cashmere is the comfort food of clothing. It's soft and warm and makes you feel all cozy. The bright aqua brightened my moody on this rather dreary day.

Worn to work
Skirt- Ellen Tracy (similar)
Sweater- Marshall Fields (similar)
Shoes- Adrienne Vittadini (similar)
Belt- Banana Republic (similar)
Jewery-?(similar necklace)

Relaxed Winter Weekend

2012-01-22T21:02:00.000-06:00

This weekend was quite relaxing. Even though a snow storm hit Chicago we managed to make it to a beer party (a tasting of many home and craft brews) at a friends house Friday night.

Saturday morning I went to the Junior League house to do a little IT work. In the afternoon we took Addison to play in the snow. OH how she LOVES snow! and her Ball!! I'm not sure which she loves more playing in the snow or going to the beach.

Saturday night was a cozy evening on the couch with movies. Rise of the Planet of the Apes was better than expected. The Ides of March was not as good as anticipated.

Sunday was just as lazy. Dinner at my mom's house and football.

What did you do this weekend?

Don't mess with Texas

2012-01-18T22:56:00.000-06:00

My first business trip of the year landed me in San Antonio, TX. I was able to hop over to the Alamo for a little sight seeing while I was there. While the Shrine was small, the nearly 300 years of history was rich. I loved soaking in some American History and visiting a place where men made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom.

Prebake Breakfast Egg Cups

2012-01-16T22:16:00.001-06:00

In the wintertime I enjoy a hot breakfast during the work week but I don't like to spend time cooking it in the morning. I like a grab and go breakfast so that I can heat it up when I get to work and eat it at my desk. Egg Cups are one of my favorites grab and go AM meals. I either eat two cups or one with an English muffin.

Makes 12 Servings
10 eggs, beaten
1 large new potato, diced
1 cup ham, diced
salt and pepper to taste

Par boil potatoes then add 1 tbs of both ham and potato in a greased muffin tin. Top with approximately 1.5 tablespoons of beaten eggs.

Bake for 10-12 minutes.

Remove from tins, eat or freeze. Reheat time is 1-2 minutes in your microwave.

You can mix up the ingredient too. Some of my other favorites are:
1/2 whole egg 1/2 egg whites, feta and red peppers
egg, ham, green pepper
egg, chicken sausage, spinach
egg, cilantro, cheddar cheese, onion, red pepper

Take a bow

2012-01-15T11:05:00.001-06:00

Custom tailoring is one of the great tricks to clothes that fit well. A simple nip and tuck done by your local dry cleaner can change an ill fitting garment into one that fits like a glove. WhenI first heard of eShakti I was intriguedwith the idea behind the business. You can order clothing by size or, for asmall fee, you can get it customized. You can customize the sleeves, lower ahemline and even get something custom made for your measurements. Great idea,right? Especially if you have a hard to fit physique.

So you can imagine how delighted I was when eShakti contacted me to review aproduct. I selected the takea bow dress. I was attracted to the dress's feminine pink colorand crepe fabric. I liked the bow tie but I wasn't fond of the blackcollar so I customized the dress to have it made with the bow collar in thesame color as the dress. I ordered a large based on the sizing chartposted on eShakti's website.

In less than a week after I ordered the dress it arrived. I wasdelighted with the construction of the dress. The fabric is weighty; thestitching is well done (no strings or crooked hems). However, the dressis not lined so I need to wear a slip under it.

As for fit, it is okay. I have a long shoulder to waist ratio witha short waist to hip ratio so the dress could be a bit longer in the torso. The waistline of the dress hits me a bit too high for my figure. The arms are also a bitloose. The elastic could be a bit tighter on my forearms. I dolove the length of the dress; it hits me right at the knee.

Overall I'm satisfied with the dress. In the future, I would customizethe sizing to ensure fit. I would not hesitate to order from them again.

Dress- c/o eShatki takea bow dress
Shoes- Christian Louboutin (similar)
Earrings- gift from my sister
Necklace- antique beads from my mother

Product worth mentioning

2012-01-13T23:41:00.003-06:00

It has been some time since I posted a new food find (or one that I thought was good enough to blog about) until this week. A So Delicious Mini Ice Cream Sandwich is the perfect late night sweet treat. They are made with agave sweetener and are the perfect portion to satisfy that late night sweet tooth craving. They are only 100 calories and have 3.5g of fat so they won't bust your waistline either.

If your looking to indulge, So Delicious Coconut Ice Cream is DA BOMB!!!! Seriously Delicious!!!!

**opinions in this post are strictly my own. So Delicious did not compensate me in any manner for this post. I just think they are super tasty.

Poor Planning

2012-01-12T20:58:00.005-06:00

I'm a project manager by profession. On a daily basis I manage people, tasks, and deliverables. My projects that have the least amount of issues are the ones that I spend time upfront planning, preparing weekly status reports (if they are need or not) and adjusting the plan every week based on status report analysis + project feedback. When my projects are not planned well they usually end up in the toilet. I end up spending more effort managing my poorly planned projects because a path to success is not clear for everyone to follow.

I know how to plan. When I'm very successful at weight loss, running, crossing stuff off my to-do list when I have plan.

I follow the plan. I modify the plan when needed. I execute the plan. I do well.

This week I did not have a plan. I was winging it. NOT GOOD. Who knew a margarita had 9 points (5 with the old plan..new points I can't use the 50 cal per point method to guesstimate)? I would have known should I have planned my dinner the other night. Who knew that bologna (yes I like it on white mushy wonder bread) had 3 points per slice and the worlds smallest bologna sandwich is 11 points? I would have if I looked up the dang points before putting 2 slices between 2 slices of bread with a slice o' cheese. NOM NOM!

What makes me good at managing projects is the fact that I see a project going down the drain, make corrections, regroup the team, get a new plan and move forward.

Tonight is the night to regroup, plan and get back on track.

El Ideas Revisited

2012-01-09T22:33:00.001-06:00

Saturday night we had the opportunity to dine at El Ideas again with two friends. It was AWESOME. Not one dish that I did not like. And the presentation, every dish was beautiful. After dinner we had a "few" more cocktails and ended up getting home well past my bedtime. Great food and wine with good friends equates to an excellent Saturday night.

What fun did you have this past weekend?

Worn to dinner and drinks
Dress- Suzie Chin Maggie Boutique (similar)
Boots- Audrey Brooke (similar)
Clutch- Burberry (similar)
Bracelet- Amrita Singh East End
Earrings- ?

Eggnog Pancakes with Vanilla Cinnamon Syrup

2012-01-08T21:24:00.005-06:00

Eggnog, love a glass around the holidays. But then what? After my annual dose of the rich and spicy traditional holiday beverage the container sits in my fridge until Valentines Day when its contents go down the drain.

Having a freezer full of ice cream and leftover cake I wanted to use the leftover eggnog in something other than a pie or custard. While delicious, I REALLY did not need another dessert to tempt me (hello back on Weight Watchers and have some good goals for the year)

So I asked the "Googles" for some help....and came upon a recipe for eggnog pancakes. Without a real plan for breakfast that day I decided that pancakes sounded tasty.

Ingredients (makes 4 servings)

2 cups all-purpose flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 eggs
1 1/2 cups eggnog (I used coconut milk based eggnog that lighted the recipe up by 80 calories per serving)
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted

In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt and nutmeg if desired. In another bowl, beat eggs, eggnog and butter; stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Pour batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto a lightly greased hot griddle. Turn when bubbles form on top; cook until second side is golden brown.

I realized that I didn't have any syrup to go with the pancakes so I whipped up some simple flavored syrup for the pancakes while they cooked.

1 Cup Sugar
1 Cup water
1 tps vanilla
2 cinnamon sticks

Put everything in a pot, bring to a boil. Simmer until reduced by 1/2.

Nutrition for 1 serving of Eggnog Pancakes (light or coconut milk based nog will reduce calories)

Static

2012-01-05T21:21:00.000-06:00

Why I wore a silk skirt in January is beyond me? I was all static, all day. Even rubbing my legs with a dryer sheet didn't help. How does one get rid of static in their clothes in January? If you know any tricks let me know. Because lotion and dryer sheets are not working for me.

Skirt- Talbots (also seen here, with a lot less static!)
Shirt- Zara (also seen here) (similar)
Shoes- Ecco
Tights- DKNY (best tights EVER!!!)
Earrings- gift
Necklace- Broach on a chain

2012 Goals

2012-01-03T21:29:00.000-06:00

Get to my goal weight
Walk/Run/Crawl 1000 miles
Build a 10K base
Run a Sub 34 min 5K

By profession I am a project manager. A year long goal without subtasks is really hard to obtain. So my January goals are:

Get to my goal weight

lose 5% of my current weight by sticking to weight watchers, counting and going to meetings
Gym 5x per week
Cook at home 5 nights a week and eat leftovers for lunch

Walk/Run/Crawl 1000 miles

complete week 1-4 of the Couch to 10K program
walk 5 miles on a CT day

Build a 10K base

see #1
#2
its all about putting in the time

Run a Sub 34 min 5K

run at at a 5.5 mph pace when completing all Couch to 10K runs and 3.4+ mph when walking
complete week 1-4 of the Couch to 10K program

What are your goals for 2012? How do you plan to accomplish them?

2011 Memories

2011-12-31T17:00:00.002-06:00

2011 was not too shabby of a year!

In January...
I CONTINUED to survive winter and a Bears loss in the NFC Championship Game against the Green Bay ~~Pukers~~ Packers.

In February...
We took Addison to the Animal Magnetism benefit for Paws

Charlie surprised me and we made wine on Valentines Day.

I survived Snowpocalypse of 2011

I registered for the Chicago Marathon

In March...
I went to Grant Achatz's book launch party for Life, On the Line

And we took an AWESOME Vacation to Costa Rica with great friends

In April...
I attended a Molly Ringwald book signing for Getting the Pretty Back

I also ran a respectable time in the Shamrock Shuffle

In May...
I was in Orlando, Philadelphia and Washington DC. I ended up with a new shoes (and a dress and make-up) due to temporarily lost luggage by United Airlines.

In June...
I started Marathon Training

I also became the EVP of the Junior League of Chicago

In July...
I made the worlds worst cake for the 4th of July

I went to Savannah, GA for a mini vacation

I ate all foods southern

And then went to one of the most beautiful and HOT weddings in South Carolina

In August...
I ran the Rock n' Roll Half Marathon

My garden made it over the hump (too much rain in June and July) and it started to produce non rotting produce

I ate the best dish of the year, Squid Ink pasta at El Ideas

I signed back up for Weight Watchers

In September...
I realized that I pulled my groin by finally going to the doctor and had to drop out of training for the Chicago Marathon

I went to Fashion Night Out Chicago

I attended Threadless' Birthday party

In October...
I began what would be three very long and busy months

I traveled back to DC

I took my annual trip to Wisconsin

I went to the Girl in the Kitchen launch party at Salvage One

In November...
I had the best dinner of the year at Next

I went to Hoptacular

The Junior League of Chicago's Gazebo was a great success

In December...
I traveled close to 10,000 miles to Orlando, San Fransisco, Salt Lake City and then San Fransisco

I had an awesome ski day in Park City

I had a great long weekend getaway with Charlie in San Francisco

2011 was a good year. Really busy, but good. What are some of your favorite memories in 2011?

Eve Before the Eve

2011-12-31T15:22:00.001-06:00

Last night Charlie and I met up with friends for the Eve before the Eve. We had dinner at a pretty good Mexican BYOB, DeColores. Prices were reasonable, the food was good, we will go back.

We then headed to High Dive to meet up with a few more friends for drinks.

Jeggins- CAbi (similar) (also seen here)

Sweater- COS (similar or similar) (also seen here)

Earrings- Lila Sophia

Boots- Charles Nolan

Cuff-? (similar)

Slanted Door

2011-12-30T00:01:00.001-06:00

While in San Francisco we ate dinner one night at the Slanted Door. The food was tasty but not OMG awesome like I was expecting. I was a bit disappointed that the spring rolls were the same ones that they sold at their take out window only $1.00 more. Shaking beef was good. The cellophane noodles with crab were okay (not enough crab for my liking). The service was good, only because I ordered a glass of wine that I ordered was horrible and the waitress brought me a replacement. I had really high hopes for this place but it just missed the mark and in my opinion the food is overpriced. The ambiance is great and so are the cocktails (my Singapore sling was delightful).

My advice if your in San Fran, have a cocktail and appetizer at the bar, enjoy the view and go somewhere else for dinner.

I wore my favorite travel dress for my mediocre meal. I love this dress because its wash and wear and doesn't wrinkle. It can be casual or dressy. It is the perfect travel dress.

Dress- Calvin Klein (similar)
Boots- Enzo Angiolini
Belt- Talbots (similar)
Scarf- borrowed from Charlie (similar)
Earrings-?

Working and Walking

2011-12-28T22:32:00.003-06:00

On the last day of my business trip in Berkley we headed directly to San Francisco, checked into the hotel and then headed out exploring. I didn't take time to change out of my casual Friday work wear. My black leather boot are actually VERY comfortable for walking and my blazer was just warm enough to keep me warm while walking in 60 degree and sunny California weather. I also had my go-to Tumi handbag with me. It is light weight and perfectly fits all my travel essentials: camera, wallet, sunglasses, passport, map, compact and lipstick.

What do you normally wear when seeing the sights on vacation?

Jeans- Gap (similar)

Blazer- Jones of New York (last seen here)

Tank- My Tribe

Boots- Enzo Angiolini (also seen here)

Bag- Tumi (similar)
Shades- Andrea Jovine (similar)
Necklace- F21(similar)

San Francisco

2011-12-27T23:46:00.000-06:00

My last business trip of 2011 was in Berkley, CA.

At the end of the trip I tagged on a mini-vacation weekend in San Francisco with Charlie. We had a great time exploring the city, taking the street cars and hitting many of the neighborhoods including Pacific Heights, SoMa (South or Market), Haight-Ashbury and lower Haight. We also enjoyed some of the more "touristy" sights like Ghiradelli Square, Fisherman's Wharf, China Town and Alcatraz Island.

It was such a fun weekend.

My Quest for Premier

2011-12-26T21:55:00.002-06:00

After a year of frequent travel I realized in November that I was going to be around 1700 miles short of Premier mileage status. I have been flying without status since I left my job in consulting and it stinks! I always hope for window seats so that I can be in boarding group 2 (versus 4 if you pick an isle).

For many years I was a Premier Executive frequent flyer, even a 1K. I always had a great seat, express security lines and often an upgrade to first class.

One Saturday in early December I secured my fate by flying back and forth in the same day(aka a mileage run) to California so I could secure my airline status.

Well baby...I'm back!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T11:43:00.000-06:00

For those that celebrate, I hope you have a very Merry Day!

The Slopes

2011-12-22T21:38:00.000-06:00

During the chaos of my December work travel I was a able to sneek in a day of vacation and hit the slopes in Park City, UT.

It was amazing!

Okay the snow itself wasn't that great and most runs were not open yet (no snow, you could still see bush peeping out) but it was a glorious ski day. There were no lines for the lifts, I skied just under 20 run in 5 hours (I could have skied more too). The weather was perfect, 35 degrees and sunny. And the best part...MY FEET DID NOT HURT!!!!! Yes, it took the first few runs to get use to my boots and get my ski legs back..BUT I SKIED PAIN FREE (this is a big deal because the last time I skied my Planar Fasciitis was so bad I couldn't keep my boots on for longer than 10 minutes)

I stayed at the Marriott Mountainside on Park City Mountain (highly recommend). It is ski-in ski-out, so minimal schlepping of ski gear to the lift. Hotel also has a fantastic pool/hot tub mountainside that I took advantage of. I love a good soak in the hot tub after a full day of skiing.

Needless to stay, I cannot wait to buckle up and hit the slopes again soon!

9396

2011-12-18T22:34:00.000-06:00

This is the number of miles I flew (all domestic) in the month of December. The bright side of this travel, I'm reclaiming my Premier Status on United Airlines.

But I will say, I'm glad I won't be jumping on a plane until sometime in January.

Sizing up November

2011-12-11T20:39:00.000-06:00

November was a really long month. I was busy with work and Junior League and while I had a lot of fun I had a lot of stress. On the weight loss front, I did not do well. I ended the month with a .4 gain. Fact of the matter is I really was not focusing on the weight loss. Food was mostly an after thought and tracking was willy nilly. I really need to buckle up!!! and MAKE time to go to the gym!!!

So what were your favorite looks in November?

Skirt- Talbots (12)

Blouse- Ann Taylor (12)

Jeans- Kut from the Kloth (14)
Sweater- Monoreno (M)
Shell- Laundry by Design (L)

Pants- Ann Klein (16)
Sweater- Camaieu (L)

Dress- Barney's New York (L)

Jeggins- CAbi (12)
t-Shirt- CAbi (M)
Blazer- Jones of New York Collection (14)

Shirt- Talbots (12)

Skirt- Zara (XL)

Skirt- DKYNC (16)
Sweater- COS (L)

Dress- COS (12)

Dress- Jones of New York Collection (12)

Dress- f21 (L)
Blazer- Margaret M (16)
Belt- Bekaloo (L)

Dress: Calvin Klein (14)

Belt- Talbots (L)

Traveling

2011-12-05T22:44:00.000-06:00

I'm back on the road this week and next week traveling for work. How can I not miss that face?

Butternut Squash Soup

2011-12-02T22:39:00.000-06:00

Ingredients:

Butternut Squash, 4 cup, cubes
1 medium sized onion, diced
Carrots 1 cup, diced
Celery, 1 cup, diced
Chicken Broth, 4 cups
Almond Milk, Unsweetened 1 cup
Butter, salted, 2 tbsp
Sage 1 leaf or
Paprika, 1 tbsp
Nutmeg, ground, 1 tbsp
Garlic, 3 cloves

In a 375 degree oven, roast squash and garlic for 15-20 minutes.

In soup kettle, sweat mirepoix (celery, onion, and carrot) in 2 TBS of butter.

Add roasted squash and garlic to mirepoix.

Add chicken stock and spices and bring to a boil.

Simmer for 20 minutes then add almond milk. Cook for another 5 minutes. With and immersion blender, blend until smooth. If soup to thick, add a 1/.2 chicken stock 1/2 almond milk mix till consistency you prefer. Salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy!!

Nutrition Facts

5 Servings

Amount Per Serving
5 Points+
Calories: 171.1
Total Fat: 7.2 g
Total Carbohydrate 27.5 g
Dietary Fiber 7.8 g
Protein 3.7 g

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-30T22:19:00.000-06:00

Worn to Work
Skirt- Talbots (no longer available) (last seen here)
Blouse- Ann Taylor (similar)
Necklace- F21 (similar)
Shoes- Calvin Klein (OLD)
Earrings- Gift
Tights- DKNY (best tights EVER!!!)

Public Transporation

2011-11-29T23:16:00.000-06:00

One of the greatest advantages of living where I live in the city is the easy access to public transportation. The bus literally stops outside my building and there are 2 trains all within walking distance. I can get just about anywhere in the city (other than my job, oddly, its easier and faster to walk) by hopping on the CTA which is accessible in less than 10 minutes. It makes visiting friends and getting around town very easy.

Do you take public transportation? Do you find it as convenient as I do?

Coat- Giacca (similar)
Hat- Goorin Bros.
Boots- Enzo Angiolini (also seen here)
Earrings- gift
Bag- Lambertson Truex (similar)
Jeans- Gap (similar)

Before the feast

2011-11-25T10:01:00.003-06:00

Thanksgiving is my second favorite food holiday of the year (4th of July is by far my favorite..mmm BBQ). Yesterday we headed out to the suburbs and feasted on turkey, stuffing, potatoes and gravy. The delicious meal was made by my cousin.

We also enjoyed great conversation over coffee and pumpkin pie. You see, we always make our holiday parties special by playing games or some other creative idea. This year my cousin clipped an AARP article that was meant to stimulate conversation. We went around the table asking questions. It was fun to find out that the shooting of JFK is the historical moment my mom remembers most, my sisters first crush was "Patch," and Charlie's favorite band (which I already knew) is U2.

It was a great Thanksgiving with family, only, I really wish I would have worn elastic waited pants!

Jeans- Kut from the Kloth
Sweater- Monoreno
Shell- Laundry by Design (similar)
Shoes- Ecco
Ring- Antique from Mexico passed down to me from my Great Aunt Gertrude
Necklace- Kensie (from Blogger meetup goodie bag)
Earrings- Lia Sophia
Shades- Andrea Jovine (similar)

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T21:48:00.002-06:00

To everyone in the US, Happy Thanksgiving!!! I hope your day is filled with joy, good food and elastic waist pants!

Monochrome

2011-11-22T20:42:00.000-06:00

It was a cool, gloomy and drizzly day and should I not had several meetings at work I might have taken the day off. Instead a put on a cozy sweater, warm wool trousers and made today productive. Simple yet professional look for work.

Pants- Ann Klein (black label) (similar)
Sweater- Camaieu (similar)
Shoes- Charles Nolan (similar)
Earrings- F21 (similar)

That's all she wrote

2011-11-21T21:37:00.003-06:00

I didn't think I looked tired until I was today's snaps. Yeah, I need a few days off and some R&R. I have 2 days of work then I'm off for 4 glorious days!!! My plans, I have none. Sleep, eat, go to the gym. That is it.

I so cannot wait!!!

In addition to tired, I'm also feeling really FAT and like I need a good "detox" (I don't believe in them, but I do believe in getting back on track and eliminating all things processed and gluten to get my mojo going). My busy schedule has lead to not the best eating. Okay, bad eating. I've been counting points and its frightening! Did you know the points in chicken parmesan equal my entire point count for my entire day? Sad, true and yes I ate it.

I love this Barney's dress because it always seems to fit, and always makes me feel a size smaller than I am. I think it the flattering pleating in the skirt.

Tired + Fat = Barneys!

Worn to work:
Dress- Barney's New York (similar)
Shoes- Ecco
Bag- Lambertson Truex (similar)
Scarf- Talbots
Earrings- Gift
Tights- DKNY

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

2011-11-20T20:14:00.001-06:00

Photo by Paige Huetteman

Every year my Holiday season kicks off with attending the Junior League of Chicago's Gazebo and this year was no exception. Friday night I attended Martini's and Mistletoe Preview Cocktail Party. Normally I go with just girl friends but this year it was on Friday night making it easier for Charlie to attend. We had a great time sipping spirits and shopping. It has definitely put me in the mood for the holidays.

Bring on the eggnog, garland and jingle bells!

Busy, stressed, tired: rinse and repeat

2011-11-19T21:51:00.001-06:00

To say that the past few weeks have been busy is an understatement. I have a project at work that is around a month out from deployment, Junior League had its Gazebo Holiday Shopping Market, Preview Party and Annual Meeting all this weekend. Overall life has just been busy. Sunday is the Bears game and then back to work on Monday.

I feel like I just can't catch a break and when I get stressed I don't sleep well. And then I am tired. It is a vicious cycle: busy, stress, tired.

Thus, I am very much looking forward Thanksgiving weekend. Four days off and I cannot wait. Thumbs up to that!

Jeggins- CAbi (similar)
t-Shirt- CAbi (similar)
Blazer- Jones of New York Collection
Necklace- F21
Earrings- F21
Shoes- Alejandro Ingelmo (similar)

Sweet potato with brown butter and sage

2011-11-17T21:42:00.001-06:00

Sweet Potatoes are a great complex carbohydrate as they are high in fiber and have beta carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. According to Wikipeida, the Center for Science in the Public Interest compared the nutritional value of sweet potatoes to other vegetables. Considering fiber content, complex carbohydrates, protein, vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium, the sweet potato ranked highest in nutritional value. According to these criteria, sweet potatoes earned 184 points, 100 points over the next on the list, the common potato.

When given the choice, I will almost always choose sweet potatoes over a regular potato because they are so darn good for me. Its always easy to pop one in the oven and bake, but sometimes I want something close to a sweet potato fry. I came up with this recipe to fill my craving.

Ingredients:
1 large Sweet Potato
2 TBS Salted Butter
4-6 sage leaves (chopped)
Salt and Pepper

Optional: 1 small apple

Thinly slice (but do not mandolin) 1 sweet potato. (short cut) Pre-cook sliced potato in covered container in microwave for 4 minutes.

Thinly slice 1 small apple

In a large shallow pan, melt butter (reserve 1 tsp).

When butter starts to brown add sage

Add sweet potatoes to brown butter and sage. Potatoes will brown and become crispy. After 4-5 minutes. Add apples when potatoes start to brown.

This can be served as a side dish (makes 2 servings) or as a meal for one. Top with 1 tsp of butter. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts
1 Serving

Amount Per Serving

Points+ as Ingredients Points+ as Recipe Calories		10 12 550.5

Total Fat		23.8 g

	Saturated Fat	14.9 g

	Polyunsaturated Fat	1.2 g

	Monounsaturated Fat	6.0 g

Cholesterol		61.1 mg

Sodium		193.7 mg

Potassium		1,749.3 mg

Total Carbohydrate		80.6 g

	Dietary Fiber	10.3 g

	Sugars	14.2 g

Protein		8.1 g

aye yai yai!

2011-11-15T20:43:00.001-06:00

From: Delane
Sent: Mon 11/14/2011
To: Charlie

Subject: Dinner

I made a pan of enchiladas. They are in the fridge. They need to cook for 45 mins. Remove plastic but keep the tin foil on. 375 for 45. 35 minutes in remove the tinfoil. Its glass so be careful of cold/liquids hitting it and shattering.

D

Perhaps I should have used BOLD and Underline?

Homestretch

2011-11-14T23:11:00.000-06:00

Day one of what is going to be a very long, very busy, very stressful week. I managed to get dressed and match today. I'll take that as a win!

Worn to work and jlc meeting

Shirt- Talbots (similar)

Skirt- Zara (similar)

Belt- Zara (similar)

Boots- Pikilinos

Necklace- Banana Republic (similar)

Earrings-? (similar)

Ring- Italy (similar)

Watch- Fossil

Sizing Up October

2011-11-12T12:50:00.001-06:00

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times......

Busy month with lots of travel. I'm happy to have made it out unscathed scale wise. I held my own and ended the month at 196.2. Could be better, but could be A LOT worse.

So what were you favorites in October?

Skirt- Margaret M (14)
Blouse- Gap (L)

Dress: COS (L)

Pants- (16)
Tank- (L)
Blazer- Jones of New York Collection (12)

Skirt- Rafallea (12)

Top- Talbots (L)

Jeans- Gap (14)

Shirt- via ebay (XL)

Blazer- Romeo and Juliet Couture (L)
Pants- Ann Taylor (14)
Shirt- (L)

Skirt: Talbots (m)
Sweater: Marshall Fields (xl)

Jeans- gap (16)
Blouse- gap (L)

Cozy Sweaters

2011-11-10T22:54:00.000-06:00

While I'm not thrilled about old man winter approaching, I am excited about sweater weather. I love this cozy warm sweater. I seem to pull this one out at the first sign of frost.

What are your favorite fall clothes?

Skirt- DKYNC (also seen here) (similar)
Sweater- COS (also seen here) (similar)
Boots- Enzo Angiolini (last seen here)
Earrings-? (similar)
Watch- Fossil
Necklace- Kensie- free in swagbag
Belt- CK Calvin Klein (similar)
Tights- DKNY

Soggy

2011-11-09T18:19:00.002-06:00

I got rained on not once, not twice but three times on Tuesday. Its like mother nature had it out for me. I suppose a smart girl would have been carrying and umbrella. I'm not that smart girl. Instead I sported the wet look all day long.

Worn to splosh in the rain
Dress- COS
Boots- Pikilinos
Bag- flea market in Spain (similar)
Earrings- Lia Sophia

Tom Brokaw

2011-11-08T18:13:00.002-06:00

On Monday, I had the fantastic opportunity to attend a Junior League of Chicago book author series event at the Union League Club. Tom Brokaw talked about his new book, The Time of Our Lives, in which he discusses the challenges that face America. He talked about how we can restore America's greatness and told heartwarming stores of Americans making a difference.

He was inspiring and made me want to go out and make a difference.

Worn to work and book event
Dress- Jones of New York Collection (similar)
Shoes- Ecco
Earrings- Lia Sophia
Hose- DKNY (Best tights ever!)
Bag- Lambertson Truex (similar)

Weekend Celebrations

2011-11-07T19:00:00.003-06:00

This weekend was filled with overindulgence as we celebrated Charlie's Birthday.

Friday night we had a pre dinner cocktail at The Aviary before a full on feast at Next Childhood. We were extremely lucky to get same night tickets and two friends joined us for dinner. It was great to catch up with one of them as I had not seen her in 10 years. We started our first course at 9:30 pm and did not finish our last course until 1:30 AM!

The meal was incredible. We have been VERY VERY lucky to have eaten at all three of Next's concepts. Childhood is my favorite thus far. It really showcased who Grant Achatz is as a chef. The meal was creative, flavorful and each course made me want more. And like his other concepts the wine pairings were heavy. So heavy, I really had I had to rally to make it through Saturday's festivities.

Saturday after several glasses of water, a few Advil and a hot shower I was feeling human again. I had a meeting at 10:30 am that I need to speak at for the JLC. After a quick trip to JLC HQ, I came home, met Charlie and we made our way to Beerhoptacular. Several of us went and drank beer, lots of beer! Pretzel necklaces were key. And from 1:00-4:30 we sipped suds; I probably tired 30 different beers. After an afternoon of libations, we stopped for some real food and then headed home. I had originally wanted to go to a Chili Cook-off...but once I sat on the couch, me and the cushions become one. I was fused to the couch the rest of the night, we caught up on the DVR.

Sunday was lazy. We took the bus to Dose Market. It has grown a lot since its inception in June. It is now hard to take a look at the vendor booths. I really wanted to get some cheese but the line was long and I was impatient. We did split a BLT sausage. Yum!

It was such a nice day that we walked home.

It was such a fun weekend. Great food and great friends. You really cannot ask for more

A fine deal

2011-11-04T17:15:00.003-05:00

As you know, I love a good deal. Cheapo/discount stores for what my mom likes to call "junk jewelery" are fun to peruse. F21 is a mecca, IMHO, for finding bling on a budget but rarely do I find any clothes that I fit into. I have found a few fun tops (here, here and here) but I have never found a pair of pants or a skirt and defiantly not a dress that I fit into (at my current size or thinner). If I do get a garment to fit my hips is usually SHORT. I like my ass cheeks to be covered and I don't like to look like I'm waiting for the next flood.

This is why I was shocked, SHOCKED! when I saw this dress at F21. On the rack it looked like it was actually wearable by humans taller than 5" and older than 16 years old. I have been fooled before so I went and tried it on...WINNER WINNER Chicken Dinner! It fit...and wasn't awfully short and it was 22 bucks and I had a $25 giftcard that I have had for a while.

The dress actually has capped selves and an exposed zipper in the back. I keep thinking spring and red sandals. I only have to get through winter first.

Dress- f21 (similar)
Blazer- Margaret M (similar)
Belt- Bekaloo (similar)
Boots- Enzo Angiolini
Earrings- Lia Sophia

Día de Muertos

2011-11-03T17:05:00.000-05:00

Last night after the Chicago Blogger Network #CBNTributeParty I headed up North to meet Charlie and some friends at Fountainhead for Festival De Los Muertos. Several of the patrons and staff embraced the festival with painted faces. The couple above however, Rocked their calvara costumes. Seriously... how cool are her eyes with the blue!!!!

Founders Day

2011-11-02T17:09:00.004-05:00

100 years ago, Lucy McCormick Blair Linn and twelve of her friends got together to discuss how to improve the lives of Chicagoians in need.. From that meeting, The Junior League of Chicago was born and thus began a 100-year legacy of proudly serving Chicago! I have been a member of the Junior League of Chicago for over 8 years and I currently serve as the Executive Vice President. The organization has truly impacted me in ways that I never thought it could.

I originally joined to meet liked minded women in hopes of "doing a little good." I have met life long friends, received training outside the scope of my profession and expanded my professional experience by being an event planner, a magazine editor, a Vice President of two councils and now EVP. I have also been a volunteer helping women and children at risk. I am proud to be a member of the Junior League of Chicago.

Worn to the JLC Founders Day lunch and work
Dress: Calvin Klein (also seen here) (similar)
Shoes- Casadei (similar) (for what its worth, these are THE MOST UNCOMFORTABLE HEALS EVER!)
Necklace- Chanel free with gift (similar)
Earrings- gift (similar)
Watch- Fossil
Scarf- Junior League of Chicago Centennial Logo Scarf
Shades-Franco Sarto
Belt- Talbots (similar)

Back to Weight Watchers: Week 6

2011-10-31T21:35:00.000-05:00

Same as Week 5. No weigh in due to travel last Friday.

Its been a long 2 weeks, LONG. Lots of travel and lots of desserts. Home scale states I'm holding my own, half the battle I tell ya.

On the road again

2011-10-25T19:00:00.004-05:00

The past week has been long and busy. After coming back from Wisconsin I had a crazy busy day in the office and then was out of the office for two days in the suburbs for meetings. Saturday I was up early to go to DC. A good friend of mine had her baby shower in Annapolis. Since I was coming to DC on business I took an earlier flight and attended her east coast shower. I had a really lovely time, she has such a nice family.

I've been at a conference this week where I have attended some great sessions and panels. I had two very productive meetings and I'm a bit tired. I fly home tomorrow to spend some time in the office only to fly back on Friday for a meeting. Whirlwind week! It is travel weeks like these that remind me why I left consulting and Monday-Friday travel, it is ~~fattening~~ exhausting!

Worn to conference

Skirt- Margaret M (similar)
Blouse- Gap (similar) (last seen here)
Shoes- Alejandro Ingelmo (similar)
Earrings- gift

Technology Rocks

2011-10-24T20:44:00.001-05:00

I need to give props to technology today. I love the new GPS system my dog walker uses. I can see how far Addison get walked each day and I get a friendly message about the "results" of the walk. Though she would love it, I don't think she went for a swim in the river.

Is there any technology that you are loving lately?

Yearly trip to the northwoods

2011-10-21T21:17:00.000-05:00

Last week I made my yearly trip to the great Northwoods. Unfortunately this year my cousin was not able to make the trip with me. I always look forward to talking with her during the 400 mile trek. Luckily I still had the Addison to talk to. She is a great listener.

Also missing from my trip this year was running the Whistlestop half marathon. For the past four years I have run the race (or the 10K). I was sad too because the medal this year was pretty sweet!

It was nice to get away from the big city. I spent to some QT with my mom and HGTV.

Highlight of the trip, the porcupine on the road!

Ah the great outdoors!

Pork chops verde and apple slaw

2011-10-20T21:18:00.001-05:00

Pork chops and apple slaw..say it with me. Go ahead, channel your inner Peter Brady. I know, you now feel the urge to watch the Brady Bunch, me too.

I love this twist on a classic American meal. The Verde sauce adds a nice kick and the slaw cools the verde sauce's heat with the sweetness of the apples.

First you need to make your own verde sauce. Its super simple and tastes 1000 times better than the stuff in the jar from the super market.

In a grilling pan, broil 4 tomatillos (split in half), a clove of garlic, 2-3 habaneros, 2-3 jalapenos, and 1/2 onion

Broil for 7-10 minutes.

With an immersion blender (or a food processor) add all the ingredients and 1/4 cup of water and 1/2 c of cilantro, 2 tsp salt. Puree. Chill over night.

For the apple slaw thinly slice 3 cups of red cabbage, 1 apple and 1/2 onion. Dress with 2 tbs apple cider vinegar, 2 tbs oil, 1 tsp salt and pepper.

Season pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic and cumin. Pan fry. When pork chops are almost done (around 3 minutes left) top with verde sauce and put the lid on the pan for remainder of cooking time

I served this great combo with some garlic mashed potatoes.

Variations: server with rice or substitute pork for chicken.

Enjoy!

Back to Weight Watchers: Week 5

2011-10-19T17:00:00.000-05:00

No weigh in this weeks since I was on vacation.

Scale at home was the same.

Love

2011-10-15T20:41:00.000-05:00

This dress is proof that love exists. How many men do you know who will go dress shopping while they are in Europe, Germany to be precise? Not many I'm thinking. This gem of a dress was brought back as a gift from Charlie during his last trip to Germany. He always surprises me with great fashion from my favorite European Fast Fashion Store.

This dress was perfect for day at work and night at the Stephanie Izard's Cook Book Launch Party. I cannot wait to wear it this winter with tight and boots. I love it!

Worn to work and Stephanie Izard's Cook Book Launch Party
Dress- COS
Shoes- Sergio Rossi
Earrings-?
Shades- Christian Dior (Precoll 2)

Girl in the Kitchen

2011-10-14T20:38:00.014-05:00

Last week I had the amazing opportunity to attend the Cookbook Launch party for Stephanie Izard at Salavge One.

The night was filled with great food, craft beers, creative cocktails, art and music. Each tasting station created a dish that was a take on one of Izard's receipes from her new Cookbook Girl in the Kitchen. I have been a fan of Stephanie Izard since her season on Top Chef and I run at any opportunity to support her. I think she is an amazing chef and just a down to earth person. Not many people would spend the night in a photo booth taking pictures with guest. She funny, warm and just a really nice person.

The evening benefited Share our Strength. It is a fantastic charity with a goal to end childhood hunger in America.

MMM MMM Good Chicken Noodle Soup

2011-10-13T20:00:00.001-05:00

Nothing hits the spot like a good bowl of soup on a cool fall day. Not only is soup delicious, its also calorie/point friendly and the leftovers freeze well.

Ingredients:

Chicken Broth, 10 cup (8 fl oz) (I make my own, but you can use store bought)
Roasting Chicken, light meat, 3 cup, chopped or diced
Celery, cooked, 1 cup, diced
Carrots, raw, 1 cup, chopped
Onions, raw, 1 cup, chopped
Olive Oil, 1 tbsp
Enriched Egg Noodles (dry), 2 cup
Parsley, raw 1 Tablespoon, 8 tbsp

Chop Carrot, Parsley, Onion and Celery. In a stock pot heat oil, add chopped vegetables and 1/2 the chopped parsley.

Cook for 2-3 minutes till aromatic. Add chicken stock and bring to boil. Add noodles and chicken. Cook until noodles are tender.

Serve with a bit of fresh parsley and enjoy.

Leftovers freeze well.

Nutrition Facts
8 Servings

Amount Per Serving
Calories 169.3
Total Fat 5.1 g
Saturated Fat 2.0 g
Polyunsat.Fat 1.4 g
Monounsat.Fat 3.6 g
Cholesterol 58.6 mg
Sodium 1,258.5 mg
Potassium 793.1 mg
Total Carbs 13.3 g
Dietary Fiber 1.5 g
Sugars 2.8 g
Protein 17.6 g

Mad Dash

2011-10-12T00:55:00.000-05:00

Have you ever noticed that right before you take vacation you work three times harder than normal? I have a zillion things I need to get done, okay maybe not a zillion...a million, before I leave for a little R&R. To add to the chaos, I have meetings out in the suburbs. I'm not quite sure how I'm going to get it all done + running errands for Charlie that didn't get done this past weekend. Its a mad dash to R&R!!!

Worn to work:
Pants- Gap Slouchy Pocket Pants
Tank- Banana Republic
Blazer- Jones of New York Collection
Shoes- Alejandro Ingelmo (similar)
Shades- Franco Sarto Tortoise Cut Out Sunglasses
Ring- bought in Italy (similar)
Watch- Fossil
Earrings- ? (similar)
Necklace- F21 (similar)

Perfect

2011-10-10T23:01:00.001-05:00

Chicago is experiencing perfect fall weather. Clear blue skies, sunny and 70 degrees. PERFECT.

I love this skirt. From the fit to the color navy to the maximum comfort. I guess there is a reason I have it in colors!

Worn to work:
Skirt- Rafaella (similar) (last seen here)
Shirt- Talbots (no longer available)(last seen here)
Shoes- Ellen Tracy (similar)
Watch- Fossil
Bracelet: Amrita Singh East End
Shades- Christian Dior (Precoll 2)
Earrings- Lila Sophia

Sizing up September

2011-10-08T22:49:00.001-05:00

In September I rejoined Weight Watchers. It is true, I gained weight this summer. At my lowest last year I was 187 but hung around 190-193 most of last year and this spring. When I started training for the marathon I gained 7 lbs and yes I got up to 199.4 on Labor Day weekend. NOT GOOD. NOT GOOD PEOPLE. You can see it in my face and in my clothes.

The good thing is I'm nipping the issue in the bud. I rejoined Weight Watchers because I don't want to be overweight. I'm also not making excuses. I hate excuses. Stress, work, traveling yes they make life tough but they should not be excuses, well at least for me. I might be a lot of things but a bag of excuses I'm not. I own my weight, gains and losses. And I'm still proud the weight that I have lost and kept off for two years now.

I lost 3.4 lbs in September. I ended September 196. I'm back in the groove!

So which outfits did you like most in September? I love my Hugo Boss Skirt ( 90%!! off) and classic blue oxford.

Pants- Loft (16)

Shirt- Cos (L)

Skirt- Talbots (12)

Blouse- Theory (L)

Pants - Jones of New York (16)

Blouse- j jones (L)

Skirt- Hugo Boss (14)

Blouse- Brooks Brothers (16)

Jeans- Jag (16)

Shirt- Tribal (XL)

Blazer- DKNY (12)

Skirt- Margaret M (14)

Shirt- CAbi (M)

Skirt- Rafallea (12)

Blouse- Elie Tahari (L)

Skirt- Brooks Brothers (16)

Sweater- Talbots (L)

Pants - Talbots (16)

Jacket- Talbots (16)

Shirt- Elie Tahari (L)

Bitter Sweet

2011-10-07T17:22:00.001-05:00

This weekend will be bitter sweet. Bitter: I'm not running the marathon. Sweet: We are currently experiencing summer like weather in Chicago.

Since I won't be stressing over 26.2, I'm not sure what to this weekend. Perhaps I'll read a book or take Addison to the beach. One thing I know I won't be doing, LAUNDRY!

What are you plan for the weekend?

Worn to work on a casual Friday
Jeans- Gap (similar)
Tunic- via ebay (similar similar)
Shoes- Alejandro Ingelmo (similar)
Earrings- ?(similar)
Watch- Fossil White Resin Bracelet Watch
Bracelet-? (similar)
Shades- Christian Dior (Precoll 2)

Peep Toe Boot

2011-10-06T22:30:00.002-05:00

I just don't understand them. Perhaps its because I live in Chicago and think boots are meant to keep my feet, first and foremost, DRY from the elements. And if I want a peep toe, wouldn't I just wear shoes? I'm going to be honest I just don't like the.

How do you feel about peep toe boot?

Peep Toe Boots

Miu Miu high heel boots
$795 - bergdorfgoodman.com

Missoni platform pumps
$616 - couture.zappos.com

Giuseppe Zanotti leather boots
$233 - theoutnet.com

Alexander Wang leather boots
$232 - theoutnet.com

Miu Miu high heel boots
£555 - net-a-porter.com

Diane von Furstenberg black peep toe booties
$415 - stylebop.com

Sam Edelman black booties
$363 - my-wardrobe.com

Belle Sigerson Morrison platform high heels
$158 - theoutnet.com

BCBG Max Azria stiletto high heels
$115 - heels.com

Luichiny stiletto high heels
$90 - heels.com

Luichiny boots
$90 - heels.com

Luichiny stiletto high heels
$90 - heels.com

ASOS lace up booties
$51 - asos.com

Dereon stiletto high heels
$75 - heels.com

Sneezing

2011-10-05T20:10:00.001-05:00

I've been walking around in a cloud of haze for the past 24 hours doped up on Sudafed fighting a cold off for the past couple of days. I almost entitled this post Sudafed head but I had to Google how to spell Sudafed (one d or two) and found and entry in Urban Dictionary. Well that would explain why they keep the drug under lock and key at the pharmacy.

Worn to work:
Blazer- Romeo and Juliet Couture (similar)
Pants- Ann Taylor (similar)
Shirt- Gap Stain Trim Baseball T
Earrings- ?
Necklace -Kensie (from blogger meetup gift bag)
Watch- Fossil
Shoes- Alejandro Ingelmo (similar)
Shades- Christian Dior (Precoll 2)

Design Harvest

2011-10-05T20:00:00.002-05:00

This past weekend flew by with a wedding on Saturday and the Bears game on Sunday. But in between cleaning up suds and the wedding on Saturday I stopped by Chicago’s Annual Street Festival Celebrating Design, Design Harvest.

The festival featured local furniture and home accessory makers, vintage and antique collectors. The festival was small, but each of the merchants were interesting offering a product I had never seen. If I had an extra 20K laying around I would have loved to have purchased a reclaimed wood table that was just beautiful. Alas, I do not nor would I spend 20K on a side table. But, looks are free and it sure did give me a few ideas for the condo.

If you like design, furnishing and home goods I recommend checking this festival out next year.

In between

2011-10-04T20:00:00.000-05:00

Its days like today that I don't know exactly how to dress, Fall or Summer. It is somewhere in between seasons. While its warm like summer the breeze is cool like fall. I'm not complaining at all. I love this weather.

Worn to work:
Skirt: Talbots (washed silk full skirt)
Sweater: Marshall Fields (similar)
Shoes: Betsy Johnson (similar)
Bracelet: Amrita Singh (East End)
Necklace- F21 (similar)
Shades- Christian Dior (Precoll 2)
Earrings-? (similar)

First world country woes

2011-10-03T18:05:00.006-05:00

Yes, I understand that in the scheme of things the flooding that happens in my wash machine closet really isn't grand. Yes, I understand that this is a first world issue and that people do not have clean water to drink let alone wash their clothes with in parts of the world. Yes, I know these things, however it is still frustrating to wake up to a foot of suds on a Saturday morning. A plumber is coming to scope the pipes this week and until that the washer is now in the hallway. First world problems, yet still frustrating.

Back to Weight Watchers: Week 4

2011-10-02T23:58:00.001-05:00

I'd like to hit the rewind button. It was neither a good week nor a bad week but it wasn't a healthy week. I'll just say, I lost nothing. Well actually the first time I stepped on the scale I gained .2 then as I always do I stepped on again and it read that I lost .2. Third time is a charm, and the scale read zero change.

Goal for week 5, do what I was suppose to do week 4. Eat within my point, eat clean and hit the gym.

Mustard

2011-10-01T10:36:00.011-05:00

Does anyone really look good in yellow? I really love the color of this blouse but I swear the minute I put it on it drained all the color out of my cheeks. When I tried it on at the store I thought it was the lighting in the fitting room that made me look sallow. I think yellow hues are just hard to wear but I really like this blouse and I really like the color. So I'm going to wear it, sickly complexion and all.

Worn to work, casual on Fridays
jeans- gap
blouse- gap (no longer available online, I did get this on the sales rack about a week ago)'
Shoes- Calvin Klein (similar)
Earrings- F21 (no longer available, similar)

Splish Splash

2011-09-30T21:18:00.002-05:00

I came home today to find my washing room closet filled with water and suds. Where is it coming from? Unless Addison is doing laundry while we are gone at work (which would actually be awesome) there is no way that it can be our washer. Perhaps the pipes but not our washer. So frustrating.

Worn to work
Pants- Loft (similar)
Shirt- Cos (similar)
Shoes- Alejandro Ingelmo )(similar)
Earrings- Lia Sophia Inkspot Earring
Watch- Fossil White Resin Bracelet Watch

Veal chops with white wine,caper sauce, polenta and garlic greens

2011-09-30T20:53:00.001-05:00

Back in August we joined a meat CSA. Each month for $60 we get a box with 5-6 items in it. Last months box had veal chops that I never got around to making. I was in the mood for a hearty dinner so I prepare these with some polenta and garlic greens.

Veal Chop preparation:
Dredge in breadcrumbs (you can use flour, but I like the crunchiness of the breadcrumb) and season with salt, pepper and garlic.

Heat a pan with 1 Tbs of olive oil. Pan fry for 5-7 min per side and remove. Deglaze pan with 3 Tbs of dry vermouth. Whisk in 2 Tbs of half and half . Then toss in 2 Tbs of capers. Add meat back to pan and simmer for 1-2 minutes.

Polenta-

In a pan bring 6 cups of water to at boil. Add 2 cups of polenta and 2 tsp of salt. After 3 mins add 1/2 diced bell pepper, 2 cloves crushed garlic, 1 diced tomato, and 1/4 cup chopped basil. Cook until done. Finish with siring in 2 Tbs half and half and 4 oz light feta cheese.

Greens-
In a large pan heat 2 Tbs of olive oil, add 3 cloves crushed garlic and saute for 2-3 minutes. Add 3 cups chopped fresh spinach and 2 cups chopped french kale. Heat on low till wilted but still firm. Add salt and pepper.

Other than dirtying 3 pots tonight, the meal is pretty simple to make.

And then there was water

2011-09-29T21:52:00.013-05:00

Last Friday night (don't be jealous) I went to wash a load of laundry and found a puddle of water in the laundry closet. Maintenance came the next morning, they cleaned up the water and and we ran the machine 4 times. No leak. Today, Charlie found water again. This time, it was after washing a load of clothes. But he isn't sure if it was there before he started his load of clothes. UGH...so then we sat, washing a load waiting to see if we have a leak or if its coming from some other place. Nope, no flood. Ugh, the joys of condo ownership.

Outfit worn to work:
Skirt- Talbots (no longer available)
Blouse- Theory (similar look)
Shoes- Alejandro Ingelmo (similar)
Earrings- Lila Sophia
Watch- Fossil

Fine Line

2011-09-28T21:28:00.004-05:00

Orange is one of those tricky colors to wear. I love it but there is this fine line between beautiful and rocking out like a Halloween pumpkin. Orange can be tricky with black thus I paired it with a cool blue mixed bead necklace. I think this outfit has a slight Jil Sander vibe. And I love the pocket on the shirt It is really convenient for pens and pocket change at work.

Pants and Blouse- j jones

Shoes- Nine West

Necklace and Bracelet- Talbots

Earrings-?

Dreaming of sunny skies and warm waves

2011-09-27T21:09:00.001-05:00

I really love the colors of this skirt. Beige, grey and blue. The colors remind me of the beach, sand, water and drift wood. Ah the beach....


photo by Charlie Ferreira

Skirt- Hugo Boss
Blouse- Brooks Brothers (similar)
Shoes- Charles Jourdan
Belt- Talbots
Earrings- bought on Hawaiian vacation

Community Gardening

2011-09-27T20:00:00.003-05:00

These are the fruits of my labor. This past week I harvested some of, what will be, the last of my garden plots crops. Only a few more weeks to get a bumper crop.

It was somewhat of a bad year for gardening...uneven watering (due to torrential rains) followed by heat. It was a recipe for blossom rot for most of July. My tomatoes suffered the most this with very little yield.

Though when I break down the financials it was totally worth it.

$75 for plot

$16 Seeds

$35 for tomato, pepper and eggplant

$45 garden supplies

Total Cost: $171

The Yield

20 quarts of lettuces

10 peppers (thus far)

10 jalapeños

20 habaneros

24 pearl onions (need to plant my onions deeper next year)

several bunches of green onions

14 beets

4 dozen radishes

4 lbs of tomatoes (sad year with blossom rot due to rain and heat

4 zucchinis (from neighbor who abandoned plot)

2 dozen small carrots (rabbit/squirrel took a liking to them)

Lots of Basil, chives, mint and oregano

Still plugging away: broccoli (which I think seeded), peppers and I have blossoms on my eggplant!

Not to mention the hours of joy playing with dirt.

Back to Weight Watchers: Week 3

2011-09-26T20:00:00.000-05:00

My goal for the week was to not exceed my weekly points + activity points. Mission accomplished. I lost 1.2 lbs this week. I'm at a total of 2.6 in 3 week. New week and I'm kick things up a bit (Charlie is home from Germany and schedules go back to normal) and working towards 5 days of exercise and staying within my points. You know, working the program for optimal weight loss.

And I just wanted to put this out there for anyone who thinks they cannot lose weight. Last week I ate out once for lunch, had a sweet treat every night before bed (btw...a couple caramels that I tossed some kosher salt on were great and pretty point friendly) and had a few beers at the Bears game. Its all about choices.

Simply Delicious Tomato and Pepper Salad

2011-09-24T20:38:00.001-05:00

Sometime simple food is the best food. This healthy salad took me exactly 3 minutes to make. Simply wash and slice tomatoes and peppers. Top with crumbled feta (I used light feta which is the only light cheese I can tolerate), olive oil, salt and pepper.

Done and Delicious.

What are your favorite simple foods?

Welcome Fall

2011-09-23T21:40:00.000-05:00

What a wackadoole summer we had here in Chicago...extreme heat, rain, extreme heat and then rain. I'm ready to welcome fall. My favorite part of fall all things pumpkin and with fashion, tweed and cashmere. I love a great blazers and a warm cozy sweater. Now if can just skip winter and go directly to spring?

Are you looking forward to fall? Are you a sweater lover like myself?

Jeans- Jag (also seen here)
Shirt- Tribal
Blazer- DKNY
Belt- Talbots
Shoes- Ellen Tracy
Earrings- Lila Sophia

Craving a baguette

2011-09-22T22:27:00.001-05:00

I when I walked out the door this morning I thought to myself, all I need is a baguette and a beret and I could transport myself to 1960's Paris. Hopefully there would be no walking involved because these shoes pinch my toes. They hurt, but I love them.

Skirt- Margaret M
Shirt- CAbi
Belt- Express
Shoes- Tory Burch
Earnings- Lila Sophia
Watch- Fossil
Bracelet- ?

Brain Wave Overload

2011-09-22T00:32:00.002-05:00

I used way to many brain cells today. I should earn activity points for the amount of exercise my noggin had today. Brushing up on my database schema skills has made me realize how much I have forgotten. I had to look up how to do a table join statement today...hard stuff if you don't use it every day. And for those non technical people, its sort of like remembering how to program the VCR. And guess what folks, I get to do it all again tomorrow.

I have to say a good brain workout feels as good as a good 10 mile run. Exhausting yet accomplished.

Skirt- Rafallea (same skirt in white)
Blouse- Elie Tahari
Shoes- Nine West
Earrings- Lia Sophia
Shades- Michael by Michael Kors

What is your "Eau de"

2011-09-21T00:34:00.000-05:00

When I was in my 20's perfume was like blush, I would never leave home without putting some on. Then 9/11 struck and so did fluid limitation though airport security. No longer was I able to carry my No. 5 aboard, even in the travel size I had bought. So I stopped wearing perfume daily.

The other week for no particular reason I spritzed myself with a little Chanel on my way out the door to work. While diligently working at my desk, every so often, my nose would get a whiff of the liberated scent of the 1920s. And as I inhaled the subtle fragrance of rose and jasmine I felt a little more confident and a little more pretty. Later that night while falling asleep I could still smell the sweet aroma that Coco Chanel herself said she ONLY wore to bed.

The power of fragrance is pretty amazing. It can trigger a memory and elicit an emotion with one breath.

I decided today that not only am I rejoining Weight Watchers but I'm also rejoining the perfume bandwagon. Just a spritz a day.

Do you wear perfume? What is your favorite scent?

Sweater- Talbots
Skirt- Brooks Brothers
Shoes- Betsy Johnson
Belt- Talbots
Earrings- jewerly store in China Town in San Fran
Necklace- Pendant on a Chain, the pendant was a Hand-me-down from my mom

Back to Weight Watchers: Week 2

2011-09-19T18:00:00.000-05:00

The motto of my week was JUST DON'T GAIN! I on the road for work this week in San Diego, home of fish taco deliciousness!

and Tuna Poke awesomeness!!!

My strategy, eat light for breakfast and lunch so that I had room for dinner. Exercise 3 times, not matter what it is.

Well mission accomplished.

I walked 3 times for an hour each time (I also got a run in this weekend). I had fruit and an egg every morning for breakfast with coffee for 4 points and then kept my lunches (except for one) under 10 points.

Results....I lost .4 this week.

I consider this small loss a victory!

Threadless

2011-09-18T17:56:00.000-05:00

If your a frequent reader you know that I am huge fan of graphic t-shirts. I am also a huge fan of Threadless so it should not surprise you that I showed my support by attending their 5th Birthday Party last week.

As an attendee I got a great gift bag including a 5th Birthday t-shirt! It was a fun to spend my afternoon at one of my favorite Chicago companies.

Are you a lover to t-shirts? Graphic tees?

Photos by Charlie Ferreira

Diet vs Lifestyle

2011-09-15T00:03:00.003-05:00

I was talking to my mom on the phone today and we were talking about my going over my points by 89 points last week. She made a comment about "not having willpower" and that got me thinking....

Do people fail at weight loss because they have no will power? Or, do they fail because they are make poor decisions? And is there a difference between the two?

After pondering for a good hour, here is what I have come up with...

I think people fail at diets because they have no willpower. Diets, in my personal opinion, are something you go on for a temporary period of time. ie: Get the stomach flu go on the BRAT diet. Drop 5 lbs in 2 days, eat a cheese cube when you feel faint and only a cheese cube (Devil Wears Prada lovers will get the reference)

I think people fail at lifestyle changes because they are either not 1) committed or 2) made a poor decision(s). I think once you get over the hurdle of committing to the life style change there is no end in sight. Its not something you stop, it something you no longer commit to. And the decisions you make on a daily basis combined become your lifestyle.

Two years ago I decided to make a lifestyle change. I decided that I wanted to live a healthier life. I joined weight watchers because I know it had good tools for weight loss. I also adopted Clean Eating as a style of eating. A year later, I decided that I needed a break from the weight loss practices that I was following. For a year my goal has been maintenance. But I have not abandoned Clean Eating.

This past summer I decided that I wanted to resume my weight loss efforts. And last week I rejoined Weight Watchers because I have the most success when I use their tools to lose weight. Those tools are weekly meetings and the tracking software.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, Weight Watchers is just a set of tools. They help me count and the meeting provide structure. I have to make decisions (good or bad).

So where am I going with this.....well. I don't think my going over by 89 points was a matter of willpower. Mainly because I'm not on a "diet" that I will go off of when I reach my goal. I will scale my portions so that I won't lose, but I'm not sure that much will change. It really didn't over the past year. I think last week I made a some bad decisions (who knew that highballs were 7 points a piece!! now with points+). I don't think it was a matter of my willpower. I went over my allotted points and I think there is more to weightloss than just the number of points.

What do you think? Does willpower play role in weightloss? Are commitment and willpower the same thing? Are bad decisions and lack of willpower the same thing?

Back to Weight Watchers: Week 1

2011-09-13T02:05:00.002-05:00

Well I did it, I tracked all my food last week and only ended up 89 points over my allotted points.

Where did those extra 89 points come from?

10 points- 1/2 of 1 BIG COOKIE on Tuesday
10- Extra serving of Pasta with sauce (pasta 4, sauce 4, cheese 2) on Wednesday
14 points- 2 High Balls at Dinner Friday Night
20- Fried Fritter, Egg Roll and and extra helping of Noddles at Dinner on Friday Night
5- Banana Pudding on Saturday
4- 2 random slices of cheese eaten out of the fridge on Saturday
20- The Sandwich I ate for dinner after my sausagefest tailgating Sunday when I had no points to spare
4- Late night beer on Sunday after traveling
1- one rolo before bed on Sunday

TOTAL 89!!!

Its always and eye opener the first week I start tracking. And no mater how long I have been on Weight Watcher the points still seem to go fast. Good Choices are the only way to lose weight. Oddly, I lost a pound last week. While my choice were not stellar and yes I did go over, my choices were better than if I was not tracking my food.

Moral of the story...tracking food helps you make better choices and better choices add up in the end. For me it was 1 pound this week. One pound lost, not gained!

Glimpse of Fashion Night Out Chicago

2011-09-09T19:20:00.001-05:00

I had limited time for this years Fashion Night Out in Chicago and working near Sarca and Nordstom's I decided to focus on Sarca at lunch and the The Shops at North Bridge after work. Nordstrom's is my lunch away from work destination after all.

Sarca and Luxury Garage Sale teamed up for FNO. LSG had some fun jewelry. I especially loved the green gem and rhinestone choker. Talk about a statement piece.

After work I headed to North Bridge where the first 100 people to check in on Facebook received a free gift bag. My number 103...Bummer. But I did partake in the lounge and sipped wine and noshed on some Peanut Noodles from Big Bowl and Chocolates from Vosges. I then enjoyed the festivities at Nordstrom's. They had a Strawberry Basil drink that was TO DIE FOR. An I must mention that they were giving away Flirty Cupcakes.

I had a 7 pm conference call for the JLC so I had to cut my night short. I hope next year to whoop it up and spend the entire night walking down Michigan Avenue.

Pants and Jacket- Talbots
Shirt- Elie Tahari
Shoes- Alexandro Ingelmo
Jewerly- David Yurman, F21 and Antiques

Fall Flavors

2011-09-08T22:07:00.001-05:00

photo from afton apple

Of all the fall flavors I most look forward to Pumpkin.

Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin Ravioli
Pumpkin Soup
Pumpkin Bars
Pumpkin Muffins

Oddly, I'm one of 5 people on this plant who DOESN'T like Pumpkin Spice Lattes. I'm a coffee purist. But beyond the lattes, I'm an equal opportunity pumpkin lover.

What fall flavor do you look most forward to?

Chicago Blogger Meetup

2011-09-07T21:04:00.000-05:00

Back in August (better late than never right?) I attend a Chicago Blogger meetup at a great vintage shop Deliciously Vintage in Pilsen. It was great to meet other bloggers from Chicago. We nibbled on cake pops and sipped champagne while chatting about everything from fall trends to great Chicago eateries to how sick we were of the hot hot summer.

Photo taken by PJ

In true fashion, I forgot my camera on the dinning room table so I didn't get to take any pics. Thankfully, other bloggers are not as absent minded as me and took some great photos of the event.

A huge thanks to Lisa at Archives Vintage for coordinating the event and Tabitha gathering INCREDIBLE for the AWESOME gift bags (check out her post to see picks of all the great items). And lets talk about the awesome gift bag!!

Filled in our 1154 LILL Wendy Tote (which I have been using daily for work since I got it):

Uncommon Goods Face Mug, Guitar String Ring, Bracelet and Fortune Keeper Key Chain
BRASH makeup from Payless ShoeSource
Kensie tote and necklace
And much more!

I have a really wonderful time meeting everyone. I hope to do it again soon.

Sizing Up August

2011-09-05T20:15:00.000-05:00

So let's just say I'm going to a Weight Watchers MEETING on Friday. Gain 3 lose 3, rinse and repeat...that was August was all about. Meetings, as much as I hate them with a passion, keep me accountable and get my WLJ mojo back. So I go. Hanging tight and still in the 190's is not were I wanted to be at the end of September.

So on to the clothes...what were your favorite looks in August? Most flattering? Salvation Army bound?

Jeans- Gap (14)
t-shirt- Theory (M)
Jacket- Ann Taylor Loft (14)

Jacket- Victoria Secret (14)
Skirt- DKNY (16)
Tank- Ann Taylor (M)

Skirt- Sunny Leigh (10)
Sweater- Banana Republic (L)

Dress- Alfani (14)

Dress- Michale by Michael Kors (14)

Dress- Talbots (10)

Skirt- Rafallea (12)
Blouse- Talbots (L)

Dress- Eliza J (14)

Dress- Tory Burch (14)

Skirt- Ann Taylor (12)
Tank- H&M (M)
Jacket- Alfani (16)

Dress- Harold's (Altered 14)

Skirt- Rafallea (12)
Shirt- F21 (M)

Skirt- Sunny Leigh (16)
Top- Theory (L)

Pants- London Jeans (XL)
t-Shirt- Gap (M)

10-9-11 on hold

2011-08-30T20:00:00.000-05:00

My dreams of running this years marathon were crushed like a tomato at a Del Monte factory yesterday. I have a pulled groin (abductor) and piriformis strain. NO running over 10 miles at any given time for 4 weeks. This mean no 18, 20 and 23 mile training run. And I'm not willing to try to run the marathon without ALL of those runs under my belt. Makes me sad.

Chicago Marathon seen you in 2012!

Wardrobe Workhorse: Boyfriend Jeans

2011-08-29T18:00:00.000-05:00

When it comes to cost per wear I think I'm in the penny range for my Gap Boyfriend jeans. Truth be told, I own two pairs. Yes, I love them that much. I actually had 3, but after losing weight last year the larger size 16s were way to big. They are honestly the most comfortable pairs of jeans I have ever owned.

I think they look great cuffed or straight.

Do you have a pair of jeans that you just love?

Jeans- Gap (also seen here, here, here)
t-shirt- Theory
Jacket- Ann Taylor Loft
Shoes- Ellen Tracy
Belt- Talbots
Necklace- Some store in Germany
Watch- Fossil
Shades- Michael by Michael Kors
Tote- 1154 Lill Studios (free gift at blogger meetup)

Working Girl

2011-08-25T18:00:00.008-05:00

I'm channeling a little Tess McGill today with the shoulder pads in my jacket. All I need is bigger hair and Jack Trainer to work on a big Trask Radio deal with me and I would be all set.

Gosh I love that movie!

Jacket- Victoria Secret via eBay
Skirt- DKNY
Tank- Ann Taylor
Belt- Talbots
Shoes- Nine West
Necklace- gift
Earrings-?

Big hair is in my DNA (by marriage)

2011-08-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

in her apartment. image from Daily Herald

Margaret Vinci Heldt, my Great Aunt (by marriage), is credited as the inventor of the beehive hairdo. When I was a young one I always remember her being so glamorous at family gatherings, dressed to the 9's and not a hair out of place.

I had no idea until recently that she is an icon.

image from the Elmhurst News

Aunt Margaret you still look great!!!!

The never ending "to-do" list

2011-08-23T18:00:00.000-05:00

I swear my list gets longer not shorter as I cross items off my list. I started my morning with 5 things that MUST GET DONE today..and ended the the day with 10 things that MUST GET DONE tomorrow. How does that happen?

I had a great birthday yesterday. I went to work and I went to a meeting after work. So I basically spent my day working. Charlie did TOTALLY surprise me at my meeting, he brought cupcakes. How Sweet is that! Sprinkles Sweet, I tell ya!

Skirt- Sunny Leigh
Sweater- Banana Republic
Shoes- Madison Harding
Watch- Fossil
Earrings-?
Necklace- F21

A year older, a year wiser?

2011-08-22T18:00:00.000-05:00

They say you grow wiser with age. True? I think so.

Lets start with the top ten things I learned this year...

1. I am not meant to EVER wear ankle length pants
2. No matter how descriptive you are to your hairstylist make sure to bring in a photo or sketch of the style you want or you will end up with hair much shorter than you intended
3. If you put a race calendar together that doesn't mean you will stick to it
4. I "ran" the Rock n Roll half marathon 9 lbs heavier than I was last year (see#5 ugh!) and shaved a few seconds off my time, training DOES matter!
5. I cannot give up the fight to get to my goal weight and WHEN I GET THERE, I need a REALLY good maintenance plan because I easily slip back into old ice cream habits
6. Being featured in Talbot's Spotted DIY was fun!
7. When I put together a plan, I tend to follow it, unless they are unrealistic. I need to create good plans for both eating, exercise, sleep, work and extracurricular activities
8. Its hard to tell you have gained 7-10 lbs until you look at the photos of you last year and then this year
9. Baking cakes are not my forte, I should stick to meals and cookies
10. I should be grateful every day that I'm alive

Happy Birthday to me..and CHEERS to all the wisdom I gained this year.

Dress- Alfani via ebay
Shoe- MRKT
Necklace, earrings and watch- gifted

A fancy dress for a fancy dinner

2011-08-20T20:00:00.008-05:00

This dress was the perfect dress to wear to dinner at EL Ideas. Light and roomy (for those 15 courses). I love this style of dress on me because the cinched waist accents my assets. I also love the print that can be worn year round. White belt and shoes in the summer...tights and boots in the winter.

Dress- Michale by Michael Kors
Belt-?
Shoes- Stuart Weitzman
Watch- Fossil
Earrings-?
Necklace- Talbots
Bag- Lambertson and Truex

Photos by Charlie Ferreira

Reflections on El Ideas

2011-08-20T00:33:00.003-05:00

When I found out that Phillip Foss (former chef of Lockwood and Meatballs Mobile owner) was starting EL Ideas a micro-restaurant inside the “Ball Cave" with Andrew Brochu, the former chef of Kith & Kin I immediately sent an email requesting a reservation. A day later I had a response in my inbox requesting I call the restaurant for a date. I chose August 18th (Friday runs are hit or miss, they should be hits but they have been misses lately).

I make it a point to not let reviews of a restaurant sway my judgement but I have to admit after reading the review in Timeout Chicago I was a bit apprehensive. "It was high-quality fish, supple and clean. But it was set on a film of coconut water “pudding” that was slimy and unappetizing" is not something you want to read before plopping down a considerable chunk of change on a meal that you have high hopes for.

But like I said, I don't like reviews to sway my judgement (because lets face it, opinion are like you know what and Cafe Iberrico is still in business). I was excited for my 14 course "ELevated ideas in cuisine". What I didn't realize is how much more my meal would be.

Lets start with location. Off the beaten path, yes. I don't think I would want to go for a long walk by myself past sunset. It is in a bit of an industrial area just a stones throw away from the juvenile detention center and just a few doors down from Water Hole Lounge.

We were immediately welcomed by our server, Bill (if memory served me correctly). He quickly put our beverages that required chilling on ice and took us to our table. White linens and candlelight added an elegant touch the otherwise lofty working kitchen feel.

While sipping on our wine we introduced to the concept of the restaurant. You see, the restaurant is in the kitchen and diners are welcome to partake in the plating and serving of dishes. Want to ask questions, stretch your legs and walk to the kitchen and ask.

We were greeted by Chef Foss and then dinner began.

The first course-O-M-G!!! Caviar...come to mama! Beets, Beets...you speak my language.

My favorite course (that I also helped plate) was the spanner crab- squid ink pasta/tomatoes/poppy seed

Other notable courses (that I can still taste if I close my eyes and reminisce)

Flavors popped with the textures of Murai corn- avocado/mango/heart of palm

agnolotti- chicken/carrot/brioche
Damn that ravioli was good! Like serve me up a plate of those raviolis NOW good.

foie gras- plums/rutabaga/balsamic
Okay its Foie Gras...it was cooked whole...it was everything I wanted in my fatty liver.

And eaten in the kitchen consomme- cantaloupe/whipped ham

In all honesty there was one dish that I just didn't care for. Don't get me wrong, I ate EVEY BIT OF IT. But on the scale of 1-15..it was dish 15 (with those chocolate salty balls somewhere in the middle)

Watermelon- cured meats/fennel/rasberry

For me, I would have liked a dry cured meat, firmer and saltier with a kick of spice to balance out the juiciness of the watermelon or a less juicy melon. Musk melon or even papaya?

Other change I'd like to see made, a less harsh soap in the bathroom. I always love restaurants that have really nice soap and lotion in their bathrooms (think AVEC and their Molton Brown).

As a whole, the food was exceptional and the whole experience was awesome. From talking to the chefs about where they sources their food to plating a dish and serving it to diners. It made the excellent food memorable.

In Summary....El Ideas is kind of like a mullet, business in the front, party in the back. And Andrew Borchu and Phillip Foss are John Stamos and Andre Aggasi circa 1990 respectively!

Photos by Charlie Ferreira

I'm ready for a picnic

2011-08-18T18:00:00.000-05:00

The dress I'm wearing is called the Picnic Dress. I picked it up last season on super clearance at the Talbot's Outlet store for a whopping $7.80. I love it in green and love the plaid. I feel like I should be carrying a wicker basket.

Dress- Talbots
Shoes- Stuart Wetizman
Earrings and ring- bought at some jeweler in China Town in San Francisco
Necklace- gift
Watch- Fossil

Wardrobe Workhorse: white sinched skirt

2011-08-17T18:00:00.003-05:00

In a few weeks I'm going to be sad, Labor Day will arrive and the "no white after Labor Day" mantra that was scorched in my brain for so many years by fashion magazines will kick in.

I definatly got my wear out of this frock this summer. Just this summer I have blog with it styled with a fun print blouse and a bold black and white tee.

There are so many reasons to love this skirt:

Great fit
Crisp and clean lines
Can be styled with just about every top I own
It can be washed and pressed not dry cleaned...

So many more reasons, I will be sad to see it sit in hibernation until next year.

Skirt- Rafallea
Blouse- Talbots (also seen here)
Shoes- Stuart Wetizman (also seen here)
Earrings- F21
Bracelet- Florence with gift antique charms
Bag- Lambert and Truex(also seen here)
Shades- Michael by Michael Kors

It's just lunch?

2011-08-16T18:00:00.003-05:00

On a typical work day I bring my breakfast, lunch and snacks to work. I usually drink a VERY LARGE (sometimes two) cups of coffee before leaving the house then eat my breakfast at my desk while checking my email, calendar and to-do list each morning. It's my routine. Breakfasts range from a PBB (peanut butter and banana) burrito to yogurt and fruit to an egg sandwich. Lunches are usually leftovers or a salad with dressing on the side. My snacks range from fruit to Lara bars (Cherry Pie is my favorite, Coconut Cream Pie comes in a close second) to an extra small meal (around 150 calories) to cut up vegetable and home made dip. I find that when I pack my all my food for the day including snacks I stay on track with my eating. I'm less tempted to go get a fro-yo at 3pm or hit the vending machine for a bag of over processed zero nutrition pretzels.

Last year after a major spill (FYI Chili stinks up your bag weeks!) happened in my purse I decide to invest in some high quality lunch box/lunch packing products.

I scoped out the cafeteria at work to see what other people were using. There was a range of bags from plastic grocery bags to the very stylish Built Lunch bags. I did a bit of research found out that Built bags can be washed and keep food cool for up to 5 hours with an ice pack. SOLD! (LL Bean was my second choice but people who washed it said it lost its shape).

I've been using a Built bag for a while now and could not be happier with it. It stylishly carries both my breakfast and lunch daily.

Do you bring your lunch? What type of lunch box do you have?

Dress- Eliza J
Earrings and Bracelet- Gift
Watch- Fossil
Shoes- Nine West
Shades- Michael by Michael Kors
Lunch Box- Built

The opinions expressed in this post are 100% my own. Built nor any other lunch box maker, manufacturer or seller sponsor me to write this post.

So True!

2011-08-15T18:00:00.002-05:00

I love this. I was pretty disapointed with the my RNR time this year. Honestly I thought I did better than last year. Oh Well.

Just a bit sore today and wore flip flops at work to let the blisters heal. Recovery run tomorrow. Its going to be painful, but a good painful.

Rock n Roll Half Marathon

2011-08-14T22:08:00.002-05:00

Around 4 seconds faster than last year. New course, cool and rainy run. First 8 were awesome, last 5 ~~kinda~~ hurt.

My feet are a mess with blisters and at mile 9 they hurt along with my butt muscles. I need to find a solution quick for my blisters. I've tried all the standard recommend preventive measures and I wear good socks and shoes that fit.

Rumor has it the course was longer than 13.1. Both my garmin, my Nike+ GPS and Charlie's Garmin were all off. Personally, I think it was off. I had a much better run than last year yet my time was almost identical.

In the end, I did it and that is all that matters.

Built Festival

2011-08-14T22:00:00.002-05:00

Friday night charlie and I headed to the Built Festival in Wicker Park.

It was cool to see shipping containers become art studios. Art is very subjective and there were some really cool yet out there exhibits.

And I got to oogle All Saints who set up as shop.

We grabbed a bit of dinner at Lillie's Qs BBQ. Skip the hush puppies but do go for the pulled pork and slaw. And the moonshine cocktails are pretty tasty.

Defiantly a fun summer night.

Dress- Tory Burch
Shoes- Tory Burch
Headband - H&M
Necklace- F21
Earrings-?
Bag- Flea Market in Spain