Work and Weekend Wear for Less

I have been a loyal ThredUp customer for awhile and love how easy their site is to shop, the items the offer and how quickly they show up on my doorstep.  With our new lifestyle, these things are all very important to me.  If I can shop while pumping, snuggling or just resting, that is ideal.

Knowing that I will eventually need (and want) to put on real clothes again, I recently turned to ThredUp to pick up a few items as a refresher for my closet.  Because I thought I was going to be pregnant for all of the Fall season, I did not pick up any new items for my Fall wardrobe.  And because now my clothing budget is also being used for teeny, tiny things, I knew ThredUp was the perfect option to pick up a few Fall items for less!  I may also have picked up something for Little Mister...
I couldn't help it, my mouse just wandered to the baby section!

One of my favorite brands to look for and pick up from ThredUp is JCrew.  I love JCrew as much as the next girl but I do not love their prices.  ThredUp to the rescue!
While I love trendy pieces, when investing, I often try to pick up basics and classics that are going to last me a long time while also being able to layer/mix with other items I own.

While perusing the site, I quickly landed on the below items.
A camel sweater (classic and somehow I didn't own one) and a blue oxford popover. 

 I am already dreaming up about a million outfits for that popover.  From work outfits to casual weekends with some cute jeans and booties.
I was able to snag the sweater for $22.99 (regular $89.00) and the popover for $11.99 (regular $35.00)

While work and date night attire is fun, I love a cute casual outfit just as well.  With my daily trips to and from the NICU, I have been living in my casual wear but quickly realizing everything I own is mostly workout/running gear.  I was in desperate need of some cute casual wear that didn't also grace the presence of the gym.

 I was immediately drawn to this cozy sweatshirt ($11.99, regular $36.00) and pretty sure I will be living in it this fall.

As I said, I couldn't pass up the baby section and when I saw this onesie I knew it was a MUST for Little Mister.

I mean it has bassets on it, clearly he needs it!

I saved over $125 on these items, how amazing is that?!
I would say my Fall wardrobe is off to a good start!

Lucky for you guys, ThredUp is offering some amazing limited time deals!
-15% off for existing customers: Use the code LNB15
-$50 off $125 or more for first time customers: Use code WQA50
-$30 off $75 or more for first time customers: Use code YHJ75

Get to shoppin!

Clothe Ohio {Giveaway}

I have always been more than happy to stand behind hard working people and products that give back to the community.

Enter Clothe Ohio and I was all over it.

Their philosophy is simple...you buy a shirt, they donate a shirt.

I mean, how awesome is that?!

Not to mention, the shirts are stinkin adorable AND so soft. 

Sounds like a winner all around to me!

A few goodies recently showed up on my doorstep, in too cute wrapping (including a buckeye and a koozie!)

 After admiring the cuteness, I wasted no time putting this sweatshirt on.

And you can ask Mister, I have barely taken it off since. 

I am telling you, it is SO soft.  This is the perfect sweatshirt to transition into Spring with.  

I have taken the sweatshirt off long enough to put on my other favorite item of theirs.

I will be the first to admit I am terrible about getting around downtown and I do not know if this shirt will help me with that or not.  BUT it is super cute (and soft) so that counts for something.

Now if it came with a built in GPS, we would really be in business ;)

In order to pass along this cuteness to you guys, Clothe Ohio is giving away one shirt to a lucky reader! 

All you have to do is go like their Facebook page HERE and leave me a message saying you did and you are entered!

I will announce the winner next Monday! 

Be sure to check out the Clothe Ohio site for all of their styles and remember that for every shirt you buy, they donate one to a local Ohioan in need.  How great is that??

Yes, Please

And I am not referring to the fabulous book, though I do love it.

I am referring to all the things that Nordstrom just put on sale. 

This cold weather has me itching for Spring clothes and a wardrobe update.  

I also have a Nordstrom gift card from my birthday burning a hole in my pocket.  And my mother has taught me well over the years.  Use those gift cards when there's a sale and get the most bang for your buck!

(Under Armour Leggings | Wrap Dress | Pointe Skirt)

I love how tight Under Armour running pants fit, I am pretty sure that wrap dress is the answer to all things and that pointe skirt is a dead ringer for a similar J.Crew I have been eyeing.

Booties | Necklace | Watch

My current taupe booties are dead and these would be perfect replacements, just yes to this necklace, this watch is not on sale but I saw it recently and canNOT stop thinking about it

I also wouldn't turn down this, this or these. 

Apparently I had a gray and orange obsession going on.

What is on your Nordstrom list?  Any Spring items needing to find a home in your closet?

Blogtober14 : Fall Fashion

Like most, fall fashion is a weakness of mine.

I love the layering, the new pieces coming out and the beginning of putting my Christmas wish list together.

I have been falling more and more in love with Nordstrom lately and would be 100% okay if my entire fall wardrobe came from there.

I've been perusing their website and have my eye on a couple pieces that would make a perfect fall outfit.

This green jacket is a staple.  I have a similar one from Target YEARS ago that needs replaced and I love the draw string waist of this one.

This tunic is everything.  Chambray, aztec, long...I love everything about it.  

These leggings.  If the almost , ratings weren't convincing enough, I've had multiple people tell me these are the leggings to own. Wide waistband, thick, hold their shape...winner all around.

These boots.  I need new brown boots and I love this wedge heel.

And admittedly I already own this (and am wearing it as I type), but it is a staple and I think every girl should own (at least) one for the fall. 

Linking up with Helene and Taylor

Shop Blue Avenue {Giveaway}

Even though I have been eyeing a few different pieces of Aztec inspired clothes, until recently, I hadn't jumped on the Aztec train yet.
I'm not really sure what I was waiting on. 

Thank goodness for Blue Avenue and this adorable cardigan.

I am now full on obsessed. And slightly wishing fall was here.  But these coolish nights we've been having in Ohio are enough for me to throw this puppy on.  

I am already planning a million a half things I can wear this with.

There's a good chance if you see me this fall, I will be in this guy.

And what is a photo shoot without a few basset hound outtakes?

Lucky for you guys, Blue Avenue has graciously offered to give away a $25 gift card to their store so you can grab a cardigan of you own! Or something equally adorable! Honestly, I want one of everything they have.  LOVE this dress. 

Rafflecopter, you know the drill.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Linking up with The Pleated Poppy and Tucker Up

WIWW : Floral and Flowy

I haven't done a WIWW post in a very, very long time but I am so obsessed with this dress that it needed to be showcased.

It's embroidered, has pockets (!) and is super comfy.

That's a trifecta of a win if you ask me. 

The lovely folks at eShakti graciously sent me this dress and I've twirled around in it no less than 3 times since it appeared.

The material is very soft and the embroidery work is so well done.

And what I really, really love is that the dress was made to fit me.  Just me! My waist, chest and height.  How perfect is that?

If we are attending an event together this summer you can guarantee there's a good chance I'm going go be wearing this dress.  On top of it's adorableness, it's so so comfy.  I'm tempted to sleep in it.

And, possibly my favorite part, it's a good twirler.  

Because we all know that's how you judge a dress.

Fashion blogger, I am not.

Special thanks to Alexis (best neighbor in all of the land) for snapping these shots.

Also an extra special thank you to eShatki for this gem.

And a little something for you ladies, you can use the code 'totes' for 10% your order at eShatki!

Linking up with The Pleated Poppy and Tucker Up today!

Splash of Spring {+ a winner}

With Memorial Day right around the corner and spring in full swing around here, my mind is all things new and bright and fresh.

And today, it's in the wardrobe department.

What is it about warm temperatures, weekends full of plans and sunshine that makes you feel like you need a whole new closet?

I recently switched out my closet (you know, out with the winter, in the with spring/summer) and really took a look at what I had and what I may need to invest in this year.

Turns out I am really lacking some transitional tops for work and weekend.  Our office isn't super casual but I like investing in pieces that I can wear to work and in normal life.  

I picked up a few things at TJ Maxx recently (like this sleeveless chambray -another option here) as a gift to myself after the Pig.

But, of course, I have my eye on a  few other things too.

I am continuously trying to incorporate a little more color and pattern in my life.

Currently my closet is a sea of black and white.  And neon pink...

Coral tank | Lavender silk top | Raspberry tank

Floral peplum | Stripe peplum | Lace tee

And the winner of the Fridays with Floyd : Caption This is : 

"built in eye masks. man it's good to be a basset!"

Robyn- I'll shoot you an email! 

This was fun, we will have to do it again!

Do new seasons make you crave a new wardrobe?

Currently...

I haven't done a currently, well lately and thought it was high time for one!

(this photo has nothing to do with this but it's too funny not to share. Snuggle buddies to the max.)

Thinking...about the dress I finallllly ordered for our big event.  You will have to wait for the big reveal but I'm very excited about it. And, it is one of the ones on my list! 

Shopping....for earrings and shoes to go with said dress.  That's where you can find me this weekend.

Reading...'Life List' (recommended by Casey) and 'reading' in my car, 'Fifth Assassin' - both are great. Very, very different but great.  I also just finished 'Brain on Fire' - definitely recommend that one. 

Waiting...on the new Charlie book to arrive so Floyd and I can have nighttime story time again soon. 

Planning...some Spring cleaning and sprucing up around the house this weekend.

Planting...herbs, veggies and flowers!

Wishing...all my girlfriends lived in my neighborhood and we could have wine every night.

Thankful...for Mister.  Yeah I went there, mushy. But he's pretty great. 

Needing...these summer wedges.  I've been eyeing them and after Katie and Sarah raved about them, I know it's a sign that Old Navy wants me to have them. 

(However I did just get these in the mail...too similar?)

Listening...to Spotify.  I just discovered this. How?! Where have I been? #judgeaway

Loving...this Spring time weather perfect for running.

Watching...Mad Men, thank goodness it's back on.

And that's what's been going on. 

What's going on with you?!

Decisions Decisions

We have a black tie optional event coming up soon and I have been beyond torn about what to wear.

From the beginning I have been leaning towards a long gown, but nothing too formal. 

I want to look elegant, but fun and springy and not stuffy.

And I would prefer not to wear black, just for something different.

But there are a few short options that are catching my eye too.

So after consulting with a few girlfriends, I think I have some options narrowed down from Rent the Runway.  I went back and forth with buying something vs. renting but I haven't been able to find anything yet that wasn't a million dollars so I think RTR it is.
Though it does hurt my money saving heart to pay for something I can't keep...

I have never used RTR but I have heard nothing but fabulous things about them and I love all of the reviews and real life photos they have.

So here is where I need you!

Help me decide on a dress!! 

1. Gold sequin  - I love how fun and sparkly this one is and the back is beautiful.

2. Pink and red - I can never say no to pink.  I'm not 100% on those sleeves though...

3. Red floral - I think with some great, big gold earrings this one could be fabulous. I love this shade of red, not quite stop sign red but has a bit of pink in it. 

3. Blue tribal - I enjoy that this one can go either fancy with some great earrings or a bit more casual

4. Lilac - In love with the color of this one and the back is so, so pretty

5. Short black and gold sequin - Now this one is just fun, spunky and totally out of my comfort zone but I love it.

And those are what I have it narrowed down to!

Regardless of what I wear, I am very excited to get dressed up!

What is your vote?

And what shoes?!
And what does Mister wear?
So many decisions...

Makin It Easier

I am all about efficiency and multitasking.

If you can't be doing 47 things at once why do anything, right??
And lately I've realized that I've subconsciously been doing a few things that are helping me be more efficient and use my time more wisely - 2 huge bonuses in my life. 

Here are 4 things that are making my life easier lately

1.  Remember when you were little and your mom made you lay your clothes out before you went to bed for school the next day?  Well I've started making myself do that for the week.  I try on Sunday nights to corral all of my tops for the upcoming week into one area in my closet.  That way it's just a grab and go situation not a 'hmmmmm what to wearrrr? Oh look 20 minutes have passed and I'm still not dressed.'
And while Floyd is usually my go to getting ready buddy, his ability to pick out outfits isn't the best.

2. Remember way back when and I would put together month long meal plans here on blog?  Yeah I forgot about it too but recently I've jumped back on the bandwagon.  But I can not take all of the credit, Kait sent Casey and I her meal plan a few months ago and it reminded me how stinkin easy it made my life.  So I've started it back up again and it is seriously the best thing.

I could go on forever about my love for meal planning and how much easier it makes your life.  I was thinking of posting the plans again on the blog.  Would anyone be interested in that??

3. I'm not sure where I heard about The Skimm but I am sure glad I did.
Truth time : I am terrible about reading the news and keeping up with current events.
Until, The Skimm entered my life.  Every morning when I wake up I have an email from them that takes me less than 3 minutes to read and gives me snippets of all of the news going on in the world.
Perfect for me - sweet and short and to the point.
Plus it makes watching The Today Show even more interesting because I know more of what Natalie is talking about.
Sign up for The Skimm here!
#SheReadsTruth is also an early morning treat in my mailbox.  Casey told me about this quick, short, daily devotional and it is great way to start the day.  It also only takes a few moments to read and I love starting my day with it. You can sign up for that one here.

4. In an effort to have more time in the evenings with my main men, I've been getting my non running work outs in the morning.  Sure this means a 6am call with Tony and P90X2 but when I can come home from work, walk Floyd and be free for the evening, it's totally worth it.  Plus knowing you are starting the day with your work out done feels pretty great.

So, tell me, what do you do to make your day run more smoothly?

Linking up with Shanna!

Ignoring It

I am straight up ignoring the fact that it was almost 70 here yesterday and the temperature outside today is some gross number that isn't 70.  It's not even 60 even and that's not anywhere near okay.

But, you know what, I'm not even going to worry about it because I just know full fledged Spring is right around the corner. And I am just charging on into full on Spring mode over here.

I've done a fabulous job (if I do say so myself) since the beginning of the year of not making a lot of meaningless purchases.  No Starbucks, no quick jaunts to Target or Bath and Body Works, no let's buy everything delicious looking thing at Trader Joe's, nothin.

But then, THEN, a cute little coupon from Old Navy appeared in my mailbox and this hilarious commercial with Amy Poehler appeared as well and I may just not be able to help myself.

So we are going to call this, if Old Navy gave me free reign of the store here is what I would buy.

And I can not promise that I won't be visiting my nearest Old Navy this weekend (probably not with free reign of it all though, unfortunately).

I mean, a girl needs cute pants for work, right?!

The pixie pants featured in the commercial are so stinkin adorable.  I picked up a pair of similar pants from The Limited last year and I've lived in them ever since.  I actually really dislike dress pants so I am always on the hunt for cute, well fitting, business casual pants for work and that can double as weekend pants.  I'm hoping these pixie ones are the ticket.
After seeing a few fashion bloggers really, really rock white jeans last year I have decided I need a pair.  I love the distressed look of these.
I always have to remind myself that Old Navy pants fit me strangely and that my normal size doesn't typically work there.  It's easier if I just don't look at the tag.

This dress has my name written all over and I am certain it needs to live in my closet.
Last fall I picked up a great dress in black...and in pink from Old Navy that has become a staple in my closet.  It is now out in this great black flower pattern that I think I need to also own.  
And this popover I need in every, single color.

*this is not a sponsored post. Old Navy has NO idea who I am but if they want to send me free things or the chance to hang out with Amy Poehler I would not be mad.

Fashion Tips For Staying Stylish And Warm This Winter

When the weather turns colder, you probably find yourself swapping out your sundresses and sandals for more appropriate winter wear. If you’re like many women, you may find yourself dreading dressing for the cold. You may think that winter fashions are necessarily bulky and unflattering. However, this could not be further from the truth. There are actually lots of ways to look cute while still staying toasty warm. Try these cold weather fashion tips to spice up your winter wardrobe.

Winter Accessories

Accessorizing right is the key to keeping warm when the weather turns chilly. Women’s scarves, hats, and gloves are all essential for protecting the most sensitive parts of your body that are most prone to feeling the cold. Keep a silk or cashmere scarf and leather gloves on hand for wearing to the office and in other more formal settings, and a wool or fleece scarf and knit gloves for when you want a more casual look. Tights can also be an important winter accessory, especially if you prefer dresses and skirts to pants. Invest in a pair of heavy wool tights and wear them with warm socks for the best results.

Boots and Footwear

Choosing the right footwear is another important part of dressing for winter. Remember, you will not only be contending with colder weather, but also potentially with pavement that is slick from snow or ice. A pair of knee-high boots is one of the best investments you can make for winter. They keep your legs warm if you opt to wear a skirt, and fit neatly over skinny jeans to give you a chic and stylish look. You can find these boots with heels of various heights and styles, as well as with flat soles to give you extra traction on slippery pavement. In addition to getting a good pair of boots, consider wool or alpaca socks to keep your toes extra warm on the coldest of days.

Choosing a Coat

A coat is probably the most important item to add to your winter wardrobe, but you can’t expect to just throw a heavy coat on over your summer clothes and stay warm. Coats are meant to be worn with a series of layers, so the first step is to pick out a coat that is a little bigger than you think you need. Allow enough room to fit a sweater, vest, or hoodie under your coat and still leave room to move.

Winter Fabrics

You might also want to consider switching to heavier and more weather-appropriate fabrics for winter. While cotton is a great all-weather fabric, and cotton clothing can keep you quite warm in cold weather, winter clothes also come in a variety of other fabrics that can be fun to incorporate into your wardrobe. Wool is a great option, one that is used to make everything from coats and outwear to trousers. Silk, though lightweight, is another good fabric for trapping heat. Fur and leather should be worn sparingly, but one or two pieces can make great winter wardrobe accents.

Dressing for cold weather doesn’t need to be a hassle. Just remember these essential items, and your winter wardrobe will be up to par in no time.

(Image via Journal of Style)

Caring for Leather Bags and Luggage

As I break out my favorite black boots to shine up for the winter season, I thought it would be a great time to share some tips for caring for all the leather pieces in your life!

If you have just purchased a leather bag or received one as a gift, congratulations! This lovely bag will serve you well for many years. Unlike bags made of fabric, vinyl, or canvas leather will not rip, tear, or pull apart. It is highly weather resistant and will repel water better than just about any type of fabric. Leather can be patched more easily and will not show the results of years of use in the same way. Leather is a classic material valued for its look, feel, and lasting durability. In short, you now have a piece of luggage you can be proud of.

In order to continue enjoying the benefits of your new leather travel bag you need to take care of it correctly. Caring for good quality leather is something of a lost art but do not worry – all you need to do is keep these simple tips in mind. By doing so you will be ensuring that the leather bag you receive today will look and function just as good many years from now.

Protection from day one

You should begin protecting your new leather bag from day one. Use a leather protection spray to coat the outside of the bag. This will help your bag resist staining and will prevent the leather from drying out or cracking. This protection spray can be used on all kinds of leather goods, such as:

• Wallets
• Key fobs
• Daily planner covers
• Laptop bags
• Suitcases
• Garment bags
• Gloves
• Shoes and boots

Leather protection spray and other leather care products can be purchased from specialty supply stores or on the Internet. You can sometimes find these items at stores that sell fine leather goods; if you can purchase a leather suitcase from a particular store then you can probably buy a leather care kit there, too.

Keeping leather clean

One of leather’s best advantages is its natural ability to resist getting dirty. You can easily clean your leather bag with a clean, damp cloth. Simply wipe the surface down gently; do not scrub or try to rub out stubborn dirt stains. If there is a stain you are concerned about, take your leather bag to a professional leather cleaner. Trying to treat a piece of stained leather at home can potentially make it worse.

You should also avoid using an oil-based leather cleaner if you are trying to clean dyed leather (sometimes called natural leather). This kind of cleaner is best used on leather that has been painted. If you suspect that a stain has been caused by oil, grease, or ink then it cannot be removed. Try to avoid exposing your leather bag to these substances.

 Secure inside and out

Most leather bags have some kind of lining inside. This helps protect the interior of the leather safe from whatever is being carried in the bag; lining also provides a little extra protection to the untreated side of the leather. Promptly repair any tear to the lining; a few stitches is all it takes. If the fabric of the lining tears extensively you will need to take it to a luggage repair shop or tailor. Any good luggage repair shop can also replace a broken zipper, split leather seam, or other structural problem.

 (this is one leather piece I'd love to take care of one day)

 Taking good care of your new leather bag is not very difficult and requires a minimum investment from you. Keep your bag clean, conditioned, and repaired and you can continue to use it as long as you want.

Weekend Wrap Up : Gobble Gobble

And gobble we did.

And travel.

We were all over the place this Thanksgiving break but we sure didn't miss a chance to eat!

We spent part of our break in Pigeon Forge, TN with my family.  

We ate, shopped and had a great time!

If you've never been to Pigeon Forge I recommend it for the shopping alone.  They have just about every outlet you could imagine and on Black Friday, watch out! Great shopping!

We picked up some great stuff! Some we brought home with us and some we will have to wait for Santa to bring us ;)

Friday we headed back to our hometown to see more family and friends.

We relaxed for a few days and ate some more. And more. 

And drank coffee and relaxed. And ate. 

1&2 - have Floyd, will travel. He's really diggin Mama's new car.

3 - Floyd helped himself to our ham leftovers while we were getting gas. And had 0 remorse afterwards.

4 - new, delicious froyo place in our hometown

5 - vacations really take it out of Floyd

6 - golf course romping with Floyd

7 - running advent begins! Wish we luck! (Running .5 a day until you reach 6 miles then back down.  Email me if you have questions or want to join in!)

8 - we tried the Christmas pjs, Floyd wasn't really into it.

And the Rachael Ray winner....Lainey! Shoot me an email with your address, girl and we will get some treats out to you and your pup!

Who is hitting up Cyber Monday deals?!

Cold Weather Running Gear

As you guys know, I'm sorta into this running thing.

But what I'm not so into is this cold weather.

One of my largest pet peeves in life is being cold.

So it only makes sense I voluntarily throw myself outside to exercise. In the cold. Multiple times a week.

I managed to get through the summer without buying too much running gear, although it is quickly becoming my favorite thing to purchase.

But with these colder temperatures and wind, some cold weather running gear is necessary.
(Along with some reflectors and head lamps.)

I don't have nearly what I need...yet (Santa?) but I do have some to get me through.

Below is a mix of what I do have and love and a few things I'd love to see under the tree...or wrapped up for my birthday.

 For some reason I really love that this headband and hat have holes for your ponytail.
Convenient, warm and cute! 

I spotted this pullover at Target last weekend and almost put it in my cart.
And then I restrained myself, but I've been thinking about it ever since. Wink wink Santa.


I have a similar 1/4 Zip Pullover to this and I am obsessed with it.  It's warm, snug and has thumb holes...everything I need! 

 I am in desparate need of some good gloves and these even have a light on them, perfect for those night runs! 

I have these pants (and the capri version) and LOVE them.  I love the compression aspect and they keep me warm throughout my whole run.

And, besides the promise of coffee and an a hot shower at the end, these are the pieces that are (and hopefully will be) getting me through these winter runs.

{Fashion} Friday with Floyd

It's pretty evident that Floyd is a fashionable dude.

I mean, just look at that bow tie up there.

Now with it being a bit colder, he has moved on to scarves. 

I'm not sure what came over me (besides pure genius) but last weekend I wrapped one of my infinity scarves around Floyd's neck and haven't looked back.

I would be lying if I said I haven't looked at that photo a million times since I took it.

I just think he looks like such a doll.

And, much to Mister's dismay, he really liked the scarf.

He kept it on for an hour+ and just snoozed away on the sofa in the sunshine. 
I know he would have worn it longer if I would have let him. 

I really think that he liked how warm it kept his neck.

Good thing for him I own about eleventyhundred scarves.

I have options for all of your outfits, Bud.

And in other basset fashions, this sweater has popped up at Target recently.

If that doesn't have Mister all over, I'm just not sure what does.

And we can not leave out the cutest lumberjack on the block.

All Fall

These weekends and the lure of Sunday snuggling are really getting the best of me. 

We had a weekend FULL of all things fall and I LOVED it. 

Friday after work Mister and I took Floyd on an extended walk around a lake near our house. 

 Although Floyd was pooped after, he loved it! All new scents and a plethora of new leaves to smell, it was his version of heaven.

Saturday Mister planned a fun day trip for us to Yellow Springs. I had been wanting to go there for a while now and it worked out perfectly because they had a street fair full of crafts and booths going on.  We had the best day walking around, trying local goodies (beer, coffee and pizza - yes in that order, we are strange) and just soaking up a gorgeous day.  We drove home with the windows open the whole way and had the best afternoon.

Saturday night we had the most delicious homemade pad thai (recipe coming later this week) and a fantastic wine we'd been saving from Casey.

Sunday we ventured to the pumpkin patch with Floyd in tow.  We have a tradition of taking him and this year was no different.  We took him out into the actual patch this year and he was in scent overload happiness.  It's a toss up if his nose was in the air sniffing or down on the ground sniffing more.  I'll have more of our pumpkin patch photo shoot with him on Friday.

 We picked up quite a few pumpkins and couldn't leave without caramel apples!  Well rounded lunch, right?

Sunday afternoon I ventured out on a pants hunt.  After many hours, many dressing rooms and a close call with throwing a fit in the middle of the mall out of frustration...I found ONE pair (on sale, thank goodness) at The Limited.  

I told you this may take me until next fall. 

I tried on and fell in love with these jeans at Nordstrom but couldn't justify the price.  Santa may see them appear on his list in a few weeks. 

The search continues.

Bottoms Up

As the air turns crisper in these parts and as I stood staring blankly into my closet this morning, I came to a realization....

I am seriously lacking in the fall pant department.

I have been rocking dresses and skirts as much as I can and I think that time is coming to somewhat of a close.

I donated quite a few pairs of pants and jeans last Spring and now am left with only a few options for work.

I really hate dress pants so now I am officially on the hunt for new jeans, chinos and/or cords.

(love these gray pants Shanna wore!) 

Skinnies have been my favorite for awhile now, I love that you can wear them with tall boots or booties.

Any suggestions on your favorite fall pants are more than welcome! 
Here are a few I have my eye on.
1| 2 | 3 | 4

I say this search shall take anywhere from the next 2-12 weeks to find something that I like and fits me correctly.

Now wish me luck as I plan on taking Nordstrom by storm this weekend.

I'm taking guesses for how many pairs of pants I try on versus how many actually come home with me.  Place your bets now!

Blogtember : Hide Your Wallet

Day 7: Favorite online shops

This is a very, very dangerous prompt.

And by dangerous, I mean awesome.

I can't wait to stalk everyone's lists. 

I have a serious case of 'it's almost fall I need all new clothes' fever.

It's a serious illness you guys.

I mean the booties

the oversized cardigans

the skinny cords and chinos

the cranberry colored everything

the cold weather running gear
the blazers

I need it all.

Need, right?!

Here are some favorites I have my eye on lately

Blazer | Blouse | Sweatshirt
Booties | Skirt | Cords | Heels (sold out)

While I have a serious love for stores like Gap and Old Navy, I also really love supporting great Etsy stores and small business owners. (also represented: Ruche and Piperlime. Lulus has had some really great pieces lately too.)

I also stalk Groopdealz, Sassy Steals, Very Jane, Brickyard Buffalo and StyleLately on the (almost daily) for deals.

And whenever I buy anything online I always use Ebates.  Free money for shopping, yes please!

What are your favorites? 

Cute Bits : Albion Fit {Giveaway}

We all know that I love a good workout and running session and even more than that you know I love adorable workout gear.

That being said, I have some super adorable workout clothes to share with you today!  These items are so cute you won't be able to stop yourself from wanting to work out!
They also offer super adorable swimwear!
Seriously, have you seen cuter suits??

I am pleased to introduce you to Albion Fit! 
Adorable women's fitness and swimwear, right?!
I mean there are ruffles on the work out pants and the swimsuits...what's not to love?!
I really can't get over the cuteness. I need that skirt in my life.
You better believe a few of these items are going on my Christmas list.
It's never to early to start one, you know ;)

And you are in LUCK today because Albion has offered to give away a $50 gift card to one Total Basset Case reader! AND! The fun doesn't stop there! They are also offering $20 off a $50 (or more) purchase with the code 'basset20' (good until 9/2).

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck!

Winner announced next Tuesday!