It's Official

I do not live in the south anymore.

 

Us southern girls can survive winter with a nice, sturdy pea coat.  However, that is just not the case here. I've already been wearing what I like to call my "winter" coat.  And its only October--fall at that!

 

Needless to say I'm in the market for a new coat that I can wear when it actually gets cold here. 

 

I found this at J. Crew Factory on mega sale. I'm talking 40% off.

 

 

Long Belted Puffer Jacket

 

I'm going to make this baby mine tonight before the 40% discount expires.  I'm a little worried about sizing, but I think I will be able to make it work--even if it is a tad too big or small (a good excuse to shed a few pounds right?)

 

If you live in the north, what kind of jacket to you swear by? I'm obviously in need of some tips. 

One Month!

There is officially less than a month until my sister's wedding!

 

I'm SO excited!!!

 

The wedding will be in Atlanta at the Ritz downtown:

 

And they're honeymooning in Maui. I'm SO jealous. Just think--I could be escaping the chilly NY temps for this:

 

 

Or this

 

 

I'm sure they want me to tag along and just forgot to send my invite...don't you think?

Puppies

I have a terrible case of wanting a puppy.  A bulldog puppy to be exact.  They're always walking around my neighborhood and they're just SO cute and wrinkly!

 

 

This one will do. Please and thank you. 

Unfortunate

It truly is sad how broke I am.  I'm not on a regular pay schedule yet, and with rent topping $1000, I'm sure you could understand how I might seem to run out of cash quickly.

 

However...

 

There is a terrible trend in my life--the less money I have the more I online shop.  This morning, I spent a few hours on j. crew, nordstrom, and uniqlo (p.s. don't worry I'm spending this week "unassigned" at work, so I don't actually have anything to do).

 

Anywho, j. crew has a few great sweaters on sale right now.  Here are my faves:

 

 

I'm sweater crazy.  It is SO cold in NYC compared to what I'm used to...



Rainy Days

It's chilly and gloomy in NYC today.

 

Here's what I would love to be wearing with some dark skinnies and riding boots:

 

Barbour Hawkstone Parka Jacket

 

Is it fall where you are? It feels more like winter here...I'm interested to see if I can survive my first northern winter.

 

Happy Tuesday!

Friday Faves

Today, I'm doing my first link up with one of my favorite bloggers--The Bargain Blonde! If you don't read her blog on the reg, check her out.  She is HILARIOUS.

 

Here's what I'm loving this week!

 

The USS Michael Murphy

 

You all may not know this, but I'm a bit of a military nerd.  One of my favorite books is Lone Survivor, and one of the men from the story had a naval ship named after him (if you've never heard of Michael Murphy read about him here).  The commissioning of the ship is this Saturday on the Hudson, and Austin and I will be there.  He is truly a hero, and I'm so glad the Navy decided to name this ship after him.



So I'm really loving Subway lately.  Like I could eat here everyday....which is a problem because they deliver to my apartment for FREE.


Fall in NYC

Pretty soon the park will look like this!!! I am loving the cooler temps--although this week was a little gross, next week is supposed to have perfect weather!


DSW

This is their Herald Square store...I have been browsing their site for literally the entire work week.

and finally...



My sister's wedding is only a month and 5 days away!!! I'm so excited! And obviously this photo isnt of them...

I hope everyone has a great weekend!!

 

 



Obsession

Lately, I've been obsessed with riding boots. I look at them all day at work, and the window shop everyday on my walk home.  Here are a few of my faves for the season:

 

 

Audrey Brooke Tayler Riding Boot

 

Bandolino Clotida Riding Boot (most likely my next pair)

 

Pink & Pepper Racer Boot

 

Coconuts Classic Riding Boot

 

I'm loving the rich cognac colors again this fall, and I'm so happy the riding boot trend is back.  Do you have a pair you swear by?



The Working World

Sorry I've been so MIA...I forgot how much the 40 hour week drains me.  I really am going to try to get back into the swing of things. 

 

So for today's post, I thought I would give you a little insight about what I do for a living.

 

Here's my office:

 

 

And in another week or so I'm moving here:

 

 

As many of you may have guessed--I don't work in finance, and I won't be part of the 1% anytime soon.  I am an accountant at a Big 4 firm here in NYC.  Basically my job is to make sure that the financial statements of public companies are accurate and truthful. 

 

Exciting, I know.

 

For my job, I have to travel to my client's office.  The first client I am working on is in the S&P building in southern Manhattan, not far from where my home office is.  I'll be working in the basement (joy) there until April, when I'm staffed on a new engagement. 

 

I haven't really started doing much yet--we've been training for the past few weeks, but I'm looking forward to getting my feet wet in the real world in just another week!

 

I'll be back with a report on how things really are once I'm based at my client and doing real work!!

Delicious

A few nights ago, Rachel, Austin, Chris, Chris's roommate and I went out for pizza and sangria at the cutest little restaurant near our apartment. 

 

It's called Gina's and is adorable.

 

See, isn't it adorable?

 

The decor is all deep pink and white.  This place is literally what I would want my restaurant to look like if I owned one.

 

Unfortunately I was too hungry and forgot to take photos of my food and sangria, but they were both SO good.

 

As is typical in NYC, half of their seating is outdoors on the sidewalk, and it was so nice to sit outside, people watch, and enjoy conversation with friends.

 

Isn't Gina's just perfect? I love it. 

Weekly Gratitude

I'm thankful that I am fortunate enough to have a good paying job.  There are so many people that live in NYC that are just scraping by, and I feel so lucky to have a good-paying, challenging job.

 

 I'm thankful to have the opportunity to be in Texas this week! It's going to be so much fun!

 

I'm thankful for the great NYC weather. Im used to it still being 90 outside, so the 75 degree temps are welcome.

 

I'm thankful that so many stores are having sales.  I needed some serious sweaters for work, and I was able to get a few without spending too much. 

 

I'm thankful to have gizmo with me.  It always brightens my day when I get home and see him.  He is such a big baby, and I love him so much. 

 

I'm thankful to have so many opportunities in my life.  I know I complain a lot, but I truly am thankful to have been raised by great parents and be able to embark on my own adventures.

 

What are you thankful for today?





I'm a Terrible Blogger

You guys.  I've really been neglecting my blog, and I feel bad about it.

 

I just started my new job this week, and I was so tired after work everyday that I just didn't feel like blogging.  But I am making a promise that from now on I'm going to be a better blogger.

 

I'm leaving for Texas tomorrow for my national training, so I am going to be writing like crazy today and tomorrow to be ready for the week!

 

Happy Saturday, everyone. And GO VOLS!

 



Home Sweet Home

Since I've been in my new apartment for 2 weeks now, I thought I'd take you on a little tour of my bedroom!

My bed--excuse the clothes laying on it

Desk area--almost through the first round of studying for Financial!!

Gizmo's area/my makeshift getting ready area.

So far I'm not crazy about my room.  I'm not sold on the rug, and I'm not crazy about the spot I have to get ready in.  But our bathroom is teeny tiny so this will do for now.  I'm also in SERIOUS need of wall hangings. Hopefully that will be taken care of soon, along with my parents mailing me my tv from home.

Later this week, I'll take you through the rest of the house, because right now I seriously need to get to studying. 

I can't believe tomorrow is my first day of work!!! Say a little prayer for me--I'm nervous!!



Back in the New York Groove

I'm home!!

I've been in my new apartment for almost 2 weeks...I can't believe its been so long since I've written!!

We've been so busy unpacking, building furniture, and getting our rooms finished that it seems like we've only been here for a few days.  We finally got internet and cable today, and have just a few more touches to put on the apartment until we're completely finished "moving in."

It feels so crazy that this is my apartment.  For a whole year.

New York is so perfect. I LOVE it here.

And don't worry, I'll give you guys a tour as soon as we're finished with the inside of the apt.  Does anyone have any good recommendations of places in NYC to buy wall decor? I'm at a loss, and I can't find anything I like online.

Dress U

I had such a great time with my dad at last night's Tennessee game!! It was such a fun time, and I am SO happy they won! And for those of you who may have noticed--yes, I graduated from Carolina, but I was raised a Tennessee fan. My allegiances will ALWAYS be with the Orange and White!

While we were at the pregame fan fest, I noticed a cute little shop selling game day dresses.  The company is called Dress U, and they set up tents at tons of games around the country.  I took a peek at their website, and here were a few of my favorite pieces (all at great price points):

 

The Paige Gameday Dress

This dress is my favorite on the site--I love the bow!! And this is PERFECT for an Auburn fan!

 

The Darlene Gameday Dress 

 

The Hallie Gameday Dress

 

The Gameday Queen

I've seen this last one floating around tons of boutiques in Columbia, so I'm sure its a popular choice for fall.  

Be sure to check out Dress U! Happy opening weekend!

UT Football!

I'm back and feeling stress-free after my test. I'm not sure that I did awesome, but I feel SO relieved that it's over. 

Tonight, my dad and I are headed to Atlanta to watch the Tennessee Volunteers kick off their season! I am so excited to watch some UT football!

 

Its a shame they won't be running through the T tonight--my favorite tradition, but I know that my dad and I will still have a great time. 

I hope everyone has a great weekend! the next time you'll hear from me, I'll most likely be at my new apartment in NYC!  Wish me luck packing. I've already packed 2 huge suitcases--and those are just the clothes that were in my closet...

I'm back, but...

I am REALLY stressed out.

I know you all probably want to hear how awesome my trip to Vegas was, but I am drowning with stuff to do. Here is a small list:

1. Get electricity turned on at the apt in NYC

2. Contact Time Warner Cable about internet/tv at the new apt.

3. STUDY--my next portion of the CPA exam is on Thursday and I am NOT ready.  I'll probably do NOTHING but study all day tomorrow.  

4. Pack. I've sorted through my clothes and have a big pile to give away, but not a single thing is in a suit case yet, and I still have even more to sort through.  Did I mention I leave Sunday...

5. Address moving announcements.

6. Find my UT jersey for the big game against NC State on Friday in Atlanta.

7. Take Gizmo to the vet.

8. Set up an appointment for my bridesmaid dress fitting--for sometime before I leave...

That's just the tip of the iceberg.  And did I mention tomorrow is my birthday? I mean my family was never huge on birthdays anyway, but who wants to spend their entire birthday studying accounting??

Not. I.

I hope all of you lovely ladies are less stressed than I am right now! I'll be back Saturday with an update about my wonderful trip!!  Until then, I'll be in panic mode.

Kate Spade Goodies

Last week, Kate Spade had a surprise sale for her Facebook friends and I was lucky enough to snag a few goodies while they were still in stock!

Here's what I picked up:

 

Cobble Hill Kori

 

Daycation Lacey in Flame Pebbles

Both of these pieces were AT LEAST half off!! I'm so excited for them to arrive! I have been looking for a nice black bag for fall, and I obviously couldn't carry my navy MK wallet with a black KS, so I jumped on the wallet too.  

Thanks to Austin for the wallet, and the bag from my parents--both early birthday gifts!!

I couldn't be happier with my picks! Did you score anything at the surprise sale?

Vegas!

I'm headed to Vegas today for my sister's bachelorette party!!

 

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I'll be arriving back in the south on Monday at 6:21 am...ouch. Look for an update upon my return!!

Delicious

I know I don't post much about food, but after trying this recipe, I thought you guys might love it just as much as I did.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Shake

 

 

3/4 cup fat free chocolate milk--I used Silk Light Chocolate

1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

1 1/2 tbsp sugar

1 1/2 reduced fat peanut butter

1 1/4 cup ice cubes

Add ingredients to blender and blend until smooth. 

I got this recipe from Weight Watchers and tried it a few days ago. It was a big hit with both my dad and I! And according to WW, it is only 4 points!!  I love dessert, but I'm trying to eat healthier, so I plan on making this little treat more often!

Try it and let me know what you think!!

 

Life Changer

I know lots of you ladies probably use the Clarisonic Mia, and I have wanted on for SO long, but I am moving in 2 weeks and I just don't have $125 to shell out for a little brush to wash my face. 

So this past Saturday, I went to Target looking for an alternative.  I figured if worse came to worse, I could grab the Neutrogena Wave and be somewhat satisfied.  

Then I came across this little guy:

 

The Olay Pro X Brush Cleansing System

 

This is JUST like the Clarisonic Mia, but only $30.  I've been using it twice daily with Philosophy's Purity cleanser, and I am OBSESSED.  Before I picked this up, I was noticing that my face just felt gross--like my pores were clogged and my skin wasn't absorbing my moisturizer.  This changed everything.  After one use, my skin felt smooth again, and looked SO clean and fresh.  I can't tell you how much I love this product--and the brush replacements are $10 for 2 brush heads! Affordable and effective.

I am so happy I added this brush to my skin care regiment.  

Do you have a skin care item you can't live without? I know I'll never turn back after discovering this gem!

E.l.f. Review

I know I'm late on the E.l.f. review, but I hadn't had a chance to use all of my new products until this weekend.  I'm going to post about my favorites now, and possibly the others after I get a chance to use them a little more. 

 

E.l.f. HD Powder

You guys.  This stuff is awesome.  Luckily I have pretty good skin, and I've never been a big foundation user.  From time to time I'll try a different powder here and there just to see if I like it, and I really LOVE this stuff.  It doesn't add color, but it really gives your face a soft, matte finished look.  I use it almost everyday. 

 

 E.l.f. Tinted Moisturizer, Nude

I started using this a couple weeks ago, and I really like how it evens out my skintone.  It has a funny smell, but it looks great under the HD powder, and it blends easily. It's a steal at only $3!

 

E.l.f. Mineral Eyeshadow

I have these in "natural" and "confident" and I love the way they have sparkle but not too much.  They also stay on ALL day and looked fresh after a full day of shopping. 

 

E.l.f. Studio Brush Set

I got this brush set for only $0.88!!! Can you believe that?? E.l.f. was having a promotion where if you bought $30 worth of product, you could get these brushes for $0.88.  I couldn't pass it up. I was already using an e.l.f. eyeshadow brush, so I figured I would love the whole set just as much.  These brushes are SO soft and apply really well.  

 

E.l.f. Eyebrow Kit

I have very thin eyebrows, so I like to add some color to them so they're more noticeable.  This kit adds color, but doesn't make your eyebrows look painted on.  The brush was hard to use at first because it was so small, but I eventually got used to it.  

Have you tried e.l.f. products?? What should I try next? I'm always checking Target for new arrivals!!

 

Weekly Gratitude

I'm thankful for my wonderful parents! I would have never been able to afford all the trips to NYC, the deposit, or the realtor's fee for my new apartment without them.

I'm thankful that I will be hanging out with my sister in Las Vegas later this week!

I'm thankful that I was able to find lots of new things to wear to my new job.  I bought lots of basics, and I think I'll be able to make it through fall without needing anything new for work.

I'm thankful for Austin's generous early birthday gift--a Philip's Ultrasonic toothbrush! I can't tell you how LONG I have been wanting one of these. My teeth have seriously never felt so clean from just a toothbrush.

I'm thankful that I was able to find a rehearsal dinner dress in NYC this past week.

I'm thankful that I have lots of time to study for the CPA exam--my next exam is on the 30th, and I should receive my score for BEC sometime next week. I'm SO close to being finished!!

What are you thankful for today?

My New Home

I'm back from apartment hunting!! While I was gone I kept up with many of your blogs--but it was too difficult to comment from my iphone, so I'll be back in full swing soon!

First off, let me just say that apartment hunting in NYC is CRAZY. You really need to be in the right place at the right time to get the apartment you want.  During our first meeting with our realtor, Rachel and I tried to put an application in on the first place we saw--and only after getting all of our documents to the leasing agent we were told it was taken.  This was such a bummer! We went looking again (and saw 4 or 5 more apartments), and decided to put in an application on a second place, and luckily the other applicants decided they didn't want it and it became ours!!

It is a railroad style apartment, meaning you have to walk through one bedroom to get to the second. Kind of like this: 

 

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You can see there are two entrances to the apartment, and we plan to use the "back" door as an entrance to the back bedroom as well.  Our apartment also has doors in between the bedrooms and a hallway that is fully lined with closets.  It was occupied when we saw it, but I'll definitely post pictures when we're all finished moving in!

I've already ordered my moving announcements from Tiny Prints, and I can't wait for them to arrive!

And finally, if anyone ever needs a realtor in NYC, please contact me and I can get you my realtor's information.  She worked SO hard to help us find a home, including staying with us until about 8 pm one night putting applications in. She was so great, and I know the search would have been much more difficult without her!

The Search Continues

I'll be on my way back to NYC tonight to house hunt for the second time!

Hopefully we find something! I'll be back Thursday with updates!

Business Environment & Conecpts

That is the name of the portion of the CPA Exam I'm taking this morning. Doesn't it sound like SO much fun??

 

Topic Breakdown

My sit time is 10 am, and I'm pretty nervous typing this.  I still have lot of study time--and I plan to stay up until about 4 or 5 this morning.  

Hopefully I'll pass and be half way to CPA!!!

Apartment Inspiration

I'm starting to get excited about decorating my new bedroom next month, and usually the first piece I look for is bedding.  I like to center my room around bedding and usually go for a solid color duvet with fun pillows.  This year, however, I'm loving printed bedding.  Here are a few of my favorites:

 

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I feel like I'm at such a transitional point in life, and I need to decorate my room like an adult.  If only I could afford an interior designer....

What are you favorite bedding looks and what do you use as inspiration for your room?