If you follow me on Twitter (@mittenpawsduh), you may have read that Gerry and I were making a Peep diorama for a competition with his family. I must admit, I initially rolled my eyes at the thought of having to make one, but once Gerry and I thought of our idea, I got excited to craft with him... and a little nervous because my arts & crafts skills are embarrassing.
We would have put a little more effort into this baby if we weren't late to meet friends to watch the Blackhawks play, but we were pleased with ourselves nonetheless.
Little did we know Gerry's family members were going to bring their A-game. Here is the rest of the Peep Show:
Over to the left his young nephew did Peeps around a Campfire; His parents did the Death of Caesar.
This was my favorite, The Peep Show presents: American Gothic. I loved the postcards in the background.
His sister & brother-in-law brought ET theme music and used LED tealight candles to make the moon glow.
And here is the winner which was a scene from the movie 300, made by one of his brothers. The picture doesn't really do it justice. Almost everything in this diorama was edible and held together by cake frosting.
In spite of my initial skepticism, the Peep Diorama was really, really fun. It's light-hearted creative competition. Gives you something different to do at a holiday gathering, and considering his family doesn't drink, I appreciated the activity. We were all excited to hear who won (determined by a point system and popular vote). They'll definitely be doing it again next year. Gerry and I were already discussing themes.
Easter we spent the morning with my family, who has always been very into Easter (and Mother's Day) brunch. Last week we made and hosted brunch for my extended family, and on Easter we went out to an old-school Italian restaurant for it. I OD'd on bruschetta, baked clams, cappuccino cake and cannoli. This is what I wore on Easter:
So the day after I ate the best polenta I had ever tasted, Ger and I went out to brunch where I tried grits for the first time, and they were cheesy at that. We went to brunch at Wishbone, which serves up super yummy "Southern Reconstruction Cooking" with a smile at that (seriously, we had the sweetest server). The Southern experience was enough to make me want to recreate my own.
I'll begin by saying that polenta and grits, after much research, are the same thing. You can nitpick me about this if you want, but you say tomato, I say to-mah-toe. The verbiage changes merely in the context of the meal. If you're cooking italian or contemporary American, it's polenta. Because I was cooking Southern food and adding a bucketload of cheddar cheese, these were grits. I was pretty pumped up to make this meal for my family. My dad's roots are from Kentucky. I've heard him lament on more than one occasion about the lack of Southern cooking that goes down in my house. Rarely do I cater to my dad's preferences (read: less healthy), but I was in the mood to go for it.
Although I would use all of these recipes again (especially for the shrimp), I would use a few modifications.
-The grits recipe includes 2 cups of cheese. I used that amount against my better judgment, and although it made the grits super cheeZzZZzy and rich, I think it overdid it a bit. Cheese is not a food I hold back on, so I was surprised to feel that way, but I think 1 to 1 and a half cups would suffice.
-Along the same lines, I thought there was too much shortening in the cornbread recipe. Gerry said he could taste it too much. I even used less than called for to grease the pan. Next time, I'd grease the pan with a tablespoon of butter, and decrease the melted shortening by a tablespoon.
The darker leaf on the bottom is the collard. The curly lighter-colored leaf is the mustard. The mustard had a VERY strong, musty scent.
You gotta stir, stir, stir grits (or polenta). Makes 'em extra creamy. Pay attention! Get at that pot!
My Southern-inspired attire. Blouse Gap / Bandana Artists & Fleas (Brooklyn)
"Lonestar" is a short, sweet and charming little song. Every time I listen to it, I have to go back and listen to it over (and over) again. In my opinion, that's the test for a 2 minute(ish) song-- does it make you wanna repeat? I love the abrasive dragging on the guitar strings, the way she says "doggie" and the cutesy pop lyrics. Perfect alongside this post.
After brunch, Ger and I went off to take outfit pictures. I really appreciate him playing photographer and he actually suggested this location for the shoot. These are probably my favorite outfit pictures to date. Hope you like 'em too.
My unnecessary new trench from Old Navy. Couldn't resist it.
Blouse Missphit / Belt & Skirt Lane Bryant / Cowboy Boots Thrift (TJ Maxx via Goodwill)
Earrings La Mode Accessories
I'm grateful we had a nice enough day to take these pictures. Sunday was sandwiched between Saturday's freezing rain and Monday's slushy snowfall. Spring, quit teasing us!
I think The Replacements are one of those bands that make indie rock/pop nerds' hearts leap! The 'Mats musical brand of punky-power pop is fucking irresistible. Like seriously, are you listening right now? I want this song to be playing when I go out to drink beers and play darts with my friends (as opposed to what I usually hear). It's danceable and singable, but most of all, lovable. GET INTO IT, Y'ALL.
Last week Chicago caught a glimpse of SPRING. A glimpse is apparently all that it was because today there was nothing but cold wind and freezing rain. I'm glad I took advantage of a day's worth of sunshine and warm weather when I did. I wore this outfit to the city to hang out with Gerry and go on a dinner date. We went to Browntrout, which is super delicious, uses mostly organic and sustainably farmed products and has a sophisticated, but laid-back feeling inside. We've been there twice, and both times have been very positive experiences with food and service. I will also refer to this place in the future as the place that made the best polenta I have ever eaten. I'm serious. I could have eaten bucketfuls of the luscious, buttery starch... I'm digressing. This is what I wore:
Dress LB / Shoes Target / Purse Thrift
I've worn this dress to two different weddings a few years ago, but I'm glad I wore it out for a more informal occasion. I think that despite the bold color, it can be dressed up or down based on hair, make-up and accessories.
Necklace Macy's (Lucky)
Despite my mother and boyfriend constantly reminding me that I have too many clothes, shoes and purses, I've never really put much stock into it. I've sort of chalked their chatter-in-my-ear up to my mom not approving of the way I spend my money, and Gerry not having a real understanding of fashion. Having said that, throughout the past month I have felt like the clutter has been bombarding me. Without enough hangers available after laundry day, or enough drawer space to to necessitate all my PJ pants, I decided to go ahead and do some spring cleaning. Not only was this about getting rid of things I don't wear, but I also wanted to reorganize everything. I have finally categorized my closet and armoire, as opposed to having a totally haphazard mess.
In Jay's most recent post, she emphasizes the importance of being picky with your wardrobe (a belief of hers I know she has stated before). I tried to keep that in mind while I de-cluttered my closet, made my Spring/ Summer wishlist and went shopping today. I do not think it is something I have ever considered before, and I venture to guess many plus-sized girls can relate. I have lived the better part of my life only looking for things that fit to qualify them as worthy for purchase. I truly could not even begin to guess how many times I have bought and worn items thinking, "it will due." Selectiveness is a hard mentality to adapt after years of unsolicited conditioning. While plus-sized retail options have gotten better, they're still no where close to acceptable. Online shopping supplements this void, which is something I'm trying to embrace despite the shortcoming of not being able to try anything on. Although it can be really frustrating having to pay for return shipping [if something doesn't fit], the reward of finding better-quality and/or occasion-specific garments is a huge payoff. With all of this in mind, I made a Spring/Summer Wishlist after I was finished cleaning out my closet. It's definitely a combination of wants and needs.
- comfortable brown sandals (flats and wedges)
- comfortable tan boat shoes (because I love masculine shoes, always)
- comfortable black flats
- black maxi skirt
* Rachel Antonoff shoes (Lady, Matilda or Odette)
* Shwood Canby Sunglasses (I ordered them earlier today. I've wanted them long enough to invest.)
- faded denim, loose fitting shorts (eeep! haven't worn shorts in years, ready to put my pale fat legs out there again)
- darkwash bermuda shorts
- swimsuit (*emerald green would be ideal)
* something orange, emerald green or plum that matches my fave pair of shoes
- casual maxi dress
Expanding a little on my "Color Block, Pop, Shock" post, and this idea of being more open-minded when it comes to my own physical appearance, I opted not to shave my armpits last week. I will be the first one to admit my prior, judgmental stance on women not shaving under their arms--- thinking it's not a very feminine, hygienic or attractive look. Mostly, I'll say I just didn't "get it." Not that there is anything to even really get. Some women wanna shave, some women don't. Boom, simple as that. Maybe...
Whenever I see a woman with hairy armpits, I stop and stare. I feel like the more I see it, the more I'm intrigued by it. Society's opinion and the masculine association with not shaving is dominant (at least 'round these parts). I've gradually come around to appreciating those who choose to ignore this gender expectation, and own the look. So last week I didn't shave because I wanted to see if it was a look I liked on myself. I kept it rolling a second week to spite Gerry, who most certainly does not "get it." I feel like these pictures don't quite capture how long my armpit hair is, but I just wanted to take some quick photo booth shots, so it'll do.
I realize to some people this whole topic is silly and just one big "so what, who cares, no big deal," but I think there are many variables to consider when embracing the natural. It's interesting how many times this week Ger and I talked about it. He's been quite vocal about disliking it. He's always going to encourage and support me to do whatever I want to do, but this has been something he has not shied away from dismissing. My reaction is two-fold of wanting to antagonize him to prove that I do what I want and he should embrace it (which he usually does), but also not wanting him to find me unattractive in a way I can easily prevent. In the end, I know that I liked the way it felt and looked after a week, but week two I've been ready to shave (I will tomorrow). I sweat way more when it's long, and I don't feel as fresh. I also have to admit, when I look under my arm, I don't feel like hairy armpit equals pretty. Just being honest. I did like the more rebellious nature of the look though, and I'm definitely going to grow it out for a week this summer, and wear it with my new sleeveless, floral mini-dress I ordered from Forever 21+ (no longer available to show you). I really appreciate the masculine/feminine contrast. For the most part though, this is a look I'll leave to others.
What do you think about shaving under your arms? No big deal? Act of rebellion? Sexy? Not attractive? Do you ever or regularly not shave? Is it a political or fashionable decision?
So many questions, but I really am curious what you think about the topic.
My dog-sister Dixie Lou is half Australian Shepherd and half Black Lab. The winter months are when her Australian Shepherd side really shines. We let her hair grow wild and free. One of my fondest nicknames for her is "Princess Fuzzy Paws," (there's a song I like to sing along with this nickname). Towards the end of winter, she always begins looking a little mangey and unkempt. We also start wondering if we've been overdoing it on the treats, as all that extra fur makes her look a little more plump.
But then spring hits, and it's time for a hair cut. It never, ever ceases to amaze me how quickly my fur-ball, lion-like, pudgy pup transforms into a sleek, small Black Lab. Post-hair cut leaves her looking like a baby calf. Her ears always feel so soft, and she looks like she's dropped 10 pounds and 5 years.
I think she's equally adorable; furry or trimmed.
Before:
One of my favorite things about her winter coat are these odd, long "cock-a-doodle-doo" hairs on top of her head. I called them her fuzzy duck hairs. And yes, I did twirl them up a little for emphasis, but they do often stick up all on their own.
I couldn't really think of a good song to go along with this post, so I just thought I'd throw a really good song on here. Broken Social Scene is one of my favorite bands, and I remember feeling emotional (at the end when the horns come in BIG) when I saw them preform this live. This video blows, so listen, don't watch.
For the past month or so, I've been scheduled with weekends off. My initial reaction, as a waitress, was to freak out and pick-up shifts. Saturday nights can generally be a big money night, but then I realized I really don't make all that much more on Saturdays than I do on Tuesdays, so I've come to really embrace this new-found luxury. It's a revelation after working weekends for more than 3 years. I'm behind on blogging (natch), so this is from March 26-27. A super, fantastic weekend of fun.
Gerry and I like trying to pretend like we're good at having fun on a budget. We're not. We're terrible and have "baller" tendencies that tend to creep out after we've had a cocktail, but we do have some great cheap-er dating techniques I thought I would share with you, particularly if you're from Chicago.
Tip #1: The Museum Passport
These are available for FREE at Chicago Public Libraries. They have them for all the more well-known museums in the city. They are intended for families, so I was on the fence about whether or not it's ethical for two cheapskates to use 'em, but ultimately, it saved us $60, and no one was hurt. =) You still have to pay for parking, but this puppy helped facilitate a fun afternoon at the Shedd. Here are the pix.
Alice in Wonderland Clocket Etsy Gift (couldn't find exact seller) / Wedgewood Floral Cameo Charm Bracelet Flea Market
That night we went out to dinner. I was VERY HAPPY with the restaurant we chose.
Cheap Dating Tip #2: Restaurant.com
Restaurant.com has so many coupons to choose from (if you're dining in a city). If you know you're going to go out and spend money on dinner, why not use a coupon? Restaurant.com coupons do have minimum spending amounts, so that is something to watch. Also, just like with ALL online shopping, before you check out, google for a coupon code. I was able to buy a $25 gift certificate for $2! Apparently, Restaurant.com always has a coupon code, so it's worth a shot.
Cheap Dating Tip #3: BYOB
I'll be honest, the largest portion of a restaurant tab for Ger and I is generally the alcohol. We almost always have 3 drinks when we go out to dinner. Unless we're drinking beer, this really adds up. At a nicer restaurant we generally each have a martini (Ger, a Ketel One filthy martini straight up with blue cheese olives and me whatever the most exciting specialty martini is), and then a bottle of wine with dinner. BYOB cuts the price of alcohol down pretty significantly (assuming the corkage fee isn't too high). We brought a six pack of Fat Tire and a bottle of Red Zin to our dinner date that night.
Dinner that night was spectacular. We went to a French-Mexican fusion restaurant called Sabor Saveur. I was a little nervous about it because Yelp reviews were all over the place, mainly critical of service, but our service was outstanding. So was the food.
Salmon Ceviche
After dinner, we met up with my friends from high school for my oldest friend's birthday party. We've been friends since we were three!
birthday girl
Cardigan Target / Dress Faith 21 / Tights Target / Boots Dolce Vita for Target
Sunday Ger and I rolled outta bed to go nurse our hangover with bloody marys and screwdrivers at Lottie's to watch the jayhawks play VCU. Sad, sad game for KU. They played horribly, and there was a lot of yelling at TVs going on in that pub that day (not that I would ever do that, haha). Here is my unfashionable outfit perfect for hanging over on a Sunday watching your favorite team.
We hadn't really planned on going out to dinner that night, but with our new found love for restaurant.com, and no motivation to cook or eat what his mama was making, we went out for sushi. I put together an outfit based on everything I didn't wear the night before. Good thing I always overpack when I spend a weekend in the city.
We rounded out the weekend watching How Do You Know (Witherspoon, O. Wilson, Nicholson, Rudd). Do yourself a solid, and never watch this movie. It was beyond horrible, and painful to watch. Why would these well-known actors make this movie? I cannot even...
Also, I suck at making short posts. I don't wanna miss a thing. Thanks for sticking it out, if you did, readers. <3
