Tales from the Boomerang Lady

Telemarketers or BOA employees?

2010-05-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Upon moving to Liberal, KS/Oklahoma Panhandle I opened a new bank account. Bank of America I chose. Several branches in Liberal and ATM location.

A home phone number was asked for on the checking account forms. For the first time in 8 years I have a home phone number. (Thank you internet/cable/telephone combo pack I had to sign up for in order to get internet.)

In the last month, I have been contacted by several telemarketers calling "on behalf of Bank of America". Many have attempted to sell me some sort of insurance. Account insurance, fire and rescue insurance, credit background insurance, etc.

I hate to be rude. Last Thursday the phone rang with a different telemarketer trying to get me "enrolled" in the same insurance offered to me the night before. I told the person I was not interest and this was the second time I had received this phone call. The telemarketer apologized but continued with the ramble because I hadn't "enrolled" yet.

I am not sure "enrolling" in the National Do Not Call Registry. After all, my bank is giving out my number to help me be "insured." Well, Bank of America. If I really needed all these account insurances I would probably have more than $8.54 in my account. Considering the telemarketers always tell me the insurance can be taken out of your account each month for the low-low price of $24. Bank of America you do the math. I am really not interested.

{Stay Tune}

Where is the happy medium in our careers?

2010-05-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

I had one of those unexpected free moments a couple of Sunday's ago.

(The moment where you are finished with a current task but don't want to begin the next before something else. That moment of killing time. )

I flipped through Marie Claire May 2010 issue on my coffee table.

The article that caught my attention: The careerist: The workplace trend no one is talking about

Generation Burnout they called it.

What use to be a condition psychologist saw in women in their 40s is now hitting mid-20 year-olds in the the work place: career burnout.

The article paints the picture of women finding themselves in fastpace jobs with intense demands needing an out. The article does not say the women are under qualified, bad management or laziness as an issue to why women want out. The recession was named as factor but no other reason was given to why the movement of women suddenly quitting their jobs. However the article goes on to quote a psychologist who quotes a former patient.

"I had a 24-year-old client who worked for a news organization, and it was understood to get ahead, she needed to forgo holidays, give up vacations, and work until all hours of the night."

I know the feeling.

I can't lie. It is tough. I have experienced a similar feeling. Actions speaker louder than words. While I have never verbally been told this, I've been told I need to make deadlines and that means due whatever you may need to do. (I.E. Work late, work at home, give up personal time, skip a lunch break, don't clock hours, work on weekends).

Nearly two weeks ago, my female co-worker sat at her desk working with a Subway Sandwich next to her. It was lunch time on a deadline day.

"It is really great that your enjoying your lunch right now but you have to finish your story by 3 p.m." (Boss said to her in an annoyed voice)

My co-worker did not respond. Nor did I. Moments like that lead to career burnout.

Where is the happy medium?

Where is the position where we are able to be creative, work under pressure but not become over-stressed, over-worked and hit that point of no more?

Tips from Marie Claire on how to avoid career burnout : (Click Here)

**Notice their advice is take lunches, take advantage of personal days and do work at work. But Marie Claire, what about those that can't do that? ***

{Stay Tune}

What I love these days...wallets

2010-04-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

Wallets!

When I was a little girl, I received a Disney's Beauty and The Beast wallet.

Plastic, pink, a graphic of Belle.

It was perfect for a 8 year-old.

But somehow I have moved on to love big wallets. Wallets that hold all my cards, cash, coins and can stand alone as an accessory.

I remember about a year ago purchasing some cute ones for $20 or less. I recommend the B.P. department at Nordstrom, Forever 21, Urban Outfitters and Clarie's.

Of course prices vary based on quality, label and material. Above are a few I wouldn't mind sporting.

(Left to Right) Brown Snake Skin Leather at What She Buys.com ($178), Steven Madden ($98), Urban Outfitters ($28), Forever 21 ($9.80).

To Alva, Oklahoma we go

2010-04-16T17:48:00.000-07:00

I've been needing to get out of town - that's why I couldn't have been more than ecstatic when the Cowboy texted me, 'Alva this weekend?'

Alva, Oklahoma is where the cowboy's family lives. The city is home to Northwestern Oklahoma State University and apparently the smallest Wal-Mart Super Center (Thank you Wikipedia).

We were in Alva for Thanksgiving and I remember spotting a Dairy Queen. It is really silly how excited I get about things like that. I see a blizzard in my future.

Warning: the bag is louder than the crunch

2010-04-14T05:30:00.000-07:00

Applauds to Sun Chips and the decision to invest in a bio-degradable chip bag.

However, I feel the need to info all - the bag is loud. You think the crunching of eating chips is loud just wait until you fumble with the bag.

Just something I realized this past weekend as the cowboy and I sat down for TV and chips. Next time when the chips come out so does a bowl.

{Stay Tuned}

So stylin' it's silly

2010-04-13T16:09:00.000-07:00

Now this is story all about how I save some green at gap.com.

Just let me take a minute just read right here and I tell you how I became the coupon fashion queen.

In Cincinnati, Ohio born and raised at Gap, Old Navy and Banana's where I spent most of my days.

Stylin', fashioned and act all cool and saving some green with coupons at the store.

When a job opened in Liberal, I decided to move.

I got one little job, I wanted so bad- packed up my VW and moved away.

I pulled up to Liberal, Kan. and checked out the mall. No Gap. No Old Navy and No Banana.

If anything you could say I was scarred

But I thought, nah forget, 'yo online shopping.'

I logged on to gap.com.

And I typed in promos (Tuesdays, Thankyou, MJ6VJFHBLM8W, GAPSALE25)

Looking at my savings and product I was finally there

To become so stylish once yet again.

Already, let's admit it I am ridiculous. However, I have been waiting for Tuesday to use my Gap credit card to save 10 percent on my online purchases. I carefully have planned out my purchases and knew I was buying sale items. Thanks to online codes obtain at RetailMeNot.Com I save $20 off my purchase at check out. You can search an online site and coupon/promo codes are listed. The next best thing since slice bread.

No go out there and online shop!

{Stay Tuned}

Overheard in the community of Liberal

2010-04-13T05:30:00.000-07:00

Two women standing and talking: one in early-thirties and the other in her mid-sixties.

Sixty-year-old: Are you married?

Thirty-year-old: No, I am not.

Sixty-year-old: Oh, you still have time.

Over hearing conversations like that ALWAYS drive me crazy.

{Stay Tuned}

Connection...

2010-04-12T05:30:00.000-07:00

(First of all, let me apologize once again for a lack of posts...if you still read this blog - Thank you!)

For the past two weeks I have wanted to share this and haven't been able to crank it out to the blog world.

Mid-March: I was out on assignment for the newspaper interviewing a women who runs a local non-profit. The women told me it was best to drop by her truck-parts business and interview her during the day. However, if she had a customer she would have to help them and than come back to the interview. Fair enough.

Six minutes into interview: A man walks in and ask to make a custom order for something on his pick-up truck. I casual listened in as the interviewee took down the man's information and quoted him on the price. He had brought his dog into the store and I patted the dogs head. The man asked when the order would be received because he would like to have it before his trip to Topeka. She said she would contact him. He left with his dog thanking the interviewee for help. The man's name was J.B.

End of March (busy deadline day in the newsroom): Police scanner screeches a semi and pick-up truck collide on north U.S. highway 54. Scanner calls for all medic units, local police, ambulance and more. The newsroom beings to busy with should we send some one (we often arrive on the scene of accidents, write a story and take photos.) The publisher and managing editor conclude no - accident is way out of town, the paper has to be finished at 5 p.m. and we can't spare anyone.

The following day: I hear a report on the radio. The man driving the pick-up was taken to the local hospital and didn't make it. One of the other reporters rights up a small story and it appears in the newspaper.

Maybe two or three days later, morning in the newsroom: Local funeral home worker comes in with a photo to be scanned for the Obituaries page. I glance at the photo - a man, about fifty, with a boy-scout about 8-years-old. The two are smiling and happy. The boy hold a trophy. The funeral worker asks me to crop the photo so only the man's neck-up is used for the notice. The name he gives me to save it is J.B. Esser. At least it is not the boy-scout I think to myself. Nothing else has clicked.

Later that day: Editing the Obituaries page - reading over the obit of J.B. Esser. Died in an automobile accident. Originally from Topeka. A father and a grandfather. Leaves behind his trusty dog. It clicked.

I had met this man about 10 days before he died. The rest of the day, my mind couldn't escape having seen this man and his dog. He was perfectly healthy, happy and seemed like a genuine guy. How fast can life be over?

I re-read the article the newspaper printed on the accident. J.B. missed a stop-sign. His pick-up collided with a semi-truck. The driver of the semi was unhurt.

While this little connection, little coincident, ironic event has made me realize more than ever how we should really live each day to the fullest - I can't help but hope J.B. made that trip to Topeka. According to the obituary his parents, sisters and brothers all resided up there. Maybe he got to have a nice time with family. Maybe he got to tell his family he loved them. I hope he did. For that boy-scout, I hope he remembers the good times with his grandfather and how happy and proud his grandfather was on the day of that photo.

{Stay Tuned}

Mistakes we try to avoid in the newsroom

2010-03-31T16:33:00.000-07:00

Yup, we try to avoid these "simple" mistakes.

(These clippings are not from The Southwest Times)

{Stay Tuned}

Give and Get: Family & Friends Coupon

2010-03-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

I grinned last week when I opened up my Gap credit card bill.

Usually, this is not the case.

Typically, I dwell over the amount owed and think "how?" Once I review the charges, I think "oh, right."

Anyways, Give and Get (also known as the Family & Friends coupon) was nestled beside my bill.

"Yes!" I thought.

"No!" I thought four days later after furthering examining the coupon details. Not for online purchases!

"What's the matter?" the cowboy asked.

"The coupon I told you about a few days ago excludes online purchases!" I cried. (We live about 2 1/2 hours from the closes Mall in Amarillo, Texas.)

"Boo hoo." He said with no compassion.

Oh how I had already planned to purchase some spring fashions from Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy.

I can't use the coupon but there is some valuable information I can pass along to fellow blog readers that would like to save at Gap, Inc. stores March 18 - March 21. Post your email address ( I recommend spelling it out ex..lauraeastes at gmail dot com to avoid spam) and I will email you an invite coupon to take into the stores for savings.

Happy Shopping!

{Stay Tuned}

P.S. This is what I planned to purchase with incredible savings!

News in Liberal?

2010-03-15T15:18:00.000-07:00

Questions concerning my job while home for the Christmas holiday was "Is there any news in Liberal?", "What do you find to write about?", "What kind of news comes out of small towns?"

The answer is: there is always news in Liberal and I would imagin it is the same as anywhere else.

I admit there are some slow days in the newsroom. However, Liberal, Kansas is like anywhere else. We have car crashes, we have fires, we have a city and a county government, we have a court system, we have criminals, we have locals doing good, we have visits from politicians, we have festivals, we have (occasionally) new businesses coming to town. I could keep going.

I meant to blog about this awhile ago but a sales associate in Wichita said the same thing to me. While paying I said I was from out-of-town, Liberal area. The individual asked me, why live there? I responded a job brought me out there. A reporter position, I said.

"Is there any news in Liberal?" He asked.

Yes and here is some news from Liberal I think anyone might enjoy.

{Her First Novel} Local author publishes her first novel after years of working and raising children. She finally found time to write a novel and inspiration for a story.

{Baker Art Center is deep 'Inperspective'} An art center that is working with at-risk juveniles.

{Liberal's 94 year old fire bell rings again }

{Stay Tuned}

How to freak out your boyfriend

2010-03-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

It might be hard to see but this is my desk top at any given time.

Sure Twitter, Facebook, Stuff Under 20, The Southwest Times might also be opened but generally speaking if I have an hour to relax online, I am looking at wedding blogs.

If you follow the blog than you know I use to work in the industry. Despite begin out, I am still very much interested in what wedding photographers latest weddings or engagement sessions photos look like, what the trends are by wedding planners, and how engaged brides are planning their day.

Harmless interest.

However, I left my laptop open on the coffee table and walked away. My cowboy boyfriend glanced over to see what I was looking at.

"Weddings, huh?" he said.

"Yea, I use to work for a wedding magazine. I've told you that," I said.

"I know," he said.

As he does know that, I still think it caught him off guard. Maybe a little, "What is she thinking about in that head of hers?"

The cowboy and I have been dating for a little over 4 months. (but hey, who's counting?) The future is on my mind but wedding/engagement is still far off.

I can't help but remember that within our first week of dating, the cowboy came over to my apartment and sitting there on the coffee table was {Get Married TV's wedding magazine}. I scrambled to throw an InStyle over it before he would see.

I don't think he ever did notice the magazine that evening. My point of hiding the magazine was for the cowboy to not determine within first week of meeting me, I was crazy. (One of those crazy, single girls that have their whole wedding planned out and are purely dating to find a guy they can simply 'insert here'. Well, maybe...no, not one of those girls.)

May it be within the first week of dating or going into the fifth month of dating I am still cautious of freaking out the cowboy. However, now I am pretty sure he doesn't think I am one of those crazy girls.

{Stay Tuned}

Interested in some great wedding blogs?

{Completely Unveiled by Weddings Unveiled}, {Ray and Wes Leytham Wedding Photographers}, {Our Labor of Love Wedding Photographers}, {Lucky Me!}, {Opulent Couturier} and recently engaged blogger {According to Nina}.

An emotional roller coaster of a day

2010-03-10T15:00:00.000-08:00

I realize I haven't blogged a "decent" post since January. I also realize that it is March. I also gave considerable thought on what to blog about for when I finally took it up again.

An emotional roller coaster of a day was not it.

However, that is where I found myself on Tuesday, March 9. I was looking back on a day of ups and downs. Silent accomplishments made by me.

(I had a great interview with a lawyer in which I sounded confident and asked all the questions I need to. I signed up for my first online course. The course cost $55 and promises to make me a better writer. I thought the inspiration of an online instructor and exercises might help me out. I got a very sweet thank you note in the mail from a local author I interviewed last week. "I was impressed by the article," she wrote. I want to write her back and say I was impressed with you. As she told me last week, she had to retiree in order to follow her dream. At 65 she published her first novel.)

But like I said Tuesday was a day of ups and downs. There were some downs.

(My editor tore apart my lead to the article I wrote for Wednesday's newspaper. Granted the sentence did need some re-writing. I was told I needed to work on my page design skills and was asked if 'I rush through things?')

I could dwell on the negative. I could block it out and only concentrate on the positive but that is not how lessons are learned. That is not how we improve.

While a bit on the mentally drained side, I found myself inspired more than ever. Weird, right? I want to do better. I know I can do better. When I get better I know those ups will only get higher. The uneasiness look on the cartoon character will go to a smile.

{Stay Tuned}

I am happy to report Wednesday was one of the most productive days I've had in awhile. I really truly believe a bad day on Tuesday encouraged me to work harder than ever Wednesday.

Life lesson of March 9: The best inspiration can come from a bad day.

P.S. The cartoon is from a menopause website.

For the love of sheets

2010-03-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

For the love of sheets...

I am not sure when it happened or how but there has been a shift in my shopping wants and needs.

Going shopping in college meant going clothing shopping. However, it wasn't limited to just clothes but included shoes, handbags, necklaces, earrings, scarfs, and well, anything body oriented.

Going shopping now means shopping for things for the home. Maybe the shift happened as for the first time in my life I live alone. I am renting an apartment with white, bare walls. I have the ability to decorate my apartment. Decorate it the way I want to.

What is stopping me?

Money. Home decorating is expensive. In lovely, Liberal we have a Wal-Mart but our Wal-Mart doesn't carry the trendy, cool looking Home Trends collection. And before you throw out the suggestions of Crate & Barrel, Anthropologie, Home Goods, T.J. Maxx...let me tell you, they are no where close to me.

Last weekend, the Cowboy and I went to Wichita. We went for the weekend which involved meeting more of his family (Mom and half-brother). Sunday was designated for shopping. I said Target. The cowboy said "Really?" Apparently, he imagined shopping meant mall only.

"What are you going to get at Target?" asked the cowboy.

Everything.

Well, I couldn't quite possibly buy everything because as earlier pointed out home goods cost money. However, I by-passed buying a cute side table, armless chair for my living room, the large art prints for my walls and went for purchasing new sheets.

The {Home Organic Sheet Set} was not a disappointment. The sheets feel almost like silk with a super soft feel. They remind me of the modal fabric Gap Body uses for their panties and p.j.'s.

I am in love with these sheets. Perhaps, they have been out for awhile and I finally just discovered them as I become more of an adult focused shopper.

{Stay Tuned}

P.S. We hit up the mall after Target. I limited myself to 1 hour which included Old Navy, Coach, a Kansas gift shop and than the stores the Cowboy wanted to go in. I am a good girlfriend to take to the mall.

Stuff Under 20 : Like these pieces?

2010-02-04T05:30:00.000-08:00

What do all these products have in common? They are all under $20. Find them all at {Stuff Under 20} on Boomerang Thursday.

(Stay Tune)

48 Hours Mystery called

2010-02-01T05:30:00.000-08:00

I have been meaning to post this for quite some time.

A few weeks ago I reported on a murder in Liberal. It was the first murder story I had ever written. While it was intimidating at times, it ended up being quite educational. The crazy thing is how unusual this murder was. It ended up getting national attention being broadcasted on CNN and being posted on CBS' 48 Hours Mystery.

A husband and wife were reported missing on a Wednesday night by family members. Police were given permission by the family to search the house. Upon entrance to the house police find a note saying the parents had gone to Garden City, Kan. The bedroom door was locked. Police broke the door open and found two dead bodies. The coroner told me the wife had been suffocated by a pillow. Her body was covered with the bed spread. The husband body laid next to hers. He had bleed to death after taking a saw cutting his legs open. The coroner said time of death was four days earlier.

You can get the story on The Southwest Times or on 48 Hours Mystery. (If you look closely, you will find my name on the CBS web site.)

There are still so many unanswered questions. Why did this happen? Was there any drugs involved? Why didn't the teen children suspect something earlier?

I am sure a follow up story will follow. The last two weeks I have attempted to get the coroner's report. (Which become public records after being filed). It still has not been entered in to the county record system.

(Stay Tune)

P.S. You could say, I like my job a lot. Something new everyday.

Who says snow storms are bad?

2010-01-30T14:18:00.000-08:00

The Governor of Oklahoma declared the state in emergency last Friday as snow and ice blanketed the entire state.

Parts of Southern Oklahoma lost power.

Oklahoma City and Tulsa's airports were closed from Thursday with flights not expected to leave again till Saturday.

Turpin (where I live) closed school Thursday and Friday.

On Thursday the snow began to fall. At 3:30 p.m. I left work early to make it home before the roads got bad. Only about an inch was on the ground but it was coming down.

Thursday night I watched the snow fall. I even picked Tiger Lily up to show her the flakes covering the VW Bug.

Friday morning I awoke to about 8 inches of snow and flakes still coming down.

It was beautiful but it was also...well, how does a VW Bug get out of the drive way and attempt to drive on the unpaved roads of Turpin to get to work in Liberal?

Have no fear! Cowboy Boyfriend called and offered to drive me in his truck. While I gathered my stuff, he shoveled the walk way. He also did the walk way of the single mom neighbor next door.

I think he is a keeper.

{Stay Tune}

P.S. He is going to hate that I posted this photo.

What do banks in Oklahoma repo?

2010-01-26T16:30:00.001-08:00

The Bank of Beaver City owns a vacant lot right next to there location in Turpin, Oklahoma. What is the lot used for? For bank repossessions.

What do banks in the city repossess? Cars. Houses. Boats. Vacation houses.

What do banks in the country repossess?

Farm equipment. (Tractors, trucks, plows, combines and more.)

On machinefinder.com I learned a used 2007 John Deer combine goes for around $218,000.

As the cowboy put it, that is way more then the fancy sports cars people drive in the city.

OH my my...who do you think investigates murders in Liberal?

2010-01-15T18:54:00.000-08:00

CSI Liberal?

Liberal Police Department?

Well, they do but so do I.

Thursday and Friday have been ludicrous for me.

Thursday morning I was out on the scene taking photos and attempting to get police officer interviews. Thursday evening I talked to neighbors on the deaths. Friday I attempted to get more police comments and get updates on the case. At 4:40 p.m. Friday, I spoke with the coroner and got the scope. Liberal's first murder in (and don't quote me on this) 10 to 15 years.

This is a big deal in Liberal and else where. A husband murders his wife by suffocation then takes his own life by making large cuts to his legs to bleed to death.

Currently I am snuggled up on my sofa with mac & cheese, Rolling Rock and channel surfing to hear the news stations from Wichita and Amarillo tell the story. Check it out on {The Southwest Times}, {KSN}, and {KFDA}.

{Stay Tuned}

Photos of Southwest Kansas/Oklahoma Panhandle 1/15

2010-01-15T05:30:00.000-08:00

I don't know the back story on this photo but I can tell you this is the look of the Southwest.

There once was a time when newsrooms didn't have Mac's, digital Canon camera, voice recorders, email communication or scanners.

Instead...

Newsrooms had typewriters, dark rooms, note pads and pen, face to face communication and the only scanning done was with your eye.

My newspaper, The Southwest Times, has boxes upon boxes of old photographs that appeared in the paper decades ago. Old photographs? At one point it wasn't as easy of snap a shot on a digital camera and digitally input the photo on to the newspaper page on a Mac program like Quark.

What's to be done with all these photos? I don't know but they are sure fun to look through and post on the blog. Expect more in the coming months.

{Stay Tuned}

Stuff Under 20 : Resolutions

2010-01-14T05:30:00.000-08:00

N & S over at Stuff Under 20 asked me to continue being a contributor to Stuff Under 20. I am very excited to be continuing on finding excellent style at excellent prices.

Last week was resolution week. Here are my fashion resolutions for 2010.

1. Dress for comfort

2. Dare to wear something outside my normal look

3. Don't underestimate Miley's Wal-Mart line, JC Penny's, Target and TJ Maxx for great pieces

4. Flat is fun - No use killing myself in heels...unless, well sometimes...

5. More is better- I love the look of traditional clothing with lots of jewelry

{Stay Tune}

P.S. Be sure to check out Stuff Under 20 today and every Thursday.

You could say 'a little behind this year'

2010-01-13T05:30:00.000-08:00

A week before Christmas on a sunny Sunday afternoon I dragged The Cowboy and Tiger Lily to the nearby rest stop welcoming all to Oklahoma. There, I handed The Cowboy a disposable camera and place Tiger Lily in her pink santa hat and cape.

I am crazy but it is one of my favorite holiday things to do.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and well, at this point enjoy your January!

{Stay Tune}

A glimpse into my Okie land Apartment

2010-01-12T16:55:00.000-08:00

I have had request to see the place. Here it is. Home Sweet Oklahoma. It is actually the perfect apartment for me. Large kitchen, nice size living room, good closet (while not a walk-in it is long), one bathroom, washer/dryer and two bedrooms.

I call it home.

{Stay Tune}

Tumbleweeds do exists

2010-01-11T05:30:00.000-08:00

I never was much of a western movie watcher. However, western movies is where my knowledge on tumbleweeds stemmed from prior to moving out West. My mind visions the plant blowing in some sort of early west town. (John Wayne movie style with hallow wind blowing.) I figure tumbleweeds were something Hollywood placed in those western movies for dramatic effect during duals. Tumbleweeds don't actually exists or do they?

I was wrong. They do exists and they roll through Southwest Kansas/Oklahoma Panhandle. Tumbleweeds even get stuck underneath your car. While driving I do see them tumble across the road. I thought it was the weirdest thing.

In November someone in my office said the tumbleweeds were beginning to come out. (Apparently, there is a season for tumbleweeds. I guess like how there is a season for tulips?) On the way to Alva, Oklahoma for the Cowboy's family Thanksgiving. I told the Cowboy how I had never seen a tumbleweed and wanted to see one.

The Cowboy laughed and laughed. How could someone never have seen a tumbleweed and be so interested? Then I said maybe it could be a story? The facts behind tumbleweeds? Again, laughter filled the car.

I am sure I am not the only one. People from the East Coast, West Coast and South have never seen tumbleweeds. Am I right?

{Stay Tuned}

New Year. New Life. New Boomerang Post.

Despite my New Year's snow...I didn't blog

2010-01-03T18:20:00.000-08:00

Despite the snowy and cold weather this weekend I did not get caught up on bloggging.

I was off from work for 4 days: Thursday - Sunday and I didn't blog.

Instead I had a fabulously relaxing weekend. (Something I haven't had since moving to Oklahoma). I cleaned my house, caught up on magazines, finished my (now belated) Christmas cards, watched movies, made dinners for the Cowboy and caught up on sleep. For example exhausted me only stayed awake till Eastern Standard Time New Year's. I couldn't make it till midnight.

This time of year people make resolutions. I usually don't. However, some year's I just call them something else. Thinking back to last year (2009), I made a 'goal' to be in a different place. (Not locational speaking, but at the time I was struggling financially and was in a career path that left me unfulfilled, unappreciated and beyond exhausted daily. Needless to say, I did reach that goal and can happily report that is no longer the case.)

My goal this year is to blog. I really enjoy this blog and hate that I have deserted it for the past two months. There is so much I can share and expect to read about it all in 2010.

{Stay Tuned}

Photos of Southwest Kansas/Oklahoma Panhandle

2009-12-18T05:00:00.000-08:00

There once was a time when newsrooms didn't have Mac's, digital Canon camera, voice recorders, email communication or scanners.

Instead...

Newsrooms had typewriters, dark rooms, note pads and pen, face to face communication and the only scanning done was with your eye.

My newspaper, The Southwest Times, has boxes upon boxes of old photographs that appeared in the paper decades ago. Old photographs? At one point it wasn't as easy of snap a shot on a digital camera and digitally input the photo on to the newspaper page on a Mac program like Quark.

What's to be done with all these photos? I don't know but they are sure fun to look through and post on the blog. Expect more in the coming months.

This would be from the Liberal High School Homecoming parade. Unsure of what year but the marching band is traveling down Kansas Ave. in Liberal the main street in town. If you look closely on the right hand side you'll see a sign labeled Bingo. It is still there today and I pass it daily.

Stuff Under 20 : Glam Rock at the Office

2009-12-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

Don't forget to check me out on the fashion blogsite, Stuff Under 20. Every Thursday I am a contributor to six great fashion finds for under $20. Above is the outfit creation I created for last Thursday. For links to purchase please click below...

{Post I}, {Post II}, {Post III}, {Post IV}, {Post V} and {Post VI}.

P.S. I love the shoes!

{Stay Tuned}

Recipe of the Week: Roasted Fish with Wheat Beer Sauce

2009-12-16T05:00:00.001-08:00

Last Saturday I was busy in the kitchen trying out a new recipe. This one was mailed into the newspaper on a press release from the National Beer Wholesalers Association. You may think homemade beer recipe? Nope. Instead a press release was filled with recipes that include beer based sauce. Being the beer lover that I am and dating a beer lover, I thought why not try one of the recipes.

We did. It was a good call as it was delicious and easy to make. Pair with a bag salad and a Pasta Roni box and you've got dinner.

Roasted Fish with Wheat Beer Sauce

2 Halibut or Salmon Fillets (We used fresh Salmon...not canned)
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1 TBLS olive oil
t tsp butter
1 TBLS balsamic vinegar
1 bottle of Wheat Beer
1 15 oz. can of diced tomatoes, drained
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 TBLS tarragon leaves

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Place baking dish in oven (empty). Rinse fillets and dry thoroughly with a paper towel; season with salt and pepper.
In large skillet over medium heat high, warm olive oil. When oil is hot, add butter. When melted, add vinegar and cook for 30 seconds. Add wheat beer and bring to a boil. Boil mixture until beer is reduced to 1 1/2 cups, about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, cream, and tarragon, cook mixture 1 1/2 minutes longer.
Place fish in baked dish in oven. Immediately after pour hot tomato mixture on top. Roast for 10 to 15 minutes until fish is firm to touch and flaky by fork. Serve with tomato mixture on top.

I also made a {Banana Cream Pie} for dessert. Recipe did not come from the National Beer Wholesalers Association.

{Stay Tuned}

Tip of the recipe: While standing at the grocery store fish counter, the cowboy distracted the women with talking about 'getting old'. The salmon was priced at $6.99/pound. The women entered into the system, $1.99/pound. Our 1.25 lbs. of salmon costs us $2.35. Hollar!

Recipe of the Week: Lemony Salmon and Dill Toss

2009-12-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

When I became the Lifestyles Editor I was given the lifestyles email account that subscribes to hundreds of list servers that contain possible content to be used on the Lifestyles page. I have to say I don't use 95% of what floods my email box but I have spent some time looking at quite a few potential articles sent my way. (4o of the Best Beers in the World...I had only tried about 15.)

A recipe last week from Prevention Magazine caught my eye. I made it last Thursday and I really enjoyed it. If you like salmon and dill, you'll love this. I did make some changes to the recipe and this is how I made the Lemony Salmon and Dill Toss:

Ingredients:

7 1/2 oz. can salmon, drained
1 1/2 cups of chopped asparagus pieces
4 tbsp lemon juice (about 1 1/2 lemons)
1 tbsp dill
2 1/2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp each salt and pepper
4 cups of cooked farfalle pasta
2/3 cups shredded parmesan

1. Cook the 4 cups of farfalle pasta as directed on the box.
2. Meanwhile, in a sauce pan, cook the asparagus in the olive oil on medium heat.
3. In another sauce pan, cook the salmon on low heat.
4. In a bowl, mix the lemon juice, dill, salt, pepper, and parmesan.
5. Once pasta is done, combine the bowl mixture of lemon and dill, asparagus and salmon. Stir. Add more dill or salmon to taste. Ready to be served.

(I acknowledge I am not a recipe writer but that's what I did.) The recipe is not to difficult and is relatively easy. It was my first time eating fish from a can. I have to say not half bad. I warned the cowboy before he took a bite it was different and it would be okay if he told me he did not like it. He said it was good and if I made it again he would come over for dinner.

{Stay Tuned}

The end of an era

2009-12-08T03:59:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning at 4 a.m.

I was unable to fall back asleep. However, I consider it a blessing in disguise. I've got some of those check marks now marked off on my to-do list. Of course one was to blog.

For those that know me well and others that might not, most know for the past six years I have driven a red VW Bug. On that red VW bug was the license plate of LOV BUG. As of the end of November I am no longer the plate owner in the state of Ohio for LOV BUG.

LOV BUG has been replaced with normal Ohio tags. Yup, still Ohio labeled. In order to register your car in Oklahoma you must have proof of Oklahoma drivers insurance. With my car registration being up in November and knowing it took me 4 weeks alone to get my internet set up, I figured renewing in the state of Ohio was the easiest.

Bye LOV BUG. Make your next driver happy and be a nickname among your friends.

{Stay Tuned}

The flu, a broken digital camera, a country singer, an OK Thanksgiving and a smiling city girl

2009-11-28T13:03:00.000-08:00

The flu, a broken digital camera, a country singer, an OK Thanksgiving and a smiling city girl...

Those would be the updates

Flu: I caught the flu the day before my birthday and it lasted for five days. Of course the day I had it the worst was my actually birthday. A birthday that was to be spent with my Cincinnati mom flying into Wichita for the weekend. Although it was the worst timing, the weekend didn't turn out that way. Got to go shopping and spend time with my amazing mom! (The best of both worlds.)
Digital Camera: When charging the camera on Thursday night before I was to leave for Wichita the lens jammed. My trusted digital camera that I have had for five years is beyond repair. How am I to take my Christmas Photo?
Country Singer: Jerrod Niemann is a country singer in Nashville that just had his first single of his country album released. He happens to have graduated from Liberal High School and I happened to interview him via phone on Tuesday. His story is running in this Sunday's newspaper. He was very awesome on the phone and I hope he makes it big. Check him out {here}.
OK Thanksgiving: My Oklahoma Thanksgiving was great. Met the cowboy's family. (Big family.) I had a nice time and I really think it went great. Something tells me, he thinks it went well too. Maybe I'll get invited to another family function...we will just have to see.

With no more flu, no major holiday and things going so well I hope to be blogging all week. Watch out bloggers I am a smiling city girl in the Southwest.

{Stay Tuned}

Wichita

2009-11-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

I am off to Wichita for the weekend to meet my mom. She is flying in for the weekend and we are going to explore Wichita Saturday and Sunday for my 24th birthday weekend!

Basically, hitting up the Gap, local winery and Target! Love it.

Photos to follow next week.

{Stay Tuned}

Stuff Under 20 : What you are missing...

2009-11-19T07:00:00.000-08:00

This is what you've been missing if you don't check out my under $20 finds on {Stuff Under 20}.

I am a contributer 0n Thursday's. (Boomerang Thursday's)

Here is last week's post:

Yup, I know this one is from over two weeks ago. I did the board between 'I mean business' and 'Come on over' on my work computer. The images were saved on that computer.

I was off the clock for those wondering.

Make sure to check me out today on {Stuff Under 20}.

{Stay Tuned}

At this desk...

2009-11-18T18:43:00.000-08:00

At this desk...I wrote my most favorite story as a reporter for The Southwest Times, so far.

November is National Adoption month. My editor asked me to contact a local family who has adopted and compose a feature story. Through an organization, Youthville (Kan. non-profit children's welfare organization), I was put in contact with the Wood family.

I had a phenomenal time meeting the Wood's and Diamond and Jasmine. The two-biological sisters were actually first entered into the state as foster care children and placed in a foster care home, the Wood's foster care home.

You might see where this is going. Please check out the story on The Southwest Times website.

It is stories like this that made me want to be a reporter.

P.S. I would've of taken a better photo but I captured this one just as the battery ran dead.

P.S.S. Yes, that is a beautiful Mac desktop.

{Stay Tuned}

Recipe of the Week

2009-11-17T06:02:00.000-08:00

I'm Back....

Well, let's hope. I woke up early to get a post together for today.

Boomerang Recipe of the Week:

Living in Oklahoma (in a small Oklahoma town), I've reconnected with my cooking side. Which is great because I love finding new recipes and trying them out. Now, I even have a taste tester. (Not Tiger Lilly but the Cowboy). So far no complaints.

I made this fall recipe last weekend.

Pumpkin cupcakes with cream cheese frosting (from October's Real Simple Magazine)

(1) 18.5 oz box of yellow cake mix (plus ingredients called for on box)

(1/2) teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

(1) 15 oz. can pumpkin pure (think Libby's)

(2) 8 oz. bars of cream cheese (at room temp)

(2) cups of confectioner's sugar

24 pieces of candy corn

Heat oven at 350 F. Line two (12 cup ) muffin tins with paper liners. Prepare the cake mix as directed but with the following change: Add the pumpkin pie spice and substitute the can of pumpkin puree for the water called for in the package directions.

Divide the batter among the prepared muffin tins and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean, 18 -22 minutes. Let cool.

Meanwhile, using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and sugar until creamy. Spread on the cupcakes and top each with a piece of candy corn.

Tip: I made the cupcakes and stored the icing in the fridge. I would ice the cupcake right before eating.

Boomerang review: Great but would of liked the cupcake to be more moist.

Cowboy's review: Cream cheese icing doesn't match the pumpkin flavor. Would of been better on carrot cake.

Upstairs neighbor: Good

(Apologize for no photo...left my camera at work)

One reason for sharing my recipe comes as I am invited to Thanksgiving with the Cowboy's family. I have not met his family, yet, and I was asked to bring a dessert. Not bringing Pumpkin Pie because that is a given as being already being prepared by someone else. I want to make a great impression and impress everyone with my cooking skills. This is a difficult task as I have never made a pecan pie or other Thanksgiving desserts. Anyone have any sure delicious recipes? Pleas leave a comment and we can connect and share. Thanks in advance for any tips or advice.

{Stay Tuned}

Bridget Jones and I were separated at birth

2009-11-12T16:35:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite movies of all times is Bridget Jones' s Diary. I love Bridget. I can relate to her in so many ways and can quote more then half the movie to anyone.

But my favorite quote of all time is...

Bridget: It is a truth universally acknowledged that when one part of your life starts going okay, another falls spectacularly to pieces.

If you follow me on Twitter then you know I've been known to quote this from a time or two.

If you also follow me on {Twitter}, read the blog or checked out my work on {Stuff Under 20} then you know I've been absent.

Here comes Bridget quotes...

Things are going great. Actually, in some ways more then great. I am enjoying my job. Finally feeling settled in Oklahoma. Dating a hot cowboy. Meeting people. Excited for each day.

But like Bridget says when one area is going right the other begins to fall apart.

For me that would be my connection with technology.

Over the weekend, I some how/my blackberry some how neglected to take in any emails, pic messages, can't get on the internet, Pandora ap doesn't work, I can't check the weather. It can make calls. That is it.

Taking it into Verizon on my lunch break produced nothing because I need my account information which I don't have. That has been really funny to deal with and as of right now it is not fixed.

Monday, I finally made the drive to Beaver, Oklahoma to set up my cable and internet. (Yes another utility in Oklahoma where you must go to the main office and fill out paper work. No online application. No approval over the phone.) I scheduled the installation for Wednesday morning. Wednesday morning came and after an hour service call I was hooked up.

So what am I hooked up with?

All the networks from the Oklahoma City affiliates and the Amarillo affiliates. I get the Weather Channel, CNN, AMC and the Hunting Channel. I kid you not. No Style Network. No Lifetime Movie Network. No Soap Net. But the Hunting Channel.

(Side note, I did get the most basic of cable).

But not until tonight have I really logged on to explore the internet, witnessed my Mac mail listing 334 unread emails or watch my cable TV.

Can I say it is good to be back!

However, say a prayer for my Blackberry. Saturday I will hopefully have time to visit the Verizon store and get that sorted out.

Hopefully, I will get back on schedule with blogging daily with updates on my life, fashion, movies, job and anything that makes me smile.

And last but not least I will not forget to guest blog for {Stuff Under 20} which I did today.

Got to go get a post together.

{Stay Tuned}

Back on schedule

Updating the Boomerang Lady

2009-11-04T14:00:00.000-08:00

It is no secret that I have been horrible at updating my tales.

To be honest I hate the neglect the blog has gotten since mid-October and promise to do better.

But here are the reasons why I haven't updated the blog ...

1. Moved to Oklahoma and have been working full time. Hard to set up internet and cable when you aren't home week days. Also, no roommates to split the cost. Also, found out where I live doesn't have wi-fi. I have to get dial up which means I have to get a phone line. Can you say 1997?

2. My job changed. The newspaper had some shifts in employment and I got switched to Lifestyles editor. What does this mean? I switched desks, have more on my plate on a daily basis and am in charge of wedding announcements. I thought I was taking a break from weddings? But I am still a news reporter all at the same time.

3. I met some one. And not just anyone but some one special. I met him exactly a week after living in Turpin. Three days later we watched a movie and ate pizza. Two days later we went to a haunted house and got Mexican for dinner. One day later we went to the Turpin High School football game. The day after that marked a week I had known him and I made him dinner. Yup, he is fantastic. But the best part is he is a cowboy. An actually cowboy. I'm going to need a whole post dedicated to explaining what a cowboy is. But ladies, YEEE-HAWWW.

What I am trying to say is stick with me. I PROMISE to be back up and running officially Monday.

{Stay Tuned}

Stuff Under 20 : What "to" Wear? This!

2009-10-15T23:41:00.000-07:00

Check me out as a regular contributer on {Stuff Under 20} every Thursday.

{Post I}, {Post II}, {Post III}, {Post IV}, {Post V} and {Post VI}.

{Stay Tuned}

Your opinion matters most. Set the bar high...

2009-10-15T17:23:00.000-07:00

There is nothing worst then when you are disappointed in yourself.

You can make the situation better in your mind if you acknowledge your struggles and losses.

You can also make the situation better if you know how to change it in the future.

Like I said, I have been disappointed in myself. Myself or rather my writing and work for this week. The newspaper is printed three times a week and for each issue I am responsible for writing a story. Completely do able. On top of that I have other tasks but first and foremost I am a reporter. My job is to produce stories. Stories that are good. Stories that are thought provoking. Stories that go above and beyond.

My story for Wednesday's paper was not like that. My story for tomorrow's paper was not like that. I can only hope Sunday's story tells it different.

The truth is the stories weren't horrible. They both ran in the paper. No body told me they were terrible. But just reading them makes me cringe because I know they could be better.

Wednesday's story about the wedding planner and her business was just fluff. Although, interesting I only explored one angle. I didn't ask her questions about the first years of her business or struggles she may have seen in this economic time? Maybe couples in Southwest Kansas are holding back on certain wedding necessities to save money? I didn't ask those questions. I didn't think to.

Tomorrow's story is a numbers story about the births in Seward County (the county Liberal is in). Through research I found out that American's and Kansas' as a whole are reporting less births each year. Basically, couples and women are choosing to not have children. That is not the case in Seward County which has been welcoming more births each year. Interesting right? Not to mention over 52% of the mothers are out-of-wedlock. (I can tell you through looking into other counties and the state of Kansas that is really high. Most counties see 30% out-of-wedlock mothers). Naturally, I contacted the state public health PR person and she emailed me some additional facts, quotes. From there I contacted the only hospital in the county for comments. I called. I emailed. I went into see the PR women for the hospital. She couldn't talk to me. Too busy. I should of been more persistent. But there was a deadline.

The story was written but in my mind I saw holes where there should of been quotes from the hospital.

Which brings me to the story I am to turn in tomorrow for Sunday's paper. It has to be kick-a** and it can be. The Secretary of Transportation for the State of Kansas, Deb Miller, was in town and gave a presentation about plans. This is good and it has to be good for the newspaper.

I leave you now, as I will be transcribing over 50 minutes of tape from earlier today. Reading through government documents and laying out a story to write for tomorrow.

It is going to be kick-a**. Promises all around, I've set the bar high.

{Stay Tuned}

P.S. The Canadian television show, "Being Erica" was on Soap Net last Spring. (Pause for all laughter imagining me curdle up watching Soap Net next to my orange cat on Thursday nights. ) But in one episode someone tells Erica that when it comes down to it, it only really matters what their own opinion is. No body else's.

That stuck with me. I disagreed. I believe it does matter what my parents, family, friends and co-workers opinion's are about me. But thinking about it, what opinion will stick with one the most? Today, I agree it is my own. And while others will always matter and have an influence on my life. I am the only one who's opinion can change my actions. Think about it?

To See Beauty Even in the Common Things of Life

2009-10-15T16:07:00.000-07:00

"To see beauty even in the common things of life"

Attempting to do that and be a real. strong. women.

I look at this daily

2009-10-13T20:19:00.000-07:00

This ended up on my desk on Friday afternoon from my co-workers. Apparently it is a random trophy that no one can explain in the office. And humoring to all that it has found a home on my desk.

It's Tuesday night and I can attest that the trophy is still there. I am not sure what I should do with it. First of all it is rather dusty. Second of all it says "best in show". Third of all the trophy man has large hands. Look closely and you'll notice the hand is larger then the knee.

I am all up for awards on desks but I haven't even brought out the photo of Tiger Lily or my Ohio snowglobe. I wonder for others that don't work in the news room but pass through think the new girl must be full of herself to place a trophy on her desk week 2.

Hope that brings a laugh to you.

JCPenny I Love Your Style : 10/13

2009-10-13T05:30:00.000-07:00

Here I am in small town America complete with JC Penny's, Wal-Mart and a few others. While I do miss a good mall, here is my way of coping. I've decide to check out one of the following stores each week and bring you my pics. Literally. I'll take a pic, say why I like it and pair it with the online information. Don't forget these pics will be judged and will have to earn my approval. So here we go...JCPenny trip Saturday (10. 10) Reported on Fashion Tuesday 10.13

Worthing Shopper

$32.99

It's stylish and comes in great colors for the fall. In my mind it is perfect for daily fall use and with that price you wouldn't get mad if it gets a little messed up. Let's just say you would take it on the subway and sit it on the ground at the zoo. Am I right?

St. John's Bay Cashmere Blend Pea Coat

$89.99 - $99.99

It is cold here in Kansas. I am not joking. 29 degrees last Saturday. My advice, get a coat you love and in a color that's you. Check JCP collection online in a variety of sizes and colors. I like the gold. Think brown gloves, brown bucket hat and dark jeans. Perfect!

a.n.a Long Cardigan

$24.99 - $27.99

I love a good cardigan. They are great for layering and can easily match so many things in our wardrobes. This one is long. Go with long for being more young and trend this season.

{Stay Tuned} Next week Wal-Mart for a little look at Miley's line, Danskin and more.

I moved to KS, met a munchkin, was invited to Church, became front page news, got lost twice and LOVED every minute of it

2009-10-10T15:18:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like moving and starting a job all in the same week.

May I mention that the move happened to be over 1,000 miles away from everything I've ever known and the job was everything I'd ever wanted but never experienced. Yes, stress was on my side to say the least.

But I pushed through and the week went perfect. As I type, I glance over at the clock to see it has officially marked a week in Liberal.

Let me give you the highlights:

The Job: From my opinion, I am doing well. I did ask a ton of questions this week and had some glitches on the computer. But I am pretty sure I didn't mess anything up. I had a story for each paper and edited quite a lot of pages. Not to mention that I even built my first ever page. (Weird accomplishment if you have no idea what I am talking about.) Although, the first day was a little rough and well, Wednesday when I couldn't figure out how to work the camera. Oh and then there was Friday, when I had to call the office because I had gotten a bit lost while out on assignment. Other then those moments of feeling like an idiot and wondering if my co-workers were thinking "Why did they hire her?", I have to say the week went great. Plus I really like what I am doing and can't wait for more to come.

The Housing Crisis of 2009: For those that don't know I am currently living in a hotel. The newspaper has been nice enough to pay my stay at a hotel for up to 14 days. Although, I never imagined I would take them up on the whole 14 days it has since become that way. I spent much of my downtime this week looking at places, driving around and discussing my options with my parents. It came down to the townhouse that I really liked and a house that was just so-so. But there were problems with each. The townhouse was unavailable till November 1st. Then there was the landlord who quoted my mom on the phone at $525, quoted me in person at $595 and then, when I checked out his website it was listed at $575. I don't play numbers games. I asked him about it and he shut me down saying it was $595. I felt really uneasy signing a lease for it because I felt like I was getting ripped off. Who's to know what he might make me pay for later! My mom credits the fluctuating pricing based on how I was dressed when I met him. Perhaps if I had shown up in jeans and a Kansas City Chief's t-shirt it would have been $525. But my heels, dress pants, sweater set and nice sunglasses said $595. My dad said it was small town and that the landlord must figure he could get away with it. I just felt like it was a no win situation. Plus it was more then I had originally planed on spending.

On Thursday, I put the application in for the house which was available for move in. The house was older but it was nicely kept up inside. Outside, another story. But, I am not trying to be on the cover of Midwest Living. Friday, I called the office to check up on my application. I had figured 24 hours would be a sufficient time to do a credit check and call references. But the women went on to tell me that she should of told me the following: they had leased the house to someone else on Wednesday and it was no longer available. Should of told me? Heck yes, you should of. And the fact that I had to call. What if I had passed on something else for this house?

My head was spinning at work the rest of the day as I got off the phone with the relator for the house. What was I going to do? There was hardly anything available to rent in this town. There aren't too many apartment units. Liberal is mostly composed of neighborhoods with homeowners. I spoke with my parents on Friday evening and it was a tough conversation. They were upset to hear the house hadn't worked out and none of us were happy about the townhouse. But we did make a game plan. A listing to appear in the Sunday paper (thank God I have access to that stuff) was for a 2 bedroom, one bath, washer, dryer apartment for $475 and included water. I called Friday night. My mom called Friday night. Saturday morning he got back to me. 1 p.m. Saturday I saw it. PERFECT! Great sized bedrooms, nice kitchen, built 14 years ago, decent bathroom, large living room, available next Saturday and nice neighborhood. Although, it isn't official yet, this could be my new residence.

Keep your fingers crossed. Funny thing about it. It happens to be in Oklahoma. (Not too weird though because Liberal is 3 miles from the border and well, the apartment is in Turpin, Oklahoma, 13 miles from Liberal.)

As for the rest of it:

My first night in town I called Pizza Hut and asked for carry out. Got lost on the way there. Should of done delivery.
This weekend marked the 70th year of the movie, The Wizard of Oz. I am in the home of Dorothy and it was OZFEST this weekend. One of the movies munchkins was in town on Friday and I went and took photos for the newspaper.
I went to the local furniture store in Liberal looking to purchase a mattress. I found one and am having it delivered somewhere next weekend. The furniture sales people were very nice and got me free delivery. Of course, they did ask me if I had found a church community yet. This is funny to me because if you have scene the movie New in Town, Renee Zellweger's character gets asked the same thing shortly after moving to Minnesota. I said no but will keep that in mind.
I did make the front page with not only the byline but on the actual paper. Which lead me to get remarks by four different people in town that they knew who I was. Although the photo is horrible, the story is not. Please check out my links on the right hand side under The Southwest Times for all articles I write and any that might included me.
Stories from my week of work included prairie dogs, breast cancer awareness and 212 lbs. pumpkins. Ask me about any of those topics and I am an expert.
Had that first glimpse of true small town life. I went to the grocery store on Friday night. I was a bit upset about the housing issue of earlier in the day and had worked till 7 p.m. So I picked up some mac & cheese, a Milky Way candy bar and a 6 pack of Bud Light Lime. Only to approach the check lines to see a very prominent politician in town that I had met only a few hours earlier. Thinking this would look bad in the sense of possible unhealthy eater and boozer, I ducked into the Hallmark Card aisle. I don't think he saw me. And really the mac & cheese just sounded good and heats up in a hotel microwave well, the candy bar was for my chocolate craving and the beer was for a beverage celebration of finishing up a week of work. Kill me?
Saturday, I woke up early to cover the 5k Toto Trot. It was 29 degrees with ice all over my car and raining. I scrapped my VW Bug and spilled hot coffee on my right hand. I'm fine but thank you early season cold front. Can't wait to move next weekend.

If your still reading then your a very good friend, a very faithful blog reader, a bored individual with some kind of computer freeze going on, or a potential stalker. Thanks for reading. Thanks for the support. I've revamped the blog a bit for next week and have some new regular features beginning. As always...

{Stay Tuned}

Kansas' American Character

2009-10-08T17:10:00.000-07:00

Want to know more about small town newspapers in the middle of America?

Then please watch the three minute video clip below from Tom Brokaw's "American Character" series that was aired on NBC Nightly News Wednesday night. The clip is about a certain Kansas newspaper. Although not The Southwest Times it does share a lot of similarities to the community I cover.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

If you have trouble viewing the video please click {here} and scroll down for the "Small-town sensibility saves the daily newspaper" segment to watch it on NBC's website.

{Stay Tuned}

Gee, I wonder how Laura is?

2009-10-07T16:12:00.000-07:00

Find yourself wondering what Laura is up to these days? It is alright if you said no. But either way this post is filled with updates. So like it or not here are updates from my new career at {The Southwest Times}.

My first article was printed in Wednesday's paper and it was about Black-tailed Prairie Dogs. Interested? Well, if so you can check it out on the newspaper's website {here}.

Not interested in prairie dogs? Then here's something a bit more Laura for you. The newspaper apparently writes a story about their newest employee shortly after each new employee comes on board. So you guessed it. I made the front page. While the article probably includes many things you already know about me, the picture is a bit depressing. I usually can be found smiling or laughing but for this photo, I was told to look serious. (Personally, I always found serious photos of myself to translated as looking severally depressed and unhappy. I am just usually a smily individual and can take wonderful shots with my pearl whites showing.) Anyways click over to read about me {here}.

{Stay Tuned}

"Straight off the boat"

2009-10-05T17:56:00.000-07:00

As I was driving back to my hotel room tonight I thought about today and summed it up in the words...I am "straight off the boat" and laughed a bit to myself.

If you've been around me you know I use the term "straight off the boat" here and there to describe people that act like they don't know. What I mean by "they don't know" is that they are new to our land and unfamiliar with our ways.

Well, I am new to this land and definitely unfamiliar in the ways of Liberal.

I went to my first day of work today to find my boss out on a sick day and the business manager to be not in. The typical fill out this paper work, sign an anti-sexual harassment form and be explained Human Resource required info did not happen. I was informed of a County Commissioners meeting I was suppose to cover in the evening and spent the morning reading the over 40 page agenda with proposals and documents. With main point of interest surrounding a black tailed prairie dog. An hour lunch led me to come back to gather more info for another possible story and to read through Kansas laws on open records and open meetings. So that's what I did at work today.

Later in the afternoon, I met with a relator that showed me a house for rent. As of right now it is my second choice and I told the relator I would touch base with her on Wednesday with my decision. I am viewing a townhouse tomorrow and am leaning towards it as of right now. (Townhouse has washer/dryer that I can walk to in housing area and no lawn care) Then I attended the County Commissioners meeting and went straight back to my hotel.

Can you say tired?

And that was when I chuckled and thought I have that "straight off the boat" look and feeling.

But the truth is "straight off the boat" is not bad. You have to have that "straight off the boat" experiences in order to become savvy, knowledgeable, trained, skilled and confident. At least that is how I see it. I have never gone into any job I've had before and left on the first day saying "piece of cake". It is challenges and something different each day that makes work teach us something and leads us to learn. I learned a lot today. I got a feeling for my new office environment, my possible stories for the next week and a flash of what my career here in Liberal will be like. I am ready for tomorrow where I will write the story of the black tail prairie dog. But first I need to get some sleep.

{Stay Tuned}

It took more then just clicking...

2009-10-05T05:30:00.001-07:00

As one might guess it took more then just clicking my heels to get to Kansas!

It took hard work, hours on hours of driving, Pandora for Blackberry to bring the tunes, AAA trip tick, and fast food across America to get to Kansas. But I now can safely say myself and Tiger Lily are in Liberal, Kansas and ready to get this chapter of our lives going.

Last week, I did all the basics of getting ready for the move. I opened a new bank account, got a new cell phone, got my car checked out (oil changed), figured out travel, got my Nordstrom fix, spent time with family and friends, got my hair cut, called Realtors in Liberal, packed and well, the list could go on. Friday, I packed the car. But I should tell you I drive a VW New Beattle and well, packing that car can be a challenge. But I got all the things I wanted to get in. Clothing, shoes, handbags, cat, cat's stuff, comforter, limited dishes and drink ware, Mac Book, towels, sheets, little TV, DVD player, heater, my iPod stereo, books, a few DVD's, and a few other things. It was a tight squeeze but it all made it.

Friday, I spent the day making the 9 hour drive to Kansas City. I drove through Southern Indiana to Indianpolis, then on to Terra Haute to cross into Illinois. From Illinois, I followed I-70 to St. Louis. Once in St. Louis, at 5 o'clock, I hit traffic. But made it through to continue making the treck through the "Show Me State". Once crossing the border into Kansas, I spent the night at a La Quinta.

Saturday, I woke up to sunshine and in a very nice suburb of Kansas City. A stop at Panera insured good Hazelnut coffee and an egg and cheese sandwich. Thank God I filled up on gas because the once on I-35 to Wichita...there is nothing. Honestly, boring drive. No billboards, 30 miles to the next exit and just me and Tiger Lily thanking God for the invention of downloading Pandora on the Blackberry because there are no stations. (Actually we thank former roommate Courtney J for the text message explaining how awesome it is.) Once in Wichita I knew my way and got on Kansas State Route 54 all the way to Liberal. TL and I made it at 5 pm. Checking into out hotel room and calling it quits for the night.

Sunday, I drove around town and check out possibly living situations. I am currently in a hotel till I find something. The newspaper offered to bored me at a hotel for two weeks. I think I made the right call waiting and didn't line something up from over the phone. One house specifically today did not live up to potential. It desperately needed a new paint job and had yard work that yelled don't go to this house when trick or treating even if the porch light it on.

Today, I start work and well, that means I need to go.

{Stay Tuned}

Above are some pics from this past week. We begin with packing up my room, packing the car, the drive, a few highlights of Liberal and sleepy Tiger Lily. Click on image to get larger view.

Weekend Shout Out

2009-10-03T05:30:00.000-07:00

I have to give a "shout" out and an "electronic" high-five to Kirstin!

Kirstin and I worked together for a year at Southern Weddings/Bliss Event Group. And what a year that was! With desks right next to each other, being the same age, traveling together and being roomies for a month in May, it was only natural that we became friends. Kirstin is an incredible person and is so talented with event design. (So ladies getting married call Kirstin for your event planner.) But about two weeks ago she became the newest employee of{Weddings Unveiled Magazine} as the chief blogger for their fantastic blogsite {Completely Unveiled by Weddings Unveiled Magazine}. She brings a lot to this blog site and I can't wait to see it take off. I anticipate amazing weddings covered.

{Stay Tuned}

P.S. Kirstin and I use to joke and look through Weddings Unveiled and be so jealous of their layout, advertisers, weddings and more.

Mary Kate and Ashley Called

2009-09-29T21:18:00.000-07:00

If Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen called me and asked me to get lunch this is what I would wear. I would attempt the whole bohemian look but this is as bohemian as I would get.

I found the dress on J.C. Penny's website and thanks to Harper's Bazaar Magazine and their top 6 trends of fall, know that floral dresses are a must have. But if your like me (poor), snap one off the summer clearance rack that can be used in layering and it becomes a fall piece. Check out all the items above on {Stuff Under 20} as I was their guest blogger today!

{Post I}, {Post II}, {Post III}, {Post IV}, {Post V} and {Post VI}

{Stay Tuned}

P.S. Like Stuff Under 20? Me too! And guess what? They like me! So much that they asked me to be a permanent blogger on their site. More details to follow here.

How did I land a job?

2009-09-28T05:30:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate to get a few snippets of why The Southwest Times hired me as their newest reporter during my interview process. I want to take the time to share it because I think it might be helpful for others in future interview process.

Enthusiasm. They said I was the most enthusiastic person they interviewed during the phone interview process. My reaction: I was nervous for the phone interview but I was excited I had an interview. Plus they were asking me questions about my past experience and why I wanted to be a reporter. Hello, I got to talk about myself. That was easy. As silly as this next part is going to sound I am going to go ahead and type it. When I worked at Target as the store operator, I was told to smile when I answered the phone. They said the smile would come across into my voice. Try it sometime. It actually works.
Getting the Scoop. For the phone interview process, I was given a few examples of a possible story and was then told to explain what I would do to get "the scoop". I said I would first do research and find out what the background of the incident was. Then I would contact all parties involved for an interview and from there have the story. Apparently, in one example that was given to all ten phone interview candidates I was the only one that said I would begin with research and speak to all parties involved. Everyone else just said they would only contact the main influential player. Elon taught me that a creditable story is one with multiple sources and research. That was such a standard answer for me and one I thought everyone else would give as well.
Question Master. They said I asked questions and good ones. I asked not only about the newspaper but about the community and the area. Well, considering I had never heard of Liberal till about a week ago that came natural for me. And while, I guess asking if Liberal had been effected by H1N1 or the current economic downfall of this country sounded like I wanted to know about possible news stories, I actually just was curious if I needed to bring Purell and to brace myself for what kind of status this town was in.

Bottom line, interview process was just very natural for me. I answered truthfully and was myself the entire time. I didn't try to be something I wasn't or present myself in a false light. And that's the best piece of advise I can pass on.

{Stay Tuned}

P.S. Only one reported case of H1N1 in the county and Liberal was not effected very heavily by economic hard times. The main industry there is meat packing (think Kansas City Beef) and well, people aren't stopping to eat beef these days.

Leaving Kansas...for a week

2009-09-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

I am leaving today to go back to Ohio. How things have changed since last week. I am leaving Kansas with a whole new plan for the next week, month and year of my life. I am officially moving to Kansas the Weekend of October 2nd and begin work on Monday, October 5th. Basically in a week I will be back in Kansas. My goal today is to figure out and make a decision on housing before I head out of town for the drive to Wichita. Flying from Wichita to Ohio tonight. I'll keep everyone posted. I have a few options that I did research a bit on Thursday. But need to do further research and make sure Tiger Lilly can live with me.

I want to thank all my friends, Twitter friends, and blog readers for all their on going support and encouraging comments this week. I did get some questions and I'll go ahead and answer them at this time.

Yes, I will continue to blog. Hello, exciting things are on the horizon and I want you all to know.

No, I will not be changing my blog name. People know me as the Boomerang Lady and well, you could say I am boomeranging to Kansas.

Yes, my parents are completely on board. They have been very supportive and they can tell how pumped and excited I am. I think that helped a lot.

Yes, still be guest blogging for {Stuff Under Twenty}.

Probably be pulling back on The Examiner and I did officially call the Gap store in Cincinnati and quit. I only held that job for one week! Felt bad about it but it was always a "something in the meantime".

Anymore questions leave them here and I promise to answer. Anyways got to get a move on.

{Stay Tuned}

P.S. Photo above from the entrance of Dorothy's house and below is Munch-kin land.

And I Can't Get "Sequin Shoes" Out of My Mind

2009-09-24T16:55:00.000-07:00

Leave it to Dorothy Gale of my new town, Liberal, Kansas to inspire this post. Dorothy will always be known for Ruby Red Slippers. Well, Dorothy red is great and all but I think it might be a little to "lady of the night" for my taste. Here's the deal I'll wear sequins on my feet but more along the lines of silver, gold and black colors. Check these out.

Kansas born Kate Spade knows her roots with these sequin, satin and bow, 3 inch Sling back heels. {Carly} A steep $375
I'll take some {Sequin Ribbon Booties} from Charlotte Russe. At $29.99 I think these are perfect for a little night out on the town.
Not in the mood for a sparkly bootie, then {Peep Toe Sequin Heels} from Windsor might be your style. Apparently these sequins change from silver to black. Priced at $34.90.
Jones New York {My Hero Sequined Flat} comes with a mixture of silver and gold. Therefore no worries on matching your jewelry. Priced at $49.99 on DSW.com.

{Stay Tuned} I'll let you know if I get a sparkly pair of new shoes.

P.S. Photo above from inside Dorothy's house. That would be Dorothy's bedroom and notice her rudy red slippers.

Somewhere Over the Rainbow...

2009-09-23T17:16:00.000-07:00

You know the song. "Somewhere Over the Rainbow". Well, that somewhere over the rainbow is Liberal, Kansas for me. Today, in Liberal I interviewed for a reporter position with The Southwest Times. And in Liberal, today, my somewhere over the rainbow, I got offered a job!

Newspaper reporter: covering specifically the county government meetings, the school board, the hospital and general assignments that come up with feature writing. Pay is good. Benefits, yes are available. The staff young. The desk comes with a Mac with Adobe programs. The newspaper is owned by a media company that most of their papers are in the South (which included papers in Georgia/Kentucky...so future newspapers jobs are looking my way). It is perfect!

Not perfect is being so far away from my parents, sister, friends, and everything I know. But this is just too good of an offer. This is the opportunity. This is where I need to be. And that is why I am accepting the position tomorrow morning.

Move over Dorothy, I am coming to Kansas and I am bring Tiger Lily. So warn Totto she is a feisty little orange cat. Coming to begin my "Somewhere Over the Rainbow...skies are blue. And the dreams that you dare to dream. Really do come true."

"That's where you'll find me."

{Stay Tuned} Move is early October!

Guest Blogging on Stuff Under 20 (Third Times A Charm)

2009-09-22T19:08:00.000-07:00

If you happened to check out the very awesome fashion blog {Stuff Under 20} then you know...I was yet again N & S 's guest blogger today! Check me out!

{Post I}, {Post II}, {Post III}, {Post IV}, {Post V} and {Post VI}.

I wanted to create a look for getting drinks with friends on say a Thursday night. Thinking about the colder temperatures upon us, I went with dark denim, sleeveless top but paired with a cute cardigan to keep us warm. I had to thrown in a little detail and we all know I am a fan of the flower jewelry. Not to mention, I love this Target tote. Regretting I did not buy one over 2 weeks ago. Hope you like this look.

{Stay Tune}

P.S. I made it to Kansas! So far so good!

A Little Hectic

2009-09-21T15:00:00.000-07:00

The days before an interview is always a little hectic.

You want to mentally prepare. Research the company. Have questions ready.

You want to be interview ready. Simple jewelry. Professional suit or outfit. Nails done. Hair and make-up looking good.

You want to know how to get there, confirm times and who is interviewing you.

Well, when you do that for an "out of town" job and one that happens to be a plane ride away...it suddenly becomes a lot more hectic. Am I packing everything I might possibly need?

As of right now the packing is half done. Got to iron a few items tonight and stick them in my bag along with toiletries in the morning. So I am basically ready. But the key word is "I". My parents on the other hand aren't exactly.

Mom, Dad and I sat down for a talk today and let's just say they have quite a lot of concerns.

The distance
I'll get paid peanuts
I'll hate it
After a few months I'll get laid off due to the economy
I wouldn't be home for the holidays
I'll be taken advantage of professionally
I wouldn't know anyone in a five hour radius
Adjusting to small town life

The list could continue. My parents have valid points and are being lets say "very protective". But it is quite difficult to hear these things from my parents because I feel like they don't think I, myself, haven't already thought of them.

I tossed and turned in bed on Thursday night thinking about it all. I know what I am up against. Pretty much all things mentioned above. I've thought about them. But the truth is I've tackled many of these issues last year working in Chapel Hill. I've know that this was a pretty likely picture of what my next career move would be. You have to start small. Nothing in my situation is forever and I truly believe this opportunity wouldn't have come to me with out myself suppose to be getting something out of it. Make sense?

Tomorrow off to Kansas! Let's tackle the interview, have fun and really get to see all Liberal has to offer. Then I'll get to the very valid issues.

{Stay Tune}

Hello, beautiful Nordstrom

2009-09-18T05:30:00.000-07:00

Nordstrom comes to Cincinnati in one week! Hello, beautiful!

You may remember that I am a huge Nordstrom fan. Last weekend, I got a sneak peak look at the store as Nordstrom's Lingerie department opened their doors for a "Nordstrom Fits America" event. I was fitted, got to taste coffee's from their little coffee shop, tasted some back goods from the restaurant and even purchased a bra with proceeds going to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

While we were only welcomed into the Lingerie department I did peak around. Although not all departments have been set the store is looking beautiful and I can't wait for the doors to open on September 25th at 10 A.M.

{Stay Tuned} Although, broke and living at home I might just make a fashion must have purchase at Nordstrom in the next few weeks. Besides the lovely violet bra.

Welcome to Hysteria! A Thursday in my life!

2009-09-17T11:55:00.000-07:00

This is one of those where do I even begin kind of stories.

But we could start here. A few weeks ago I read an article that said apply to all jobs (even the ones your not qualified for). Your odds become greater in achieving a position with the more positions you apply for.

Or we could start here. With President Obama's speech on Tuesday in Lordstown, Ohio...

"But I want you all to know, I will not rest until anybody who's looking for a job can find one -- and I'm not talking about just any job, but good jobs that give every American decent wages and decent benefits and a fair shot at the American Dream. (Applause.) That's what I'm fighting for every single day. (Applause.) " -President Obama

My first reaction, was like "Okay Obama!" as I watched it on {NBC Nightly News}. But about an hour after got a phone call from Liberal, Kansas. The Southwestern Times called to say they would like to schedule a phone interview for the following day. Yes, I said. I was literally flabbergasted. This was for a reporter position I had emailed and applied to less then 24 hours ago.

Where is Liberal? I didn't even know! It was just a job I applied for never thinking they would contact me or even if they did so soon. But their ad on {JournalismJobs.Com} asked for everything I was. And it was for everything I was looking for.

But I soon found out where Liberal is. It happens to be Western Kansas near Oklahoma, Colorado and closes major city is Amarillo, Texas. It is also a 16 hour drive from Loveland, Ohio.

My Mom had quite the reaction. But it is best if I save that for another blog post.

The phone interview was Wednesday at Noon. The news editor called me and asked me a variety of questions concerning past employment, my education and what I was interested to do. He also gave me scenarios and asked about who I would interview first and what angle I would take to that particular story. I felt so at ease and answered all the questions truthful. I just felt it went so well. I was excited about this. But the whole Kansas thing was a factor in the back of my mine. As many of you know I had been in this same spot before and I mean earlier this summer. It could be I never hear from this particular newspaper again. Count it like the others as a learning process. I told myself let's just see what happens here.

More happened.

A bit before noon today, the publisher of the newspaper called me and invited me to Kansas personally for a in-person interview. This phone call went very well in the sense that he explained the position a bit more to me. I will be officially interviewing on Wednesday but arriving on Tuesday and having a follow-up interview on Thursday. The newspaper is paying for my stay while in Liberal next week. But if I get the position, they would pay for a two weeks stay at a local hotel until I found housing. And they would advance me first months rent and utilities until I got seattle. Plus don't forget the salary is good for the location and I get full benefits.

Now before you get all (Charlottesville area Virginia) on me. I know this is a complete leap of faith. But I have to say, the publisher said to me on the phone today that they don't invite people to interview in-person without seriously considering the candidate. He said he felt this was more for my benefit with confirming that I could like living in Liberal and was at ease with working with the staff already on board. The truth is that I might be offered the position if all goes well next week. I can determine how well it goes.

My head was completely spinning at Noon. It has been spinning all day since. I am not even sure if this blog post is going to come out coherent. But that is the back story of today. The rest of the day has been trying to figure out how to be in Liberal next week and what to do about the Gap (my part-time job that I started on Sunday).

Figuring out how to get there was the easy part.

Tuesday: Fly from Dayton, Ohio to Wichita, Kansas on AirTran Airways. Arrive in Wichita at 12:30 P.M. and rent a car with Avis. Drive the 3 hours from Wichita to Liberal and be there by 4 P.M.

And then on Friday (reverse it).

The Gap = Hard Part. I just started (this past Sunday) and am scheduled next Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday! But I did the right thing and called the store's General Manager and completely told her the truth. I explained it all. She was so great about it and we ended on the lines of if the position in Kansas doesn't work out to call and I would be placed on the schedule. I just felt horrible about it but I can't not go to Kansas. This could be the break I have been waiting for.

With that said...I am taking a leap of faith and going for it all. I am feeling so good about this. I am excited and want this to happen. Everything happens for a reason. I promise to keep all my readers, friends, family and more posted on everything next week. I promise stories, photos of Liberal and more.

{Stay Tuned}

P.S. I told you the life of a Boomerang Lady is never boring. Am I right?

P.S.S. Think you have heard of Liberal? Well, it is the official home of Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz. Not even kidding!

And I Can't Get "Chain Strap Handbags" Out of My Mind

2009-09-17T05:30:00.000-07:00

Oh la la....I love these!

I cannot get the chain styled handbag strap out of my mine! I have been seeing it everywhere and from every designer to every Mall styled store. But here are my six picks!

Who doesn't love a little color? Obviously not Michael Kors and his Jamesport Small Shoulder Bag in Marigold Yellow. Priced at $174.
Animal print anyone? New York and Company have created this City Style Chain Strap Zebra Satchel at $39.50.
Tory Burch knows how to make a bag to go out on the town with and in real leather. Check out this Leather Reva Clutch at a steep $350 from Sak's but the leather is super soft and has Tory's traditional trademark symbol on the front flap.
For those who like a lot of color in their handbags take a look at the MAXX New York Small Chain Shoulder Bag from Nordstrom at $43.90.
BCBG did it with not only a chain like style shoulder strap but with a braided style also. This BCBGeneration Shoulder Bag is available on Overstock.Com for $34.99.
There are handbags and then there are Kate's handbags. I love this Kate Spade Bon Vivant Lilia Patent Leather Tote from Sak's at $425. It might be the color, the size, the shinny patent leather or maybe the sweet little bow that ties it all together.
I see this as the ultimate club bag this fall. The shoulder strap can go across the body...great for dancing. And it is ultra cool and you can tell all your friends it was made from recycled leather jackets! Leave it to Urban Outfitters to be that cool. Urban Renewal Leather Chain Strap Bag at $38.
For those that want a bag they can carry all the time then take a look at Nine West Ranya Medium Satchel at $61.99. It comes in black, tan and a nice light blue. The shape is very classic and has nice side compartments.

(Stay Tuned)

Let me paint you a picture of my generation...

2009-09-16T13:48:00.000-07:00

While career searching online I found an article with some results I think we all might be a little bit interested in.

The article "1 in 3 Young Workers Live With Their Parents" by Ellie Behling was quite interesting and entertaining with stats like the following:

Thirty-one percent of surveyed young workers reported being uninsured, up from 24% 10 years ago (almost half cited the reason as being unable to afford it). (Guilty)
Twenty-four percent make less than they need just to pay their monthly bills, up from 10% in 1999 (only 31% make enough to pay bills and put money aside—down 22 percentage points from 1999). (True a year ago...or basically what I brought in went to supporting myself)
More than one in three young workers live with their parents. (True since August)
More than half (51%) of young workers do not have a retirement plan, up from 41% in 1999. (Retirement? I am just trying to get through 2009!)

Does anyone feel like Bridget Jones in the scene at a dinner party when she begins to be harped on for being single. Bridget asks "Is it 1 in 4 marriages or 1 in 3 marriages that ends in divorce?" When Mark answers, "1 in 3". I feel like my next outing with people my own age may now go similarly.

{Stay Tuned} as I attempt to fly the coup.

I am Back...at the Gap

2009-09-15T15:20:00.000-07:00

I decided to let God play this one out. On September 1st, 2009 I applied to work at a Gap store in Cincinnati. I previously worked at the store at Southpoint in Durham. Although, I am trying to get a "real" job I needed something in the mean time. Labor Day I got the call to set up an interview. Wednesday I interviewed and left thinking the interview had been horrible. (It ended up being a group interview with myself always answering the questions second. I felt like I kept agreeing and had no great answers from the other interviewee.) But somehow I must have done decent because Saturday they called offering me a position and Sunday I started! Quick, ehh?

I have to say I was surprisingly chipper as I got ready for work on Sunday. I was not nervous but excited to start and get back in the groove of working. I really had enjoyed my past experience at the Gap Durham. I made great friends, had fun at work, loved the discount and enjoyed my job. I especially love helping older women who say they could never fit into Gap Jeans and then I bring them a few to try and they fall in love with one pair! Those were my favorite customers!

I am back...at the Gap! If your in the Cincinnati area stop by the Rookwood store and say, Hi!

But for those that might ask the question about the job search, Examiner, Guest Blogging, Blogging in general, I plan on continuing to do all the above. I am just going to have some extra cash, meet people, have some 1969 denim and feel like apart of society again.

{Stay Tuned}

Guest Blogging on Stuff Under 20

2009-09-14T17:00:00.000-07:00

It happened again! I was a Guest Blogger on the incredible {Stuff Under 20} blog today! So please check out my six posts and the great casual Fall look I put together.

{Post I}, {Post II}, {Post III}, {Post IV}, {Post V} and {Post VI}.

If you click on the above links you will get links that will lead you straight to purchase these fantastic pieces.

{Stay Tuned}

P.S. This is a look under $100 at $81.79

What am I suppose to make of this?

2009-09-14T05:30:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I received the above letter in the mail. While I love to get mail this one is confusing in the sense of is it good news or bad news?

It comes from The Courier newspaper of Findlay, Ohio. I applied for a reporter position with their newspaper earlier in the week.

But this is what the letter says: "Yes, I'm sorry, this is a form letter. But I wanted to give you the courtesy of a reply to your application and to tell you we will consider it. We will get back to you only if we have questions or if we would like to have you in for an interview. Good luck to you."

What to make of this? Good news to know that the newspaper received the items I sent up their way but bad news in the sense that they are still considering it and will only get back to me with either questions or an interview. Then the letter ends with a "Good Luck to you". Mix signals.

{Stay Tuned} I'll keep you all posted!

What makes me smile on a Friday

2009-09-11T09:04:00.000-07:00

A lot of things make me smile. InStyle's 15 Year Anniversary September Issue, The Thursday Night Drinking Club, Pumpkins at the grocery store, snail mail, flavored coffee, Tiger Lily laying in the sun, *a morning run (*well some of the time), and the list could go on and on.

But here are some highlights that specifically happened yesterday...

A text message from a friend that said she had lined up an interview! Congratulations and knock them dead. (Yes, my phone is very circa 2002)

Another inspiring 24 year old made it in the media. The Daily Beast hired a Lucas Whittmann as the new Books Editor. Whittmann comes from serving two years as an editorial assistant at as publishing house. Read the story on {The New York Observer}. Again, editorial assistant is an entry level job with a college degree.

My third article went up on the Cincinnati Examiner. Check it out. Which celebrity has turned designer this fall?

Also, I updated my links on the right side of my page. When I first created this blog I listed several wedding blogs and while I still look at wedding blogs I acknowledge that many of my readers might not. Check them out. There are some great ones in there.

Happy Weekend!

(Stay Tuned} I promise some great posts next week.

Movie: Groundhog Day

2009-09-09T12:12:00.000-07:00

"What would you do if you were stuck in one place and everyday was exactly the same and nothing you did mattered?"

-Bill Murray, Groundhog Day

I now understand. It is what the unemployed feel every day. Here, we are waking up every day with the objected to get a job. So we do the same routine daily. Check online search engines, read the classifieds, hope for a happy email, get rejected and then we do it again. We do it again, because we have to keep going. But what are we going to do about it? How are we going to make it matter?

The only answer I can give is make it matter. Keep a positive outlook and remember that good things will come. And in the meantime, find something that does matter like say begin a blog about your struggles, hardships, life goals and random thoughts.

You now know why I am here.

{Stay Tuned}

P.S. Bill Murray eventually does get unstuck, the day is different and what he does mattered.

Stuff Under 20 Guest Blogger, The Examiner, Nick Lachey, College Football and The Gap!

2009-09-08T14:44:00.000-07:00

I've been very excited to announce that today on {Stuff Under 20} I am a guest blogger! Please check out all six of my posts and leave a comment if you like my stuff. Last month, Lexi from {The Motherload} sent me a Twitter message to let me know she had heard that N & S from {Stuff Under 20} were looking for guests bloggers. Of course, I jumped at the chance to be apart of their amazing blog and was ecstatic to hear they thought I would make a great guests blogger.

I wanted to go with a theme (even though not required) and I wanted it to be trendy, timely, and include accessories. So I went with the jewel tones of fall. Check out {Post I}, {Post II}, {Post III}, {Post IV}, {Post V} and {Post VI}.

In other updates, my second article went live on {The Examiner Cincinnati}. Please check it out when you get a chance. I recently heard about a stylist who did a 31 day experiment of wearing the same black dress and changing the look each day with different accessories. The end result is quite good and I think it shows how great an outfit can be by just adding something extra like a belt, hand bag, necklace, watch or scarf.

On Sunday, I got a call from The Gap store in Cincinnati I applied to. Guest what? They scheduled an interview with me. I'll let you know what becomes of my interview and possible employment back at the Gap.

Back tracking a little in my week, I final had a very Cincinnati experience. {Nick Lachey} is from Cincinnati and comes back in town quite often. My Mom saw Nick and Jessica Simpson once at a restaurant. My Dad saw Nick at the airport once. But I had yet to "see him". On Thursday, my friends and I were leaving a bar in downtown Cincinnati and I look ahead on the street to see Nick. At first I was wondering how I recognized that person. But then it hit me! It was Nick! And Vanessa!

Lastly, I did want to share a few photos of my College Football Saturday. I went to the University of Kentucky vs. Miami University game at Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati. Final Score 42-0 Kentucky. C - A - T- S! Cats! Cats!

{Stay Tuned}

Let's Boomerang Back to My Former Career Part III

2009-09-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

Last May I worked on quite a wedding. A wedding fit for a king and queen or for a NFL football player and his wife. I snapped these shots of the reception room as set-up was coming to an end. This wedding was quite the set-up. We had rain. The day-off team (aka Friday, Saturday and Sunday team) worked through rain to unload the trucks with all the furniture on Friday. On Saturday, we had to go with a last minute change of an indoor ceremony. With a late start to the ceremony and reception, we cleaned up till 5:30 A.M. on Sunday morning. No Joke! Don't ask me if I slept that weekend!

Can you say a little stressful and full of working under pressure?

When reading job descriptions online and seeing the "must be able to work under pressure" I laugh a little. You'll never know what it is like to work well under pressure until you've worked a wedding. (And throw in a guest list of 200, last minute ceremony change, a bar situation at 9 P.M. , and well, a few more issues and you have this wedding.) Despite the issues it turned out beautiful and with pictures of an event that was a true party.

Please head over to the photographer, {Ross Oscar Knight's}, blog posts {Post I} and {Post II}to see all the shots of the beautiful bride and groom. Love the shots of the flowers and bouquets. I loved the royal purple!

{Stay Tuned}

Job "Frenzy"

2009-09-04T07:30:00.000-07:00

I am going to be honest, I don't know what job "frenzy" means. I just feel like I have heard it in passing recently and I nod my head like I know what we are referring to. I even goggled "Job Frenzy" and found no clear definition but a website. Maybe it will help a few of us out. It is a job search engine. {Click here to check it out}.

But the really reason I am blogging about this on a Friday is because I am having a fantastic week in the job search. Now, before you get all congratulations on me beware I said "job search". I have found splendid jobs to apply for this week. Jobs I know I can do, do well and want to do. Not to mention the locations are ideal (Greensboro, NC, Cincinnati, New York, Northern Ohio, Washington D.C.). If I could land an interview with any of them, I would be happier then a bride on her wedding day. Anyways, I am having the greatest end of the week. I really feel joyful and optimistic about what might come. But I have to say a lot of it comes from my wonderful friends/readers. I got a few emails this week really inspiring me to keep going. Then there was the change of heart on {September 1st} and the inspiring article you should read.

I do have to congratulate two of my friends who earlier this year both experienced the job lay off thing and months of unemployment. Both received word on Friday, August 21st about offers for jobs. Both started training this week. I am convinced that both will kick butt and be stellar. Congrats to Courtney J and Steffanie.

On to my weekend. This weekend has always marked the final weekend of summer for me. So as I embark on this holiday weekend with plans so fall, I wonder where summer went? The sister is coming home from a month away at college and Saturday, we are all headed down to the river to watch "Rumble on the River", a college football match between Miami University and University of Kentucky. C-A-T-S! Cats! Cats! (No, I did not make that up.)

May your holiday weekend be full of whatever season you hope it to be!

{Stay Tuned}

My Very First Examiner Article

2009-09-03T12:54:00.000-07:00

My first Examiner article went live today. It said it would take a few days but it didn't.

Anyways, it is a quick read about ladies ankle boots for fall and previews the four I like. Please click over when you have a chance and support me as the {Cincinnati Accessories Examiner}. You can also read my bio while there or leave a comment, like a Kirstin did a few short minutes after it was posted.

{Stay Tuned}

And I Can't Get "Blog Contest" Out of My Mind

2009-09-03T08:18:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday, I was delighted to know I had won my first ever Blog Contest! It was on the{Lucky Me! Blog} of Lucky Designs. The Prize was a $50 gift card to {Moments of Elegance}. That may or may not be a wedding favor website but hey, it was worth a shot at entering. What are the odds?

Then I saw this...

I won! It was a comment contest where I just left a comment on the Lucky Me! Moments of Elegance post. So simple and yet, I walked away with a $50 gift card. So what did a girl get that happens to not be getting married any time soon?

Well, I got a cashmere scarf with my initial on it and four glass grape place holders! Perfect for a wine and cheese party! I just have to host one sometime soon. I just wanted to thank Erin of Lucky Me! again for the contest and the prize. But this brings me to my point of my post! You can win too! Below is a list of contest you can enter and win too!

{Stuff Under 20} Giveaway from Brooklyn Thread. Love the jewelry.
{Practically Perfect} Giveaway that includes Mary Poppins DVD, Korres Sugar Crystal Antioxidant, Sebastian Hair Care and Crabtree and Evelyn Candelas. What a prize pack.

I can't think of other ones going on right now but I'll add comments though out this weekend if anything comes to mind.

{Stay Tuned}

Wednesday's Movie: The Soloist

2009-09-02T17:57:00.000-07:00

I haven't been much of a movie renter this summer but this past weekend I finally got caught up. {The Curious Case of Benjamin Button}, {New in Town} and {The Soloist} fluttered on my parents beautiful wide screen, flat screen, HD, a picture of perfect TV last weekend.

You might be surprised as to which film "wowed" me the most. It was {The Soloist}. The film came out earlier this year with Jamie Foxx and Robert Downey Jr. in the lead parts. I hadn't wanted to see it because it was one of those trailers that I just thought looked like it would lead to a movie going experience where I would used more tissues then when I saw The Notebook.

Surprise, surprise there were no tears but a new outlook on what it means to be a friend and the power of being someone's story teller.

The movie takes place in Los Angeles in September of 2005. Downey's plays Lopez a columnist for the Los Angeles Times. Foxx plays Nathaniel Ayers, a drop out cellist of Juilliard and a homeless man that has been on the street for three decades. As you would imagine, they meet by chance. Lopez becomes fascinated with this talented musician man who is currently playing a two stringed violin beautifully and ranting about Juilliard. Lopez immediately thinks story. It begins as a story. However, Lopez begins to learn there is so much to this story and he has the ability to tell it and with the ability to create a better life for Ayers. Along the way of Lopez's going for the story we learn of Ayers actual talent on the cello, his troubling mental state and his survival on the streets.

Now if this is getting to Lifetime Movie network for you, I assure you this film has so much more to offer. Not to be a spoiler but what we learn from this movie is that some things are bigger then the help of one person and the ability to just be there as a friend can be more helpful then anything else.

It is my hope that the next time you have a few few hours for a film consider watching The Soloist. I think the true story and the message at the end will be more worth it then watching Brad Pitt get hotter and hotter or Renee Zellweger going from stilettos to Uggs in Minnesota.

{Stay Tuned}

September 1st

2009-09-01T14:30:00.000-07:00

I know I blogged yesterday about sticking to a deadline and beginning that "something in the meantime". However, I have had a bit of a change of heart and my spirits are raised. Of course this was after I did apply to work at a Gap store in Cincinnati. (We will leave that at chance if they call me for an interview).

{Nicole Galletta} has a stellar blog and we have connected on Twitter. She is like me in the sense that she recently moved back home to Savannah after living in Atlanta for four years. She blogs about music, design, weddings, culture and always has some funny videos up.

Nicole knows what I am going through as well as many other Americans on the whole unemployed thing. She kindly twittered me this afternoon with a link to an online article by Harrison Barnes {Frustration, Rejection, Sylvester Stallone & Rocky}. Well, it literally spoke to me today. I admit it is a bit long and I know there are quite a lot of skimmers out there but I hope everyone can read this and remember this.

"One of the secrets of FedEx and anyone who is able to achieve outstanding success is the ability to handle frustration and the ability to deal with rejection. If you cannot deal with rejection and frustration you might as well give up now. The most successful people out there generally deal with a tremendous amount of frustration and rejection until they reach their goals. Having the ability to maintain a positive attitude and stay disciplined in the face of frustration and rejection enables you to be strong and to achieve the goals you are seeking to achieve. You need to become an expert in failing because the more you fail the more you will learn." Harrison Barnes

It really gave me a different outlook on the rejection I have faced these past few months while job searching. I've been pretty honest on the blog about my fear of rejection but I really need to just take it with a grain of salt and keep going. With that said, my September goal is to stare at rejection and laugh. I am going to keep going. Nothing will stand in my way in the job search.

On another note, my other goal of September is....

Reading. I have read quite a few books this summer but for the first time in my entire life, I am having trouble finishing a book. Above are five books I have begun in the last few months but haven't finished. If you look closely you can even see my bookmarks.

I leave you as I do a little reading. Hopefully by October, I will have finished all five books and will only be reading one book, have a job and have leather riding boots in my closet!

{Stay Tuned}

I Want to be a COED Again for $102

2009-09-01T05:30:00.000-07:00

I failed on my second week of creating looks for under a $100.

But the truth is I created this and then did the calculations bringing me to $102.27. Close enough....right?

Last weekend, I went up to Miami University in Oxford, Ohio with some of my friends to well, let's be honest "party" and "relive our college days for one night". I did not attend Miami University but do have an education on well, their local bars and the local college look. Although, I still sport jeans and a J. Crew sweater from time to time, I am jealous of those wearing it attending classes and not dealing with the whole real world thing. Tip for those in college, enjoy it!

{The Stella Barely Boot Cut Jean in distress from Express} at $49.50. This season, skinny is in. But not everyone looks good in skinny and thats why I love this jean from Express as a barely boot cut. Think a little wide but cut close enough to possibly tuck in a boot. This jean works for several looks and right now, Express has their buy one jean get the next 50% off. Oh and I forgot to mention this jean comes in a regular, short and long. Can it get any better.
{Merino Flutter Trim Tunic from J. Crew} at $29.99. I admit I went to a school that at times was nick named J. Crew U. I couldn't create a post for college with out a little J. Crew. Plus this top has some fun detailing at the sleeves, neck and bottom.
{Peace Triple Chain Necklace from Forever 21} at $4.80. Compliments the v-neck tunic and who doesn't love peace.
{Groove Women's Charmer Gladiator Sandal from Overstock.com} at $12.99. Ideally, gladiators are more for show in the shorts, skirts and dresses of the summer. But the bronzed color is ideal for fall and be a cute peep from a long dark jean. Plus, easy to walk in all across campus.
{Sublime Sunglasses from Urban Outfitters} at $4.99. Who can beat sunglasses for under $5? I would not have guessed Urban but I'll take them.

Ready for school?

{Stay Tuned for more looks around $100}

Rick Brown You Made My Day

2009-08-31T16:31:00.000-07:00

At 7:01 PM this evening I got an email from Rick Brown of {Examiner.com}. The email went something along the lines of this....

If your like my Mom or perhaps like myself last week, then you don't know what an Examiner is. Well, Examiner is a website that covers "everything local from a locals perspective" and they have several "examiner" websites for a variety of cities on a variety of topics.

I will be the Examiner for Cincinnati on Women's Fashion Accessories.

I am pumped and will be getting paid based on how my articles are received in the Examiner community. So expect blog posts with links for you to click on because the more that click on and read my work the more money I get. But that is besides the point.

I am so excited to get started. I do have to follow up on a few things tomorrow to make it official but wanted to let my blog readers know. Before my work gets published please check out the {Examiner} for your city and get a taste of what it is all about. Maybe you'll want to consider becoming a writer.

{Stay Tuned} as I may become a paid writer.

Time to Begin that "Something in the Meantime"

2009-08-31T05:30:00.000-07:00

Monday, August 31st marks 6 weeks back in Ohio. There is two ways I can paint this picture for you.

One picture is really I haven't been home for 6 weeks. I spent a week in Florida on vacation, a few days in our capitol for a weekend of fun and a wedding, and well, then there was the whole job interview thing in Central Virginia. So that brings it down to 4 and 1/2? Right?

The other picture is this....I made a deadline for myself. The summer of job searching. I even blogged about it in my very first blog post. And when I mean summer I go by June, July, August. Tomorrow is September and that is clearly a Fall month. Especially in the Midwest, we already have morning temps in the low 50's. Not that I am hoping an Indian Summer is upon us but I keep to deadlines. (I've been taught the importance of deadlines since day number one of journalism school).

Here is the deal, a summer of job searching has landed me with well, no job. I presently sit at my Mac Book looking at a desktop folder full of 83 cover letters and several different drafts of my resume. I also can pull out my calendar and show you two dates of interviews. Only two.

So what's a girl to do?

I made the promise to myself because I knew at the end of the summer my bank account would be dwindling, my days would be on the meaningless side and well, a need for something to talk about other then my employed days. Today, I begin to pursue what I like to call "something in the meantime". It may be back to the mall. It may be back to minimum wage. It may be the way it should be. Who knows?

I wouldn't quit on the whole be a reporter thing, work in the media, be the journalist I want to be, and that whole dream I have going on. I am just going to have to do "something in the meantime".

{Stay Tuned} It is bound to be interesting.

I don't do Chain Emails but this one is GREAT

2009-08-28T05:30:00.000-07:00

One thing I don't enjoy is being included in on is some sort of joke that is sent to you and everyone your friend knows. And I don't like the ones that included photos and take forever to download and I hate that after someone sends it to you, an individual hits "Reply to All" as oppose to "Reply" and before you know it your getting emails from everyone in the Smith Family.

I will never "chain email" anyone but I will blog about one when I like it!

This is more on the informative side but honestly, I think it is so interesting and I don't want this to happen to any of my friends.

Thanks Mom for sending this my way. For those with a GPS Unit:

A couple of weeks ago a friend told me that someone she knew had

their car broken into while they were at a football game. Their car was

parked on the green which was adjacent to the football stadium and

specially allotted to football fans. Things stolen from the car included

a garage door remote control, some money and a GPS which had been

prominently mounted on the dashboard.

When the victims got home, they found that their house had been

ransacked and just about everything worth anything had been stolen.

The thieves had used the GPS to guide them to the house. They then

used the garage remote control to open the garage door and gain

entry to the house. The thieves knew the owners were at the football

game, they knew what time the game was scheduled to finish and so

they knew how much time they had to clean out the house. It would

appear that they had brought a truck to empty the house of its contents.

Something to consider if you have a GPS - don't put your home
address in it. Put a nearby address (like a store or gas station) so you
can still find your way home if you need to, but no one else would know
where you live if your GPS were stolen.

For those with a cell phone:

This lady has now changed her habit of how she lists her names on

her mobile phone after her handbag was stolen. Her handbag, which

contained her cell phone, credit card, wallet... Etc...was stolen.

20 minutes later when she called her hubby, from a pay phone telling

him what had happened, hubby says 'I received your text asking

about our Pin number and I've replied a little while ago.'

When they rushed down to the bank, the bank staff told them all the

money was already withdrawn. The thief had actually used the stolen

cell phone to text 'hubby' in the contact list and got hold of the pin

number. Within 20 minutes he had withdrawn all the money from their

bank account.

Do not disclose the relationship between you and the people in

your contact list.

Avoid using names like Home, Honey, Hubby, Sweetheart, Dad,

Mom, etc....

And very importantly, when sensitive info is being asked through texts,

CONFIRM by calling back.

Also, when you're being text by friends or family to meet them

somewhere, be sure to call back to confirm that the message came

from them. If you don't reach them, be very careful about going places

to meet 'family and friends' who text you.

{Stay Tuned} and be safe.

We All Need Some Inspiration

2009-08-27T14:38:00.000-07:00

We all need some inspiration these days in the form of finding our dream job. So I would like to thank twenty-six year old Amelia Lester who was recently named the Managing Editor of The New Yorker.

This afternoon I came across the tidbit of info on {The New York Observer's} website. Lester is a former fact checker at The New Yorker. (For those that don't know that is entry level.)

Of course, she did work her way up to be an editor of The Paris Review and is a graduate of Harvard BUT that is besides the point.

The truth is if we work hard, keep our eyes on the prize, we could easily be 26 and have our dream jobs. So whatever yours may be I wish you luck and hope to blog about you to one day!

{Stay Tuned}

And I Can't Get "Ingrid Michaelson" Out of My Mind

2009-08-27T06:40:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, Ingrid Michaelson's newest CD, Everybody, hit iTunes and music stores.

I am a huge fan! I have loved Ingrid since the Old Navy commercial of Fall 07 in which she offered to share a sweater. Since that day, I have all her CD's, listen to her "Little Romance" song on the Sex and the City Soundtrack, waited patiently for one of her songs to be played on Grey's Anatomy and have seen her in concert twice.

I even won tickets on the radio to see her this past November in Kentucky. Let's just say I am one of her biggest fans and have gotten quite a few of my friends on the Ingrid band wagon.

I invite you to check out her Everybody CD and it was $7.99 on iTunes this past Tuesday. So worth it! Or if your not sure if your going to like her I suggest the Ingrid Pandora station. Great mix and you'll get to hear some of my favorite Ingrid. Also, Ingrid's website is offering free downloads with a little email info from you.

Also if you ever get the chance to see her in concert, do! She is fantastic, funny and so talented. I always tell people this but at an Ingrid show it is a variety of ages young and old and she leaves everyone laughing. She is coming to Cincinnati at the end of October and I'll be there. (That is unless I get a great job offer and move away. In which, I will check out her tour dates {here} and reroute to another show.}

{Stay Tuned}

Is the Juice Worth the Squeeze?

2009-08-26T07:13:00.001-07:00

Is the juice worth the squeeze?

Always know that the juice is worth the squeeze!

In other words is the outcome worth the effort?

Just some worldly advice from {The Girl Next Door}, one of my favorite movies which concludes with a gift to one of the other characters saying, "The Juice Was Worth the Squeeze".

{Stay Tuned}. Busy today making some squeezes!

Office Chic for Under $100

2009-08-25T05:30:00.000-07:00

Although, I may not be working right now and dressing to impress on a daily bases doesn't mean I can't give some office chic pieces a glance over.

{The Perfect Trouser from Gap} Oh yea it is perfect. A very professional look with a wide leg. You can pair it with so many tops and shoes. It comes in regular, ankle and long lengths and in petite and tall. Perfect for all. And it is currently marked down to $24.99
{The Silk Blend Ruffle Cami from Gap} I just loved this top because of the great color and the fact that it can be worn by itself or under a blazer. Day to night. Marked down to $12.99, also comes in a blue and taupe color.
{Flower Cluster Necklace from Forever 21} would look fantastic with the cami. Love the price at $6.80.
{Romo Wedge Slide from Payless} and you can continue to Payless if you shop during BOGO or flash your AAA card. But these are priced at $10.99
{IMAN Global Chic Icon Shopping Tote Bag from HSN.com} No I don't watch the Home Shopping Network but I do check out there website. They have some great items and this is one at $19.99 for carrying your laptop, notebooks, wallet and other items you working girls take with you.
{Tulle Los Angeles Women's 3/4 Sleeve Cotton Blazer from Overstock.com} First time I ever checked out Overstock.com and I was impressed. I found quite a lot of great blazers but like the button detail on this one and the color. This one comes in white and this fantastic orange at $23.99. But best is the length will revel the Gap cami and the neckline will allow for the flower cluster necklace to show.

{Stay Tuned for more looks under $100}

I've Decided that Job Searching is like Dating

2009-08-24T18:59:00.000-07:00

Yup, I think they are one in the same. Dating. Job Searching.

I invite you to think about it.

To begin with in both you have to put yourself out there. This can be the scariest thing. You fear rejection. You are nervous. Do you look alright? Will the person like you? Will they find you to be the person they are looking for? Is this the "position" or "mate" of your dreams? Is this what you've been waiting for? (See). Which one am I referring to?

The Steps in Securing a Job:

The Search: You check out online sites like Monster Jobs, Career Builder, Craig's List. You ask your families and friends to get the word out about what you are looking to do. You find jobs that so wouldn't do. You find jobs that are alright. You find jobs that sound fantastic. You find the perfect job.
The First Impression: The resume. Okay, we all have a standard one but when you see that job that you know is the perfect job it calls for a glance over and some updates. You tailor the resume to make yourselves sound like the perfect candidate. You include more job duties in points under your internships and former careers. You make sure the font is professional, a bit serious, and with some individual flair. The cover letter. Oh, you knock that thing out of the park. You tell of expereinces and paint the picture that you are beyond perfect for this job. You finish off the final paragraph again expressing your interest and willing to take the next step in ensuring this position. (An in-person interview, more information, a phone call, etc.)
The Interview: (Cuz, you are going to get it). First impressions are very important. You pick out the outfit. You want to be again serious, professional, stand out (but in a good way) and you don't want to come across too weird, so we go with standard hair style, simple jewelry, clothing in the colors of black, brown and grey. Maybe tan, if it is in the summer. Once the look is achieved, you move on to research. You know the website back and forth. You know the job description better then the back of your hands. You have questions ready to ask. You go over in your heads how you are going to answer those typically interview questions.
The Last Few Minutes: First impressions are important but how you "close" on this interview can very well determine if you get the position or not. Here is what you hope has happened so far: the interviewer has nodded in favor of your answers, you like the work environment, others in the office look fun, what has been told about what you would do is so up your alley, you've asked questions that impress the interviewer and you have not messed up on a single question. No foot in mouth moments. The interviewer begins to thank you for your time and coming in for an interview. You thank them. You then express extreme interest in the position. You let them know your available by phone or email to answer any additional questions and that you would love to be considered further for the position. Tell them your ready to take it to the next step. You even go ahead and plan the follow up. That afternoon or perhaps the next morning, you send a thank you note for the interview. This can be by mail or email. In this note, you keep it short and simple. "Thank you. I am very interested. After our meeting and discussion I am further convinced I would be a great fit at __."
THE Wait. This is for sure the worst part. You sit by the phone. You check your emails daily, hourly and on the hour to see if there is any word. You imagine yourself getting the job, how your life might pan out as the newest employee of ___. You have to factor possible moves, how you will get to work, possible new insurances and more. But then a "couple" days go by and there is no word. You begin to rethink everything in the interview. They said they would make their decision in the next couple of days. What is a couple? You wonder if you said something wrong. You think about any flaws you might have and if the interviewer picked up on them. You think about every little thing. You were just five minutes early to the interview or were you two minutes and does that make a difference?
THE ANSWER: It can be positive or negative. It can be what you want and it can be what you don't want. And you have no control. You take what the answer is and you accept. I truly hope it is positive. I hope the position is offered to us all. But in the horrible outcome that it isn't, you are numb. The time, energy, excitement all invested into this one position seems wasted and lost. People tell you that another one will come around, it just must of not been the right fit, and people tell you to cheer up. Here is where you get back on the "horse" and take it right back to step 1. Hoping the next time you reach step 6 you don't have to go back. I know I do.

The Steps in Securing a Mate:

The Search: You put the word out. Friends set you up. You might join eHarmony, Match.Com, FreindFinder, etc. You might even get some help from your mom. (Warning, oh boy!) You get some feedback for some possible dates. One possible mate is disgusting and you would have to be desperate. One possible mate sounds alright. And then one possible mate sounds out of this world amazing and the person you've made up in your head. You've found them.
The First Impression: Again, this is important in any setting but on a blind date or first encounter this is key. If you met online your profile has already been built to perfection with including everything that is great about you. Your picture has been strategically picked and is one that captures your smile and from your best angle. If this is through a friend, you grill the friend making sure the friend has disclosed great facts about you and in turn you ask to know all about your date. You carefully choice an outfit to wear that sends all the right messages, which depending on what your looking for can be all types of different. However, no matter who you are you make sure to pick out pieces from your wardrobe you feel at ease in and that bring out the best in you.
The Date: You look fabulous. You've done your research and know what your date likes. You ask questions to get to know more and answer your dates questions reveling all good about yourself. You're having fun and laughing. You really enjoy yourself. The date is going terrific.
The Last Few Minutes: Alright, how you "close" on a date can send signals of "I want a second date" or "I would rather have spent the evening playing with my cat". Make sure you go for the second date with telling the suitor how much you enjoyed this and how the two of you should do it again sometime. Expressing interest goes a long way. A girlfriend of mine says she always has something in mind that she mentions at the end of the date to ensure a second by giving the clue that the two should go see that movie they both had spoken of earlier or a local band is playing two nights from now that I really think you would enjoy. You could try that. But key is to express interest.
THE WAIT: Again, the worst part. Those that read Cosmo might have heard about the 3 day rule of it is best to wait 3 days and then call to set up another date. Maybe not everyone follows that but the thought might go through your head. You hear nothing for a few days. You check your text, emails, voice mail to make sure a message hasn't come through. You consider calling the suitor. But you wonder if they didn't want to spend time with you again. You go through ever little thing in your mind and question it all. Did you laugh enough at their jokes? Did you not act like you were having fun? Were you having too much fun? Did your breath smell? Oh no!
The Answer: It can be positive or negative. It can be what you want and it can be what you don't want. You might never hear from the person again. You might try to contact them but they make excuses for not attending another meeting or never return your calls. But I truly hope that many of us never experience that. Feeling reject after a date that we think went so well is tough. You made the effort, you had fun and you wanted to give it another go. People tell you there are more fish in the sea, that don't worry you'll met another, or someone better will come along. Meanwhile, you have to go back to the search and begin the steps again in hoping to secure a mate.

Did you get the similarities? I know it is kind of strange but both have quite a lot in common. But ask anyone who is currently involved in one or the other and they will tell you it is time consuming and tough. So give your unemployed or dateless friend credit, they might be on the waiting stage!

{Stay Tuned}.

Cartoon from Online Dating Cartoons

Whoa, What a Weekend!

2009-08-24T10:06:00.000-07:00

Whoa, I just had a great last few days visiting with college friends in Northern Virginia and Northern Maryland. I even got to attend my very first wedding of a college friend.

My mind is spinning with items to blog about this week. I have so many ideas to share and updates. But I wanted to drop a line today as I feel like I neglected my blog the last week and I promise to be back up and running this week.

In the meantime, here are some photos from Caitlyn + Kyle's Maryland Wedding:

To answer the question about the bouquet. Did not catch it.

{Stay Tuned}

Struggles on the Home Front: The Downtown Social Scene

2009-08-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

I have gotten into my first encounter of difference with my parents in my twenty something lifestyle. It only was a matter of time.

To give some background I must tell you I have a wonderful relationship with my parents. I love spending time with my Mom in the kitchen, at the grocery, shopping and on the deck with a glass of wine. The past years that I lived in North Carolina we didn't speak every day but when we spoke we were on the phone for over thirty minutes. My Dad and I like the same kind of action packed Jerry Bruckheimer shows (CSI, Cold Case) and both are avid sports fans. Plus I have to say my Dad has picked up the ladies fashion lingo and can tell anyone who Kate Spade is. But most important my parents have been very supportive in my decision to quite my job, move out of North Carolina at the end of a lease and spend the summer job searching for the career I have always wanted. Needless to say, moving home isn't too bad. Got love, got support, got fun and got some delicious meals in my belly.

But a conflict on the horizon is my late night social scene. (Something I have encountered twice since moving back to Cincinnati five weeks ago).

You know! The meeting up with the girlfriends for drinks, checking out bars and clubs downtown, dancing, laughing, having fun, meeting people, hopefully meeting men and enjoying being young. That's what I want to do on weekend nights. I want to be social. I want to be with people my own age. I need a bit of an escape.

But looking more closely, here's the thing. My parents live in the suburbs of Cincinnati. The "social life" I want in Cincinnati is downtown. It is in the communities closes to downtown in Hype Park, Mount Lookout, Mount Adams and at the downtown restaurants on Fountain Square. That's where people are my age. That's where my friends and there friends live. That's where they go out at night and that's where they invite me to join. And they invite me to stay on their coaches late at night and wake up the next morning to make the 30 minute interstate drive back to the suburban neighborhood my parents live in.

But my parents worry. They don't like me going out. They don't like that they don't always know exactly which bar I am going to. They don't like me spending the night out. They just don't like it and wish I didn't.

This is where I struggle. A month ago I lived on my own with roommates and a cat. If I wanted to go out, I did. I didn't ask for permission. I just did it and I loved it. I lived 10 minutes from downtown Chapel Hill and a $12 cab ride (split by 3 people and that's $4). Going out and meeting people was a weekend routine. That was my life.

But I am on a different playing field now. A whole new turf and while I need to be respectful and acknowledge my current settings, it is hard for me to forget my independence and my old life.

There is no solution on this one. When my friends call and invite me to join them. I most likely will. I'll tell my parents. When the questions fly, I'll answer them all while thinking theses questions use to not be asked.

Cheers to the twenty something trying to live the life while living it at their parents house.

{Stay Tuned}

Put Some Ruffle Into It!

2009-08-17T08:53:00.000-07:00

My favorite look right now is the ruffle detailing on tops. Love it! Check out these finds I found today while online shopping. No worries, didn't purchase anything.

"She's Just Being Miley" Believe it or not this is from Walmart.Com and by Miley Cyrus. {Juniors Chiffon Ruffle Blouse} at $12.00 and .97 cents to ship. Alright maybe the girl might have some good taste.
"The Magic of Macy's" I love a good Macy's store and love the coupons in the paper that lead you to take an additional percent off. {Alfani-Rosette-Neckline Three-Quarter Sleeve Silk Top} is marked down to $48.30.
"Triple A it" I recently learned that at New York & Company offers an additional 15% of discount on all products at the register when you flash a Triple AAA card. With that in mind, I decided I need to check that store out more. I like this {City Style Sleeves Print Ruffle Top} $29.50. Looks great by itself paired with dark denim or under neath a blazer for a more professional look.
"My Mom Likes this" Last week, my mom and I visited an Ann Taylor Loft store and I helped my mom pick out a similar top to this one with the petals around the neckline. She's a fan. This {Placed Petal Tee} is from Ann Taylor's fall line at $36.50 but my mom and I found a similar one on the clearance rack at our local store for half that.

{Stay Tuned}

It's Not All Bad

2009-08-17T07:39:00.000-07:00

I have to say I have had a pretty awesome summer. Being unemployed with no daily commitments has lead me to travel, connect with college friends, spend more time with my family, make corn bread from scratch and get to do those things that when you sit at a desk for 40 hours a week and work weekends just wishing you could do.

Those things like, when a friend calls on Wednesday night and says a group from college is going camping Friday and Saturday "you want in?" Can't got a wedding this weekend.

Or on the day of a phone call that shares there is an extra ticket to a Carolina game of some sort. "You want it for $20 and tailgate with us?" Can't I work Saturdays at Gap.

But no more!

This summer I went camping for the weekend in Front Royal, VA, met up with the AXO's in Cape Cod, MA, had a 4th of July BBQ Party and Weekend fun with 3 of my best friends, went on a family beach vacation for a week and am extending a wedding weekend in Maryland to include seeing the very fabulous and fierce Courtney J in Northern Virginia this upcoming Wednesday. Love my summer!

This summer has been a real summer for me. I know that sounds weird but honestly, since I was 16 I've always worked. During my days as a teenager, working in the summer 40 hours a week at the local Target store was what I did. The same in college. I had to make money to support myself the rest of the year. Similar story last summer in July when I began working and found myself at the Gap. There was no camping trips, no college football games in the Fall, no last minute decisions to go to a concert, I didn't have time to try new recipes.

The truth is that when we are in a routine of something that takes up much of our time, we always wish we had more "free" time. More time to travel. More time to spend with ourselves or the ones we love. More time to do even the little things around the house that we know we need an afternoon for. More time to enjoy being alive.

I wouldn't regret this summer of being unemployed. I have very much enjoyed being able to do the things I would of missed out on. Who knows when the next Summer will be that I have this freedom?

A career will come. But a real summer?

So what am I doing this week?

Monday: Job searching, blogging, running errands, getting ready for my trip to Virginia/Maryland.

Tuesday: ATP Tennis Tournament in Cincinnati (an all day affair with watching the very best playing tennis right here in my town).

Wednesday: Driving 8 hrs. 26 minutes to Fairfax, Virginia to visit with Courtney J.

Thursday/Friday: Pure fun ahead!

Saturday: Attending my first wedding as a college friends and my little in AXO marries the love of her life. Can't wait for the event of the summer!

Sunday: Drive back to Cincinnati.

{Stay Tuned} to hear about my Summer more.

And I Can't Get "She & Him" Out of My Mind

2009-08-13T07:12:00.000-07:00

I don't claim to know a lot about music. I have been lucky enough to be a {Pandora} listener for quite some time and that has lead me to finding some great musical acts. I also have some great music loving friends that have helped me along the way to create the "ultimate random ipod pink mini". Plus, my love for movie soundtracks has helped a lot too.

I wouldn't take credit for finding {She & Him}.

During my last week in Chapel Hill a friend suggested we listen to their new CD on the way to the movies. It was quite disappointing for her and I, when I said, "My car only has a cassette player."

But I remembered what she said. This is the band that {Zooey Deschanel}, the actress from 500 Days of Summer, is the lead singer.

It took me till last week during a trailer for 500 Days of Summer that I remembered I wanted to check out this band, {She & Him}. Well, I am sure glad I did.

iTunes described, {She & Him} as a alternative group. I would say it's music is sweet 60's inspired lyrics with flair in musical accompaniment. Think a little folksy and country. Deschanel wrote eight of the tracks and co-wrote one other. Who would of thought? The lyrics are about love, heartbreak, smiling and are upbeat. Perfect for singing along.

My favorite track picks are Why do You Let me Stay Here?, Take it Back, Black Hole and You Really Got a Hold on Me. Of course, I really have enjoyed listing to the entire CD and that's why "I can't get it out of my mind". Check it out.

{Stay Tuned}.

Wednesday's Movie: Post Grad

2009-08-12T10:36:00.001-07:00

Recently one of my friends and I were talking about movies and what's coming out soon.

He said, "Have you scene the trailer for {Post Grad}?"

I said, "No...what's it about? My life?"

He said, "Kind of."

I said, "I'll check it out. But if you had a blog you could blog about it."

Well, he hasn't started a blog and we had that conversation over a week ago. So I checked out the trailer myself and invite you to do the same. Got a few minutes? Then its time for you to watch. {Here on YouTube}.

My favorite line from the trailer is "Your not suppose to come back when you've left the nest." I hear yea!

{Stay Tuned} Hope to see it later this August and let you all know!

Let's Boomerang Back to My Former Career Part II

2009-08-11T05:30:00.000-07:00

The best wedding I ever worked was an Indian wedding. The multiple ceremonies, the vibrant colors, the large guests list, the delicious cuisine, the music, the dancing and more, is a lot but so worth it. But on top of that, I worked with a great team that truly held nothing back when creating this event. Of course, we also had a bride and groom with excellent design tastes and wanted a party. Our crew started set up for this wedding on Thursday for the main day ceremony and reception. Check out all the photos from the events on the amazing photographers, Whitney & Jessie from {Our Labor of Love}'s wonderful {blog}.

Poonam + Chirag's wedding is one that will be in a bridal magazine. But till it is please check out {Glamour's Magazine}'s Smitten Blog and read their take on the event: {The Most Amazing Wedding Photos: An Indian Wedding!}

{Stay Tuned}

Excuse me Gap? Is this a new Fall trend?

2009-08-10T14:28:00.000-07:00

Are men's ankle jeans a trend for this fall? I sure hope not!

I recieved my Gap credit card bill in the mail today. As I took a look at the couple of filler items they throw in with my statement, I did a "what?" as I stumbled upon this one. At first, I thought maybe Mr. Gap Model had he's jeans bunched up but this is not so. These are men's ankle jeans. To top it off these "pants" are paired with a black leather shoe. Women, we know that ankle jeans goes with a sandal or something that is not like a clunky leather tie up shoe.

I love the Gap. But I have to say, please let this not go over. I don't want to see men sporting this look. Maybe I am crazy but I just think this look would be bad on the average guy.

{Stay Tuned}

Getting Back on that Horse

2009-08-10T05:03:00.000-07:00

Here I am a bit after 8 A.M. on Monday morning getting back on that "horse".

That's right, back to my routine of scouring the internet looking for jobs to apply to. All while my trusty cat, Tiger Lilly, looks on for support.

I am beginning week #4 since moving back in with the parents and well, in my head my very temporary situation was suppose to be resolved by now. But that's okay. Got to keep moving and hoping for something to come up by the end of the month. (Or then its time to get a part- time job). I already spent much of Sunday applying for jobs online and today I am taking three applications to the post office to be sent out. Which brings me to some great questions I have received lately. How do you find reporting positions? How do you apply? And more.

So here is my routine....

1. Check out websites like {Journalism Jobs} and {Media Bistro} for a listing of new positions posted. Then check out the big 3...{Gannett}, {Media General}, {McClatchy} for specific listings that come from the largest media conglomerates.

2. Once I find a position I like, I look at the items they would like to see.

Cover Letter
Resume
References
Clips

3. Create Cover Letter. Print Resume. Print References. Photo Copy Clips of my work from my past career and internships. Either email them to the potential employer or mail them.

4. The end result is this...

After applying for jobs I do feel a bit of accomplished and often hope that one of the many I sent out will be that "one" that leads to my next career. I'll be sure to report back any news I hear to my fellow readers and supporters. In the meantime my test article was posted on the Virginia newspaper's website and you can check it out here, {Ministry offers discounted food}.

{Stay Tuned}

I'm with Chelsea on this one

2009-08-07T12:54:00.000-07:00

One of my new obsessions is {The Chelsea Lately Show}. This late night cable talk show has been on the air since 2007 but I have recently begun DVRing the show. After my morning routine of coffee and The Cincinnati Enquirer it is time for Chelsea Handler and her panel of comedians, actors and writers that discuss "major" news topics. Just the routine of the unemployed.

Any who, Chelsea is hilarious and I recommend you check her out some evening or morning. And for a preview of what you will see on the show check out her {website} and her {blog}.

But it was last nights show and today's {blog post} that made me do a "seriously". Take it away, Chelsea...

I was instantly fascinated by the stupidity of some people. So I decided to do some more research. As any good journalist I wanted the real scoop. I found it on {AOL News}. I learned that Trina Thompson did indeed file a lawsuit against the Bronx, New York, Monroe College for $70,000 in tuition reimbursement due to the fact that she graduated in April and has not been able to land a job. Thompson's major: Information Technology.

I don't think I have to say anything more other then "seriously". Oh and Thompson check out how many people in America think your ridiculous.

Have a great weekend! {Stay Tuned}

I Didn't Get It

2009-08-06T13:06:00.000-07:00

For those that have been following my recent job search then you know I recently had a phone interview, I recently traveled to Virginia for an in-person interview, I recently wrote a test article, I recently knew I was very close to getting a job. Well, I recently got off the phone with that newspaper to hear that the position had been offered to somebody else. They thanked me and said I was a strong candidate.

Of course, I am disappointed.

I had invested a lot into the interviewing process and well, I very much had hoped that I would get offered the job. I had researched the area. I had researched housing options. Friends had shared mutual friends in common that resided these. I loved the idea of finally making it and being a reporter. I wanted this job.

There will be no champagne tonight but just back to the drawing board as I send out resumes, cover letters, clips and references. It will be back to checking countless job search websites, checking my email hourly for follow ups, getting giddy when the phone rings just hoping it is someone to set up an interview and back to looking forward to I guess the next best thing.

Here is to the unemployed and our constant quest for a job, a career and happiness.

{Stay Tuned}.

My Priorities

2009-08-06T07:18:00.001-07:00

Yesterday's conversation with my mom and sister led to my priorities in life coming up. (This is based on memory.)

Me: I just have decided that I am concentrating on my career first and foremost and if that means moving to a small town. Thats fine. I can work on my social life second. I feel like I already had that year of living with a girl friend, going to bars every weekend and having a social life. However, I had a horrible career life. First priority, job. Second priority, social life.

Mom: No. Second priority, find a man.

Me: I consider those the same thing. Having a good social life means the man will come.

Mom: No. You need to look and make it a priority to meet a man. Then the social life.

Alyssa (Sister): Laura, you need to make it a priority but I agree with you that it falls in social settings. I met (B) because we were friends first and had friends in common. Then we began dating.

Mom: Completely different! Laura's social life has never led to dating anyways.

Me: Thanks for bring that up.

Based on this conversation my priorities have not changed but it did get me thinking. Maybe I do have the wrong mind frame on this one but I don't know any other way to "find a man" except in my social life. I refuse at a young age to get on online dating and Craig's List is sketchy. (I'll embellish this in another post). Singles parties at some basement in a local church screams desperate. So I'll keep working on the job first and the social life/man second.

{Stay Tuned}

And I Can't Get "Brandy J Handbags" Out of My Mind

2009-08-06T06:50:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to blog about this for weeks! I recently stumbled upon this handbag collection by a wedding photographer {Brandy J}. I had followed Brandy J's blog to check out great weddings in my last career but I didn't even know about her "other" career till recently.

As a handbag lover, I instantly checkout her {website} and fell in love with the bags. My favorite is above and called "On Holiday". That's what I am thinking! Perfect for the airport as a carry on or for a weekend getaway. Best part, $130. But if you aren't into big bags, check out her wristlet for $20. Either way, check out her bags. You'll love them!

At this time, Brandy J Handbags are not available to buy online but she has a zip code search to find stores in your area that carry her line. Cincinnati has about 6 stores. Maybe your area is similar.

{Stay Lovely and Stay Tuned}

Wednesday's Movie: The Ugly Truth

2009-08-05T07:12:00.000-07:00

Last night I went to the movies and saw {The Ugly Truth}.

My opinion was good but not great. Funny but not hilarious. And predictable.

It was a romantic comedy after all built around a successful women that can't get a date and a outspoken lust-expert male who helps her land a man. If you've seen any movie made this century you know where this is going. The two of them, while polar opposites, fall in love.

Although, it was a bit on the slow side in the first half-hour the jokes got better and the interaction between Katherine Heigl and the man she is trying to woo did leave me laughing. Especially a certain scene in which her cat climbs a tree and Heigl's character gets a great opportunity to check out her new neighbor. But as luck would have it (or romcom Hollywood would play a part) something happens which leads to an embarrassing first impression.

I recommend it for a laugh but will let you know that last nights viewing in Mason, Ohio was filled with quite a lot of couples. So if your lucky enough to have a significant other it could be a date night. Or if your like me you can take a long your always going movie girl friend and ask for a student ticket. (We have college student ID's we can flash if you question it).

{Stay Tuned}

Let's Boomerang Back to My Former Career Part I

2009-08-04T07:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I uploaded old images from my camera and found these from early June. As many of you know in early June I was still employed and working in the bridal industry. While that seems many moons ago, I had the urge to share these images from the last wedding I worked on as lead planner.

Jennie + Graham were married in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina on June 11th with a ceremony and reception at {The Isles Restaurant}. Above are the decor items I worked on before the event. (Hint at all my single girlfriends, hire me to do your wedding it will be fabulous.)

Top Left: The bride liked the idea of having guests leave with a little gift that they could have forever and remind them of the beach wedding. We had sand dollars calligrapher with the names of the guests for place cards. Next: Guests don't come to a beach wedding in flip flops so we provided them. Tied with twine and a little note of relaxing and enjoying the ceremony, the flip flops came in all sizes and colors of pink, green, black and white. Next: Seashells lined the tables with slits thanking the guests for attending and traveling for this destination wedding. Last on the top: The venue provided white table linens but to make it a bit more fab we created lime green table runners in a satin to give the tables a little more color.

Bottom Left: As oppose to doing a menu card we informed guests by a menu board framed and sitting on an easel near the buffet. Next: Fan programs are perfect for beach weddings. Next: Baskets of flip flops and the sand dollars.

Below is the inspiration board I created for the couple in February shortly after they booked us!

But to see how it all worked out please check out the photographer's blog. Amanda & Brent from Millie Holloman Photography out of Wilmington, NC posted their photos {Here}. They are lovely! One of the rewards of being a planner is seeing the end result and for Jennie + Graham we see a very happy couple.

{Stay Tuned} I promise this will NOT become a wedding blog.

It Could of Been the Best Job Ever!

2009-08-03T06:49:00.000-07:00

I don't take rejection well.

I applied to colleges I knew I would get in. I don't bother asking for things I know I wouldn't get. I play it safe. I am single after all.

That's why I applied for a recent position at one of my favorite retailers. Thinking I was a bit of a "shoe in" with my retail experience of working at Target (5 Years) and Gap (9 months), a college degree and well, my stellar sense of style, I thought I was destined to work at {Nordstrom} until I found something else.

Maybe that was the wrong attitude to have.

My first day back in Cincinnati a letter arrived at my parents house from Nordstrom. And well, I was rejected. "Unfortunately, we do not have any employment opportunities that meet your qualifications at this time."

Well, Nordstrom and specifically, Jason Zaim, you are wrong. I would be terrific at Nordstrom. You could place me in shoes, handbags, sunglasses, the cleaning department, the bistro, men's wear and all the lovely women's wear sections you have and I would shine. I didn't spend the last few years reading magazines like InStyle, Lucky, shopping at your Durham store and well being fantastic, for you to toss me aside in the application process. I have retail experience and my speciality is fitting rooms or dressing rooms (like you label them). And in my past experience in retail, people can either handle that or not. Those that can't, can't handle a busy Saturday. Am I right? I am customer service oriented and not to mention, I worked the day after Thanksgiving (Black Friday) at a Gap store with buy one sweater get the next half price. I also worked Toys at Target on December 22nd and electronics on December 24th. I can handle the pressure, the stress and anything you can throw your way at me!

I wouldn't hold this against you Nordstrom nor will I not shop at your store. I'll be there but anytime, I get lousy service, an unknowledgeable sales associate who can't tell the difference between a clutch and a bucket bag, or find a messy dressing room, I will remember you passed me up for this person. Best of luck Cincinnati Nordstrom in your quest for finding employees that met your standards. I really can't wait to see who you find!

{Stay Tuned}

August's "Hot" Items

2009-08-02T08:59:00.000-07:00

My August hot items are...

1. The Flick: Dying to see {The Ugly Truth}. I am actually a fan of Katherine Heigl and since the days of her first TV show, Rosewell. I think she is elegant and I love her style in the August 2009 {InStyle} Magazine. I am always up for a good romantic comedy and especailly one rated R (you know what that means).

2. The Read: My mom bought me {Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World} for Christmas and I am finally getting around to reading it. Of course, the book was purchased for me because of the cute Dewey on the cover that looks a lot like my cat, Tiger Lilly. The book is about a library cat, Dewey, and all the adventures Dewey gets into. I am on chapter one and I already think I will shed more tears in this one over {The Notebook}. I swear, I am bound to be a cat lady the rest of my life.

3. The Kicks: I absolutely love these for fall, winter and years to come! {Cole Hahn} never disappoints with these brown leather riding boots. I've been dreaming of these for a month as they are apart of {Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale} and priced at under $200. Plus, I think they would look so awesome with some dark jeans tucked in and a sweater! No, I haven't purchased them and I will continue to dream.

4. The Location: We all know I am currently in Cincinnati but my only trip planned for this month is for attending a wedding in {Taneytown, Maryland}. The wedding is for my little from Alpha Chi Omega and her fiance, also an Elon grad. The wedding is sure to be fun with all the Elon grad guests and being there as my first college friend says, "I Do"! August 22nd, I'll be in Maryland!

Of course what didn't make this August's "Hot Items" would be my never ending search for a job. But don't worry, we should have some updates on Monday. {Stay Tuned}.

And I Can't Get "Flower Jewelry" Out of My Mind

2009-07-30T05:50:00.000-07:00

Don’t get me wrong! I am not all about the flower power or anything but one trend I have loved this past Winter, Spring and now, into Fall is flower jewelry.

I have been known to sport two rings I purchased at {Forever 21} and even though when I take them off I have that ugly green ring skin thing left…you can’t see it while I wear it. I also have two earrings from {Forever 21} with the flower look that purchased this spring and love. I always get a lot of compliments on my flower jewelry. I think it is very chic and lovely.

These are my four picks of flower jewelry right now. However, I have noticed this look is in quite a lot of stores and you can’t go wrong wither you want a ring, earrings or even a necklace with the look.

Large Left Photo: The Tanzanite Bloom from {Fuss Jewelry} at $224. Splurge but beautiful. The top right and bottom right from Urban Outfitters. The top {Wild Flower Post Earrings} are $14 and come in a yellow and a pink. The {Metal Rose Studs} are $16 for those that don't want the color or pair with Fall tones. Middle photo: The feature item on Forever 21's website. Love this one - {Neon Petal Flower Ring} at $5.80. That's one price that can't be beat.

{Stay Classy and Stay Tuned}

Wednesday's Movie: When Harry Met Sally

2009-07-29T13:10:00.000-07:00

Harry: We've got eighteen hours to kill before we hit New York.

Sally: The story of my life isn't even going to get us out of Chicago I mean nothing's happened to me yet. That's why I'm going to New York.

Harry: So something can happen to you?

Sally: Yes.

Harry: Like what?

Sally: I can go into journalism school to become a reporter.

Harry: So you can write about things that happen to other people.

Sally: That's one way to look at it.

Harry: Suppose nothing happens to you. Suppose you lived out your whole life and nothing happens you never meet anybody you never become anything and finally you die in one of those New York deaths which nobody notices for two weeks until the smell drifts into the hallway.

This past summer, I finally saw {When Harry Met Sally}. The film was one I always wanted to see but having not been say between the ages of 18-50 when it came out, I had to wait for a lazy day and Lifetime Movie Network allowing the film to grace the air time. Thank you Lifetime Movie Network.

I really did enjoy the film for the obvious reasons. Number one, I am single. Do my guy friends want to have sex with me? Number two, can men and women be friends? (Wait this goes back to number one). Number three, could a male friend of mine and myself be destined to be together?

But that’s not what I am here to discuss. (Some other blog post I am sure).

My career choice has recently landed me to get some snide remarks. At a recent funeral I attended my mother shared with a family friend I was between jobs and seeking a position as a reporter. The family friends said something along the lines of why she could do so many other things.

I am still spinning by that remark. What’s wrong with being a reporter?

I still remember a high school substitute asked me my senior year of high school where I was going to school and what I would be studying. After sharing Elon and journalism, the substitute said something along the lines of oh you want to be on TV.

No, would of said broadcast journalism if I did want to be on TV.

I don’t look for support in my career decision. I am sure many other people have experience some comments here and there of no support in their career choice. However, it wasn’t till I watch When Harry Met Sally, that I thought is this the reason? People question my decision in career because I am just reporting on other peoples interesting lives while mine remains boring?

Of course, in the film Sally acknowledges that nothing has happen to her yet and that is why she is moving to New York to go to journalism school. But hold your guns, Harry that doesn’t mean she is bond to live a boring life.

I find myself around Sally’s age and as I do not wear day of the week underwear nor am a waiter’s worst nightmare, I know how she feels. Given the opportunity to share the story of my life I wouldn’t give you more then a good 15-minute version. Where do you begin with a stranger on a car ride for heaven sakes?

But that’s the thing about journalist; we aren’t trained to share our thoughts. We’re trained to ask the questions, get your thoughts and get the story.

So Sally you said the right thing and you proved Harry wrong. At the end of the film the two of you are together and well, something has happened to you in the mean time of that terrible New York City death Harry thinks your bound to live.

But a secret undisclosed to Harry and the rest of the world that think journalist get into the field to write about what happens to other is about to be shared. The truth is we get into this field because we care. We care about getting the issues out to the people. We care about sharing a member of the community story who can’t. We care about informing you about decisions that will change your life. Yes, we write about what happens to others. But that doesn’t make us boring. It makes us far from it. Think about.

{Stay Tuned}