the Blah Blah Blahger

I STILL FEEL YOUNG (MOST OF THE TIME)

May 17, 2012 By JJ

The day you realize that all your favorite Hollywood stars are your age or younger is weird. Then maybe you find out that professional athletes are significantly younger than you. Then while reading one of your favorite blogs, you find out that the Evil Queen from Once Upon a Time is a year younger…and in your mind she was WAY older. Then you hear that some of the bloggers you follow, who you assumed were about your age, based upon the fact that they own large homes and have 5 gabillion kids, are like 25.

AND YOUR MIND IS BLOWN AND SUDDENLY YOU FEEL CRAZY OLD.

But here’s the deal…35 is not old. I’m still young…at least I feel that way most of the time!

Biologically, I’m still fertile (please Jesus, at least for a few more years!) and I have no major physical maladies. Sure, I’ve got loads of grey hair and bags under my eyes, but most of the time, I forget that I’m not a gal in her 20s.

Just as it’s hard to notice how much time has passed here in CA, due to the lack of seasons and the ever-constant weather, I think I’ve missed the passing of time, due in large part to the lack of changing seasons in my own life (i.e. marriage, children).

I’ve spent enough of my life lamenting about my single and childless status, but in this case, I think it has kept me young.

Does that sound crazy?

PS – if you look at me and see a wrinkled old hag, please do not ask me to remove the rose-colored glasses. ; )

Single Stories

WIWW: MOTHER’S DAY IN WINE COUNTRY

May 16, 2012 By JJ

On Mother’s Day, we had plans for a big family brunch in wine country. My sister, her bf, and I drove out there and met my parents at a small regional airport. They’d been in the desert and flew their plane to meet us.

While they were running late, I had my sister snap a few shots of my outfit. As you know, I’ve been struggling with my wardrobe lately. My first instinct is always to grab dark colors and/or denim…and accessories aren’t even a part of my wardrobe vocabulary. But on Sunday, I really feel like I pushed myself and did alright!

I’ve had this tank for a while now and it’s a favorite. I love jewel tones and green really just pops – my great big secret is that I bought it in the Nordstrom Brass Plumb department and it was super cheap. DOUBLE SCORE. I have no idea where I got the cable knit circle scarf, but it just seemed to be the perfect addition. The white skinnies are from Banana Republic and I love the way they fit!
The tank is a favorite because of the racer back. I feel cool and hip in it! (Photo tip: if your photographer is taller than you, have them squat down and take the photo from hip level…otherwise, your legs will look squatty like mine do below!)
Mom and Dad finally arrived. Not a bad way to travel!!!

It was a hot day in wine country, but my light outfit felt cool! My mom is wearing heels, while I’m in flats. Usually, I tower above her. : )

I randomly blended the accessories together. I see this done all the time and think it looks cool, but didn’t know if I could pull it off. No one said I looked weird that day, so I’ll take that as a positive! The wrap around bracelet is from Stella & Dot, the spike bracelet is from Noir Jewelry. Earrings were from Silpada; sunnies are Dior.

Clearly, I’m on a wardrobe journey, and that involves shoes, too. I’ve never been much of a purses and shoes gal. But I was determined last season to find cute flats that weren’t flips. I love these Steve Madden’s. I just saw them at Marsall’s! (PS – pardon the foot shot…at least I had a pedi!)

No matter how good you think you look or how much you like your outfit, your little sister still might get up close and say, “DUDE, YOU HAVE A LOT OF GRAY HAIR.” Should that happen to you, your only option is to have another glass of sparkling wine.

Linking up with Lindsey at The Pleated Poppy for What I Wore Wednesday! Hi all!

BLAHger’s Rants ‘n Raves 19

MY FAVORITE SPOT IN THE OC

May 13, 2012 By JJ

On Saturday, my sweet pal Kate, aka Centsational Girl, came to the OC for a quick visit. We only had a few hours together, so I thought of things that were fun that we could do together.

I’m sure you’re no different…when a friend comes to town, you consider your favorite things to do. Finding a way to entertain and show off your hometown should be an easy choice, but all too often, we overthink it.

I knew we’d have time for lunch, so I knew I had to take her to Crystal Cove and The Beachcomber for lunch.

Going to Crystal Cove is like going back in time. Think of Beach Blanket Bingo or the original Gidget and you can almost place yourself there. Now a California State Beach, the cottages are available for rent (but get online at midnight two years before you’d like to go, otherwise you’re chances are better seeking cancellations). It’s hidden away and has no car traffic, but the one restaurant is open to the public and thriving – it also is known for CRAZY long waits.

Kate and I had a wonderful time there catching up after an hour or so window shopping in Newport Coast. It’s my favorite spot in the OC and I’m so glad I had the chance to take her there. And if YOU come to the OC, I’d be happy to take you there, too.