Weekend Finds

I can hardly believe it is December already! Only 25 days till Christmas the good news is I am over half way done with my Christmas thanks to some awesome deals that I scored over the holiday weekend.  Between my son's basketball, work , shopping and my other duties I have been running around like a chicken with my head cut off.  So with it being Monday and the first of the month I decided to hit the reset button in every area on my life so I can have a fresh new start. 

I wanted to start this week chirping about some of my recent finds

1) Dress - Bar III via- I feel instantly in love with this fabulous dress when I saw it while I was out shopping on Thanksgiving ( yes I am one of those people) . The pattern caught my eye but the hemline is what sold me and the fact that it was 25% off and than additional 30% so I decided I just had to have it. I ended up getting this dress for $34 which was worth every penny

2) Studded Jeans- Jennifer Lopez via Kohl's - I decided I like these jeans a while ago and I was lucky enough to stumbled on these on the clearance rack for $18 and I had a free $10 coupon and ended up scoring these for $8 what an awesome deal and the fit if wonderful . I love the added bling on side make them rockstar chic

These are a few of my finds at awesome prices during my holiday weekend shopping excursion . What deals did u run across ?

Thankful

There is so much craziness going on in the world right now it's so easy to get caught in the negative and forget all the things that you have to be thankful for.  This has been a hard year for my family we have family members in and out of the hospital , some suffering from terminal sickness. It is times like these that really makes you appreciate what is really important . The little things you take for granted suddenly becomes the big things in your life.  

Things I am Most Thankful For

1) My Faith- Without my faith I am not sure where I would be. When I have no one else I know there is someone who will always be there for me and that is Jesus.  As I have gotten older my faith has changed I always prayed that is the way I was brought up but now I talk to God and he answers it may not be the direct answer that we are looking but he always answers.

2) My Family- now more than ever in my life have I understand the importance of family. Don't get me wrong I always loved my family but as you get older and you start realizing that tomorrow really is never promised you develop a deeper appreciation of your loved ones. You start to savor the taste of your Aunt's Apple pie a little more.  You learn to hold your Mom a little tighter when she hugs you. That cup of coffee that you have with your teenage daughter becomes a little sweeter.

3)Good Friends- I am 42 and have a handful of really good friends . The kind of friends that you can cry about the same thing over and over again and they will still listen but they will also tell you want you need to hear and not what you want to hear.  You don't need a dozen friends .. you need a few good ones and I am fortunate. 

4)My Health- Good health is something that you can't buy. I am thankful that I am fairly healthy and able to work to support my kids. 

5) The Lessons- I am thankful for things I have learned weather it be from a mistake or by any other means. My Mom always tells me it wasn't a waste of time if you learned something from it... and let's just say I have learned some good lessons this past year

6) This Blog- I can't even begin to express how thankful I am that I started this little ole blog. The connections and opportunities have been wonderful but most importantly the friendships that I have developed.  When I started this blog over a year ago I was 40 year old woman that felt kind of washed up.. I needed something that was mine that mattered to me something that made me excited . If that makes any sense. I had my job , my kids, my family and friends but I needed a creative outlet that was just mine. I am thankful for the journey and I can' t wait to see where it takes me.

7) You- I am thankful for you and anyone else that have ever taken the time out their day to read any of my blogposts it means the world to me. 

Happy Thanksgiving! 
 

Those Boots Though

I knew immediately when I spotted these Simply Vera boots from my beloved =Kohl's I knew they just had to be mine. I have been really wanting some over the knee boots for a while but than there is the struggle between looking stylish and me looking like Pretty Woman on Hollywood Blvd. LOL. I felt these gave that perfect mix of style and sophistication and these babies are comfortable because ladies let's face it I am not getting any younger and neither on my feet.  I loved these so much I wore them 2 times this past weekend once Saturday during the day for some shopping and in the evening for a Girls Night out. There's boots are made for walking literally !  What trends are you fashionista's wanting to try ? What has stopped you ?

Details
Boots - Simply Vera Kohl's $53.99 use code THANKS15 for additonal 15 % off  

My Favs From AMA's

I can remember back in day of Michael Jackson and Madonna how I would stay up and watch the AMA's anticipating the awes5ome performances not so much anymore. I basically watch for the fashion . Now I was looking forward to watching my style crush Jennifer Lopez perform which was at the end of the show . J-Lo did not disappoint with her performance or her look for the night. So see my top 5 listed below.


#5 Jordin Sparks- I just love her she can look sexy without showing to much skin. I love this bronze color on her and there lovely curls are the perfect accessory. ( I may be partial to curls)
#4 Selena Gomez- This is the perfect example of a young woman looking classy. I love the simplicity of this dress and the back out gives it the right amount of sexiness
#3- J-LO - Jennifer  I love the cut of this dress which is perfect for showing off those killer abs. She makes me want to get into the gym STAT!  I just wish the color was different I think it washes her out a bit
#2 Fergie Ferg- Fergie looks fabulous! I love the simple sexiness of the dress her adding a little bit of Fergilicious with the gold shoes and belt. Go girl!
#1 Tayler Swift- I loved everything about this dress on her. The color was fabulous and the cut really complimented her thin frame. I knew that she was going to be my # 1 pick when I saw this gown.

Who were your favorites? Comment below let's compare notes.

Gift's From the Heart

It is that time of the year again! It is the Holiday Season  it is time to think of creative gift ideas for your friends and family which can get stressful at times on your bank account. I pride myself on finding meaningful presents that are not necessary going to put me in poor house.  I am finding the older I get more the gift touch the heart the better . My goal is for my gift to make you laugh , cry or to make you think. When I say cry ,I mean cry in a good way with something that touches that person so deep that they are filled with emotion. I have found in the last year that it is important to let someone you love know how much they mean to you because you don't know what tomorrow has in store.  I found some items that really appealed to me and in true and in  Curlybyrdie fashion they are easy on the pockets.
1 - Treat - this is website that allows you to create greeting cards online and they will even mail them for you. I love love this idea. You can add pictures and personal messages to the special person in  your life. I actually sent out my first card this weekend and it was simple with so many choices .
2-Family Tree Necklace - Lala Crystal shop on Etsy. Any Mother would love this stylish family tree necklace. It's something different than that typical Mother's ring they used to have back in the day and only $30 not bad.
3-Inspirational Prints by another Etsy shop Pretty Chic . I love all these quotes and perfect for the special women in your life. The neutral colors go with everything and when that lady looks at this hanging up they will think about how special they really are.. now that makes it a winner in my book
4-Personlized Gift's- Lisa's Art Therapy - I was lucky enough to meet this lovely lady at an event and instantly fell in love with many of her items. I promise you will find an item for everyone on your Christmas list. I saw Grandma's Sippy cup and instantly thought about my 92 year old Grandmother. I could see her laugh when she opens this... LOL

I have learned in my 42 years that it isn't always the big extravagant gifts that touch people's heart . It is those gift's that you took time out to find out what is meaningful to them. What items will make you smile or sometimes cry.  A little something to think about before you venture into the Good Friday Frenzy .

Fashionable Finds - Holiday Fancy Edition

I just love the holiday season getting together with family and friends there is nothing like it. I know during time of the year it gets a little busy and hectic and you have all these events to attend , gifts to buy so it leaves little time to head out and shop for yourself... well ladies I got you covered. 

I have found some super cute looks that are friendly to that pocketbook. Shall we begin? 

Look # 1 - Holiday Look for the Office -daytime. This H&M dress at $14.95 is a steel . The quilted material is some quality stuff!  I could totally take a blouse with some bling on the collar and some tights and create a festive look on budget.. For all you pear shaped ladies like myself this is the dress for you.

Look #2 - Holiday look  Dinner party -Ny and Company dress this dress is perfection the medallion pattern is so chic and the arrangement of it is so slimming. This dress is a must have

Look #3 - Holiday look Church- H&M Lace Dress - this classic quality dress is so pretty in person . I was lucky enough to see this blue color in the store. This would be perfect with a statement necklace and some metallic pumps. 

Look 4 - Holiday Look - Girls Night Out-  Windsor store Skirt and Body Suit this is one of those let your hair down looks after a long day of shopping.. This reminds me of a Samantha on Sex in the City !  Keep the Cosmos rolling.. LOL

What events are you exciting about this holiday season? Do you know you are wearing?

Sometimes I Need some Pinsteration

There are times when I stare at my closet and I say I have nothing to wear .. true story. I can see my Mom rolling her eyes at this very moment.. LOL. That is when I turn to Pinterest for a little outfit inspiration.  I love how fellow fashinista's put a different spin on things that I already have in my closet. This look is a perfect look for a Saturday out shopping or in my case a trip to Starbucks with my daughter to partake in the buy get 1 holiday drink sale.  I just had to try the Chestnut Praline Latte and let's just say this is my new seasonal favorite.  I enjoy these times that I get to sit and have conversations with my teenager see how she's feeling what's on her mind.  With everything that is going on in world it so important that she knows that she has someone to confide in. 

How are you Fashionista's spending your Saturday. Did you stumble across any deals that I should know about?

My Look
Top- H&M - last year $5 sim here  $11.99 use SAVEBIG for additional 25% with card
Skirt - Elle Kohl's $18 sim here $24.99 use coupon code PIES30 for 30% off
Booties - Rock and Republic Kohl's ( Last year)
Jean Jacket - Goodwill $4

It's the Weekend Baby- Frugal Friday

Can you tell that someone is ready for the weekend ?There is something about this cold Indiana weather that just makes you want to go home and hibernate. Tis the season for warm drinks and cuddling on the couch . I will finally have a little down time with my son going out of town so I may get to actually sleep in.. we will see how that goes.

My look is casually put together look that includes one of my favorite pair of shoes! These Lauren Conrad shoes are everything not only do they look fabulous they are so comfortable. I added these to this midi dress I picked up a couple of years ago from +Jcpenney and added my little jean jacket from Goodwill and this semi casual look was born.

I wanted to fill you on just few great buys that are going on right now.  I just had to fill you on sale at one my absolute favorite places to shop +H&M . If you are looking for some on trend items for great prices than honey this is the place for you. They are having an awesome Sweater Sale.  . Check out my picks at awesome prices.. get them while you can ! 

My Look 
Dress - Bisou Bisou via Jcpenney's ( Old)
Shoes - Lauren Conrad via Kohl's $38.99 use code pies30 for additional 30 % off with Kohl's charge and FREEMVC for free shipping!
Jacket - Arizona via Goodwill $4
Bag - H&M $10 
 

Fabulous Finds - Christmas Gifts part 2

As I promised in the last post the is 2nd part of my holiday day finds on a budget. I am so exited to put you in the know about this extra special deals . I created looks  for those special little girls and boys on your shopping list.

Item 1 - T-shirt via Kaan's Designs - $18  I love love this shirt it really focuses on the what Christmas is really about "Shine like the Son". What shines brighter than the Son of God .  I think this time of the year you should be reminded what you are really celebrating.
Item 2- Sparkle Shoes -Via H&M- $25 every little girl needs a little bit of glitter in her life. I love how they have a miniature heel and bow.
Item 3-Tulle skirt via Forever 21 $13.80 - everygirl from 8-80 need a tulle skirt in their life. I love the layers of this one it makes is so festive and girly
Item 4 - Crown Headband via H&M  $5.95 - Now with your little princess being a child of God who is the King. She needs a crown and this headband at only $5.95 this totally completes this look.

Now you can't leave those little gentleman out.  They need a fly look for the holiday season even if they don't know it.

Item 1 - T-shirt via Kaan's Designs - $21 - another awesome shirt from on of my favorite shops! One of my favorite verses. What a great message to send you lrittle one out the door with.
Item 2- Fedora- via The Childrens Place - $11  every little fashion forward man needs a fedora this is perfect for only $11 and save 20% off with coupon code Online3
Item 3- Suspender Jeans via H&M $30 - I love the on trend look of these jeans and can be styled so many different ways
Item 4 -High Tops via H&M - $30 now boys deserve a little gold in their life after all they are princes . I love these shoes and wish my son was young enough to wear these.

I hope you like these total looks for the little ones on your list. Happy shopping my fellow fashionista's. What looks would you like to see next? A holiday look for yourself or for that man in your life? Please let me know

 

 

 

  

Faboulous Finds- Christmas gifts on Budget -Part 1

I can not believe we are almost mid way through November . I love this time of year before the Black Friday madness and there are some awesome deals that are already out there . In my family I am known as the Personal Shopper a title that I have more than earned over the years. I pride myself on getting to know people's personal likes and style so that I and pick out that perfect gift.  Not only do I find gifts that my family and friends love but I do it on a budget . It's amazing the things you run across if you have eyes open and honey my eyes are open all the time!  My favorite part of this is watching their face when they see that special something picked out just for them.  I wanted to share some awesome gift ideas I ran across to assist you with your shopping this busy time of the year. So  let's get this Holiday party started!

1- Wallet Apt 9 via Kohl's $18.99 - such a cute wallet that come if different patterns . This wallet is so versatile . They could be a gift for a teenager or a 40 something lady such as myself
2- Furry Scarf Target -$15.99 - this is so soft and super cute and fur scarf is so necessary for the cold temps that are on their way to Indiana
3- Rinestone Bangle -H&M - I am in love with the bracelet I may have to pick this one up for myself and at $7.95 why not?
4 - Statement Necklace - H&M for all the diva's on your list that like a little bling this is necklace for them at $9.95 what a bargain 
5- True Love by Jennifer Lopez - Target  - this book is the perfect gift for any woman in your life. This book is all about finding yourself, loving your self. All those woman that have struggled with low self esteem and loving yourself this book is a must read. She is so down to earth  and this book had me at page #1. 
6- Cat bag- H&M - purr- fect  gift for all the young women in your life. I plan on getting this one for my daughter and I just know she will love it.. cute and quirky just like her.
 7- Snow Man Hat- Forever 21 this darling hat for only $8.90 another perfect gift for that teenager or Snow man lover on your list
8 - Bow and Pearl Bracelet- Forever 21 - this is so pretty and classy and perfect for holiday season and at $5.90 this would make a great stocking stuffer for all the fancy ladies on your list.
 

 
 







H&M

Thank you Dad!

I am 42 years old and until recently I never had an idea what my Dad witnessed when he was in Vietnam and how it changed his life forever. When my Dad left home after he was drafted he went from being a  good ole country boy to a entirely different person. My Mom said he was not the same person when he returned.  In those days men didn't talk about feelings it was viewed as a form of weakness. It is now years later and I am finally starting to understand the anger that my father has lived with for many years. When you are see your friends get killed right in front of you and when you witness a child getting blown up it does something to you.  All these years and I never knew that .  He never told us and  I think what is even sadder is I never asked.. You think when someone comes back home that life goes on as usual for some people it may, but for many it never does . I think we get caught up with the physical injury because we can see it but we forget about the emotional pain that these men and women go through that will stay with them for the rest of their life.

So Dad I don't think I have ever told you. Thank you for all your sacrifices when helping to keep our country safe .. I love you  and I appreciate you.. If you see a Veteran today make sure you thank them for all that they have done and continue to do.

Kicking up Leaves

Even though it is the weekend I am still very much on the go. My son has a 3 day basketball tournament so is a must that I dress cute but comfy. I just love layering in the fall so many styling options and what girl doesn't love options. I scored my first Rachael Roy piece at a awesome price from a site called 15each.com. This site has name brand at discounted price of $15. This on trend sweater still had the tags on it. I ended up wearing this with these awesome jeggins from one of my goto stores +Jcpenney. I love the the zippers it gives it such an edgy look and I ended up picking these up for less than $20...oh yeah! When I was taking these pics today I was laughing and having a good time I think mainly because my photographer aka my teenage son was looking at me like I was crazy..that always makes for a good time when you are totally under your teenagers skin...lol. I hope you are having a fabulous weekend!

My Look
Sweater -Rachel Roy via 15each.com $15
Jeggins -Ana via Jcpenney $18 with coupon
Boots -Jcpenney (last year )$25
Scarf -HM $5
Coat -INA via +Clothes Mentor $30

I am Fur Real

With these cooler tempatures I am finding out more and more that I need some furr in my life and in my closet.  There is nothing nicer than feel that faux furry warmness in these colder months in Indiana!  Now when I took a trip to +Clothes Mentor  to sell some clothes that I no longer was using I discovered so many furry items that it was hard for me to make up my mind.  I ended up settling on a darling fur vest for only $10 yes I said $10 .. and a chic looking black fur coat that was INC that would have easily paid over a $100 for at Macy's and got it at a bargain price of $30 .  The best part of this deal is I ended up getting $55 for old clothes that I was no longer wearing and ending up getting a fur coat , fur vest and a super cute cocktail ring and still had some money left over!  Now ladies if you are in the market for some outerwear than you should definately check them out.  Why not bring those clothes that you no longer have use for and get some cash or better yet get some new winter items!  Happy Shopping ladies! 

My Look 
 Black Fur Coat - INC via Clothes Mentor $30
Skirt - Exquisite Pink Boutique $30
Top - Apt 9 via +Kohl's 
Booties - Rock and Republic via +Kohl's 

Brown fur vest -  Clothes Mentor Fort Wayne $10
Dress - Old Navy $4
Sweater - Tar-Jay aka Target $5
Boots - Carsons $30

 

My Kim K skirt and Lash Love

I remember seeing Kim Kardashian wearing this super cute animal print skirt and thought how cute is this and to my surprise I saw this very same skirt online at the Exquisite Pink Boutique. Oh I was more than excited and knew that this was a must for my closet and hey I knew I better scoop this up because this was too cute to stick around.  I love the material of this skirt a quality sweater feel. It is the kind of material that will keep it's shape.  The black and white color scheme give it so many styling possibilities . You could wear this out on the town or could be worn with a blazer for a more business friendly look. I decided to style it with a studded moto jacket that I picked up from +WindsorStore  last year and also wanted to show another  option with this super soft fur jacket I lucked up on at the +Clothes Mentor  here in Fort Wayne.

Now if I have a Kim Kardashian skirt on than a little bit of glam in the makeup dept is a must. I kept seeing these posts on Facebook  about Younique Moonstruck 3D lashes.    I have to admit I was very curious I wanted big lashes without using the fake lashes.. So when given the chance to try this I was more than willing . Now I am not typically a mascara person so it was going to take a lot to convince me.. LOL. First of all the packaging is gorgeous the case is a quilted leather type it comes with a 2 tubes. The first tube is the gel which you apply first than you go over it with the natural fibers and you follow up with the gel to seal . I feel like my lashes where saying "Hello" after being asleep so many years . I was pleasantly surprised and give this a thumbs up for sure ladies.   So this is definitely something you should try .


My Look
 Skirt - Exquisite Pink Boutique $30
Leather Jacket - Windsor Store - last year
Necklace - Body Central $3 last year
Booties - +Kohl's  Rock and Republic - last year

Fur Jacket - Inc via Clothes Mentor

If you are interested in the 3D lashes you should contact Lovely Tamara Powell here. You can host a party or just go ahead and add it to the cart!