What's in my Bag?

I feel like I'm the only one who hasn't done a "What's in my Bag" post yet.
So here it goes...

My bag is Kate Spade Wellesey Quinn. The one I have is pebbled leather, the one pictured is Patent leather. It was my early Easter gift.
of course I always have my Blackberry Tour, if it's not in my hand!
Next is my Lilly Pulitzer Agenda, I have all of my phone numbers, email addresses, home addresses, passwords and of course all of my plans are included in here. I would be completely lost if this ever left my sight!
I always carry some Jergens Ultra Healing Lotion, it is the perfect size and works great to carry wherever I go because it is light and doesn't leave a thick film on my hands
I also carry a stick of Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula. everyone teases me because they say it looks like a glue stick but it is my saving grace during the windy and frigid days of Winter.
Most days I carry my Sony Cyber- Shot Camera with me, I never know when I may need it!
I always try to keep my Sunglasses with me too, sometimes they stay on Croakies around my neck though, just because I am afraid they will get scratched or crushed in my Bottomless BAG!
5 Gum is my favorite! I always have at least one pack on hand because Mama is sure to send me about 4 packs in my care packages!
My Kappa Delta Original Lilly Pulitzer Wallet is the most useful wallet I have ever owned! It is the perfect size if I want to carry it as a clutch and it holds everything I may need.
Although I don't really believe in hand sanitizer, I usually have Bath and Body Works gel or foam on hand just for my own personal sanity! Island Nectar is my favorite scent.
lastly... people also joke about me always carrying a Brush and Pony Tail Holders. I am a fanatic about my hair!

All of these items are a must- have at all times! I also have duplicates of these in my backpack because I don't carry my purse to class with me.

Happy early Easter

Yesterday when I arrived home look what my Mama had waiting for me...Kate Spade Wellesley Quinn

I am so excited! This is my Easter present but she knew I would want to take it on Spring Break so she gave it to me a little early! I am so happy, I have been dying for this for years, it is such a classic staple! I think it is so classy and sophisticated looking! Thanks, Mama!
oh... and on a side note, we finally made it to Jacksonville this evening, a little before 5pm! It was a long ride but I'm sure it will be well worth it!

Check this out!

I saw this on Twitter yesterday. Isn't it the cutest thing ever? I would love to see this at a tailgate!

Vineyard Vines anything is just precious!

Love it!
-mTa

Thankful Thursday

Right now, at this very moment, I am SO thankful that I am in my LAST class before Spring Break. On Saturday I will be right here:

Jacksonville, Florida.

Wearing this:

My seersucker bathing suit.

I am taking a relaxing Spring Break trip with my mom, to stay with Nana in Jax. I am so excited, I really can't wait to get away. I just want to lay on the beach, tanning with my toes in the sand- and just forget about all the work I have going on at School. I have had 2 of the busiest weeks ever! I am trying to just keep my head above water with all of the work I have been swamped with, right around midterms! And although I am in my last class, I still have to stay on campus all day to get my work do that teachers assigned to be due Monday that we return to classes. Oh... and did I mention that you HAVE to be on campus to complete these assignments?! I am really frustrated but I will be going home early tomorrow morning.

No trip would be complete without shopping! Mom and I always make a trip to St. Augustine for all of the shopping there. They have several thrift stores and also outlets there. I love shopping out of town because I always am able to find unique items and vintage clothes!
So as I leave this class and finish my busy day, I could not be any more thankful, this Thursday!!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

1. Greek- I have recently gotten hooked on this show and I am obsessed! I tried to get into Pretty Little Liars a few months ago when everyone was talking about but somehow got into Greek instead and I watch it all the time! Its a little corny but I really enjoy it! 2. Nude Nail Polish- I have long nails right now and have worked really hard to get them to grow out. I am not a fan of dark polish on long nails (esp. in the winter with my paler skin), I feel like it's too gothic, and I don't particularly like red either, I fell like it just doesn't fit me. So I have not had time to paint a french manicure this week, I have put on a few coats of nude nail polish for the time being and it just looks so clean and crisp. 3. Duck Boots- I recently purchased my first pair and have been really satisfied with them! Finally I found a pair of shoes that keep my feet warm and dry! They are a must- have in the mountains where I go to school! 4. Goody Spin Pins- If you haven't tried these yet, run to the closest WalMart or drug store and pick them up!! They are so convenient and easy to use! I love them, they are great for trying to do a fancy up- do, or throwing up a messy bun for the gym- they are that secure! 5. Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion- I am currently on Accutane treatment, for the second time- yes I have stubborn skin! With that and the harsh winter winds, my skin is constantly dry. But this moisturizer is amazing and helps keep my skin under control!

Jessie's Girl

As I am sitting her in the library, listening to my 80s Mix online I stare out the window at the gigantic snow flakes dancing around in the 40mph winds... YES, I said 40!!! I attempt and fail to accomplish reading and reviewing an article for my math class as I sip on my deliciously warm drink. I realize that I probably have at least 3 chai tea lattes with a shot of pumpkin pie and a shot of espresso, a week! I originally started drinking this because I thought it was a healthier alternative to the fat laden frappuchinos and sugary sweet lattes. Now that I love them and have even got some friends hooked on them, I wonder if they are actually any healthier than the other options. I researched chai tea a bit and found that it was mainly made of 4 components: milk, tea, sweetener, herbs and spics. I think the sweetener could possibly be the worst part of this drink, it is about a tablespoon, per cup of tea. I think next time I go to The Wired Scholar, the coffee shop in the library, I will ask them to make mine skinny, and hopefully my drink will do the same for me, just in time for Spring Break!! Although I have no real plans yet, I am still hoping to lost 5lbs by then. So what is your favorite, low- cal drink to keep you warm on these snowy days in the library?

Circus!

I mentioned last weekend that I was going to the circus, sorry I did not update you sooner!! I was super excited and couldn't hardly stand waiting all day to go! Saturday finally arrived and I met Daddy at the TWC Arena to go to the circus! After he got his hot dog and I got my snow cone (yes, I only bought this because it was in a light- up elephant cup), we finally found our seats and settled in as the show was starting! The first thing I saw was of course the 7 elephants that they marched around the big circle. Overall, the circus was not as exciting as I had remembered from when I was a child but it was definitely worth it for the memories, time with Dad, andddd the ELEPHANTS!

This was by far my favorite part, and I am so happy I got such a great picture of them all lined up! There was one baby elephant but he literally ran out and then ran back, offstage so I was unable to snap a quick picture!


Me during intermission overlooking the whole arena! I wore my Lilly Norma Wrap because I thought it was festive and kind of looked like a circus tent right?!

State Pillows

Have yall seen these? I am in love with them! They are hand stitched, 19x 19. I have seen them around at small boutiques and specialty shops! My mom has been dying for one for years but the price tag of $150 has prevented her from buying one for herself.

















Here are my two favorites!! I was born in Florida and a bunch of my family still lives there so I have roots there but being raised and currently living in North Carolina, I love that one too! They are so neat because they are unique and you can relate to them in your own life!
Well Mom's birthday was a few weeks ago- so when her mom found out she had been wanting this she remembered that she had started a similar needlepoint in 1983!!! My grandma finished this pillow for my mom's birthday and this is how it turned out!
I think it is amazing! The detail is awesome, I had no idea my Nana was so talented!

Thank You!

I would like to say a BIG "THANK YOU" to Monogram Chick for my monogrammed tumbler! I absolutely love it, isn't it precious! I went home this past weekend and it was waiting for me in my room! It made me so cheerful when I opened it and saw my bright prize from their fabulous giveaway! Check out their other stuff on the website, love it!!

-Bows and Pearls Forever

Fantastic Friday

I am sorry I haven't blogged in a few days, nothing exciting has happened. We had a snow day Wednesday and I came home for the weekend yesterday. It feels good to finally be back home after about 3 weeks at school.

Today I had lunch with a very dear friend, kRl to catch up on each others lives from the past month. She transferred schools second semester so it has been about a month since we have been able to hang out. This has been really hard because we used to be neighbors for 2 years at ASU and now we have to make time to see each other. Needless to say, I was beyond excited to see her and talk about everything we had going on!
After lunch I had a doctor's appointment and then Mommy & I went to get our nails done, as usual! I have had gel nails on for about 6 months now and was just really ready for a change. I was also feeling a bit risky and decided to go with something different than my typical pink, red, or french manicure. After perusing all of the options on the shelf, I finally decided to go with a dark green; I saw this on one of my sisters recently and really liked it so I decided to try it for myself.

'Here Today Aragon Tomorrow'

This is how they turned out. I am pretty satisfied (which is rare, when I try a new color)

For my pedicure, I chose another unique color called 'Lucerne-tainly Look Marvelous'. I am not thrilled but I have seen worse. It will do for now.

So what are some of your favorite OPI colors for Winter?


another exciting event today...

I ordered my tickets to the CIRCUS!!!! I am SO excited! I haven't been to the circus since I was in elementary school. I came home yesterday and promptly my mother announced that Ringling Barnum & Baily was in town and this year, they have.......... ......................... A BABY ELEPHANT!!!!!!!! Some of you may know, I collect elephants and have my entire life, I am obsessed! i have been working hard to find someone to go with me and finally guilted Daddy into taking me when he comes back in town tomorrow.
Can't wait to go, I will be sure to post lots of pictures!

til then,
mTa

Lilly, Blooming this Spring

Blossom Dress

Lilly has come out with their newest prints for Spring 2011. The line was inspired by POP ART. The blog says "We love the fact that when these artists were hitting the scene, so was Lilly. " Personally, I like the blossom dress but I doubt I would ever wear it. I am not much for wearing floral prints. Some florals are pretty but some are too delicate and dainty, reminding me of a old grandmother sitting in her rocking chair, knitting. I know this may seem a bit stereotypical of me but it is just my opinion. Obviously these are not "dainty OR delicate"- in any way, shape, or form! So here are the few prints that they have featured. I think like they feel a bit too much like fashion from the 60's and 70's. This is just not what I would expect from Lilly at all. What do yall think? Do you like these or are you waiting for the Summer 2011 line to hurry up and be revealed?

-mTa

Pop goes the Floral

Optical Confusion

Bright Navy Floral Frenzy

A Successful Weekend

This past week was so long so this weekend was highly anticipated! Friday my sorority had a date function and the theme was "New Years Eve" I wore a dress that was completely sparkles! It was so fun to get dressed up, I feel like it has been forever since we've had a mixer!

Saturday was Ethan's fraternity's date function. It was semi- formal so I wore a black, one- shouldered cocktail dress. I had so much fun. Ethan and I have been together for a few months but last night he finally asked me to make it official! Sooo... I am happy to say we are now a couple, and it is FB official :) haha

Today, I went to the library all day and actually finished a paper TWO days early! I think this may be a record!

I'd say that was a successful weekend!!

Rose Gold

I know that Rose Gold is all the rage right now.... everyone has seen the Michaal Kors watch. I just don't like it, quite frankly. It isn't bad in small doses, like in the Kate Spade earrings but to me it just looks like a piece of jewelery that was plated silver and has tarnished. What are yall's opinions? i just am not sure what to think because it is rather pricey, just not my style; I like to stick more to classics like Gold and Silver! Thoughts?

Marley and LIlly Giveaway

College Prepster is hosting a giveaway too!

Wait, what? Another giveaway with the super precious Marley and Lilly?

YES PLEASE!

As you may know, ML sponsored a monogrammed scarf giveaway in November.

Marley Lilly have since expanded product lines and now offer JEWELRY!

ML is offering one lucky reader a MONOGRAMMED RING.

Could this come at a more perfect time? I was just thinking about a monogrammed ring. Since somehow my fingers have decided that they can handle rings. And the ML is PERF.

Want to win one? No, but really, who wouldn't?

So beautiful. I love the detailing on the one on the right... but I am loving the edginess (no pun intended) of the one on the right.

*****

HOW TO ENTER:

Required: "Like" Marley Lilly on Facebook and follow College Prep

Additional 3 entries: Post about this giveaway on your blog!

Please comment ONCE and let me know if you re-blogged!

You have until January 27 at 11:59pm to enter.... Good luck :)

(winner chosen randomly via random.org and announced on January 28)

xoxox

An amazing Giveaway!!

The Prissy and Preppy Flamingo is hosting a Otter Bay Giveaway! Check it out here:

I just recently learned about this fabulous new company via Twitter! I'm so excited to introduce it to all of you! I just love all their products and they've agreed to host a giveaway!

Their logo is the sea otter which stands for relaxation and enjoyment, but also hard work. These are all qualities of an otter.

The idea started in a college dorm and has just taken off! They started the company with the Keystone Polo!

They also have polos just for gamedays!!!

For women they have the Keystone V-Neck! Its the first polo like v-neck! What a fun new type of shirt! They sent me one also, and I just love it!!! Thanks so much!!!

They have so generously offered to giveaway one of their Keystone V-Necks to one lucky reader! The winner chooses the color and obviously the size!

This giveaway ends Friday, January 28, 2011 at noon CST!

Here are the rules!

- Go to the Otter Bay Co website and tell me what your favorite item is - you must do this to enter the giveaway - 1 entry

Additional Entries
- become a follower of my blog or tell me you are already a follower - 1 extra entry
- become a fan of Otter Bay Co on facebook - 2 extra entries
- follow the Otter Bay Co on twitter - 2 extra entries
- post this on your blog - 3 extra entries

So overall there are a total of 9 entries! You can include them all in one comment! I'll be compiling them into a excel sheet and using random.com to choose a winner! Good luck to everyone!

Forgive me!

I have lost my mind multiple times this week! I am so sorry but I have just been under incredible stress for the past two weeks!
Last week was the start of second semester and I totally FREAKED out!!! big time... I came back to school, after Christmas break without having enough hours to be a full- time student. When I finally registered for enough classes, I had a rough schedule with no breaks and I didn't have one of the two classes I needed to complete to apply for the College of Education- which would put me a semester behind on graduating. So for the second time in my short college career, I called home and told my mom I was not going to school anymore! Now, of course we all know this was my over- dramatic self losing it but boy was I upset... and to top it all off, the advising center never processed my declaration of my major, so I was behind in that too!
Well after a few calming phone calls from my mother, frustrated emails to the advising center and prayers to God, I finally received a miracle email stating that I would be admitted to the class I needed at the time I wanted!!!
After all that I am pleased to say that I am in the classes I need and have enough hours! I have just been busy this week trying to keep up with work so that I don't fall behind! I am really trying to be responsible and stay ahead in my classes this semester!
I am so happy that my week is finally over! (yayy, no Friday classes!) We have a date function tomorrow night so it should be a fun weekend!

Wish me luck!!
-mTa

Stylish Blogger

Thank you to Preppy Lane for giving me the Stylish Blogger Award! I am truly honored!

The Rules:

1. Say seven things about yourself
2. Pass on to other bloggers
3. Contact them and let them know!

Things about me:
1. I am an only child and love it! I didn't like it as a child but now that I am older, I am truly happy I have my parents to myself!
2. I am absolutely obsessed with anything and everything Lilly!
3. I have called my parents on multiple occasions and told them I wanted to drop out of school. *note: both times were in the middle of exam week and registration aka. "most stressful week of my life (happens every semester)"
4. Although we are not sure where we are living, I am so excited to have my own apartment and be even more independent!
5. I am having a difficult time deciding if I want to get the iPhone and give up my BlackBerry but I think I decided to go for it, thanks Verizon!
6. I am currently on a diet, trying to limit my fried food intake and work out more frequently
7. I actually enjoy being snowed in, up in Boone, the Snow Globe!

I would like to award it to:
1. The College Prepster
2. Sweet Southern Prep
3. Northern Girl with a Southern Heart
4. Living in Lilly
5. Summer Wind

Another Giveaway

Here is another giveaway!! This time it is from Monogram Chick! Check it out! ps. If you saw it here first, mention me when you leave your comment- please!

Happy 2011!

Happy New Year, chickadees! Let's get this year started off right with a *GIVEAWAY*, what do you say?

I'm still loving my Personalized Straw Tumbler {and have increased my h2o consumption thanks to looking so cute drinking it}and think that it would make a mighty fine giveaway.

Leave a comment with your favorite color tumbler and what you'd drink from your tumbler if you were to win. I will keep comments open through Thursday night and will announce the winner on Friday.

As usual, tell your friends about this fabulous giveaway, tell them to tell me when they leave their comment and YOU win if they win!!

or order yours here:
Personalized Straw Tumbler

OOTD...day 4, and my Inspirational Friend

I know that this is about a week belated and I apologize but I think we can all agree that it has been a hectic one for everybody! The BFF, mBa, and I went to one of our closest friend's, home for an ornament exchange! It was so nice to see eLc because I have really missed her and I love when I can sit down with dear friends to catch up and hear all about what is going on in their lives! She has had SUCH a rough year! Last New Year's Day her father unexpectedly passed away after complications with a heart attack, and then dealt with many personal struggles including a robbery a few days after Thanksgiving. eLc is honestly, one of the strongest women I know! After all of the struggles she has dealt with this year, she has still managed to have a fulfilling and loving relationship with her sweet boyf, welcomed the birth of a niece, and even started her very own, very successful business; all the while balancing college and two jobs! eLc is really an inspiration when I think I have things bad; I can just think about how eLc has put a positive spin on her situation. eLc is an amazing photographer! You can see her work here!

These gifts were so pretty, I had to take a picture! Sadly, I can't take credit for these. My mom is an expert gift- wrapper and takes great pride in it! The pink sparkly bag contained the ornament that I took to swap! I took the Lilly- themed ornament that I made. I posted how- to directions, you can see them here. The houndstooth wrapped present is the hostess gift. I bought eLc a really pretty, ornate, hot pink frame to match her room.

This is my OOTD, I wore this outfit to the Ornament Exchange. Oversized navy cardigan- I think this is from Marshalls/ TJ Maxx. Creme silk ruffel tank- Gap. Jeggings- Target. Boots- Matisse, Belk (these are my favorite boots of all time! I bought them for less than $70 in Middle School and just had the souls replaced last month. They are so me, I wear them all the time and they have so much life left in them!) This outfit was a steal!

who is an inspirational person in your life and why?