Target Loves Of The Month- June 2012

June is almost over...how did that happen?  Time for my favorite finds from Target this month.  

Now I am trying to get my shopping habit under control, so I only bought the nail polish (and other necessary items) and for the rest of my trip just took pictures around the store.  

That's normal, right?

I think I posted once before about this nail polish, but it's seriously the ONLY polish that has allowed me to successfully paint my own nails.  And for under $4 I don't feel bad about buying new colors to try out. Snappy Sorbet, is a cheerful, Lilly-coordinating coral shade.

I kinda wish I had somewhere to put this cassette tape lamp.

A stroll down the party supply aisle stopped me in my tracks.  Preppy cupcake flags in polka dots and stripes were a steal at 12 for $2!

All of these paper products made me wish I had a party to plan.

I'm a bit of a cocktail napkin addict and these speak truth.

What have y'all found at Target this month?

Mommy Needs Her Schedule Too

One of the best and worst parts of being a stay at home mom is that my schedule is completely up to me.

For the most part the boys shape the majority of my day, but over the last 6 months or so I've become really dependent on the parts of the day that are mine. 

Getting up at 5am is difficult, but that time is priceless to me.  When I don't start my day off with writing my mind gets bogged down.  Throughout the day I will be thinking of things I want to write and then I end up doing it in bed, as I am right now, just to clear my mind.

The other thing I absolutely need (but NEVER thought I would say) is exercise.  If I go two days without some kind of exercise I can tell, and so can everyone else because my mood can get horrific.

Today was just one of those days. 

I slept in, didn't leave the house because Cole was a little under the weather and I was just testy.  I snacked nonstop on bad food and was generally unproductive.  It felt like a wasted day. 

Of course there were some really awesome moments, like having coffee with Mr. Banker before he went to work and when Cole sat in my lap to read books, but my days are much better overall when I make my schedule a priority.

Looking at the big picture I probably won't even remember this day in a few months.  But I would like to be able to enjoy the days as they come and keeping on my schedule helps me do just that.

The best part is I get to try again tomorrow.

Do y'all thrive on a schedule or prefer spontaneity? 

Pearls & Bows or An OOTD Post That Turned Into Gushing About Sarah Vickers

If you've been reading my blog for any amount of time you've probably caught on that I like shopping. 

A lot.  

It's really time for me to rein it in and focus on styling outfits from what I have now that I have rebuilt my wardrobe (posts on that coming soon.)

This is what I came up with today. 

Apologies for the less than spectacular photo. I struggled a bit, enough where I even accidentally took a video instead of a picture. 

I must say I don't remember the last time I wore a tucked in shirt and a belt--proof that I'm trying some things outside of my comfort zone.

Between the bow belt and pearls I felt like I was channeling a bit of Sarah Vickers.  You know, if she was a Southern Suburbanite Stay-At-Home-Mom.

I first saw Sarah at Lilly Pulitzer's birthday party.  She was attending with her boyfriend and business partner, Kiel James Patrick.  I knew about KJP and his their preppy accessories company, but should have known that there was a stylish woman helping run the show.  

I was told she has quite the following from my preppy friends above the Mason-Dixon line, but it wasn't until after the launch of her blog, Classy Girls Wear Pearls, that I counted myself in her fan club. 

When I read her posts I'm always a little jealous that I'm not the one frolicking about beautiful New England landmarks on a Wednesday afternoon.

Exhibit A:

via

But I quickly let that go and move toward appreciating the way she styles classic, conservative outfits while looking age appropriate and effortless--something I've been trying to master for oh, 20 years.  

While I know I can't pull off a big bow on my chest or wear a sweater in June, I'm taking notes on elements that I have in my own closet for ways to style some mom-friendly ensambles.

Now if I could just find a way to take a decent photo.

Tee: J Crew Factory (sold out in Navy), Pearl Necklace: old, similar here, Shorts: J Crew (no longer available), Bow Belt: Stein Mart, similar, Sandals: Bonanno Emma Monogram 

Grandparent Camp

Our house will be a little lot quieter for the next two weeks.

This sweet boy

 

has gone to Nana & Papa's!

For the last 3 years Nate has gone to spend time with Mr. Banker's parents.  It would be impossible to decide who enjoys it most.

Mr. Banker and I both grew up spending time at our grandparents during the summer and think that it is a great tradition to continue with our boys. 

Two weeks of making cookies, playing outside, skipping naps and basically being waited on hand and foot.  He's one loved and lucky boy.

Proof of the spoilage--I go on one little date night and come back to 

bright green crocs & a unicorn pillow pet.

Did I mention that Nana is taking on phase two of potty training (since phase one crashed and burned)?

Grandparent camp has its perks for mommy too. 

We will find a way to manage back home, though it will be so different.  Cole was already soaking up all the attention yesterday, but I know he will start to miss his favorite pal soon.  

Do your children stay with grandparents during the summer? Did you grow up spending time with your grandparents?

Impromptu Date Night: Cocktails In The Garden

Is there something you've been meaning to do in your city, for oh say 8 years, and just never made it happen?

Well last night we were able to check visiting the Atlanta Botanical Garden off our list.

On Tuesday I heard about the Cocktails in the Garden event happening every Thursday night, but in June it was sponsored by Lilly Pulitzer!  We have grandparents-in-residence for a few days that were trying to kick us out of the house anyway, so off we went!

 One day I will make it to Instagram, but for now you have to deal with my arm party pics.

A wee bit of Atlanta traffic got in the way of me claiming one of the Lilly Pulitzer gift bags for the first 50 attendees wearing Lilly, but I didn't let that ruin the party.  

Lilly topped cocktail tables were dotted around the garden and the Honeybee cocktails were delicious (and potent!)

While we aren't the typical garden-roaming type, the conservatory containing the tropical and orchid gardens were our favorites.  As Mr. Banker said, the best way to do it was wandering about with a drink in hand.

There are also cultural performances, but we decided to skip the ballet exhibition in favor of grabbing dinner.

Seasons 52 is one of our favorites, especially the bite sized desserts.  Food snobs that we are, as a part of the Darden Restaurants we can use the Olive Garden, Red Lobster, or Longhorn gift cards that family likes to buy us for gifts.

All in all a lovely, impromptu date night.

Are you a garden lover?  Tell me about one of the sights you need to see in your city!

Why Did I Wait So Long To Buy: Longchamp

So I've already told y'all I have Retail Phobia.

Another symptom of RP is waiting forever to buy something because it rarely goes on sale.

This was definitely the case with my purchasing a Longchamp Le Pilage tote.  I knew they are highly recommended, but the $145 nylon bag just never made it to the top of my wishlist.  Before our Kentucky trip I finally trotted into Nordstrom, bought the bag and I've used it nearly every day since.

Here are the fun (picture worthy) ways I've used the tote.  

I also use it on a daily basis to tote the everyday mommy things- sippy cups, diapers, headache medicine... It can be a little too large sometimes, which is why the smaller version (in pink, of course) has made it to my wishlist.


Are you a Longchamp lover?  What is something you regret waiting to purchase?

A Meat-Centric Father's Day

Most men are easy to shop for.  They have their one go-to "thing."  It might be golf, music or cigars.

For Mr. Banker it's grilling.

This guy loves to cook out, which I adore because during the summer months he cooks more than I do!

To celebrate him and his love of meat, the boys and I took him to lunch at Dreamland BBQ (it's not Eastern NC style, but the ribs are amazing!) on Saturday.

And we got him a few grilling accessories he was wanting.

Nothing says love like meat thermometers.

Maverick Wireless Meat Thermometer

Thermoworks Digital Pocket Thermometer

Then on Sunday night he had his first Pinterest fail.

Source: food52.com via Amy on Pinterest

Yes, HE cooked dinner on Father's Day.  There is no doubt that I am completely spoiled.

I dug into this sugary steak but he wasn't feeling it.  We've all been there.

It was a great weekend and I'm already wishing it wasn't over.

Is your dad or husband easy to shop for?  I'd love to hear your gift ideas for them!

Sunday Social Link Up

I've recently started reading Neely's blog, A Complete Waste of Makeup (late to the party, I know...)  She and Ashley have started a new link up and this week I'm jumping in!






If you have landed in my little corner of the internet from their blogs, welcome!  You can read a little more about me here.  I hope to find a few new blogs to add to my Reader as well.

This week's questions are about movies (which I adore) so here we go!

What is your favorite movie of all time?

Almost Famous

via

Favorite movie quote?

"Whoever said orange was the new pink is seriously disturbed" ~Elle Woods, Legally Blonde

followed by a close second
"I'm one stomach flu away from my goal weight" ~Emily, The Devil Wears Prada

Best movie to watch for a girls night in?

Clueless!

Source: yeahflashback.com via waz0bia on Pinterest

Best breakup movie?
Hmmm, not sure about this one?  Say Anything?

Favorite celeb eye candy?

Justin
(edited to fix my pic...but just so you know there is only one Justin....Justin Timberlake) (Yes I may still be 13)

Source: tousstar.centerblog.net via Marion on Pinterest

(p.s. I also happen to think he should play Christian Grey...just sayin')

Which movie stars closet would you want to raid?

I think I have to go with Neely & Ashley on this one and choose Reese Witherspoon.  Or maybe Anne Hathaway.

This was a fun way to kick off my Sunday.  I hope y'all have a great rest of the weekend!

Top 10 Ways Cruising Keeps You Young

There is no doubt that cruising with Bestie was the best way to celebrate our 30th birthdays.  I had cruised once before, but I was much younger and trying to be more adult.  This trip I just wanted to leave my responsibilities behind and let loose.  Funny how that works.

Here are the top ten ways this trip helped me feel a little younger for 5 days:

1. Towel Animals

I'd be lying if I said we weren't excited to see what little critter showed up each evening.

2. Line Dances

Cruise DJs love them some line dances.  Someone please tell me that I'm not the only person who has never heard of The Wobble.  I can now say I've done it....and probably won't ever again.

3. Drinking 14 Hours Straight

The best part about only pretending you're young is you know a little about moderation.  But it was pretty funny when some of the waiters started remembering our names.

4. Getting Carded

Ok, maybe we really didn't get carded.  But we were asked a few times if we were old enough to drink.  We had a laugh, gave the server a look and they brought our drinks.

5. Receiving Compliments

We were seated at dinner with the most adorable, young Southern boy-couple (we called them "the boys.")  They always told us how lovely we looked.  They and others didn't believe we had kids at home.  Sometimes it's nice to not be defined as just a mom. 

6. Bad Pickup Lines

Bestie is a hot, single lady so I got to hear some interesting lines.  Guys- don't use a pickup line referencing flossing (yes, flossing!?!) if your teeth could use a little help. Just sayin'.

7. Two Words: Senor Frogs

Don't worry, I didn't participate in any of the craziness.  The closest this girl ever got to Spring Break was watching it on MTV.  But it was really funny to watch it go down at 1:30 in the afternoon on a Sunday.

8. Instant Ego Boost

People make some bad clothing choices.  It was nice to see that I didn't look too bad in my suit.  Well, maybe until some actual young person strutted by.  I was surprised at the lack of fashion happening on the boat.  Only one Lilly sighting and I could have been her mother. 

9. Sleeping Like A Baby

The comedian on the ship joked that those rooms are like tombs.  But really, a windowless, slightly rocking room with a comfy bed? Best sleep in years.

10. Being Careless Enough To Leave Your Passport On The Ship In A Foreign Country

Our first day in port we were a little excited (and maybe still fuzzy for our 8am excursion) and we left our passports in our room.  A momentary freak out at the check point where the Bahamian official looked at us like "really?" and waved us along.  We made sure we had them the next time, and then of course they didn't even look at it.

Are you a cruiser?  Leave me a comment with your favorite aspect of sailing away.

A Mug For Your Morning Pick Me Up

I'm back to reality today and know I will be needing my morning cup of coffee more than ever.

It wasn't until I had both boys that I really relied on coffee to get going.  Now there's no question that each day starts with coffee and my quiet time at 5am to wake up.

Our cabinet is full of classic white mugs that match our everyday dishes, but I always reach for one of my favorite, fun mugs first.

Here are a few that would liven up any mug collection--

  Kate Spade Make Mischief Mug

Who wouldn't want to start the day in a mischievous mood?  This mom of two boys knows that every day is going to hold some fun surprises.

Handpainted Mr. and Mrs. ______ Mugs

It's not china, but these gorgeous personalized couples mugs would make a great wedding gift or even an anniversary present! 

Tiffany & Co. Fifth Avenue Mug

Can you go wrong with Tiffany and New York landmarks?  I think not.  Though this mug might make you long for a city getaway.

Some ecards Don't Ever Touch My Chocolate Mug

I love a little snark in the morning, don't you?  

But seriously, don't touch my chocolate. Or my coffee.

Do you have a favorite mug? 

Summer Corn Salad- Guest Post from Copacetic in Carolina

Hey Ladies! I’m Ally Garner from Copacetic In Carolina, tickled pink to be guest posting for sweet Amy while she’s having a blast on her fabulous cruise. 

If you’ve ever stopped by my blog even for a second, you likely know I’m passionate about making healthy but scrumptious dishes. I married an Italian-Cajun-Southern man and single-handedly proved that a way to a man’s heart is indeed through his stomach ;) 

 
But in the summer months, sometimes the last place I want to be is in a hot kitchen! So while I send my husband out to man the grill, I try to serve up dimple, delicious, but cooler, side dishes. And today’s recipe I’m sharing with y’all is a new favorite! 

This Summer Corn Salad is perfect for a weeknight meal or a summer BBQ, and one you’ll want to serve all season. I found it while flipping through one of my Ina Garten cookbooks and it’s quickly become a family favorite. Here’s my version:

4 cups fresh white or yellow corn, cut from 5 ears
½ cup finely diced red onion
1 cup halved cherry or grape tomatoes
3 TB red wine vinegar
3 TB EVOO
1 small red or orange bell pepper, chopped
1 tsp kosher salt & ½ tsp freshly ground pepper
2 TB fresh basil, julienned

1. Boil or grill the corn to your liking. When cooled, cut the kernels off the cob getting as close to the cob as possible.
2. In a large bowl combine the corn kernels with the red onion, bell peppers and tomatoes. Next add the EVOO, vinegar, salt & pepper and toss to evenly coat.
3. Just before serving, add in the fresh cut basil. This dish can be served cold or at room temp. And it’s even better the next day after the flavors have married.

Easy peasy, right? Yet it’s really delicious and can be whipped up in a hurry. But what I love most is that it’s another fresh recipe we can make with veggies & herbs from our backyard summer gardens! I hope y’all give this dish a try this summer. I bet you’ll love it as much as we do!

Thanks so much to Amy for inviting me to guest blog for her while she’s cruisin’ the high seas. And a special thank you to y’all for indulging me today :) Wishing you all a Copacetic week!


Thanks to Ally for sharing this yummy recipe.  I can't wait to make it when I get back home to my boys!

Sailing.....takes me away!

Source: insidetheloopblog.com via Amy on Pinterest

I'm setting sail today with Bestie for our 30th birthday cruise!  5 days of no dishes, no diapers and no questions other than "can I get you another drink?"

Yes, please!

I'll be back next week, but while I'm gone I'll have one tasty guest post for you.

Time to pop the bubbly!

What's Your Pattern?

Wedding season is upon us.   Mr. Banker and I celebrated our own anniversary last week!

We probably should have eaten our celebratory dinner at home on our wedding china, but it sat safely tucked away.

Mikasa Crown Jewel Platinum

In eight years we've moved it three times, broken two pieces, added a few extra settings and only used it on a few occasions.

When we were registering there was no question that we would choose a china pattern.  My family doesn't care much for tradition, so my form of "rebelling" is to embrace as many traditions as I can.  And I HAD to have china.

Like most things, Mr. and I were able to pick something out together that we both liked without much discussion.  I still love it and would probably choose the same pattern now.

I need to take inventory and decide on any pieces I want to add to my collection (including the teacup with the  broken handle I need to replace) before they are too hard to find.

The first time we all can sit in our dining room as a family and use it will be a special day.  Obviously that's a few years away, unless I want to replace even more broken pieces, but something I will be excited about.

We'll see if I ever trust the boys to do the dishes.

I want to hear about your thoughts on china!  Do you have a pattern or plan to one day?  Is your set passed down or did you pick it out before you met your future spouse? 

Demystifying Forever 21 Skinny Jeans

I never wanted to embrace the skinny jean trend.

However, when it became apparent that it wasn't going anywhere I decided to give it a try.  I had heard that the Forever 21 skinny jeans were favorites of many stylish ladies.  And at $10.80 they were definitely worth a shot.

I absolutely love them!  Sure the quality is not the greatest, but for a trendy item that might be sacrificed in a photo shoot accident they do the job.

A few weeks ago I decided I had lived without a pair long enough and set out to the store to replace my favorite skinnies.

If you've ever been to a Forever 21 store you know it's a little overwhelming.  Or at least overwhelming for a 30 year old woman trying to shove past 13 year olds to find her not-size-24 skinny jeans.

I came out empty-handed, unable to find the same style I had before.  Easy enough, I'll go check out their website.

Woah. The Forever 21 website proved to be more overwhelming than the store!

A simple search for "skinny jeans" yields 44 results!

I quickly eliminated the leopard print, floral and tie-dye results from my search and dove in to find my regular dark denim pair.

As you see above, I narrowed the search down to 5 pair (I accidentally ordered two of the same, one in black titled "Classic Denim Skinny Jeans" are actually the same cut as "Classic Skinnies")

My package arrived and it was time to see what I was working with. 

1. "Vintaged Skinny Jeans"
I knew right away these were not the jeans I was trying to replace, but wanted to try them on anyway.  They are a thicker weight, but for me they are obviously too long (32 inseam) and oddly baggy in the knees.

2. "Stretch Skinny Jeans"
You wouldn't know from the item name, but in the description it lists these as petites.  I'm 5' 5" and the 29 inch inseam is the perfect flats length.  These also have a slightly higher rise (8 inches) that works well on me.

3."Classic Skinnies"
These there a fail on me.  30 inch inseam is too long and 7 inch rise (rather than 8 on the petites) hits right in the middle of my mommy tummy.

4.  "Classic Slim Denim Pants"
I'm 90% certain these were the skinnies I was trying to replace.  They have a 28.5 inch inseam and an 8.5 inch rise.  They roll up to a crop length nicely.

So pairs 2 and 4 were my keepers!

**I found that these ran true to size and the waist sizing was consistent across the styles.  They are sold by waist sizes, and you can consult their size chart for number size to inches conversions**

I learned a lot of things from this jeans experiment and I hope it was helpful to you.  The item descriptions regarding rise and inseam will be much more useful to me in the future now that I know what works.  I also know to keep track of item numbers on future favorites so it will be a little easier to find them if I need a replacement.

This is the first post of a few I'm planning to write on rebuilding your wardrobe.  I'll be asking some questions on the topic on my Facebook page and would love any input from y'all regarding any specifics you would like to read about.

Do you have a favorite pair of jeans?  Have you ever had trouble finding a replacement for a piece of clothing?