My youngest will only be 4 for a few more weeks... how I have enjoyed this year with my very little angel.

Pax River Raiders honor October's Breast Cancer Awareness

Leave it to Micheals to inspire a Sunday afternoon.

Weekends are made for fun! Funny what we moms consider fun, isn't it?  Who'd of thought 10 years ago that  my idea of a blissful weekend would involve home made halloween teacher treats, football games, and playgrounds?

vice

shopping with girlfriends, martinis, and all day spa treatments...

Wait. What?

yeah - ask me again tomorrow.

My thoughtful hubby surprised me with a plane ticket to my hometown in Florida this weekend to see my family and sister who is in town completing her residency before graduation from vet school in May.  She is my very best friend.  We are so close as only sisters can be. Check out her blog - she obviously gets her sense of humor from me!  It was a wonderful weekend with a chance to catch up with girlfriends, and spend a rainy day with my mom and sister.  Shopping, make up (we love make up) and movies!  [Note: all working mothers (and fathers) simply MUST SEE I Don't Know How She Does It ]   and shopping with my mom and sister. 


I also spent a few hours with my favorite stylist that has been creating my signature look for years. What do you think of my new hair style?  Hopefully it's not too Nancy Grace meets helmet head...yeah, I don't think so either :-) 

Don't Feed the Models

In honor of this past Fashion Week I wanted to share this 178 calorie cocktail (with a hilarious name) which has become a new staple during cocktail hour at the Heimer Compound.


Damon Dunay, the Beverage Director at NYC's fabulous The Empire Hotel—created this Fashion Week cocktail named "Don't Feed The Models," a low-calorie (178!) drink that tastes like Indian summer. And hey, you might even look like Heidi after three or four! 

Ingredients: 2 oz. Crop Organic Cucumber Vodka: 120 calories (typically vodkas have 100 calories per shot
.75 oz. Fresh Lime: 2 calories.
.75 oz. Simple Syrup: 40 calories.
.5 oz. Cucumber Juice: 4 calories.
Fresh Mint: 12 calories.

Preparation Notes:
In a mixing glass, muddle one cucumber slice and combine all ingredients; shake vigorously. Strain into a Martini glass, garnish with a cucumber slice.

First Lady Style

I am a big fan of the First Lady.  She is the ultimate 'Glam Mom': runs errands, nurtures her children, handles her business, and still finds time to volunteer or coach the kids' soccer.  That is the elegance and glamour that us Moms are proud of at the end of long and selfless day. 


I was delighted to see that Michelle O browsed the discount isles of Target in VA, and in a comfy cotton top, that I too have hanging in my closet (what I can I say? the lady's got great taste)!  Real style does not come from labels or price tags. 
Nope.
In fact, I've got a little secret...


This top that I blogged about back in June is from none other than Old Navy!  I'm pretty sure I didn't pay more than $12.00!  

Packing Heat

I try to pack my lunch everyday, mostly to save time at the office so I can work through the hour and fit it all in. It is a nice treat when I can pack a hot lunch, especially a home made healthy soup like this one on a rainy day! 

Faux Potato Soup

compliments of Skinny Taste
Servings: 5 • Size: 1 cup • Old Points: 4 pts • Points+: 5 pts
Calories: 207.6 • Fat: 7.8 g • Carb: 22.5 g • Fiber: 2.4 g  • Protein: 11.9 g

• 2 russet potatoes, washed and dried
• 1 small head of cauliflower, stem removed cut into florets
• 1 1/2 cups fat free chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups 1% reduced-fat milk
• salt and freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/2 cup light sour cream
• 10 tbsp reduced-fat shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 tbsp chopped chives, divided
• 3 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (you can use turkey bacon if you prefer)

Pierce potatoes with a fork; microwave on high for 5 minutes turn over and microwave another 3 - 5 minutes, until tender. Or if you prefer to use your oven, bakeat 400° for 1 hour or until tender. Cool. Peel potatoes.

Meanwhile, steam cauliflower with water in a large covered pot until tender. Drain and return to pot. On medium heat, add chicken broth, milk, potatoes and bring to a boil. Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth. Add sour cream, half the chives, salt and pepper and cook on low another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Remove from heat. Ladle 1 cup soup into each bowl. Top each serving with 2 tbsp cheese, remaining chives, and bacon.

Geek Chic

I just love ties! Yes, even for women. The patterns are great and it is nothing more than an alternate accessory [much like a scarf] that adds a little interest.  

Tip: the classic Windsor Knot is easiest [for me] to tie before I put it on!

After an intense and exciting 2 day leadership retreat, I was officially dubbed the chic geek.  A geek I am, especially when it comes to exploring personalities, human nature, leadership development, community involvement, and the common good. I have taken the Myers Briggs a number of times over the years and still my 4 letter personality combination is the same ENFP.  


Do you know your personality type? Understanding yourself and those that you collaborate with, whether it be for work, volunteering, or even family, increases communication effectiveness and project efficiency.  I would venture to say  that most Public Relations Professionals are dorks in the study of human nature.  What is your personality type? 

Fashion Buffet

Isn't it peculiar what can inspire your week. This week, I am totally geared up about DC Fashion Week, even though it is 2 weeks away!  

I've found the creativity and inspiration seeping into my remixing this week, and today's outfit was somewhere in between. The Chanel influence of this tweed skirt and pearl overload feels feels just right for the transition between summer and fall. I will be covering some of the DC Fashion Week  events coming up and I am looking forward to bringing my readers the hottest runway trends for Spring/Summer 2012. The creativity from these talented designers is so exciting and I can't wait to fire up the sewing machine this weekend!



The second most highly anticipated fashion event this season is none other than the District Sample Sale, just around the corner!  Shop with purpose; this fundraising event benefits Women Empowered Against  Violence (WEAVE).  So, start building your stamina now for this Monday shopping marathon.  Grab your VIP tickets for this opportunity to snag your schwag from your favorite area boutiques. Some of my favorite Maryland shops will be featured at DSS including: Urban Chic, Poppy and Stella,  Sassanova,  Ginger, Cupcake, Emily Grace, Form, Luna, and Imagine just to name a few. 


This is also a great chance to enjoy some pure unadulterated girlfriend gushing.  Fashion week with your besties is always a memorable night of fun. Pictured below is 2008 Tampa Bay Fashion Week with a few of mine!  

Like a runaway train, every day my boys grow and go.  I think all moms get a little emotional at the beginning of a new school year, a birthday, and other milestones that remind of us of just how fast they are growing. This week it hit me pretty hard. So, once again, I document and capture the sweet little moments that I will cherish forever. 

this little cutie went to school...

this little cutie carried his lunch...

this little cutie played ball...

and this little mommy cried wahhhh wahhh wahhh all the way home! 

A Home Plate Proposal

In honor of our anniversary weekend, I had to share our proposal video!  We played co-ed softball; Justin hit the ball, faked and injury and popped the question at "home" plate...very thoughtful and UNEXPECTED!! 

TGIF Casually

Earrings: Stella and Dot

Blazer: Calvin Klein

Jeans: Mossimo for Target

Zebra Stripe Shoes: Gianni Bini 

Bag: Louis Vuitton 

Something about Fridays...

the excitement of the [long] weekend, the hope of fitting in all the projects and fun, the casual vibe at work, and the "let's get this party started" attitude!

Have a great weekend! 

Style Balance

When you work as a Public Relations or Marketing Professional for a serious Information Technology firm supporting the Department of Defense and Navy, there isn't a lot of excitement over trendy outfits or the newest designer hand bag. Nope,  the excitement comes from migrating legacy data systems and cloud computing.  

Over the past year I have worked on finding my style and outlet for expression within this corporate environment. Today's agenda of power lunches and strategy meetings was no different, Yet  I found my style balance at the corner of  Fashion Drive and Professional Way. 

Pin Stripe Suit: Ralph Lauren

Vintage Broach: Thrifted 

Platforms : Ralph Lauren 

Too School for Cool

What a crazy summer, it is nice to reboot our routine and have the kids back in school.  A little more 'me' time with the kids in school, it was time for mom to get her back to school glam on!

Although appointments are a little hard to come by at The Hair Company, I do appreciate their stylists, location, and the refreshing chardonnay during my partial foil.  

So proud of my oldest son and this recent milestone. It is going to be a great year!

Polka Dancing

My first day back from vacation and an Earthquake!?  What an odd feeling.  Your mind simply cannot wrap around what is happening when your world is rocking. My office on the 3rd floor of a large building was rocking my leopard print lamps rattling pictures.  Evacuation, no cell phone service, certainly an unsettling afternoon. Luckily, little damage, and no injuries reported for the "EastQuake of 2011". 

Dress: Calvin Klein

Blaser: JCrew

Watch: Michael Kors
Clutch: Nicole Miller (10 yrs old!)

Shoes: Nude, Madden

Packing it all in

My least favorite part of vacation is packing!  Editing your wardrobe can cause such anxiety especially when you are making so many stops along the journey! We are the type of family who plans out the vacay itinerary months in advance. R&R has a time and place on our vacation agenda along with mini golf, Dollywood's Splash Country, Whitewater Rafting, the Spa, and the beach. Oak Haven Resort offers a beautiful escape from the chaos and connectivity and was the absolutely perfect retreat for my family to play, laugh, and love. This vacation was one that none of us will soon forget. Now, what is worse than packing?  ...unpacking!

Polished

In case you weren't aware, nail polishes actually have annual awards. I admit, I had no idea just how fabulous this Cajun Shrimp OPI color was until the high-pressure receptionist at the Spa informed me of just why I must have this shade. I admit, it's pretty awesome. And in case you didn't know, here are some other awards winning nail hues.

Birchbox

A very special treat for all things girly. This is a luxury that every lady deserves. Always a welcomed surprise, this little box is the monthly visitor you will not dread!  Boasting right-sized luxury products from skin care to makeup, hair products or even the latest tech gadgets, the Birchbox is such a fun concept that is all custom, all you! Don't mix the box, sign up today ladies. Anyone else love the box?

His Bday

A little treasure in Southern Maryland is a favorite of Politicians and National Leaders alike...and for good reason!  This unexpected seafood gem is the most delicious crab and lobster you have ever put to your lips. We simply love Jerry's Place and have enjoyed getting to know the outgoing, jovial owner who treats every customer like his first. It was the no-doubt pick for the husband's birthday dinner!

 

I surprised the birthday boy with a new iPhone complete with the golf app that made him want a smartphone in the first place.  Did I mention the ringtone? You guessed it...Happy Birthday to you!

Date Night

Lately our date nights (and weekends for that matter) seem to revolve around golf. I have identifed these top 5 reasons why I tend to tolerate it.

1. My kids are getting older and have an interest [we have a foursome].

2. A warm summer afternoon lends itself to being outdoors in the sunshine and nature. The surroundings are peaceful and you can always spot some interesting wildlife.

3. A little exercise can be more romantic than carbs and dessert, at least for the after party =)

4. We live on the golf course, so there is no reason to skip the second cocktail.

5. We live on the golf course, so there is no reason to skip the second cocktail.

Saturday night was admittedly an enjoyable date night! 



Awkward & Awesome Thursday

Awwk-waaaard

Well this pretty much takes care of the Awkward wouldn't you say?

I love these shoes...I do not love that my feet  slide out revealing the fingerling toes! I suppose I will have to retire them after a 3 year love affair.

[I should get extra credit for this post wouldn't you say?  What fun is a personal style blog if you can't poke a little fun at yourself!]

Awesome

- Girlfriends who send you gorgeously tailored suits after leaving corporate America

- The husband taking a much needed day off to take our oldest to Kings Dominion for a little roller coaster day with Dad!

- The Ballard Design cheetah lamps in my office - they make me, and the stuff-shirt-IT-Engineers-that-don't-really-get-us="marketing types"- smile

- A short cross-country chat with my amazing sister working so hard during her residency