5 Must Haves: For 2011

Meet Me! Each Thursday, I ask a gal around the country to share her 5 must haves. It can be absolutely any topic! Fashion, food, fitness, you name it. This week, in a change of pace, I'm sharing my 5 must haves for 2011, which also offers a reflection back on this past year. Some are more light-hearted than others, but all are definitely must haves for me.

Here they are, in no particular order.

Health

This is a big one! As they say, you never know until it's gone. For those newer to my blog, take a journey back to my July post when I fill you in on my adventurous year. Long story short is that this year I was diagnosed with a one in a million neurological disorder called Transverse Myelitis. I'm doing way better -- in fact, so much more than when I wrote that July post -- however it's been a rough road. Just four months after having my little girl, I spent a month in the hospital temporarily paralyzed. After many more months recovering. I have some issues including a super annoying bladder -- it doesn't function properly on it's own (another story for another day). What I've realized? Love the body you have, do not take anything for granted (including going potty!) and recognize that everyone has plenty of crap to deal with, whether you know it or not. So, for me and for you, wishing LOTS of good health!
**I've also become even more grateful for those in my life. My husband is the most amazing, caring and generous man I've ever met, and our family and friends are without-a-doubt angels. 

Blog & Biz "Success"
Woohooo! With bad health, comes opportunities, right? YES! I finally launched my blog in July and a month later, started a public relations/marketing/social media company. Now, I'm hungry for more! While I'm not yet ready to define "success," I'm doing what I love, feeling fortunate to have met so many smart and wonderful women (and clients, of course).

Even more creative outfits!
This year, and especially in recent months, I've gone a little bolder and more creative with my looks. As I say to you: it's just one day! Worse case I look like a fool...the day's over before you know it. No big. In 2011, I plan to invest in more blouses and pieces that will stand the test of time. I'm not buying anything because it's a deal! It's no deal if I never wear it or it doesn't properly fit. I have too many cotton tees and not enough items I totally love. I will get there!



More Q.T. with Family & Friends
I'm making a deliberate effort in 2011 to spend more time with family and friends. We're all always "so busy," yet meanwhile time ticks by. I'm excited to spend 2011 watching the love-of-my-life, my daughter, grow and learn. I want to have long, engaging conversations with my parents and grandparents and continue to get to know them in more than the day-to-day sense. And, I want to spend the same quality time with friends. It's time to invest in those people I really want in my life forever instead of wasting time trying to socialize a little with everyone.

A Vacation with My Hubs

Man, we need a vacay. We went away for a night this summer but it was just 15 minutes away from the house because, for health reasons, I couldn't travel further. Well, now I'm ready to roll! The question is, where do we go? I could sit on a beach....though we were never really good at relaxing! Decisions, decisions.



Well, that's all... hope you liked my list and it got you thinking about your top 5 for 2011! Would love if you shared at least one or two of them here.

See you in the New Year... this gal is enjoying the long weekend with her fam.

xo-- Alyson

Savvy Style: Champagne Heels

With New Year's Eve just a few days away, I have two things on the brain. 2. a smokin' outfit with even hotter heels. 2. champagne! Since it's practically common practice that gals wear black on the big night, why not spice it up with your heels? And, what better way to glitz them up than with champagne-colored ones ! Are you bubbling over with excitement ? I know I am!

Truth be told, I have a pair of champagne-colored Nina T-strap heels that I love to death; they look good dressed up, with jeans and are in that neutral metallic family that coordinates with everything.

Want to try the look for NYE? Test out a pair of these shoes, three of which are from Zappos (I heart their free shipping!). 

RSVP in Vista, on sale for $52.48! (reg. $75). These might have to be mine. Ob-sessed.

A. Marinelli in Rancho, on sale for $72.40 (reg. $112). Strappy and sassy. Loving the glitz, and the ankle strap keeps it from slipping  away from you while booty dancing (oh wait, maybe that's just me).

Steve Madden in Feelixx, $89.95. Wowza! You need good balance for these hotties. The platform gives you great height -- i.e. a slim line -- in a peep toe pump. Those off that pedi!

Kate Spade Lalita, $325

(if you prefer black, head to Zappos: on sale for $195!). Yes, these are a splurge, but totally worth it. You'll get so much use (and even more compliments). The heel height makes it practical to party for hours.

Happy New Year's gals! I'll have a special 5 must haves tomorrow, and then taking Friday off for an extended weekend with the fam. Excited to meet more of you gals in 2011!

Quick Bites: Chocolately Minis & Drops

I passed these in Publix a few weeks ago, supremely tempted, but kept on my way. But then last week I realized, hey, I could review them for my blog. HELLO! There's no calories when it's for blogging, right? Right, let's just assume so.

Meet Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme drops and Reese's minis. I'm in heaven. I have serious sweet tooth, yet at the same time hate wasting loads of calories for a little treat at home. Prefer to splurge when I go out. These are my new answer. Plus, if you're a "quantity" eater like I am (it took a while of Weight Watchers to figure this out!), it's much more satisfying to eat a handful of these instead of one regular cup. Just feels like more!

The Reese's -- which are my weakness -- are seriously mini, and each one is just 18 measly calories. Yet, I feel satisfied with just one or two because these babies have the same exact peanut butter and chocolate flavor as their mamas. While the serving is for 11 pieces at 200 calories and 12 grams of fat, you really don't need that many.

As for the Cookies 'n' Creme drops, they're a little firmer than I expected (like a candy bar) since it says it doesn't have a candy shell, however they're rich and creamy and love them now that I realize they're more like mini, round candy bars. You must like white chocolate to enjoy these bad boys because it's essentially that with some chocolate cookie crumbs mixed in. As for a serving size, these are 14 pieces for 210 calories and 11 grams of fat.

Keep these for an after-dinner treat or consider putting them out for NYE in a clear or silver serving piece (or vase).

Enjoy!! I know I am.

Groupon: Post-holiday deals

Groupon is doing it up today! Check out these deals....

Ever want to make your own granola bar, cereal, shake or other healthy treat? Get $25 to You Bar for just $12 -- and customize your creation (head to DC deal)! I'm obsessed with this deal --- 1. I love to eat. 2. I love to eat healthy. and 3. I can be kind of picky. This let's us pick exactly what we want! So fun to try.  Purchase deal by 12.31.10.

People love this site: For just $35, get $100 worth of cards, calendars and photo books at Picaboo. Make fully customizable pieces, and loving that the certificate is good toward shipping and tax, too. Yay! Find the deal by clicking on Portland. And, it's available for purchase through 12.30.10.

Wine drinker or go to friend's for dinner, soirees, and get-togethers? Take advantage of this gift certificate to wine.com. A $60 value, for just $30. Perfect to sip new wines, or bring the perfect bottle to a Find it under San Diego friend's house. The deal is available through 12.30.10.

Happy deal shopping!
xo-Alyson

Outfit: A Casual Winter Day

I live in Florida. Winter days here are typically a balmy 65-70 degrees so I know some of you -- especially if you're snowed in right now! -- think I'm crazy talking about a winter outfit that doesn't require a puffy down jacket or trench. Hey, we're expecting a low of 35 tonight! Use the principals I mention here, and think of this look as the weather warm up this Spring before you're ready to break out your florals and bright Lilly Pulitzer-colored outfits. You know this is a Winter-in-Florida-look because I put my wet hair back in a bun... who the heck in NYC would walk outside with wet hair!

The purpose of this casual outfit: demonstrating how a typical gal mixes patterns (& more). Love how this grey and white stripe shirt looks with the unexpected and softer look of a navy, pink and yellow paisley scarf, thrown together with a tougher looking faux leather and ribbed cotton jacket. Don't think you must put on your go-to black scarf if you're wearing a patterned shirt and vice versa! Go for bold patterns and mix the masculine and feminine. Also aim for mixing the length of your items. See how the shorter jacket pairs with the longer tee? Do that, or go for a long cozy cardigan paired with a shorter/tucked in shirt. It totally works.

striped 3/4-length tee: old navy

paisley scarf: market in Israel

faux leather jacket: steve & barry's (from sjp's now defunct fashion line)

skinnies: f21

grey boots: target

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Outfit Post: Holiday Dress Code

While Monday's are typically my new outfit posts, couldn't resist sharing this just before Christmas and while you're starting to think about how to fancy up for New Year's Eve. I purchased this dress back in October and wore it just once to dinner at III Forks (yum!). However, I felt it begged for more! We had three soirees to hit up this past Saturday. As soon as I put on the dress, I was ready for a night out! {unfort, my cold meds wore off a bit early... boo! This chick had to nix the last party in favor of crawling under the covers!}.

I love this dress because it's a no brainer. It looks like I effortlessly put together the perfect skirt and blouse but it's just one, with an exposed zipper down the back and those delicate tiers I'm totally digging lately. Best of all: I scored this on a serious sale at Bloomies. This necklace with its oversized black and gold baubles has also been asking for attention: since buying it at Loehmann's I've only worn it once. I'm just working my way into bold jewelry so I'm excited I found another reason to wear it. As soon as I put it on with this dress and these velvetty heels: Voila! I felt hot! Isn't that the best feeling?

dress: i.n.c. international concepts

necklace: not sure brand, from loehmann's

heels: bcbg

black watch: swatch

black/gold bangle: from lord & taylor, nyc

nail polish: opi's yes you can can

 

5 Must Haves: for 2011

Meet Kourtney. She owns a super chic eponymous clothing boutique in West Palm Beach, Fla., which carries everything from exclusive apparel and jewelry lines of up-and-coming designers to premium denim, shoes and home decor. While I've gone to a few of her champagne and shopping parties (a dangerous combo!), I've gotten to know her -- well, at least her enviable style -- by following her on Twitter. Yes, Twitter. She shares her blog posts there, where I've come to thirst for whatever she's showing next. An outfit perfect for a night out? Check! An inspiration room? Check! She shares it all.

Oh, and did I forget to tell you she's a hot mama? Man, this girl is busy and looks totally awesome. She's clearly doing something right! With the New Year, fast approaching, we asked her if she'd share her 5 must haves for 2011 and she happily obliged. I'm so digging her responses. While I anticipated her wardrobe must haves (she does own a boutique!), this smart chick dug way deeper! J'adore. Though -- because we still need to know what she's eying for 2011 -- I'm totally coercing her to blog later this Spring about her fashion favs. Just wait! In the meantime, check out her blog, Kourtney Pulitzer Style. And, now...

In her words, here's Kourtney's 5 must haves for 2011. 

OM time!
Re-connect your mind and body. This ancient practice is ALL it is said to be and then some. Your body, mind, and soul will THANK YOU for honoring yourself in 2011.

A streamlined closet
Simplify your life by simplifying your closet. Please do yourself a favor in the new year and rid your closet of pieces that do not fit and pieces you have not worn in 2010, chances are you will not wear them this year either and they are weighing you down!

TAGG tip: check out our tips to declutter your closet. And, as a sidenote, who is seriously, crazy envious of this closet?! The shoes, the size, the chandelier, the sitting area (!)...kvelling, and fainting! 

The perfect denim
Find the perfect pair of denim that fits your current lifestyle and size. :) Do you need a new pair of skinny jeans, have you been dying for a slouchy boyfriend fit, how about a charcoal pair? Whatever your hearts desire let it be your New Year gift to yourself. You will wear them into the ground and enjoy every minute, you DESERVE it!
TAGG comment: AMEN, sista! Buy what fits. Do not squeeze yourself into the size you want to be. It will only make you look two sizes bigger than you actually are! And, that's never flattering. Never.

A bed-side altar
4. Re-organize and style your bed-side personal space. This ritual is SO important to feeling connected to your style and true self. It is the last thing you see each evening and what you wake up to every day!!! Make this private space an altar to all things YOU.




FUN!
Let your hair down and have some fun!!!!!!!!!!

Winner: Lyndsay Skeegan Pearl Ring

While I'm sad to be parting with it, I'm even more thrilled to announce the winner of our one-of-a-kind Lyndsay Skeegan ring: Kristin from Tampa!

She gets the ring you see me modeling (worst photo ever, sorry gals!). It's gorgeous, as are the rest of the Lyndsay's pieces. I hope you'll check out her site. She's offering all fans of The Average Girl's Guide free, 2-day shipping with any purchase (a $12 value), which means if you order today you should get it by Friday. Fingers crossed! Her stunning pieces are ones you'll be creating outfits around they're so wonderful.

Congrats again to Kristin! Contact me with your mailing address.

Shop it to Me: I'm a Trendsetter

One of my favorite Internet finds: Shop it to Me. Plain and simple.

It saves me hours and hours of shopping all-year-long. And, I'm not the only one; there are about three million users! It's this awesome site that essentially acts as your personal shopper, and best of all, it's a free service! Who doesn't want a personal shopper?! Simply pick your favorite stores, brands, etc and each day (or how often you select), Shop it to Me will email you with the latest items on sale. It kinda rocks my world. I've gotten a head start on major sales at everywhere from J. Crew to Tory Burch to Nine West heels on sale at Zappos.

While I've been using this service for about two years, I've been blogging for about five months and guess what? I was recently accepted as one of Shop it to Me's Trendsetters! Me? A Trendsetter! How cool is that? I'm soooooo honored. There are a gazillion blogs out there, yet they have less than a few dozen named as Trendsetters, which are essentially their favorite sites. Check me out: I'm currently in the "new" category, but will soon be moved to the "Lifestyle" section.

I'm not sure how many of you are familiar with the blog-o-sphere, but wow, I'm in good company. There are some awesome bloggers out there. It's where, for example, I was inspired to start outfit posts: I just love scanning other blogs with women who share their outfits. There's also great home-made recipes; beauty tips, tricks and new products; really cool, fun finds; and everything in between. I'm obsessed. Too bad I've now started my own company and have absolutely no time to be looking at blogs for hours on end.

Hope you'll check out the Trendsetters page, plus register for Shop it to Me. Not suggesting it because I'm a Trendsetter -- though I suppose that doesn't hurt -- but because I'm a gal just like you trying to save time and score awesome wears along the way (at great prices)!

-xo, Alyson

Quick Bites: Cookie Truffles

Holy kazam. Just look at the pic below and tell me you don't want to dive right into this screen to have a bite?! I'm in serious salivation mode after discovering these on another blog, and just had to share them with you! Finding it hard to concentrate because these cookie truffles sounds and looks so good.

Best of all: 3 ingredients, and crazy simple instructions. That's my kind of baking! Enjoy ones made with Nutterbutters or Oreos. Head over here for a few quick little tricks to perfect this recipe and how the gal from Framed Cooks blog came up with it.

COOKIE TRUFFLES, adapted from http://www.bakerella.com/

Ingredients
1 16 oz package Nutterbutters or Oreos
1 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened
1 14 ounce package candy melts

Directions
1. Place all but 6 cookies in food processor and process until ground to fine crumbs.
2. Put crumbs and cream cheese in bowl and mix until completely combined.
3. Form dough into one inch balls
4. Melt candy in microwave in 30 second increments, stirring in between each heating, until melted.
5. Coat each ball in candy and place on cookie sheet covered in wax paper.
6. Chill in refrigerator until candy is hardened.
7. Do what you will with those 6 extra cookies. ;)



My Outfit: One tiered skirt, two ways

Here goes outfit post #2! This time, wanted to show you how I recently wore one new skirt two ways -- once to a party and another to a client meeting. I'm learning, as I hope you are, that clothes in your closet should not have a specific purpose. Don't think of having "work pants" or "weekend clothes." Find ways to mix, match, layer and experiment to find new uses for all your pieces. 

In this case, my new Forever21 skirt got double duty. I was immediately drawn to the delicate tiered detailing with its deep, saturated blues and purples. And, I must confess it's size -- for those dealing with size issues -- that it's a large. Yes, a large. Who cares? Do not let sizes get the best of you. I'm so glad I didn't give up on this skirt just because the medium was literally suctioned to my thighs!

Outfit #1: For a casual holiday party on a cool Florida night, I paired my new find with a navy top featuring detailing on the sleeve and my new grey booties that, to call it mildly, are my new serious obsession! Was also thrilled that discover one of my old go-to clutches added the perfect pop of color; I alos carried along a purple cardy to fend off the breeze (and because I liked how it pulled the colors together!).

Outfit #2: Same color palette, different style! The second go-round saw this skirt mixed with a blazer and grey heels. LOVE a blazer -- it really makes an outfit look polished and professional. This blazer has been a 2010 wardrobe highlight: it regularly goes with my jeans, skirts, khaki pants -- anything and everything! My favorite part is rolling up the sleeve to show the silky striped fabric. Somehow it's neutral enough to work with everything, even this skirt that's not one bit preppy.

Here are my looks!

 

 blouse: express

cardy: old navy

booties: target

faux diamond bangle: h&m

clutch: nine west

blouse: tory burch

blazer: gap

clear-beaded necklace: j. crew

grey heels: h&m

silver ring: tiffany & co.

nail polish: opi's catch me if you can-can

Next up: this skirt is getting some tights! What do you think of my two looks? How would you have styled it?? Give me some outfit inspiration!

5 Must Haves: For a Healthy, Hungry Gal

Meet Tracy. This girl is totally fit -- like enviably lean, yet totally toned -- and eats like it's nobodies business. Unfair, right? Well it's because she eats lots of healthy foods, drinks and treats! I met Tracy a few years ago, bonding over our love of the fabulous Hungry Girl, Lisa Lillien Tracy took to me a few exercise classes, baked me some Hungry Girl treats, and well, I was hooked. Did I mention she's also the sweetest gal in the universe?

IMHO, if you want an authority on healthy eating, it needs to be from someone who likes to eat, and not in those mini-mouse portions. Tracy eats to fuel herself and get energy; she loves to work out, and is constantly after her 19-month old cutie son, Ty, and also works part-time, too. Wheh! I'm tired. Tracy learned about healthy eating, cooking and recipes from her mom, who not only is an excellent cook but is fabulously fit as well.

Here are Tracy's 5 must haves, in her words, for a healthy, hungry gal!

Membership to Costco

It may seem like a strange recommendation, but Costco is my favorite place to grocery shop. It's chock-full of healthy items sure to stave off a hungry appetite! They carry fresh fish, tons of fresh fruits and vegetables, Fage greek yogurt, chocolate chip vitatops, Flat Out wraps, Veggie Straws (my son’s favorite), frozen organic blueberries, strawberries and broccoli – the list goes on! I use all these ingredients for my new favorite lunch:
- Sauté baby spinach leaves (found in the refrigerated section of Costco) in an omelet pan with Pam and salt
- Slice up Roma tomatoes
- Place spinach and then tomatoes onto Flat Out wrap
- Place sliced turkey (or grilled chicken or any other meat you like) over the vegetable
- Sprinkle with feta cheese and roll into wrap
- Serve with veggie chips and some vegetables and dip; LOVE it!
TAGG note: Flat Out wraps are now also available in most grocery stores; just check by the deli section.

Magic Bullet

I love smoothies and so does my son. Using this is SO much easier than taking out the big bulky blender... and then cleaning it. There are so many Magic Bullet-type products on the market – I recently purchased a Bella Cucina Rocket Blender for half the price of the Magic Bullet (currently on sale for $29.99 at Amazon). To make smoothies, I use Unsweetened Vanilla Almond milk... I'm a huge fan! I also LOVE pumpkin. Its great for you and tastes awesome mixed into all kinds of things like yogurt and oatmeal. 

The following recipe makes a great snack: 3/4 cup Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Breeze, a few packets of Splenda to taste, few tablespoons canned pumpkin, ice... throw it all into the magic bullet and voila!

Jelly Roll baking sheet

This is a kitchen staple; it can be used to make a wide variety of healthy and delicious side dishes. I use mine daily to make everything from roasted broccoli or green beans to baked potato fries. Below are some VERY simple recipes using the jelly roll pan:

Baked potato fries: Preheat oven to 425. Cover pan with aluminum foil. Spray with Pam. Slice potato into thin slices (less than a ¼ inch thick but it depends how thick or thin you want your fries). Sprinkle liberally with any kind of salt you like (Lowry’s, garlic salt, sea salt, etc.). Cook  about 20 minutes. I check on them while they are baking after about 15 minutes and then every few after just t make sure they don’t burn.

Roasted broccoli (or brussel sprouts or green beans) – Preheat oven to 425. Cover pan with aluminum foil. Spray with Pam. Wash the vegetables and cut the broccoli into bite size pieces or take the stems off the green beans or cut the tops off the sprouts. Arrange vegetables on the foil and pour on a bit of olive oil (or spray vegetables with Pam if you are out of olive oil!). Sprinkle liberally with garlic salt. Using your hands,  be sure vegetables are coated and spread across the pan. Bake for about 20 minutes, checking until they are cooked to how you like them. My husband prefers his string beans on the slightly burnt side!

Good Omelet pan

I love omelets.. they're an absolute staple in my diet. They are easy to make, filling and I can throw anything in to make a meal.  I often throw together an omelet for lunch with egg whites, spinach, feta and some toast and tomatoes on the side. If you have egg beaters on hand and a bag of spinach, bread and tomatoes you can make a really easy meal for any time of day! I recently purchased some Calpholon omelet pans and am loving them!



Keurig Coffee Maker

I have a 19-month old son who is partial to extremely early wake-ups, I like to work out (a lot!) and I also work part-time from home.  Needless to say, caffeine plays a large role in my life! The Keurig coffee maker is great because its quick, easy and allows you to make a different type of coffee with every cup. You can also make tea, hot chocolate, or just a cup of hot water.
TAGG note: having a cup of coffee is fine for you, some studies even promote it. Just be aware of filling up one of those monster to-go cups; you're really drinking closer to 5 or 6 cups a day! The Keurig is an excellent way to limit your coffee intake... while getting instant gratification from the 60-second fill! Love.

Savvy Shopping: Sparkly Flats

New rule: every gal deserves a pair of totally outrageously, gorgeous, fun, flirty, shimmer, shiny flats! Yes, flats! Whether it's because you live in a city like New York or Chicago and walk a hell of a lot more than I do or because sometimes you need a break from heels, it's critical to have a pair of totally blinged out flats that make you feel down-right-special everytime you put on those bad boys. Don't you have a few items in your closet like that?? They literally transform my mood, and I walk around on a mini cloud all day.

Whether it's for daytime -- weekend mall, movies or work -- or for a night out -- date, holiday party hopping -- don one of these gorgeous little slippers to shimmer and shine all-day-long! I love contrasting the glitz casual jeans and a blouse, or totally rockin' it with a hot little dress and tights this holiday season. This way when you're party hopping, you'll the one ready for more while your friends feet are killing them! Score.

Steve Madden; $59.95

A total steal! Scoop these up in either gold, black or multi-color because they're totally rockstar! Love that they're not over-the-top. You can pair these with anything!

Nina; on sale, $59.95

Another perfect pair! Nina's have always treated me right. Totally comfortable, and I'm always getting loads of compliments. These would be no exception.

Kenneth Cole Reaction, $79.00

These are called "Glass Slippers," do you need any other reason? Also available in black.

Juicy Couture Snowflake flats, $67.45

Ok, these are more for lounging around the house and running to the mailbox, but how darling are they? Falling in lust with the sweet snowflake and sequin detailing, plus the cozy faux fur lining.

Madden Girl sparkly flats

Perfectly prim and proper, girl this girls a whirl if you're venturing into the sparkly thing for the first time. I could wear these every day, perfectly transitioning to a night out.

Quick Bites: Oreo Dipped Delight Bars

While I'm usually pretty good at sticking to my shopping list while at the grocery store, I must have been having a serious chocolate craving recently because I somehow "100 Calorie Packs" Oreo Dipped Delight Bars wound up in my cart. Damn you chocolate cravings!

Let me save you some money. Personally, if I'm going to have more than 30 or 40 calories for a random afternoon snack (hello, 5 or 6 dark chocolate m&ms or chocolate covered craisins!), then I want something that is going to taste awesome and possibly fill me up for a more than a minute. Yes, I like to indulge in rich desserts whose calories I dare not ask, but for the every day? I need a lower cal option.

And, these bars just won't do. They're OK... they're chocolately, and the milk coating covering the white cream filling and chocolate rice bar is decent. They also have a chewy factor going for them, but overall, they're so teeny tiny that I rather indulge in an Oreo for roughly the same calories and maybe an extra gram of fat or two. Best bet: just smell them. Ha, trust me. They smell much better than they taste! They're just a disappointment.

If you're interested, they have 100 calories, 3 grams of fat, 4 grams of fiber and less than a gram of protein. My suggestion? If you want a chocolate treat under 150 calories, read my past post giving you plenty of better options! Sorry 100 calorie packs... this one's a fail.

Do you agree? What's your favorite afternoon treat for a chocolate craving?