Keysocks, Please

Let me tell you about my new exciting arrival, Keysocks.  Never heard of 'em?  Neither had I until I was browsing Pinterest and saw a picture advertising them to be every women's solution to wearing uncomfortable heels and flats.  

I came home after a long, rainy walk with my daughter to find a package on my porch.  I had totally forgotten they were on their way until I arrived at my door today.  Excitedly I tore open the package and tossed those babies on my feet.  

Keysocks are designed to be worn with heels so your feet stay warm without a visible sock showing.  We've all tried to bear the pain of heels - in the summer the sweaty and painful rubbing, in winter the freezing, foot shrinkage - but Keysocks claim to solve these problems and more!  We know those peds just don't cut it, either showing above the shoe, ripping, or failing to keep our tootsies warm in winter, but Keysocks are here for you.  

I pulled them on and ran to get some heels to see if these claims hold true.  They are indeed soft as a baby's bottom and very comfortable.  Ninety-nice percent of the sock was hidden when my heels were on.  As for the 1% that showed, I found that if you just pinch the heel part back and pull it semi-off-and-behind your foot, it keeps the material up front from showing.  One percent problem, solved!  

These socks are designed to be worn with pants so unfortunately when you're wearing your skirts and shorts these are out.  Another downside to these socks is that it may be hard to make them work with skinny jeans.  It's already hard enough to wrangle on a pair of skinny jeans over calves and thighs. Working the jeans over socks too may just be too much for a girl's spirit!  Not to mention that the sock may show while wearing skinny jeans with heels, especially if you roll the bottom of your skinny jeans. I am happy to report that I tried my Keysocks with my skinny jeans and booties on Christmas Eve and they worked like a dream. You couldn't see the socks at all and I was warm and cozy while the snow fell softly outside. A few too many glasses of bubbly later and I was showing them off to all my aunts and cousins.  Little feet-ed girls may struggle with these socks but hopefully sizing is on the way soon.  (There are ways to finagle around this though).  

Don't you love my gold snakeskin pumps, by the way??

You can't see the socks!

The back sticks out some sooo...

tuck in the back heel part and you're set!

Overall, I'd give them a B+ for being comfy, pretty versatile, and warm (but not bulky or thick). They also make great stocking- stuffers or grab bag gifts!  

The upside of all this is that most of the time I wear jeans and heels, making these socks just perfect.  Living in a place with all four seasons I can foresee getting much use of these, specifically in the winter.  They come in a variety of colors and even some patterns like argyle and striped.  I look forward to attending holiday soirees in comfort, warmth and style.  You should too!  Mosey on over to www.keysocks.com to get yourself some...

Keysocks, please!

Photo courtesy of www.keysocks.com

Photo courtesy of www.keysocks.com

Photo courtesy of www.keysocks.com

And those my friends, are worth a glass of champagne :)

Dear Santa,

Despite my feeling that we rush to Christmas each year, passing Thanksgiving by like poor old Charlie Brown gets passed up by the Peanuts' gang, this my friends is the long awaited Christmas Wishlist.  

I already have some fall trends that will carry over into winter - such as short moto booties, leopard smoking flats, a chambray shirt and a big chunky sweater - but if you are lacking the aforementioned items, (can you believe I got to use the word aforementioned?!  I always thought that was reserved for highfalutin authors like Ernest Twain and Edgar Allan Faulkner, hehe, j/k) please add them to your list. 

The Christmas list is always something I'm conflicted over.  I don't want to tell people what I really want because it's usually ungodly expensive.  Most people cannot fathom why I would want, or be willing to spend, hard earned money on lets say, oh I don't know, a Givenchy Antigona Clutch perhaps? (It's just a mere $1280) or maybe something at a more reasonable price like the Clare Vivier Foldover Clutch or Striped Clutch for around $156? 

Givenchy Antigona Clutch Photo courtesey of www.barneys.com

Clare Vivier Foldover Clutch

Photo courtesey of www.saksfifthavenue.com

Clare Vivier Striped Clutch

Photo courtesey of www.saksfifthavenue.com

People assume by spending all this time and money on clothes, shoes, purses and accessories that I must be lacking in intelligence and just exist in my stereotypical, superficial world. But alas my loyal readers this is not true. I was a total nerd in school, am super shy, and am probably too nice for my own good ( I was always a good target for those mean girls).  I don't like or want attention so my carrying a Prada handbag might warrant oohs and ahs, but nothing could make me more uncomfortable.  I just appreciate fashion and happen to have taste I cannot necessarily afford.  (Unfortunately I'm too financially smart to go into debt over my fashion habit.)  But I digress....back to the Christmas list.  



I can always use make up as it's expensive and it's not always something I enjoy buying for myself.  I use Bobbi Brown make up and it has proven light, airy and effectively natural looking.    Gotta have a good base for that make up to sit on so I always use these two things together, especially in the winter months when my skin tends to dry out.  These are some of my go to favs.
  

Supplement

Photo courtesy of www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com

Hydrating Face Cream 

Photo courtesy of www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com

And I'd like to try this toner for the first time, since I spent most summers of my youth slathered in baby oil lying on the beach. Maybe this will help me reverse those sun spots.  Girls, listen to your mothers, protect your faceor you end up spotty and weird looking when you're 30...

Photo courtesy of www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com

La Posh Style is my new online shopping obsession. Cute clothes, good prices, and it is still flying under the radar (like those unpopular

 pretty girls in high school who no one notices until the 10 year reunion) so everyone and their sister won't be wearing the same thing as you at your holiday gatherings. 

  
I have a good boot, but the shade of brown is just a hint off and doesn't quite function as the neutral it's supposed to so I found these two which I like equally well.  The Traveler boot and the oddly unnamed Lps b75

Traveler Boot
Photo courtesy of www.laposhstyle.com

Lps b75

Photo courtesy of www.laposhstyle.com

Chevron AND sequins?!?  Gotta get the Stardust dress  Great for those holiday parties!  Ok, I have a confession - I have three all-sequin dresses sitting in my closet right now (one of them with the tags still on) but who can't use another?  And this one has sleeves, the others are cap sleeved and tanks...and ladies, this is how you rationalize
Stardust Dress

Photo courtesy of www.laposhstyle.com

Who doesn't love a pair of comfy VS Fireside Long Jane pjs in leopard?  I always convince myself that if I buy these I too will somehow look messily sexy like the models instead of simply like a giant stretched out leopard.  
Photo courtesey of www.victorias.secret.com

Elf natural nymph lipstick or runway pink (eyes lips face = Elf) I need a barely there, look polished-without-trying lipstick and the reviews of this one seem fantastic.  For $5.00 you can't go wrong, right???

Eyes Lips Face - Natural Nymph Lipstick
Photo courtesy of www.eyeslipsface.com

Eyes Lips Face - Runway Pink Lipstick

Photo courtesy of www.eyeslipsface.com

I'm loving mint this season and not just as my ice cream flavor.  I'm not sure if it's really winter appropriate but I figure with a fuzzy sweater and boots I can make it work.  I found this pair from Urban Outfitters that won't break the bank (since I can't imagine mint skinny jeans lasting for more than a few seasons).

BDG Cigarette High-Rise JeanPhoto courtesy of www.urbanoutfitters.com

  

And I still want Sorel Joan of Arctic boots and the Fiel Sol Annika necklace!

Sorel Joan or Arctic BootsPhoto courtesy of www.sorel.com

Annika Necklace
Photo courtesy of www.fielsol.com

This Camel coat from Old Navy is perfect for dressing up or dressing down.  I would know because I already have it in orange, but I need a more versatile color that goes well with my red Prada.  (What a paradox - a discount coat paired with a luxurious purse.)  The ruffle collar detail is just enough to add interest.  

Ruffle Collar Wool Blend Coat Photo courtesy of www.oldnavy.com

Shop away my friends, I'll be waiting!  What's on your list?  Grab a glass of champagne and start making your list and checking it twice.  

*Sorry some of the words are split up strangely  I couldn't figure out how to fix it!

Wishing Away

It seems that as we age time goes more quickly. How many of us notice that summers used to feel eternal, time to study the changing light of day, appreciate family and friends, and bask in the warmth of the sun. In school, summer vacation was the holy grail, giving time for friends, the pool, Italian ices and sunset bike rides at 8 pm. Now it seems as if summer speeds by, weekends are planned months in advance, and beautiful days are spent inside at work. Adults always seem to be preparing for what's next instead of truly living in the moment. We worry about squeezing things in, getting ready for the next school year, the next project we will tackle, the next trip we will take. This "squeezing" is only reinforced by the media and companies who advertise and sell Christmas memorabilia in October, resort wear in November, and bathing suits in January (gotta market to those spring breakers of course- you know the ones who leave college behind for a tropical island, all on their patents' dime?).

I wonder, does the speed at which time passes increase proportionally as we age? If so, it's no wonder the elderly are always talking about the past. They can't keep up with the present!  

Try to remember how short life is and savor every moment, because as cliche as it sounds you can't get it back.  When I'm 90 (or older hopefully) and on my deathbed I won't be thinking "Gee, I'm glad I worked so much.  I'll be thinking, I'm so glad I spent that extra time with my family and friends/"  So grab your glass of champagne and mull this over.  Or better yet, call up said family and friends and make some memories over a glass...ahem, bottle...of champagne!

Fiel Sol

Meaning loyal or faithful sun, this Australian jewelry line definitely has my loyalty. Similar to Tom Binns' jewelry worn most famously by Kelly Ripa, Fiel Sol is just as beautiful but much less costly. (I'm not counting the shipping costs from AU to the US. In the name of fashion it's always worth it!)

Bird of Paradise Necklace
Photo courtesy of www.fielsol.com

I have a personal love of Fiel Sol because I studied abroad in Melbourne for seven months. (Pronounced Mel-bin by the locals. Now you won't be a geeky tourist. Thank you, Champagne Saturday!) While there I was fascinated by Australian fashion. Everyone seemed to have their own style. It was different from back in the States where everyone followed basically the same trends. People here wore what they liked and used their imaginations to create visually interesting and appealing ensembles. I shopped so much in my seven months there I had to buy a third suitcase and ship it home. (Parents were not too happy about that one!).

Precious Reunion Cuff
Photo courtesy of www.fielsol.com

Fiel Sol's jewelry is gorgeous, visually appealing and on trend. A beautiful combination of natural stones and metals, each piece is distinctive. The vibrant colors add a touch of life that seems to exude energy and exemplifies the brand's name. Each piece seems unique and versatile in its own way. Their pieces can be dressed up or dressed down, but no matter what they are the most stylish accessories. Step out of your fashion rut and get some "Sol"

Emilia Earrings
Photo courtesy of www.fielsol.com

The Fiel Sol blog describes their jewelry better than I ever could: "Marissa and her dedicated team at Fiel Sol create handcrafted, vibrant and unique jewellery inspired by cultures from across the globe. With her love for creativity and individuality, Marissa established Fiel Sol in early 2009 to design jewellery that reflects her own visual style. Each collection is designed with an emphasis on colour, texture, metals and the natural beauty of semi-precious stones. Fiel Sol blends the themes of antiquity with a modern edge - necklaces, rings, bracelets and earrings capture the beauty of ancient treasures with bold, vibrant colours."

Eliza Earrings
Photo courtesy of www.fielsol.com

Check out their goods HERE.

Annika Necklace
Photo courtesy of www.fielsol.com

I shouldn't tell you this because I want to win for myself, BUT... Fiel Sol is running a contest to win an Annika necklace. Follow them on Instagram and post the picture of the Annika necklace from their site with the tag #lovefielsol for a chance to win! Check out their blog for the details.  The winner will be chosen November 1st. Quick, you don't have much time!!

Now we just need to get some Fiel Sol in the States! C'mon Fiel Sol, you know we will be your loyal "sons" (and daughters, hehe).

Pumpkin Me Some Apples

I look forward to nothing more than going to pick pumpkins in the fall. Cool, crisp air, sweaters, jeans and boots. It's the all-encompassing fall activity. What excites me more is that I get to tote along with me my four-month old for her first pumpkin picking experience.

I fondly remember going to the pumpkin patch  each year. My aunt, uncle and cousins would arrive at our house from the city and we would all pile in my uncle's little Toyota and head out east to Smith's Farm.

After what seemed like an interminable ride of 30 minutes we exploded out of the car running this way and that while the adults yelled after us. We begged to take the hayride which takes you to the pumpkin patch, skipping the fresh fruit, vegetables and jams that were for sale. We didn't even care about the haunted house (until after the pumpkins of course - there's a method to these things you know).

My aunt always wandered into the barns to buy lots of veggies and jams to bring back to the city with her. Really though I think it was to fulfill her shopping addiction and so as not to mess up her hair on the hayride. ("My hay-a, my hay-a I can hear her saying in her thick New York accent). Ah those were the days...

But back to today's voyage for pumpkins to Larriland Farm. We plan to leave between feedings so as not to destroy the baby's schedule. You know the one I spent all week perfecting. The one that gets thrown out the window by my husband each weekend because he is clueless of our daily wanderings.

We arrived at the pumpkin patch two hours after we planned. "Someone" decided that after months of sleeping through the night it would be a good idea to keep waking up all night.

Despite little sleep and a late arrival we trudged on. The "patch" was our first stop. Luckily, it wasn't too crowded and the nice people at Larriland Farm had a bunch of wheelbarrows on hand for the big loads. We didn't need one of those though. My husband sported the ever manly Baby Bjorn and insisted that with two free hands three pumpkins would be "no problem!" 

  

We scoured the fields laden with pumpkins of every kind - smooth round ones, small green ones, big warty ones and of course the rotten ones. Slightly overcast with a chilly breeze made me glad I'd worn my thick sweater. I proudly walked the fields with my new family as eager and excited as the little kids. We stopped a few times for the signature pumpkin patch family shots - me with the baby and the pumpkins, my husband with the baby and the pumpkins, all of us with the pumpkins- you get the idea. (And yes I pre-planned our outfits so we'd coordinate for the pictures. I know, a little psycho, but don't you read those blogs where everything looks professional and coordinated? How am I supposed to compete with that in my usual VS yoga pants and oversized tee?? Answer me that friends)

I find mine first. A smooth, round, almost yellow color with no flaws or blemishes. Meanwhile my husband discovers a small half green and orange one with bumps, ridges and warts. Then I realize these pumpkins are representations of us as people. I'm super organized, I like clean lines and modern furniture. He is disorganized, not scared of a few bumps in the road and enjoys the natural beauty of things. My daughter's pumpkin is the perfect combination of us both- a small pumpkin, round and mostly smooth with a few ridges.


                       

We slowly wander back to the register and snag a family photo from a nice grandma with her grandchildren.

We drive over to the
apple orchard next. By this time it is infinitely more crowded than when we arrived but we find a parking spot and head into the brush.



I can't eat apples because I'm allergic, but I haven't always been so. I "grew into" this allergy my doctor tells me. What is this a pair of pants? Like a baby grows into her head? So traipsing through the orchard staring at the shiny red apples on a beautiful fall day might as well be Chinese water torture. I know how good those apples taste, but one bite and I'll be epi-penning it to the hospital. Sigh. I begrudgingly help my husband pick gorgeous apples as he commits the ultimate sin. He shines one up on his pants, bites in and sighs in tastebud happiness. Kill me now!

   

My daughter is being surprisingly great so we decide to stop for lunch at the barn. We grab three hot dogs, two drinks and a large fry to split. We set out our blanket under the shade of a large oak tree, sitting lazily as the baby coos, and people wander happily around us carrying apples, pumpkins, fritters and cider.

After lunch we wander through the barn where you can buy a plethora of fresh veggies, pumpkins, jams, cider and butters. This is the lazy man's way to pumpkin pick if you ask me but it's America I guess. The man in front of us was alone and bought two pumpkins. He must've felt me thinking "how sad, he's here by himself." because he offered up that last week he was here with his fam and over the weekend those ever elusive neighborhood hooligans smashed his kids' pumpkins. He was here to get them new ones. What a great guy!

   

What a relaxing day.  And that my friends, is worth a glass of champagne!