Manners Monday: Pet Etiquette

As an Interior Decorator, I often have clients whose home I'm invited into that own pets. I've experienced a lot of interesting scenarios as a result, as everyone has different limits for their beloved animals. I thought it was time to do a post on pet etiquette. While I don't currently have any pets at the moment (hubby is allergic), I really enjoy how sweet pets can be and I've owned several cats over the years and know there are certain considerations one must make as it pertains to pets and visitors.

If you are a pet owner or considering becoming one, here are 7 suggestions on how to love them but still show guests in your home that you respect them also. There are so many more suggestions but for the sake of post length, I'm including these key points only.  Feel free to share you own pet etiquette tips in the comments below!


1. Clean up after Your Pets- Just yesterday hubby and I went for a walk around our favorite lake and park downtown. A woman was walking her dog, he had stopped and left a mess that would be difficult to clean up as it was less solid than she expected. She looked around and said, "oh, now how am I going to clean this up?" and decided to just keep walking! We've had neighbors walk their dogs past our house only later to discover they let their dog leave their business on our lawn and didn't bother to clean it up. This is just basic decency and is one of the major responsibilities of owning a dog. Pet waste transmits disease and contaminates drinking water. Always bring a baggie and always clean up after your pet.

2. Keep them Leashed- Not only for a pup's safety but for the safety of passersby, a dog should be leashed in public areas. Some parks allow for dogs to run free, and is the exception. Sadly, I've heard too many stories where dogs have charged across a street and attacked small children including a family member on my husband's side who had to have stitches, creating an awkward situation as the dog belonged to a neighbor. Likewise, unleashed dogs can also attack other dogs, cats or innocent animals nearby such as squirrels, etc.

3. Allergy Alert- As a pet owner, it's tricky sometimes as many have allergies to both dogs and cats. Your loving pet could be the trigger for an unsuspecting house guest or service person. It's awkward as the person who has the allergy to even ask or make the assumption that the animal will  not be roaming around when they're at the house, so as the owner, it's best to ask people who you do not know well if they have pet allergies. When I owned cats, I always tried my best to place my indoor cat in the guest bedroom with her food, water and other essentials for a few hours while I entertained. I value my friendships and anything that could be done to make things easier, I did. I also carried allergy medication in my medicine cabinet for my own pollen allergies and would offer it to anyone who was particularly sensitive because I know having allergies can really do a number on you sometimes.

4. Keep Fido Down- Perhaps one of the most frustrating things as a guest in someone's home, is when the owner's dog wants to jump on you whether at the front door or while sitting on the sofa, etc. When I was a teen, a good friend of mine had a German Shepard who loved to rush to the door and jump on people. Once during the summer, his nails scratched me from shoulders to toes and left scratches all over. To this day, I try to avoid large dogs for that reason. While I love animals, I don't enjoy a dog, putting their paws up on me to beg while at the table or slobbering on my expensive black dress pants and jumping on me and snagging my top and covering me in hair. When a guest arrives if your dog is not well trained or behaved, be sure to place the dog in their crate first, in the backyard or have them by you on a leash so you can control what they are doing. Dogs look to their owners for training and are happy to obey, as a pet owner one of the most important things to teach them is not to jump!

5. Hair-Free Zone- When inviting others into your car or home, be sure to vacuum and dust well, using a lint roller or other tools to trap hair if necessary. Nobody should come to your home in black and leave with their clothes and socks covered in light pet hair, etc. I've visited many homes where this has been the case and it's frustrating. Even when you do a thorough cleaning, pet hair will pop up, keep a few sticky lint rollers on hand-one for your car and one for your home, not only to keep you looking polished but also anyone who attracts your pet's residual pet hair onto their clothing. It's an inexpensive investment and shows others you're mindful of them.

6. Prevent Endless Barking- Just like children, animals need to be reminded when they are doing something to irritate others. While it is a dog's natural instinct to bark, most do not enjoy listening to incessant barking. We have a few neighbors who do not adhere to such logic and often allow their dogs to bark for hours on end, which makes things particularly frustrating for those like myself who work from home and try to hold conference calls, etc. If you do not plan to be home, your dog should be kept indoors, if you are home and the dog barks for more than a couple mins, the decent thing would be to bring your dog inside.

7. Make the Call- Last but not least, if you are to be a guest in another's home and know that they have a dog, cat, snake, etc., part of the responsibility of making everyone feel comfortable is yours. If you do not enjoy the company of pets, are allergic or are freaked out by pet iguanas, etc., you may not want to make your host uncomfortable by spending time in their home. While it is important for dogs to be trained, if you are aware that the pet owner allows the cats to walk across the dining room table, attack your ankles or their dog is constantly trying to lick your face or jump on you while you're seated, it may be easier to spend time with them in your home or out somewhere so you'll both be comfortable.


While many pet owners love their pets and don't see why they should inconvenience themselves or tuck their not-so-well-behaved pet away in their own home, consider this: Good manners are always about making others feel comfortable and respected. A good host is responsible for the comfort of his/her guests. Anything less than this is poor manners and shows that you value your animal and their lack of discipline over a guest's level of comfort. For those that possess such an attitude about pets vs. people, it may be best not to entertain in your home for everyone's sake.

Do you own a pet? Is there a specific suggestion you have for pet owners based on personal experience, please share! Comments are always appreciated. :)

Thanks for reading!

XO




*image source

There is Joy in Being a True Lady

Today's post is a gentle reminder on what it means to be a classy woman. None of us are born ladies, we must choose our actions, words and behavior wisely every day. How we come across to others is our responsibility and it shows them a lot about the kind of woman we are. This does not mean that a classy woman is perfect or without mistakes, rather she reflects on her missteps and decides to do something different or better each day. This can begin with the thoughts in our head; the actions and words that are spoken as a result of the things we meditate on, the way we choose to present ourselves to the world in the way we dress or the way in which we treat others than can do absolutely nothing for us. There is something so special about a woman who knows what she wants but has a gentle and quiet spirit.

As women we can be anything that we wish to be, but above all the many roles and aspirations we pursue, I hope you'll choose everyday to become a feminine and classy woman, there is so much pride and joy in being a true lady. :)

What is one of the things you enjoy about being a lady?

Thanks for reading!

XO

Fashion Friday: A Perfect Ten

Are you ready for the weekend? It's such a beautiful time of year and I'm excited that it's finally begun to cool down a smidgen here in Florida. Perfect for weekends outdoors! Today's Fashion Friday post is about showing you how to maximize your Monday to Friday wardrobe (whether you work from the office, work from home or are a stay-at-home mom who wants to look classy and a bit more dressed up during the week), using 10 key pieces.

Many women, while excited about shopping for the new season, feel excited but at the same time a bit panicked thinking they need to spend a fortune to look good. That is just not the case. Today's examples all come from one of my favorite stores, Banana Republic. I've loved them since I first graduated from college and began a career in corporate sales-it was a must in our office to be well put together and polished, but not necessary to wear a suit everyday thankfully. The pieces Banana Republic offers are always classic, timeless, on trend and elegant and will live in your closet for years to come not to mention their sizes are available in petite, regular and tall. Cheers to them for helping this tall gal find pants & jeans that are long enough!

I'm going to show you 10 pieces from their collection and how you can mix and match to create 12 great outfits for the workweek-that's over 2 weeks worth of outfits and the best part is that it will make getting dressed in the morning a breeze.  Let's have some fun, shall we?

You can find these items above here (available in more colors also): 

1  /  2  /  3  /  4  /  5  / 6  /  7  /  8  /  9  / 10

What makes these pieces work is you have just the right staple items and mix of solids and patterns. If you don't own a trench-buy one! They will never go out of style. A well-fitting skirt suit is a must, a fun heel to add interest for the season adds just the right amount of pop and a great fitting straight-leg jean in dark rinse provides a more dressy look. Add a colorful handbag to a more neutral palette for some wow factor.

If you're not a fan of mustard yellow, this royal blue belted ribbon print dress is a great substitute and you'll still achieve the same overall look in a color that's very of-the-moment but not so trendy that you won't want it in your closet a few years from now.

If you like the red tassel handbag shown in the neutral outfits, here's a close-up.

Here are the black leather booties shown in the outfits but not the perfect 10 board.

No outfit is complete without jewelry, here are some pieces I just adore.

You can find these jewelry pieces here (first two available in other great colors too):

1  /  2  /  3  /  4  

I'm kind of obsessed with this stretch skinny belt right now-how about you?

So, there you have it, 10 core pieces to build a fall wardrobe on. Don't stop at 12 outfits, the combinations and options are endless. One of the best ways to change an existing dress or top that comes with a matching wrap fabric belt or actual belt is to swap it for something totally different. Who says you have to wear it the way you purchased it? This has been one of the single best things I've done to update my wardrobe-add a handful of new belts in different colors, patterns and widths. 

Speaking of belts, you might remember this photo of me if you follow along on Facebook. I was playing around one Saturday morning as my hubby lovingly refers to as 'the fashion show' when I start brainstorming, pulling clothes out of my closet and trying new combinations. This black blouse came with a matching wrap belt in the same fabric to tie into a bow. I switched it up for a wide brown and black snakeskin double buckle belt with gold hardware for a new look.

Banana Republic has a sale going-Save 25% off your entire purchase (or 30% if you use your Banana Card, Gap Card or Old Navy Card). They are trying to raise $500,000 to help create jobs for the USA-isn't that great?! Hurry though, the sale is for just 2 days and ends 10/21/12. Use promo code : BRCREATE at checkout!

What's your favorite outfit or piece show here? Did you find this helpful in seeing your own existing wardrobe in a new way? Did you see some possibilities or creations you hadn't thought of before? I'd love to hear from you!

Pssst...Did you miss our past Fashion Friday posts? You can find them here: (1), (2), (3)

XO

*all images (except for the last one of me) and perfect 10 styled outfits via Banana Republic website

Manners Monday: Asking about Marriage & Babies

I originally had a different topic planned for today's Manners Monday post but after seeing the reader response on Facebook, I thought going into further detail was a good idea. If you follow The Classy Woman community on Facebook, you'll see that today I posted a Classy Tip of the Day (something I started doing a few weeks ago a few times per week) about the importance of not putting people on the spot with personal questions that they may not be prepared to answer or even know the answer to themselves. This is what I wrote:

"A lady doesn't ask couples who are dating when they're getting married. Similarly, she doesn't ask married couples when or if they're planning to have a baby. A classy woman knows that while she might be really curious about the answer, it's never polite to put someone on the spot. Instead, she waits until the couple brings the topic up themselves."

While there are always a few conversation topics to avoid in many venues, some of them we've previously discussed HERE, I think asking a woman or couple when they are planning to get married or when they're planning to start a family are two of the biggest no-no's. In this day and age when many women are at the peak of their career, are having children later in life, are unsure in this economy how they'd afford an elegant wedding or of how to raise a child, or are perhaps struggling with infertility; these well-meaning questions can actually make the woman or couple feel rather uncomfortable and at a loss for words. 

As a woman who has been married for six years but has not yet had a baby, I get asked when I'm going to have children or if I want to have children A LOT. Whether I'm at a backyard BBQ, a dinner with other ladies, or meeting someone new at a wedding, I can almost guarantee at least one person will ask. They usually begin talking about their own child or pregnancy and then say, "So, do you think you and Paul will want to have children?". I recently had someone tell me they just assumed that we had decided not to have children since so much has passed as a married couple. Ouch.

If you find yourself getting asked these questions, here are some quick suggestions on how to tactfully and cleverly answer even the most nosy person and silence your critics.

How to Answer Questions about Marriage & Children:

Question: "So, when are you guys getting married?"
Answer: "I will get married when the time is right."

Who can argue with that answer? Nobody. It also allows you to take ownership of yourself and not use the term "we" or "us" pulling your significant other into the equation or making any promises that may not happen.

Question: "When are you going to start a family?"
Answer: "We're way too busy enjoying this honeymoon time together (or enjoying this time just us two) to think about that yet!"

Who can put a timeline on how long the honeymoon phase is or the importance of just spending time together as a couple without children? Again, nobody. If you're a spiritual person, another great answer is: "We're leaving it all in God's hands, whatever he has planned for us."

Although these questions can be rather annoying after hearing them several times, try to just laugh it off and remember that someone is taking an interest in you. What I've come to realize is that for some, this is how they make conversation-they may not have a lot of interesting things going on in their own life so they pry and make the focus about other's life milestones not realizing that it is rude. I think these conversations can lead to gossip if not careful which is another reason why it's good to avoid asking these questions.

I want to hear from YOU! What are your thoughts on this topic? Has anyone (other than your mother) pressed you for details on when you're getting married or having babies? How did you respond?

XO






*photo credit

Fashion Friday: Shoe Dazzle Bogo Deal

Welcome to another Fashion Friday post! This is our third installment of the series and if you missed the first two you catch up by clicking here: (1) and (2) for some great fall finds on a budget.

I recently discovered a neat online shop called Shoe Dazzle which offers shoes as well as handbags, accessories and even clothing for great prices and there are no fees to join! Apparently, Kim Kardashian is their Chief Fashion Stylist and even though much of her super-edgy style is not for me, the website offers more classic pieces as well. The above image has four of my favorite items and since this season is all about color & fun, the idea of cobalt suede pumps caught my attention as well as more subdued tones like the hunter green croc handbag and the tan ostrich bag. Of course a black patent cap toe on textured quilted pump was another fabulous find.

The best part is Shoe Dazzle is running a huge BOGO sale right now! This means you can get two pairs of shoes/boots, two handbags, or one of each for just $39.95! The only trick with this site is if you see something in your size that you love, there's no lingering-you need to jump on it! They constantly add new styles and as soon as a style is out of stock, it's gone-they do not get that same items back in. I saw a handbag that I loved and while the bag is still offered, the color I wanted is no longer available. Thankfully I got two other great items which you can see below.

Upon finding the site, there was a quick sign up that took just 2 minutes and included a fun quiz where the shop determines your overall style by having your click on images you are drawn. I've done a few quizzes like this on other websites and they were somewhat accurate but not really bang on. I was interested to see how Shoe Dazzle would define my sense of style. Above is the style profile they came up with for me which was really accurate. It truly represents what I really enjoy wearing-classic, timeless and elegant pieces with a hint of prep and splash of glamour.

Even though the company bears the name 'Shoe' Dazzle, as I mentioned they offer some great handbags too. What I love about them is that while they aren't pricey investment bags, they allow you to have some fun for the season without breaking the bank to incorporate a hot color or trend. I always love a deep red for fall, animal print is a must (and considered to be a neutral), a black ladylike shoulder bag that resembles the quilted Chanel version with link straps , deep teal is a popular new color for fall and the shapes of bags are very structured vs. previous styles such as the hobo bag.

Onto more shoes and 2 pairs that I ordered a couple days ago for just $39.95! As you can tell, I'm loving the cap-toe style-it's a great way of adding some interest and utilizing two colors that work well with an outfit. Let's face it, cream or white worn with black are staples of a classic wardrobe-perfect for every classy woman. Even though I live in flats as much as I can-when visiting clients and on date nights with hubby or a night on the town with the girls, I just love a great pump. I'm really liking the thin ankle strap details on shoes right now and that cream and hot pink is just so cute! I debated between that pair and the black cap toe pair that I purchased.

 I have never owned a pair of booties before-I've always been a tall boot kind of gal. Since I have a great pair of black leather tall heeled boots already, this year I wanted to get something a bit more edgy and I simply love peep-toes for fall! These black suede booties have a zipper with tassel detail on the back and a scoop front which I just know will look adorable with my colorful and dark denim skinny jeans. Last but not least, the two-tone ankle strap pointed-toe flats are another great option vs. the standard rounded toe ballet flat.

For ALL of my favorite selections above and MANY more, you can visit the Shoe Dazzle website. I am not sure how long the buy one, get one free sale will run so I recommend stopping by today! 

Did you see a new style that you hadn't considered before? Which of my favorites shown was your favorite too?

Happy Weekend!

XO

*Images boards are all mine created with items from Shoe Dazzle.

Becoming a Great Role Model for Your Children

Yesterday we focused a bit on the 10 Rules for a Happy Marriage. Today, I wanted to take a moment to focus on the relationship and interaction of women and children. As some of you know, I enjoy posting daily inspiration on the community Facebook page but once in a while I decide to expand upon it further-today is one of those days so I apologize for the repeat if you popped over from that page.

This is actually a gentle reminder for ALL women. If you're a mom, this is one of the most important pieces of advice ever! Children do not do as we  say, they do as we DO. For the ladies who are not yet mothers (like myself), start working today towards being the role model that you want your children to model themselves after one day, and you'll become a better person and more classy woman in the process! :)

"Be the change you wish to see in the world." 

~Ghandi

Now I want to hear from YOU! What is the best advice that you were ever given as a mom? Maybe you have some advice for the new moms out there or future moms?


I'll see you here tomorrow! I'm excited to share our very first Fashion Friday post with you!

XO





*photo credit

How to Dress Classy as a New Mom

Hello there! I hope you had a great holiday if you were celebrating with 4th of July festivities. Hubby and I just took it easy and caught up with some friends over dinner that we only see once per year. Now, I'm back  to work in full force. :) 


Two months ago Michelle of The Curtis Chronicles wrote to me and asked for some tips on how to dress classy with limited time as she is a new mom. I love that she asked this question because I know so many new moms feel the same way and a classy woman strives to present her best self with the time and resources afforded to her. Even if you are not a mom or well past the point of having little ones, these tips can also be applied to your life if you're always on the go and have little time to get ready each morning. With Michelle's permission, I'm sharing her question here so that you can all read it also. 

Karla,

I found your blog recently and absolutely love it! 

I have a question about putting yourself together in a time crunch.  I am a new mom to a beautiful 11 month old girl.  Before having a child, I always vowed to never "let myself go".  Fitness has not fallen by the wayside; however, I have often found myself in an outfit involving sweats day after day.  I never realized how much time for myself I lose by being a mother.  I love my daughter more than anything so I don't want to neglect her so I can "primp" but I also would like to feel more like a lady even on days when I don't go anywhere without spending a lot of time on it (because I don't have it).  This is very important to me because I am an example to her.  Do you have any tips on how to do this in the absolute minimum amount of time?  What are the most important aspects?

I look forward to hearing from you!

Michelle

Here is my response to her letter.....

Hi Michelle,

Thank you for writing in to me and I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying my blog! :)

First off, congratulations on becoming a new mom and for taking care of yourself fitness-wise. :) You are definitely not alone, many women feel the same way and it is definitely possible to look like a lady without spending tons of time each morning away from your baby girl. Here's what I would recommend:

1. Makeup-Unless you're going out to a party, dinner or event, wearing a few products to highlight your best features is all you need. It's different for everyone but I'd suggest using a bit of concealer to hide any evidence of lack of sleep and blemishes that bother you. Usually a little blush, lipgloss/lipstick and a pop of some mascara is enough to make a woman look and feel more polished and won't take long to do. Even though I'm sure you're beautiful without makeup, it really has a way of somehow making us women feel more put together and polished.

2. Hair-Since time is of the essence, you'll want to work with a hairstyle that is easy but works with your face shape . Maybe a sleek ponytail, wash & wear curls (if you have curly hair) or letting hair mostly air dry then taking 5 minutes for styling near the end with a blow dryer/curling iron etc. Another options if it's a look that works for you, is a hairband which have made a comeback for all ages. If you like to wash your hair the night before and your hair co-operates in the morning, that might be easiest in terms of time.

3. Clothing & Accessories-This is probably the easiest and fastest part of getting ready if you have some go-to outfits already selected. This way you can be your own stylist putting together comfortable, stylish yet practical outfits for heading about town or staying in with your little girl, which I go into more detail below. One great accessory for every new mom is a fashionable diaper bag that looks anything but-these designer diaper bags are oh-so-stylish yet functional! (I happened to come across them today while putting this post together as it is where I found the first first image with the red handbag.)

Go-To Outfits:

Spend a little bit of time (maybe while baby is sleeping) assessing your wardrobe and accessories-essentially finding out what you have to work with, considering multiple ways things can be worn. My personal favorite go-to is casual dresses while working from home. They're easy to wear without needing to co-ordinate with another item of clothing and I have a few basic go-to's for accessories like belts, earrings and bracelets that I like to pair with the dresses. Somehow dresses always look so pretty on women and instantly gets you dressed and makes you look pulled together, even if the rest of your day feels like it is not. ;) Husbands always seem to like dresses the best on women too. Another more practical option depending on what you're doing is jeans, skirts or shorts and a cute top.

This may sound silly, but it works. I began taking pictures of outfits with the accompanying accessories like shoes for when I travel to make things easy. When I'm on vacation, I like to look stylish yet be comfortable and while I have the time, I want getting dressed to be quick so I can explore wherever we are. These photos are kept on my digital camera that I bring along or iPhone with me to refer to. It's especially great for pairing the same pair of pants or skirt with other tops for multiple looks, important when wanting to maximize your wardrobe. This method also lets me see what I'm lacking in my wardrobe so I know exactly what I need to avoid impulse shopping. You can use  this same photo taking idea and either keep the items on your computer desktop in a folder, on your smart phone, camera etc. It will make getting dressed a breeze and you'll feel confident in what you're wearing because it wasn't just tossed together. I was watching an organizing show on HGTV with Sabrina Soto several weeks ago and was interested to see that she actually uses the same method in her walk-in closet, she has the photos pinned to a bulletin board. Also, when you have a few moments of downtime, I've learned it worth it to take 15 minutes while watching TV to iron a few outfits so you never have to do it the day you want to wear it.

While I know that you want to spend as much time with your daughter as possible, I think it will be a great example to her as she grows up not only to see you dress like a lady as you mentioned, but also to see that you value yourself enough to take some special time for YOU. If you have large enough bathroom or bedroom where her playpen could sit, she could still be close to you while you get ready. :)

I hope these tips are helpful to you! Having go-to outfits is the key, it will be one less thing you'll have to think about every day and it requires minimal prep-time. 

Now, to all of you mamas out there, what are YOUR best tips and tricks for Michelle to get ready quickly while tending to her little one? After all, you are the experts! :)

XO

*photo credits: (1), (2), (3)

What to Wear: Classy Costumes

As Oct.31st draws near in just a few short days, many will be rushing around to find the perfect details for their costume. Others are still trying to figure out what character they want to emulate for a night. I don't know about you, but I'm SO over the regular-character-turned-trashy costumes that a lot of women wear. I've often felt that this one day is an excuse for some women to dress overly sexy and reveal more than anyone cares to see in an attempt to be what they believe is 'every man's fantasy' and a chance to strut their stuff. I'm sure their rebuttal would be that it's 'just a costume' but how you dress says a lot about your character-whether it's a day in the life of a character or a day a the office.

Let me begin by saying that I do not personally celebrate, decorate for or promote this 'holiday' in any way (which is why I have chosen not to even call it by its name) as the main underlying demonic theme and dark spirit it represents is the opposite of what I value in my personal Christian faith. I like to lead and live by example in all areas of my life and this is one area that I will not compromise in, not to mention I haven't missed it one bit. Although it's not my thing, I don't judge others who participate in the fun of dressing up and eating sweet treats. I wanted to write a post for those ladies who do enjoy costume parties in an effort to offer some classy and non-wicked costume alternatives.

{via}

Classy women don't dress like strippers-for costume parties or ever. They don't feel the need to wear an ultra push up bra to put their 'goods' on display or wear super short mini skirts that reveal far too much. We've seen this time and time again with the sexy nurse, maid or sailor costume, but it's taken a turn for the worst as women try to sexify every costume now. You can see this in everything from bumblebees to Little Red Riding Hood.

For those that are still struggling to come up with a great costume that lets you be yourself and allows your creative mind to shine,  instead of your womanly assets, here are a few that I think you might like.

{via}

GOING SOLO

1. Princess at a Masquerade Ball-Intriguing, mysterious but still feminine and modest.

2. Jackie O. -Always classy and elegant, you can't go wrong with this costume.

3. Dorothy and Toto (Wizard of Oz)-Here's a chance to include your pup.

4. Miss America (complete with sash)-For every woman that's ever dreamed of that coveted title

5. Audrey Hepburn-Another classic, Audrey was not only beautiful but fun.

6. Ballerina-Elegant, graceful and great for those that want to show off their hard-earned muscles.

7. Hippy-Have fun reliving a time in your youth or experience it for the first time.

8. Cleopatra- All around great option for any age.

9.  1930's Flapper Girl-You can still be playful with this costume but refined.

10. Princess Leia (Star Wars)-A great option for going solo, as a couple or as a family with other characters.

A friend recently told me that someone she knows is going out as the house (complete with tied balloons)  from the Disney Pixar movie "UP". How cute and unique is that?!

{via}

COUPLES' COSTUMES

These can be a lot of fun at parties. There are so many great ideas for couples.

If you wanted a laugh or to push the envelope a little bit amongst adults, this outlet & plug costume does have some sexual innuendo(although I admittedly didn't realize it at first when I saw it and selected it ) but doesn't require you to reveal any skin at all.


Similarly you could arrive as salt & pepper shaker, bacon & eggs or fork and spoon. You get the idea.
 
There are an endless amount of couples you could portray in terms of characters. Here are a few classics:

1. Fred & Wilma Flintstone
2. Popeye & Olive Oyle
3. Bonnie & Clyde
4. Batman & Batgirl
5. Lois & Clark of Superman
6. Romeo & Juliet
7. Beauty & The Beast

Of course, by creating a homemade costume vs. purchasing a ready made version from a store you can also better control the overall look, customization and cost, and it will appear more original also. There is nothing wrong with being say a nurse or cop for at a costume party, as long as modesty is considered.

What is the best costume idea you've ever come up with for yourself or your children during any time of the year? What are your thoughts on how provocatively women dress when in costume?

CSN Stores Review Coming Soon!

Guess what?! I was contacted by CSN Stores again last week. They asked if I would like to host another review or giveaway on my blog. Of course I accepted!  I chose to do a review this time around, since I did a giveaway last time. For anyone who doesn't know what CSN Stores is...it is a collection of 200+ online stores-all in one place! They sell everything you'll ever need for your home and beyond. They even sell pet beds, handbags, luggage, shoes, outdoor furniture and more. They really are a one stop shopping source and the best part is you can shop all of their amazing stores with just one cart!

 After yesterday's inspiration post, you all know I have been daydreaming about beautiful bathrooms lately. Actually, I spent some time on the CSN website today trying to decide what I would like to review. I started with some larger items (you know, bathroom related things that really aren't in the budget right now), and I think this dresser style vanity is just gorgeous! I look forward to having a  bathroom vanity like this one day!

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However, for my review I think I'm going to pick something a little smaller. It really is a hard job to choose an item, with over 200 stores to shop at! I know, poor me. ;) Keep an eye out in the next few weeks for my review from CSN Stores!

For those of you that didn't get to participate or see my first giveaway post and might be curious- it was with one of their stores-AllModern.com, click HERE to see the post which includes 17 of their gorgeous accent pillows!

Oh, and here's a little something for all of you. These guys must be reading my mind since our bathroom needs a major overhaul. It just so happens that CSN has a contest running called the Green & Clean bathroom bailout. One lucky winner will receive a brand new bathroom from CSN Stores' Room Rescue Crew and Do Your Part that includes $10,000 worth of green products - including a new toilet, tub, faucet, fixtures, flooring, lighting, a vanity, and more! They'll even give you a code for 10% off your next purchase.

I entered it today.What are you waiting for? Enter HERE for your chance to win a fabulous new bathroom makeover! Already adore your bathroom(s)? Well then maybe you can say a little prayer for me to win (I promise to document the whole process and share it with you all if I do). *winking*

Warmly,

My Inspiration Room & Bathroom Eye Candy

 

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I find inspiration for blog posts, my books, and creative decor projects in so many great places. I am so grateful to have so many of them available to me in the form of blogs. There is a specific room in our home though that always seems to bring about inspiring ideas: our guest bathroom.

This is really no new phenomenon, for my entire life (even as a child) I can remember being inspired in there. Whether I'm blow drying my hair, soaking in the tub or taking a refreshing shower after a sticky FL day, my mind seems to wander to a creative place that I don't seem to experience anywhere else.

Recently I was getting ready to meet up with a design client and I almost couldn't leave the house, one idea after the next kept popping into my mind for some future books that I've already begun writing (even though I'm still in the final stages of the first one). I had to keep running into the bedroom and jotting everything down so I wouldn't forget. Eventually I brought the pen and paper into the bathroom with me. I call this my creative flow, it's not everyday that I get a total downpour of creative ideas and I was sad to leave for my appointment because I would have loved to have sat at my desk in front of my laptop and continued writing. Thankfully, I have my notes so hopefully today I can pick up where I left off.

Let me also say that my bathroom is not dreamy, so it's not about the decor. LOL. We live in a 50 year old home and have the oh so lovely yellow tub, toilet, sink combo  in our guest bathroom (which is also my bath since our master bath is the size of a powder room!). But it doesn't end there, we also have inset accent tiles in yellow too and the baseboard tiles too along with toilet roll holder and built in toothbrush and soap holder on the wall.

Our master bath finally has a while toilet and sink and a stand-up shower but has the lovely blue tiles, etc. I hope to replace the sink, tub and toilet but feel like it's a bit of a waste without removing the rest. We can't afford to remodel either one (they both need a complete overhaul) so I've worked with the counter top colors and incorporated a serene and spa-like feel as best as I could with paint, framed art, towels, elegant shower curtain and some pretty counter top accessories. We did invest in a new white framed mirror to replace the builder basic one, a new sink faucet, lighting and accessories. With $500 spent it looks a million times better than when I moved into hubby's surfer/beachy themed bathroom.

When I browse blogs, watch HGTV or look at pics online, I can't help but dream about what our bathroom would look like if we did remodel. Here are some bathroom pics and soaker tubs that I think are gorgeous, all for different reasons.

The colors have me here and I love marble. So peaceful looking, Sarah Richardson never disappoints.

Here is another design from Sarah. Traditional, Elegant and so functional.

I love this chair in the bathroom and the soaker tub is divine. That stand up shower is huge! Yet another beautiful design by Sarah, she is my favorite designer-creative, bold and incredibly talented.

This has such charm and it perfect for a shabby chic cottage. I think what I love the most is the window right at the tub level (on a large, private piece of property of course) as well as the tub and paneling. Photo from My Home Ideas.

This is a Candice Olson design. I love the clean lines and sparkly glamour.

Again with the soaker tub! This one is by Michael Smith (designer for the Obama's new digs). This bath was featured in House Beautiful.

I love the color teal, it doesn't exist anywhere in my home but wouldn't this make for a fun children's bathroom? Pic is from Canadian House and Home magazine.

 

Spa bath from House Beautiful. So clean, crisp and inviting.

I love this mirror and vessel sink, the cabinet color is spot on too! Another bathroom by fabulous Sarah Richardson Design.

I wouldn't normally go for this green but this would make another great color scheme for a kids bathroom. It's so bright and cheery. I found this on the Better Homes and Gardens site.

I love the natural elements in this little bath. Simple yet so clean and fresh. Photo from Apartment Therapy.

I'm a huge fan of the blog Young House Love. Sherry and John have a knack for transforming rooms. Their home is gorgeous. Check out their bath reveal! I love the color scheme and materials they used. Their powder bath is gorgeous too, I adore the two-tone stripes! I hope to use them in a bedroom some day. :) Do you love their style as much as I do? HERE  is their house tour of dramatic before and after photos.

Do you have a special room in your home that seems to evoke creative ideas? Maybe it's a tranquil hammock in your yard? Your comfy and dreamy bedroom? In a poolside lounge chair on your back porch? I'd love to hear about what rooms or other places inspire you!