I love me some Christian Dior, definitely one of my favorite designers.  I was not disappointed with rcent Christian Dior Fall 2010 Couture presentation in Paris. Bold, bright and beautiful! This year’s show was inspired by the “Tulip line” designed by Christian Dior himself in 1953.  Props to John Galliano!

The show was fantastic with dramatic backdrops of giant tulips and if you look at the models, they themselves are a tulip! BRILLIANT! The colors were so vibrant it was like looking at candy! So much fun!  They spared nothing in the extravagance department (as you shouldn’t in Couture, gasp!). There were ball gowns, sheath dresses in mohair, tool, ruffles, bows, skirts, and layered shirts to look like petals. The details were endless! Even the shoes had vine like heels! 

One day I will make to an actual show instead of watching it on here on youtube…<sigh>.

xoxo,

pix

click here to view pics

Wow…Ok, so the wait is almost over for all you Twi-hard fans…I know…the anticipation is just killing me too…I swear J. Anywho, the premier was a few nights ago and I think the ladies of Forks were competing for the worst dressed award. Hot mess after hot mess after hot mess.

I love Ashley Greene and think she is just cute as a button…but even she can’t pull off a bed sheet as a dress…and then there was Nikki Reed…maybe her and Bjork have been hanging out…what’s with the bird dress?? Kristen Stewart....I don’t even know where to start with that one armed mess…Dakota Fanning looked better in her Elie Saab mini…although I think the wolves got a hold of the hemline and shredded it a bit!

For me, I love the suit worn by Robert Pattinson. Different, fun and it just looked cool. So HE gets the best dresses award.

xoxo,

Pix

Click here to view pics!

Give me a break. Really?? It’s a sad day for mankind my friends…Mickey D’s is now being sued over….wait for it….wait…wait.…. the TOYS that are included in the Happy Meal. This has to rank right up there with the most atrocious lawsuits EVER! (Hot coffee anyone?) I’m just going to quote it directly so there is no mistaking the stupidity.

The Associated Press reports in a story that the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI)"threatened to file a lawsuit against McDonald's, charging that the fast food chain 'unfairly and deceptively' markets the toys to children."

"McDonald's marketing has the effect of conscripting America's children into an unpaid drone army of word-of-mouth marketers, causing them to nag their parents to bring them to McDonald's," CSPI's Stephen Gardner wrote to the heads of the chain in a letter announcing the lawsuit.

The center is hoping the publicity and the threat of a lawsuit will force McDonald's to negotiate with them on the issue. The group announced the lawsuit in the letter to McDonald's 30 days before filing it with the hope that the company will agree to stop selling the toys before a suit is filed.

CPSI also made the statement “McDonald's practices unfair and deceptive marketing, CSPI said, claiming that it is illegal under various state consumer protection laws. On Tuesday, CSPI served the fast-food giant notice that it intends to sue.

"McDonald's is the stranger in the playground handing out candy to children," said Stephen Gardner, the firm's litigation director, in a press release. "It's a creepy and predatory practice that warrants an injunction."

ARE YOU FRIGGIN’ KIDDING ME.  Are these people just bored?  I can think of a million things for them to do...really. It’s “creepy” to have toys in a happy meal? Since when?  I'll tell ya what's creepy, that little clown that jumps out of a box at jack in the box while you're trying to eat....creepy.  Didn’t Cracker Jacks back in the day have a toy in it?  McDonald’s Happy Meals causes children to nag their parents? Funny, all my mom had to do was give me and my brother “the look” and the nagging ended instantly…she didn’t need a lawsuit for anything. And really…when was the last time you saw a 6 year old steal the family car to get to McDonalds because his parents wouldn’t take him? I had Happy Meals when I was a kid, and I go back to, my parents said NO just about every time we asked to go and we went when it was deemed a treat. MY PARENTS taught me good eating habits, not the local fast food chains… Here’s a suggestion…keep the battle going for better, nutritious foods in our school systems and leave fast food chains alone. IT IS YOUR CHOICE TO PULL YOUR CAR OVER AND HAVE AN INSANELY UN-HEALTY, ARTERY CLOGGING, HEART ATTACK IN A BOX AND NO ONE ELSE’S. PERIOD. Get a grip. I’m going with; it’s McLame, & McStupid.  Leave the ability for us to choose for ourselves alone.  Leave Mickey D’s alone, and for the love of all that is holy, leave the Happy Meal alone, it is not the devil.  And that is... my final answer.

xoxo,

Pixie

Stupid is as stupid does! I took the gold medal the other night in this department, and this is how it all went down. I’m taking a shower and grab my new squeeze bottle of face wash, but I can’t get it open…tug here, push there, use my teeth, can’t do it. Oh well, I finish with my shower. After doing so, I grabbed the face wash and was determined to get it open to no avail. So, I grab a pair of scissors and try to pry it open. Still no luck, and I continue with the scissors. In a split second, as I’m pushing the scissors down, they slip off the container and are pushed into my hand… it was slow motion from here. Time nearly stood still …I could see the blades in my hand, and I yanked them out just as fast. OOOPSIE DOODLE, blood came out like Old Faithful! Mirrors, walls, cabinets, you name it! Hello Monty Python! I quickly shove my hand under water, while in my head reviewing the huge mess I am making! I look around for anything to wrap it with. Of course the towel is not on the towel rack, drat! I glance at the toilet paper a few feet away…can’t reach it. So I decide to sprint towards it …not so much. Now I’m getting the floor tile and toilet seat soaked and frantically trying to wrap it with tissue that is getting soggier faster than I can get a new layer around…NOT WORKING...GRRR! Then I decide to make a dash towards the hall closet to grab a towel…carpet is now red, but I am successful.

I get my hand wrapped up and am now seriously pondering this situation…REALLY PIXIE?!?!?!! You are how old and you can’t use scissors correctly, REALLY!! So, I go to get band-aids…riiiggght, I remove the towel to reveal a small river of blood. I quickly put it back on. So then I call my best friend…my thought was I would tell her the funny story, we would laugh, and then by the time we were done, my hand would be dried up…(Jackass, my table is now available), not so much. She convinces me to go to a CentraCare. I reluctantly agree, not really looking forward to this trip and am still thinking about super glue and a bunch of band-aids. So now I have her on the phone, towel on my hand and I’m trying to find clothes to put on. I’m hopping around with one hand trying to pull on jeans with one leg in, she’s telling me to hurry and my towel keeps falling off…Honestlyyyy…it looked like a comedy show I'm sure. I get my jeans on and go to get a shirt. I am seriously having to concentrate at this point…I keep telling her that I’m hurrying, but I at least need to find a cute shirt, you never know, there may be a cute doc at the clinic! I have to take my opportunities as they come! I think she wants to throttle me through the phone at this point. I get a shirt, spray some perfume, and throw my flops on…good to go! But now blood is dripping down my arm because I wasn’t holding the towel tight enough. Grrrr, so I clean that up, get it together and then attempt to get my dogs to go in their crate..not happening, so I just leave them out.

Get in my car and go to the closest clinic, are you kidding me??? They closed at 7pm! This is the hood people, shootings and stabbings don’t start until at least 10pm! WTH! I get on my phone and find one open till midnight…of COURSE it’s across town…literally. I passed two ER’s to get there, but there was no way in hell that I was going to an ER, the clinic was bad enough. **I would like to note here, that I did not get one drop of blood on Smurfette! Woo whooo!** CentraCare did a fantastic job of stitching me up, poking me with needles and getting me out in an efficient manner - that part couldn’t have been better. I will definitely be bringing those gals some cookies soon. I still missed the ending of Dancing with Stars though, boo.

Finally get home to find two pee puddles from my dogs and more clean up in my room than I really cared to deal with - that part really was really un-cool. Finally, my bed, some strong pills and some sleep…and no, I never got the face wash opened L

Moral of the story kids: don’t play with scissors!

xoxo,

Pixie

Ohhhhh, You guys know how I love it when people are trying to do good in this world…I found a couple of peeps out in Oregon that have been friends for 20+ years and Co-founded “Caddies 4 Cure” (catchy name right?). They are Ryan DuChene and Justin Marquart. Two regular guys whose love of golf and an informal golf outing years ago has now evolved into one of the Northwest’s premier fundraising event! Believing in the collective power of "Chipping-In" through time, talent or finances, Caddies 4 Cure works with Northwest charities to increase awareness, participation and support of causes that meet the needs of children and families, their efforts have now raised over $500,000 for two of their favorite Charities; the Oregon Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and Legacy Emanuel Children's Hospital; Both of these charities hit close to home for this duo and their drive (tee hee, no pun intended) is downright inspiring! So get on board peeps! Check out their website, become a fan, or pay it forward and be inspired!! You’d be a chip of the old block.., I crack myself up ;-)

xoxo,

Pix

Ok, so I’m not in the market to make fun of any one particular group, I will make fun of all groups (including myself obviously!). But today, my focus is the Twi-hards. Yes, you read that correctly. Twi-hards. Now for some of you, you have no stinkin’ clue as to what I’m talking about. BUTTTTT, for some others, you know exactly what I am talking about and it’s you I am directing this too. Yes you, stop hiding behind the laptop, don’t put the cover down, and don’t look around the room to see who’s watching you read this. OWN IT. You are a Twi-hard, and I have a few questions…well, maybe just one…WTH? Really?

Dude, I get it. Edward vs. Jacob, Good vs. Evil…it’s all fun and games until you tick off the monsters….hotties running around with their shirts off..Face it, Lautner really can’t act, but rocks out an 8 pack like no other, so it’s cool…really. And, I’m not asking out of ignorance…My mum bought the first book for me because I really was intrigued by this “Beatles” like cult following and the passing out of teenagers when Pattinson came around. I will say, I liked the writing, I can see where people can get sucked into the story. Stephanie Meyer did a fantastic job. Anyone that can make it seem like vampires and werewolves are part of the everyday norm gets some kudos. So of course in my research (yes research), I bought the Twilight movie (on sale at Wal-Mart mind you). Then of course I had to buy New Moon only because it happened to be at Target when I was there buying other things, so I LET it fall in my cart.

They are interesting to watch… some of the best one liners in a movie ever, horrible acting from the extras, awkward and slow, … yet they do somehow draw you in. The first one was irritating due to it didn’t live up to the book. Shame on you Catherine Hardwicke, at least New Moon, with Chris Weitz directing was closer to the read. And as I’m sure all you Twi-hards already know, supposedly Eclipse, with another new director David Slade, is the best one yet…we’ll see, I remember book details pretty well, and I’m a stickler. On a side note, I will happily admit the soundtracks are freaking amazing. They are up there with my all time favorites actually.

Wow, talk about getting off track, back to my question…WTH? Seriously…People are getting tattoos, and I don’t mean little cute ones, I mean huge back pieces. There are people either on Team Edward or Team Jacob (which by the way was the FIRST question asked of me when someone saw me reading the book on a flight). People who actually want to move to Forks…there is a reason the vampires live there people, it’s cold, dark and rainy all the time, blah. Twi-hards give devotion a whole new meaning. You check all the blogs, all the websites, you stalk Stephanie Meyer’s site relentlessly…I mean realllllyyyy. You are on every fan page known to mankind, you want to fall in love with an actual vampire, red apples are now your favorite and you think Twilight Tuesday is an actual day of the week. And I’m pretty sure you guys go wondering into the woods on purpose hoping to find a werewolf…just sayin’. Ok, ok, I’m done. You guys are cute. Rock on with your Twilighter selves. Just don’t hurt yourselves in the quest for true love amongst monsters and don’t jump on any planes determined to get to Italy before noon. It really isn’t healthy.J On that note, I will leave you with my favorite movie quote of all time…”It would be nice not to want to kill you all the time” – Jasper Hale. Love it.

P.s. The release date for Breaking Dawn is November 18, 2011, mark it down.  J

Xoxo,

Pix

Click here to see the crazy pics!

I will just start by saying, in no way shape or form am I a gym all-star. I was a gymnast and a dancer as a kid, worked out everyday just about, but as an adult, not so much. BUT, I do like playing sports and will play or do just about anything. Football; sweet, kickboxing; cool, snowboarding; bring it on. Let me also start by stating, I am a complete JACKASS, yes, a jackass. I have no fear and do everything as if I’ve been doing it for years, only to wake up after knocking myself out or taking off a few layers of skin. My mum used to always say “you’re one check away from welfare”. Tis true. (I can still hear her saying it in my head all the time) So it had been 15 years since I had stepped foot in an actual gym. Weights? Ew. Elipta what? Eww. Machines….that people sweat on, EWWWWWWWW. Gross. Yea, not for me. I really wanted to get back into dance though, so I went and checked it out.  All I can say is, while the kid was giving me a tour and showing me around, I swear, all I could hear was Charlie Brown’s teacher in my head over and over and over. At every turn I was reminded of why I don’t like gyms…woe is me <sigh> …We eventually get to the meat head department and I finally looked at him and said “dude, me and machines don’t get along. I will never ever use them, I don’t want to use them, and honestly, you don’t want the liability of me using them, I just want to dance”. He giggled and said no problem. Then he asked if I would like a personal trainer…I really wanted to say “Have you lost your mind, did you hear me? Look at me…does it look like bulking up is on my “to do” list? The only lifting I want to do is a glass of wine from the table to my mouth, that’s it.” I snapped myself back to reality and ended up just shaking my head no. He then shows me the dance studio and the sauna…ahhhhh, good times, now that was more like it!

I get signed up, I’m feeling pretty good, feeling kinda cute, and go to my first class…..WHOA, yea, no one told me there is a gym mafia out there. Who knew?? Not me! These people are nuts. Everyone has their un-assigned, un-spoken of; specific spot. This is THE spot, THEIR spot on the dance floor, and heaven forbid someone even look at their spot the wrong way, they protect their spot fiercely! (think of the holy grail here)  There may even be an underground market on the trading of these spots..not sure yet. They have specific groups, and outsiders get complete stare downs…crazy town. Peeps, gym mafias, they exist, sooooo not kidding. I thought my hood was bad, but helllll to the no! I was way more afraid of my dance class than my hood. I really just wanted to slink out the back door and just be happy I tried….but no, I stayed for my punishment… It very well could be the same as getting initiated…maybe, kinda?

Class ends, I survived. I felt like I had gotten my ass kicked from here to next week and was thinking that maybe I needed to try out the yoga class next time. I walked outside to my car and to my complete amusement, two cars are fighting over the parking space right outside the front door…mind you, the rest of the parking lot is empty, and we are at a GYM. Really?? It was a full on showdown! I almost expected Kathy Bates to come yelling out of her car “I have more insurance than you!” (That didn’t happen peeps) I couldn’t help but giggle to myself and think about how even at the gym, people will fight over the closest parking spot…good ole’ Americana…To this day, the parking lot kills me every time with the giggles J.

Xoxo,

Pix

OMG!! So I’m excited again!! I found a fantastic company!  Peeps, TOMS gives away one pair of shoes to a needy child for every one pair sold!  They call it “One for One”.  How freaking cool is that!  Seriously?  In underdeveloped countries many children do not have the basic necessities such as shoes.  Not having shoes is leading cause of soil-transmitted diseases (ewww), cuts, sores, which all lead to infection. In some countries, the school dress code involves shoes.  If you don’t have any, you can’t go school L.  How can you not love a company that from the day it started to as of April 2010, they have given over 600,000 pairs of shoes…that’s right peeps, 600,000!!!!

The least you can do is check them out…or as they say, walk ONE day without shoes and see what it's like.

xoxo,

Pixie

Say what you will about Jessica Simpson, but not many people would grace the cover of any magazine sans makeup, much less the cover of Marie Claire.  Simpson did the photo shoot with no makeup artist, no hair stylist and no photoshop. Her hair was washed and air dried.  Now I will say, there is nothing like fabulous lighting and an amazing photographer to help a sister out…just sayin’.  I personally am thrilled that she has decided to do this.  As a peon who has done minimal modeling, little girls would come up to me constantly while shooting saying how they wanted to be that pretty, or they wanted to be just like me (I know, it just sounds crazy typing that!).….I tried (and still do) to always, always explain, that they are much prettier than me and that anyone can look glamorous with 4 hours of hair, makeup, a stylist to dress you and a photographer to take great shots. At this point the moms are almost in tears because I'm on their side.  It's a tough social image for little girls to live up to.  L

Jessica has been working on her own project “The Price of Beauty” this past year and has learned quite a bit for herself.  Women around the world all have their issues and their secrets.  I am looking forward to the shows debut on VH1.  The way different cultures perceive things and go about their “everyday” has always been fascinating to me.  So love her, hate her, she looks beautiful au natural and has more cojones than most people I know.

xoxo,

Pix

So, I’m just gonna throw it out there peeps.  We suck at nutrition as a society….in fact, we suck at being healthy in general as a society.  I have always thought this and then two things have happened in the past month to make it more bold and in your face;  1. The new and oh so much improved health care reform bill (take that however you may like it) and 2.  Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution Reality Show.   The funny thing is; I think Jamie is the answer to number one.  Did you know that this generation of children is the first generation EVER to have a shorter life span expectancy than their parents?  Seriously, how about we as a country stop eating fast food twice a day, stop thinking that the microwave is our friend, and  stop coming up with excuses as to why we can’t work out 3-4 times a week….”I don’t have time” ummm yea, I call bullshit. 

Don’t get me wrong.  There are plenty of times where I miss my dance class due to working late.  Technically the gym is still open, so technically, it’s my decision not to go.   I could, I opt not to.  That’s my choice.  So if I decide not to ever go, eat Oreos all day (Dude, I LOVE Oreos, shout out!) and go to my favorite fast food place for dinner and gain 30 lbs…it’s MY fault.  I happen not to eat fast food but a few times a year (In & Out while traveling to Cali is a must and Chick-Fil-A on a road trip, more shouts outs!! LOVE), I also happen not to buy junk food…..why?  Because I have crappy will power sometimes (I can eat a whole bag of Cheetos like nobody’s business) …so if it’s not in my pantry, I can’t eat it, and I am wayyyy to lazy to actually get in my car to find food.  Seriously, what happened to self accountability?? And don’t give me this crap that you work full time and you have kids.  My parents both worked full time jobs, and we NEVER got to eat fast food.  Dinner was cooked every night.  And ONE meal was cooked, not four.  Are you kidding me??? What is this everyone gets different food at dinner crap?  And people are surprised at the picky eaters growing up!  News flash, a child can’t drive themselves to get a doughnut, YOU as the adult have to give it to them.  YOU as the adult give them their meals.  They don’t do the grocery shopping (wouldn’t that be fun!). 

Just take a look at what you are giving them.  Do you really think girls get boobs at age 10 now just because?? Um No.  It's all the hormones in our over processed food and milk.  Obviously there are times when you are not there, and then it’s a crap shoot, but seriously…if I hear “but they wanted it” one more time…I want a million dollars… I assure you, my parents are not giving it to me.  My parents gave my teachers boxes of raisins to give me when the classroom got cupcakes and cookies for a special occasion.  Our treat was an all natural soda from the health store and sugar free candy.  They, as working adults with two children MADE the time and choice to workout 3-4 times a week either at home or at a gym.  It can be done.  It’s a choice. 

And if you choose not to, that’s fine, you don’t have to, but don’t depend on the government to take care of PREVENTABLE diseases and be pissed when you don’t feel good, or you have to shove needles in yourself because you’re a diabetic by choice.  Yea, I said it, a diabetic by choice.  Deal with it.  Yes, I know there are exceptions, and this isn’t about those exceptions.  This is about the CHOICE and the ACCOUNTABILITY that seems to have been lost in my entitled generation.  Don’t be a hater, I love you guys J  And before you say anything, No, I'm not saying it's easy, infact, yes it is difficult at first, and yes, there are ways to make it more affordable.  All I AM saying is, life is short, and there are so many things out there to kill us that we can’t control, why kill ourselves??

Check out Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution, it really is an eye opener and it can’t hurt to give it a try!

Xoxo,

Pix

P.s.

Jamie, if you get to read this, WOOT WOOT to you....Hey, I can wish! J <sigh>

Oh my goodness peeps…It seems that basic common sense and good manners just don’t exist anymore.  I truly believe people would be less angry if we were just a bit nicer to each other….Here are a few, but by no means does this list even dent the world of good manners and etiquette!!

10. Let the people out of the elevator first!! For crying out loud people. I get you are in a hurry, but don’t haul ass over the people trying to get out.  (And must you be on your phone inside an elevator??  Your call is most likely going to be dropped anyways) 

9.  Speaking of cell phones, don’t yappety yap yap on your cell phone inside a restaurant.  Go outside.  For the love of all that is holy.  Seriously?  People spend good money on a night out and it’s rude of YOU to ruin it by yapping constantly.  Can you say aggravatinggggggggg!  I don’t give a shit what you did the night before, or with whom, and with what..Don’t CARE.  In case you missed it, DON’T CARE.  I can go to a Wal-Mart checkout line if I want to hear about the antics of others..(Whoa, had to get that one off my chest!)

8.  Does chivalry really have to die?  Is it so hard for a man to hold a door open for a woman these days….really?  I’m not asking for a jacket over a rain puddle..just sayin, don’t let the door close in a lady’s face.  And for the ladies, don’t forget to say thank you!!

7. On that note; saying thank you.  What the hell happened to that?!??!  For pete’s sake, saying please and thank you never goes out of date.  Thanks.

6. When invited over to someone’s home for the first time, bring a small token of appreciation.  A bottle of wine is generally a great gift.  If they don’t drink, obviously find something else as a nice gesture.  This practice has not gone out of style contrary to some beliefs.

5. Honestly…Just because YOU like your children, does not mean everyone else has to like them.  If they are crying inside, go outside, seriously.  We get it, kids are the devil sometimes, it happens.  But it’s just not fair to ruin things for other people because of it…...one word for you, SELFISH.

4.  Would it kill you to give up your public seat for the elderly?  Honestlyyyyy.  They’re freaking old, help them out.

3. Just because pedestrians have the right of way, does not mean you take your SWEET ASS TIME crossing the road to hold up a line of traffic waiting on you.  What is wrong with you?!?!?! Could you please walk at a brisk pace to get the hell out of the road.  Thank you. (refer to #7)

2. Being a good neighbor is great.  Looking out for your neighbors makes you a rock star, being a busy body and nosy makes you a nuisance.  Mind your own business.

1. Pick up your dogs pooh in public!!!!  What is wrong with people.  It’s YOUR dog, pick it up.  Don’t bring them outside if you don’t want to pick it up.   It’s a health hazard to others, it ruins shoes and its GROSS!! Knock it off people and pick up your pooh.

This doesn’t even begin to cover office etiquette, travel etiquette, or even dating etiquette.  Maybe next time, until then, just show a little love J

Xoxo,

Pixie

Ruffles, sequins, metallic’s, OH MY!  There was certainly no shortage of any of these fashion choices at the Oscars!  Where does one start??  Let’s start with the Hot Messes because there was a plethora of them to talk about.  For starters; the official "wtf" award goes to Charlize Theron…really? One suggestion, fire your stylist.  I’ll follow Charlize up with Vera Farmiga.  See, this is what you call WAY too much of a good thing.  She gets points for trying, I just wasn’t feeling it.  Next, Mariah Carey.  Oh my dear child, what am I going to do with you?  I am just dying for this girl to ONCE prove me wrong and show me she can look reasonable…yes, I’m not even going for fabulous, I will take reasonable.  She is the definition of hot mess my friends, and honestly, I just find her painful to look at.  Then there is J Lo…I don’t even know what to say about that disaster, it kinda looked like a lopsided origami, yes, I said origami.  Meryl Streep just looked frumpy….Her shoes were hideous and her hair was mediocre at best.  *sigh* .  For my final thought on the hot mess category, Sarah Jessica Parker…seriously.  Awkward? Unflattering?  Anyone? Bueller, Bueller??  So many messes, so little blog space ;-)

Let’s move on to the success stories of the evening.  Sandra Bullock took the cake for the evening.  She looked nothing short of stunning.  The luminous Marchesa gown, the beading, the red lips.  Hello, you had me at red lips.  Can you say winner, ding ding ding!!  Also looking just as fabulous was Cameron Diaz.  She sported a beautiful Oscar de la Renta creation while accessorizing with a Cartier white gold diamond ring.  Really, how can a girl go wrong with that combination?  Queen Latifah was fantastic in her shiny purple, one shoulder, form fitting gown.  She wore it beautifully.  Kristen Stewart stood out in a sophisticated midnight blue silk satin organza gown Monique Lhuillier.   I for some reason was surprised to see her in it, but it was a great choice for her.  'Precious' star and Best Actress nominee Gabourey Sidibe looks better than ever in a deep blue off-the-shoulder Marchesa dress with Lorraine Schwartz diamonds.  One more to mention is Elizabeth Banks. She looked positively elegant in her Versace.  This may be one of my favorite dresses of the evening.  I love the detailing on the top, the ruffles on the bottom, and yes, I even like the gray!  Magnifique!

For my wild child of the evening, hands down Zoe Saldana!  Love it or hate it, she wasn’t safe, she wasn’t the norm and her gown was straight off the runway by Givenchy.  I give her props just for attempting such an eccentric, fun, fabulously couture statement!

All in all, I really didn’t find it to be the most impressive Oscar fashion event ever.   The amount of slackers with their “safe” or just lame choices was downright disappointing.  The list of “it could go either way” was overbearing.  C’est la vie.  Maybe next year.

Xoxo, 

Pix

Back by popular demand, Part 2 is now out and officially released.  Enjoy my peeps :-)

10.  All the bridesmaids have to match.  Says who?  If you choose, each bridesmaid can have their own style.  One can have a halter; one can have strapless and so forth and so on.  The curvy full figured friend may even thank you while she stands next to twiggy...just a thought. I personally would recommend the same color at least for continuity sake, but hey, this too can be different if you so wish.

9. The bride and grooms parents must sit together in the front row, even if they can't stand the sight of one another. Not all parental matrimony is perfect, why ask the mother of the bride to sit next to her ex-husband just because you think that it's appropriate for your wedding day. In an ideal world, parents could put their differences behind them for the sake of their child's wedding, however don't force them.  Wouldn’t you rather they be separated vs. world war three breaking out?

8.  You have to toss your wedding bouquet….not true…if you are older, or most of your guests are married, or you just have a really special grandma, mom, aunt, etc that you would like to give it to, there is nothing wrong with honoring them and handing it to them with a kiss rather than throwing it… it will mean the world to them.

7. You can’t incorporate other cultural traditions because you are not of that culture.  Of course you can.  For example the breaking of glass…if you are catholic, but really believe in the reason behind this symbolism, then go for it.  But word of caution, do not make fun of, belittle or demean the original intention of the tradition.  Please have respect and courtesy for whichever culture you plan on incorporating.

6. You have to invite everyone your parents want to invite.  Well, this is a touchy situation.  General rule of thumb.  If your parents are footin' the bill for it, then they do have more of a say and you should respect them.  If you are paying, then you have final say…but let me give another word of caution; be respectful.  Is it worth hurting your parents’ feelings or worse, causing tension over a few place settings?  Generally they are inviting these people because they are proud and want to show you off.  Just keep it in mind.

5. Shopping from the registry is impersonal.  Not really and this is why.  Registries were designed to allow the couple to select items they would like, rather than receiving several toasters or coffee makers that they have no use for. If there is no registry, money or other gifts are good choices. However, if there is a registry, according to The Knot wedding experts, guests should purchase from it as the couple did register for a reason. ** And we all know if The Knot says it, it MUST be true ;-) **

4. An invitation means you can bring a date. (kind of a tag along to #3 from myth busters 1). Receiving an invitation without it stating "and guest" does NOT mean you are allowed to bring a guest. Dude, are you kidding me?  Couples often make their invitation lists within a budget and many times are not able to invite all the people they would like. If they wanted you to bring a guest, they would indicate as much. Bringing a guest without receiving an invitation for one is in poor taste and is enough to send even the calmest bride into a tizzy. Honnessttllyyyyy, it's just plain rude.  Don't do it.

3. It is rude to have an adult only reception.  Ummm no.  If you would like your reception to be adult only, then so be it.  It is your reception, and there is nothing that states you have to invite everyone’s children as well.  On this note, if your invitation says “Adult only” or “No children please” do NOT bring your children.

2. Skipping the rehearsal will be ok.  No, Never, Don’t do it.  Seriously people, each church, venue, and location is different.  Each officiant is different.  DO the rehearsal; spend the extra money if there is a cost.  It is the difference between things turning into a catastrophe at your ceremony or things going smoothly.  LISTEN to the advice of your officiant.  Let me say it again, LISTEN to the officiant.

(some of you will ignore this and be sorry).

1. Your vendors are mind readers.  People, I have experienced this a thousand times over.  Unless YOU communicate exactly what you want, don’t assume they know.  As seasoned as they may be, they can only guide you.  If you don’t tell them you specifically want a picture with Uncle Frank at 6pm in front of a tree while the sun is setting, guess what? They don’t know.  If you HAVE to have a certain song, or if you hate a song and absolutely do not want to hear it, TELL the DJ!  For crying out loud, make a list for each vendor of your personal Do’s and Don’ts of the wedding.  TRUST ME, you will be happier, they will be happier, everyone will be happier in the end.  Happy Happy Joy Joy, right??  Just sayin’.

Tee hee hee.  Well peeps, I hope you got a giggle, but most importantly, if you are getting married, I hope you learned something!!

Xoxo,

Pix

Last night at The Social downtown, I was privileged enough to come across the most phenomenal (yes phenomenal) talent I have stumbled upon in what seems to be an eternity.  The band is called, The State Of and is made up of two members: Steph Taylor and Nabedi Osorio (Don’t you just love her name!).   This self described dark, indie, pop band comes from Miami and is truly just mesmerizing.  Steph Taylor is nothing short of a piano genius and has the voice of a muse.  Her skills are jaw dropping.  I personally just wanted to close my eyes and feel every note that came out her.  Nabedi’s talent on the drums and backup vocals are insanely amazing as well.  These two claim they are musical soul mates and I believe it.  If you ever have the opportunity to see these two, you should.  They currently have a new album out called The State of: The Live Studio Sessions EP, and no, you can’t borrow my copy because I want it all for myself.  Special thanks goes out to my friend who introduced me to this lovely duo and I look forward to seeing them again!

xoxo,

Pix

Tis the season for giving.....While I am a huge advocate of giving to charities, some gifting has to happen.  I only give recommendations on products/companies I truly believe in.  Tweety's Treasures is one of those companies.  First of all, it truly is one of a kind!  No two pieces are the same.  Each necklace is made of only authentic gemstones, unlike many imitation pieces which use glass or manufactured stones to appear genuine.  The sterling silver is .925 solid sterling silver that is never casted or hollow.  Swarovski Crystals are used to enhance each piece, and creates a dazzling and sparkling effect.   Because each piece is handmade, sizing can be accommodated for a nominal fee. 

I own too many pieces to count, so let's not talk about that...LOL...but all kidding aside, nearly all of my friends and associates own a large collection as well.  We get constant feedback that they are often stopped in public and their pieces admired and complimented for the unique designs, and the stunning stones used.
Lastly - let's talk deal.  You COULD pay $90-$150+ in department stores or catalogue shows for costume, glass jewelry...but WHY?  The price point is unmatched and you will be hard pressed to find more stunning pieces in this artisan style.

Watched an episode of Bones lately? More and more stylists are using the bold, chunky, and natural looking styles created by Tweety’s Treasures.  Get hooked today, visit www.tweetys-treasures.com for Holiday Deals!
All Tweety’s Treasures are gift wrapped in tarnish-proof paper, placed in a silver box with a pretty bow and a personal note can also be included, how can you beat that???  In addition, Tweety’s Treasures are shipped priority mail to the recipient.

So this is my help to you this season, check out Tweety's Treasures, you can't go wrong! 

Xoxo,

Pix

I love the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show for different reasons.  The glamour, the style and the entertainment.  Heidi Klum, just 6 weeks after giving birth is the reason why women around the world just want to hurl.  Her post baby bod left the rest of us wondering “why can’t we do that”.  The 36-year-old German model, opened the “Enchanted Forest” segment of the show, wore a beautiful green corset and half gown by Jane Law, jewelry by Mouawad and Giuseppe Zanotti shoes.

The Black Eyed Peas gave a fantastic performance and Fergie looked great.

I don’t think the show was insanely different than past years, but it did seem to be bigger and better.  The Romantic Travel theme led to some fantasies from close at home to far far away.  And as a side note, no adult should ever wear anything that has the word "onesie" in it.  Seriously.

xoxo

Pix

The 2009 AMA’s were a mix of surprises and not surprising moments of sorts, but I will say those surprises didn’t make me think it was a great show. There was Adam Lambert’s raunchy performance, there was Jennifer Lopez who fell on her biggest asset while trying for a smashing comeback into the music scene, and then of course Michael Jackson and Taylor Swift……hmmm, they won a bunch of awards, enough said.  It’s also notable to mention, while I love me some Lady Gaga, she’s starting to weird me out….Greenday was awesome and I loved the Eminem-50 cent show!

Onward and Forward to Fashion, yippee. I do love the music award shows because they tend to bring out the more fashion forward ensembles….and our loveable Rihanna did not disappoint, hence why she gets my vote for best dressed!  Her dress by Marcesa was, for a lack of a better word, just cool!  The black & white with the floral cutouts, awesome.  As far as the worst…well, there were a few, but I’m going with Kelly Clarkson this year…she just looked so frumpy.  Did she know she was going to the AMA’s or did she get side tracked?  Her hair, horrible.  Her makeup, horrible.  She could not have picked a more un-flattering dress if she had tried.  Seriously.

Now, you know those people you see and you can’t decide if it’s good or bad?  It could either be just WOW, or just UGH?? I have three for this category.  Alicia Keys in Armani Prive (fashion forward maybe?), J Lo in Marcesa and Kate Hudson in Versace.  I really don’t like J Lo’s to be honest, but she had me at the feathers…ahhhhh…..moving on.

Other people who I thought looked fantastic were Fergie with her stunning Armani Prive fitted black dress.  The featured slit caused a few eyes to do a double take.  She pulled it off beautifully.  Carrie Underwood as usual looked nice in her single shouldered dress by Theia.  I say nice only because it just looked so “safe”.  Nothing really fabulous, but she looked nice.

I’m not sure what happened with Leona Lewis and Shakira.  Such beautiful gals, but horrible choices.  Leona, joan jetson called, she needs her dress back…honestlyyyy.  Pointy stuff a the top, balloon at the bottom and then the vinyl…….I can say no more…Shakira wasn’t a disaster, so I’ll just leave it at that.

Xoxo

Pix

Being that I don’t follow country music, I found myself quite surprised by a few things from the CMA’s last night.  1. Brad Paisley is funny.  2. Taylor Swift is a very talented young lady and 3. Carrie Underwood’s Cowboy Casanova performance was outstanding!  I mean really!  The wardrobe, the choreography, and the song itself, fantastic!  I also am inclined to think that Darius Rucker makes a better country artist than a Hootie…just sayin’.  Swift and Rucker made the show a truly historical event and for that, I was quietly impressed and happy for these extra special peeps.

Ok, so on to the important part…FASHION.  My number one pick for the night was Taylor Swift’s gold embroidered gown by Reem Acra. I thought it was absolutely stunning.  She looked like a true princess with age appropriate makeup and hair, gorgeous. (oh and yes, she’s the youngest artist to EVER win the Entertainer of the year award…not too shabby).

My pick for the worst of the evening was easy.  A tie between Martina McBride and Ashely Monroe.  I can’t even begin to think what was going through Martina’s head when she picked out her dress, but it looked like her curtains fell and landed on top of her…seriously, and Ashely’s, where do I begin?  Too short, too tight, too ugly?? Just awful.  There is fashion forward and then there are fashion disasters…I’m going with the latter.

Other notables were Faith Hill in her simply gorgeous light lavender floor length strapless gown with fantastic bold accessories.  Reba McEntire as usual looked absolutely fabulous in her black sequined gown that she co-designed with Terry Gordon, you go girl! Carrie Underwood showed up on the red carpet in a spectacular long, sparkly, sexy little number....But what happened to Kellie Pickler??  I’ve seen her look better, so I will just say, this was not a fashion successful night for her.

All in all, I’m glad I tuned in. The performances were pretty good, and the fashion was definitly note worthy. 

xoxo,

Pix

Oh Lordy Peeps....Sometimes I wonder where people get what's floating around in their head.  So here's the scoop.  The top wedding beliefs that just need to go buh bye!

10. Both sides of the wedding party have to be even....honestly.  NO, NO and NO.  There are many different circumstances to why this may not happen.  No biggie, your pics will turn out regardless...I promise.

9. A male maid of honor is something you only see in the movies.  NOPE.  It happens peeps.  And if he's your best friend through and through, you are rude for pushing him to the side because he is male.  **side note though, not all men are willing to do this, so if they politely say no to your question, don't get mad**

8. It is now acceptable to enforce weight limits, certain looks, etc on your bridal party so everyone looks good in the pics...UMMMM NO, NEVER, ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND?  If you do not love them for who they are, don't ask them to be in your wedding.  Period.

7. Cash bar is ok.  No again.  There are many ways to budget around this.  Trust the fact, that this will be the talk around the water cooler on Monday.

6. A buffet is always cheaper than a plated dinner.  Not necessarily.  In fact, a good portion of the time, it is more expensive.  Double check with your caterer before you assume anything.

5. Flower Girls and/or Ring Bearers have to be a part of the wedding ceremony.  Actually, 9 out of 10 times, the smaller they are, the more of a pain in the ass your ceremony will become.  Yes, they are super cute, and no one says you can't have them dress up for your pictures, and give them something "special" to do..ie: help the ushers pass out programs, carry the "extra special guest book" from the car to the table...you get what I'm saying.  The point is, I have done MANY weddings, and inevitably, they want their parents, they get stage fright, the list goes on and on...Just double think this one and make your choice wisely...

4. Doing it yourself will always save you money.  Not necessarily.  Time is money, let's face it.  If it is going to take you 20 hours to make something for all your guests...sometimes it's better to have someone else do them.  Asking Uncle Joe to be the photographer may sound great, until he gets drunk and you don't have any photos of your reception...Just sayin' peeps...aunts and uncles mean well...but when it doesn't come out the way you wanted, it's no bueno.  If you still want to accept their help, make sure they understand, they are the "photographer", or "DJ",  etc and not just a guest.

3. You are required to invite a guest for everyone you invite.  No.  If your single friend is not seeing anyone special, you can just put "Sally" and not "Sally and guest".  This is perfectly acceptable.

2. The couple is required to pay for accommodations for out of town guests.  While this may be super generous if they have the cash, this is not a requirement nor has it ever been.  If you decide to go, book your accommodations accordingly.

1. And last but not least....The Groom HAS to be involved in every aspect.  Honestly ladies...get over it..he's just not that interested in all the details..he's marrying you because he trusts your judgment.  Most grooms are interested in 3 things: The DJ, the food, and the cake tasting.  Of course there are always exceptions to this general rule, and if that is you, you go girl!

There are so many more myths, you know the second edition to this blog will have to happen in the future! 

xoxo,

Pix

Wow.  So wallyworld has a new item to add to its vast selection...caskets.  For as low as $895, you too can take one of these home.  Peeps, I really don't even know what to say about this....but, I'm going to have to agree with my friend Michael and ask the question...."Where do I store this"?  Things that make you go hmmmm..............

Well Peeps, The 12th Annual Miss OBTA Pageant was nothing short of fantastic!  Michael Wanzi out did himself as the Master of Ceremonies, and Jeff Horn and co. were insanely fabulous. 

The celebrity judges for the Pageant were stars just as much as the loveable contestants.  Miss Sammy, Orlando City Commissioner Daisy Lynum, Moira from Real Radio Phillips Phile and Jacqueline Jones did not let us down with their usual shenanigans.

Jacqueline Jones did two amazing a cappella pieces to be rivaled by any top artist today and the one liners Wanzie was throwing out had us choking on our drinks!  The "dance" numbers (and I use the word dance loosely!) were absolutely hilarious!  These are NOT professional drag queens people, these are everyday men with hairy legs and all being good sports for charity...it's a sight to be seen!!!

The Genesis Foundation run by Jeff Horn is a fantastic organization that gives inner city children a safe place to after school.  They get snacks, love, and someone to ask "how was school today". 

So, next year peeps, get out of your house and get down to the Parliament House for the Miss OBTA show, it's a hoot not to be missed!