Tuesday Tunesday :: 7.31.12

Hello!!!!! Just a few jams to get you through the afternoon.  Is anyone else's dragging or is it just mine?   The sunshine is so pretty and it's taunting me. I want to be out playing in it ! Might even go for a lunch time walk to fool myself into thinking I have the day off.

And while I do that, I will leave you with these:


Antarctica Takes It! :: Lions of Love

Catchy little number, don't you think!?



Noah And The Whale :: Blue Skies

I am a sucker for emo lyrics and this jam has them.  'Blue skies are coming, but I know it's hard' 



The Tallest Man On Earth :: 1904

The Tallest Man On Earth is just lovely.  That voice, wish he could sing me to sleep every night.



Joshua Radin :: Anywhere Your Love Goes (side note: does anyone else pronounce JoshUa like Rachel does on Friends?! just me?!)

Anyways, he has a new CD out today!!! Now, honestly, I don't think any of his albums will top his first EP, but there are some solid tracks on this album.


And just for fun I got you this: Justin Bieber vs *NSYNC :: Boyfriend / Girlfriend (Mashup)

Enjoy!



Cheers to Tunesday!

-BB

Weekend Recap!

Hello Lovelies,

Another weekend in the books and one that was a good mix of eventful, but not busy - which I am always a fan of that.

Friday afternoon and evening was spent at the Brewfest and it went swimmingly!  Brad and I met up with our good friends Tyler and Justine and the best part besides legit beer was Bradley knows people so we got all our tokens half price.  LOVE A GOOD BARGAIN!  The beers were yummy, as were the food vendors.  I went with one of my favorite food cart goodies lamb gyros and my favs beer was probably the local Razberry Wheat by Cascade Brewing.  I even managed to snap a few insta pics while we were there too:

insta rookie with the port-a-potties in the background 

Saturday morning Brad was nice and made me pancakes and turkey bacon before we headed out to the driving range with Tyler, Justine, and my littler sister Brittany ...you would think that I would get tired of hanging out with Tyler since I work with him everyday, but luckily I like Justine a lot so it makes up for it ;)  (kidding!) Anyways, per usual my little sister showed us all up, but I must say I hit my gifted irons a lot better this time, to the point I think I might attempt a full round soon or at least 9 holes.

fore! - I kid sister :) 

The rest of Saturday turned into dateday where Brad and I first headed out for an afternoon run and then to Chipotle  dinner and a movie. The route we picked for our run ended up being over 6 miles instead of the guesstimated 4.  I have to say I was pleasantly surprised with myself, since I am not known for running anything over 2 miles usually.  If you ever had the chance to witness shield your eyes from one of my hep-800 races you would understand why. Let's just say my school record received zero help from my 800 time.   For the movie, we finally got the chance to see the new Batman - The Dark Knight Rises.  Overall I was super impressed with the movie (especially Joseph Gordon-Levitt, I think his performance stole the show). LOVE HIM! 

via

However, I must say I had a very heavy heart when the gun scene came on the screen.  I cannot even begin to imagine what the people in the Aurora theater went through. Tragic day for sure.

On a more lighter note, I had the pleasure of spending Sunday with family where we had a very yummy brunch at my Grandma's house and watched lots and lots of the Olympics!!!!  Sunday afternoons are often roomie date nights, last night we tried a new sushi joint called Bamboo Sushi.  It was yummy, but I'll recap more on that later this week with a #restaurantreview

Anyways,  I sure hope this case of the Mondays goes away, because I have a busy workweek ahead of me.   (And in case my boss is reading this - don't worry I wrote this last night, just posting today!)


Cheers !

-BB

Success(es)!

Slowly coming off my birthday high today.  The day after your birthday is kind of like the day after Christmas for a little kid.  I had built up cake day so much in my head and now that it's all gone - I am a little depressed today (insert boo face).

Overall though the birthday was a great success.  The cake mentioned here was delicious.  My bossman is pretty rad to begin with, but the fact that he loves Beaverton Bakery so much makes him even cooler.

After work, my sibs, a few friends of theirs, my cousin Kyler, Brad and I headed out to NE Alberta street for its monthly Last Thursday street fair.  We ran into my coworker Courtney, as well as my lovely friend Jessi.  Sadly, I didn't take many pics, but boy was there some awesome Portland People keep Portland Weird watching and nommable food carts!  Jessi did snap this one of me with her new camera though:

This is my I love food face!

 We had delicious corn on the cob with cayenne pepper, hot sauce, and queso fresco, as well as super yummy dumplings from Stumptown Dumplings.  After a few trips up and down the fair we called it a night and I was still in bed by 10:15 (my inner grandma was very excited by that). 

Now on to my second success.  However, to get to the success we must first visit the part of my day that was not so successful.  This girl had set her alarm for 5:01 am to go for a run, but when it went off it just wasn't in the cards for me.  My body was tired and I quickly reset my alarm (I blame it on the late bedtime mentioned above).  With that being said, I knew I had a busy afternoon and evening, but still really wanted to run off the amazing birthday cake, so I decided to attempt my first try at a lunch run during work. Here are a few things I learned:

could totally film a 90s jazzercise vid in here!

-It is hard to be discreet walking through an office building wearing workout clothes that have splashes of neon.  

-Don't run near food establishments such as Oswego Grill and Olive Garden if you have yet to eat lunch. Torture! 

-The office workout area has a foam roller and plenty of dumbbells, ab mats, and exercise balls.  SCORE

Should have stolen a ball from here for my desk!

-The office locker room has towels and a blow dryer DOUBLE SCORE! My gym bag just got lighter. 

-Dry Shampoo is your friend, if you're lazy and don't want to use said blow dryer.

-The area around my office actually has a great paved walking trail for a quick run

-Because of the break and endorphin boost - I now have energy to kick the rest of this workday's butt!

-When I came out of the locker room after my shower I might had a quick Criminal Minds panic attack, because the lights had been randomly turned off.  Which then lead me to daydream about Agents Morgan and Reid coming to rescue me... (Sidenote: Agent Reid is sneaky cute). 

-Lastly, how does one get their sock bun to not look like this (really struggled getting it to look decent this morning before work and made it even worse trying to fix it post run today):

This is not how it looks on the Fashion Blog Tutorials, crap!

So yeah, all in all my lunch workout was a success, 25 min run: check! Abbies: check! Shower: check!  I will definitely be doing it again.

Anyways, I am off to check out this year's Oregon Brewers Festival.  Brad got halfoff tokens!  I'll admit it: I'm kind of a beer snob. I don't drink very often, so when I do I like it to taste delicious! 

Cheers to Craft Beers! 

-BB 

It's The Final Countdown...

Cake Day is tomorrow!!!

And I can't wait to nom on this:

Beaverton Bakery Marble Cake

And play with my awesome sibs who came up to celebrate with me! 

Sib Number 1:  Little Ceester Brittany (Technically she is the youngest)

Sib Number 2:  Little Bruder Braden  (Don't let his height fool you, he will always be my little sib)

But until then I am going to enjoy my early birthday present to myself: takeout sushi,  Say Yes To The Dress on demand, and a good book before bed!

Cheers to Birthdays (I'm about to be so old)!

-BB

Tuesday Tunesday :: 7.24.12

#BurfdayWeek Edition:

Just a few songs I have had on repeat this week.  Alternative Playlist Title:  It's A Celebration, Betches!


Macklemore x Ryan Lewis feat. Mary Lambert :: Same Love

Have been listening to this song over and over and over you get it .... I will let Macklemore speak for himself on this song.  It's powerful to say the least.  Also, if you buy the single on iTunes right now all proceeds go towards the right for Marriage Equality in Washington and I can get on board with that: 

This song, which I wrote in April, is a response to what I have observed and experienced, and is also an act of personal accountability. It was not easy to write, and I struggled with how I, as a straight male, could genuinely speak upon this issue.

Initially, I tried writing from the perspective of a gay, bullied kid, but after getting some feedback, I felt it wasn’t my story to tell. What I do know, and where I wrote from, is my own perspective growing up in a culture where “that’s gay” was commonplace, with a huge stigma on those who identified and were perceived as gay.

Growing up in the Catholic Church, I saw first-hand how easily religion became a platform for hate and prejudice. Those who “believed” were excused from their own judgments, bypassing the stark issue of basic civil rights.

But, more influential to me as a kid than the church was hip hop, my cultural foundation that influenced my worldview.

Unfortunately, intolerance of the gay community in hip hop is widespread. The best rappers will use homophobic language on albums that critics rave about, making hip hop and homophobia inextricably linked. We have sidestepped the issue entirely, become numb to the language that we use, and are increasingly blinded to our own prejudice.

The consequence and impact of what we say, and the culture of shame and abuse it creates, has very real, sometimes deadly impacts upon LGBTQ young people looking for acceptance and belonging.

As somebody that believes in equal rights for all humans, you can only watch poison regurgitated for so long.

I am not saying that intolerance is exclusive to hip hop. Hip hop culture is a part of American culture, and America can be scared, fearful, and prejudiced against its own. My intent is not to scrutinize or single out hip hop. It happens to be the culture that has profoundly shaped me, and the one I feel most accountable to.

Hip hop is influential to young people, and frames the mindset of the generation that will decide how inclusive and accepting we are.

More than anything, I am aware of how comfortable I (and many other straight people) have become in staying silent on this issue. If we choose to not speak on an issue of injustice out of fear, or how our peers might perceive us, we’re part of the problem. We know the truth, and vainly refuse to uphold it, when people’s lives are caught in the balance.

In the last couple of months, amazing things have happened that show progress and accountability to ensure that the LGBTQ community has the same rights and respect as everyone else. THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES came out in support of gay marriage.  Jay-Z, arguably the biggest rapper in the world, then followed.  Finally, Frank Ocean felt comfortable enough with himself to share his sexuality in his music and came out last week.  That is courage.

This song is a humble submission to help bring this conversation to the surface, so that we can reflect on the language we use, and how powerful it can be. Rethinking, and understanding the gravity of how we communicate with each other. Change happens when dialogue happens. When we confront our prejudice and are honest with ourselves, there is room for growth, and there is room for justice.

After I wrote this song, I played it for a friend of mine who happened to be involved with the Music for Marriage Equality campaign, uniting musicians to help Washington state become the very first to approve marriage equality by a public vote in November.

My hope is that my personal testimony can help in some way to not only advance the dialogue and approve Referendum 74, but also to help shape a culture of belonging in which ALL people are equal.

- Macklemore

“If you have come here to help me, you are wasting your time. But if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together.” – Lilla Watson

*Also, huge shout out to the incredibly talented Mary Lambert. Such a blessing to work with her on this song.

via

Of Monsters & Men :: Little Talks (Passion Pit Remix)

You probably caught on to my love for Of Monsters & Men here,  What you may not know about me is my love for a good remix.  Lucky for you, this one is legitskis.



Matt & Kim :: Let's Go

Matt & Kim are the perfect summer time music.  They are also coming out with a new album soon. Happy birthday to me. (Sadly, it's not actually out until October, but the single will suffice for now!)



Mike Stud :: Glad you Came (Remix)

Huge bro crush on Mike Stud. That is all.  #SundayStudDay



2 Chainz feat. Kanye West :: Birthday Song

Lastly, going along with my #burfdayweek theme, this is a jam.  I think Ye says it best with the verse: 'It's my birthday, I deserve to be greedy, huh?'   #thuglife


Cheers to Celebration Playlists!


-BB

Birthday Wishlist

So going along with birthday week, I wanted to share with you my wishlist in clothes form.  Still trying to find the perfect maxi -which is harder than it sounds.  Every one I have tried on is either too short, or too cottonie, too expensive, or just not cute on me.  I am determined to find one though.  I am also saving up my monies for this Madewell Cambray shirt.  Went into the store this weekend when I was in Seattle.  Told myself I couldn't try anything on otherwise I would have bought everything in the store.  Love that place! Lack self control! 

Birthday Wishlist by brooke-l-smith featuring wedge heels

Soft Joie stripe dress
intermixonline.com

Madewell denim top
madewell.com

Steve Madden wedge heels
asos.com

Marc by Marc Jacobs hobo handbag
saksfifthavenue.com










Cheers to Birthday Week! 


-BB 

Babbles Takes On Seattle!

Happy Sunday!

Another weekend has come and gone far too quickly.  Luckily, it was another awesome one and it is now leading into my birthday week - so you won't see me complaining!

Friday afternoon I hit up I-5 North to visit one of my favorite people and old college roomies, Rachel, to celebrate her birthday.  That night we hung out with her brother and a ton of their friends at his awesome and HUGE house up on Capital Hill.  I only knew a few people, but quickly made friends, which is always a good time. -- Make new friends, but keep the old. one is silver and the other gold? (anybody?! We Sing Sillyville?!)

After a late Friday night we spent the rest of the weekend being super low key.  This grandma is not used to being awake at 2:30 in the AM unless it happens to be because I have to pee in the middle of the night.  Good news though: I was responsible and didn't do anything crazy, so I was able to get a run in the next morning.  I always forget how hilly the Queen Anne neighborhood is, but it lead to a nice set of hills in the middle of my run, which was super needed since I ate like a 7 year old all weekend.  After living with Rachel for a year I can always expect to eat like a child when I am with her.  Pizza, Sour Patch Kids, ice cream, and shapes mac and cheese were all on the list!   

 This pic was taken pre hills.  Post hills - I was not such a happy camper.

One of the highlights of my weekend was getting to play with the cutest puppy ever:

Everyone meet, Molly!

This might have also happened: 

Puppy kisses!

After our puppy play date we headed to Laurelhurst Beach Club for the afternoon. We were able to enjoy plenty of funshine and even had a chance to take kayaks out onto the lake.  I think it was Lake Union, but it might have been Lake Washington - I always get them confused.   Sadly, there are no photos of us on the kayaks. (I do not trust myself with electronics around water)  I did, however, snap a quick pic with the iphone when we got back on land :) 

Maybe someday I will be cool enough to have a membership at a Beach Club?

After a great weekend like the one I just had up in Seattle it's always hard to force myself to drive home and get ready for another week.  BUT I am quite excited for the one coming up since it is officially my birthday week.  As much as I loved celebrating Rachel's it's time to focus all your attention on me !!!! Kidding kind of.  Not sure what is all on the agenda yet, but I know my brother and sister will be up so I plan on getting some time in with them.  It bodes well for me that I actually like my family members. Makes things a lot less awkward during get-togethers ;)

Cheers to Birthday Week! 

-BB

It's Friday! Friday!

Gotta get down on Friday! Everybody's lookin' forward to the weekend, weekend.  Partyin', Partyin' yeah!!!

Sorry I got a little carried away there, I think I blacked out? 

Who has two thumbs and is excited for the weekend.... THIS GIRL!  Why, might you ask, because I get to visit my old roomie from college in Seattle :) ahh-woohoo!   It's her birthday weekend so I am headed up to help celebrate her being alive for a quarter of a century.

In other good news:  Brooke finally went to the eye doctor and ordered new contacts, which means she will not have to be blind for at least another year!!!!  Thank you mama's insurance :)

You will quickly catch on that I like to give the thumbs up sign.

Last night Bradley and I had originally planned to get a workout in....BUT then decided to have a date night before I left for the weekend instead (much better idea if you ask me).  I did manage to get up before work and get a workout in though, so not all was lost....  The excitement all started last night when he brought me back new, free Hurley sunnies from work.

I make neon green look good.

We then headed to a new sushi joint out in the Beevs called Mio where I proceeded to eat my body weight in rolls.  Their Double Crunch was LEGITSKIS.  

 nom.nom.nom.

 After we nom'd on sushi we headed to our favorite fro-yo place U-U.  I went with the cookies and cream with a splash of original tart and then added my usual: Heath Bar and Oreo crumbles for a little extra crunch.  (If I were a Top Chef judge I would mention something about the contrasting textures, and the flavor profiles blah, blah, blah... but I'm not, so I'll just go with: it is yummy in my tummy!).  Probs could use that missed workout more than ever now.

We know, we know.  The sunnies look better on me.

We topped the night off by watching a few episodes of Breaking Bad.... which honestly might not have been the best choice after a full tummy, due to the fact there was a super icky scene with a dead body and blood.  Why did I think this would be a good show before bedtime?  I always get nightmares.... but that is neither here nor there, because now I am hooked. 

Annnnyhoooo.  Enjoy your weekend folks.  I am off to play in Seattle. 

Cheers to making it through another work week!

-BB

Tuesday Tunesday :: 7.17

Helllllllo! 

Proud of you all for making it through another Tuesday!!! Here are some tunes to reward you: 

Quick question before we get to music:  Does anyone else think of clowns when they read the name of my blog like my coworker does?  No, just Tyler?!  Ok that's what I was hoping. 

On to the music.... 

Timmy Curran :: Blue Eyes 

Heard this song while listening to The Head and The Heart Pandora station the other day.  Haven't stopped listening to that at work since last week, now that I think about it.   I pretend he is singing about me, because I have blue eyes.  Seems reasonable, no?



Gregory Alan Isakov :: The Stable Song 

Now this is not a new song from Gregory Alan Isakov, but it sure is beautiful.  His voice is so raspy and lovely.  I love.


Passion Pit :: Take A Walk

Passion Pit has a new album! Everyone get excited!!!!  Also, there are a lot of good remixes of this song.  Check them out on YouTube if you're into that kind of thing *which I am*.


And lastly, The xx :: Angels

Now, prepare to get even more excited, because guess what (insert drum roll)....... The xx are working on a new album!!!!!!!! and they are coming to Portland this fall.  You bet your fine ass I'll be there! Join me if you'd like.

Cheers to another Tuesday down!

-BB

It's Monday Night!

Which calls for my weekend recap slash Bachelorette: Men Tell All thoughts.

Low key weekend for this girl and boy did I need it :) after a busy week of work I was super excited for an easy weekend. 

Bradley and I spent our Saturday morning making an awesome egg scramble and banana pancakes to protein load before our workout. 

 True Story: Brad will make fun of me when he realizes I took this photo.

We rocked our Strong Like Susan Ab Challenge and then followed it up with an easier CrossFit workout.  Nothing too crazy: he got in 10 sets of 10 pull-ups, 10 push-ups and 10 box jumps in and I finished up 7 rounds (we know, we know.  I am lazy).  After that we headed back for more protein, Bradley made his world famous protein shake, recipe here:

4-5 ice cubes 

1 banana

1 spoonful of both pb and cocoa

1-2 scoop(s) of protein powder

Milk to top off the concoction

After we nommed on the yummy shake we headed to the pool where we spent the rest of our day with our friends Justine and Tyler.  We ended the evening with Fro-Yo during halftime of the Galaxy and Portland game.

 Watermelon = Summer (medical science)

I would have to say overall Saturday was a success and Sunday did not disappoint either. Can I just reiterate how fantastic lazy Sunday mornings are?! I slept in until 10am.... 10 am!!! That is so late for me.  Like WHOA late.  I was so excited slash felt a little gypped at the same time.  Does anyone else feel like their day is wasted when they sleep in too late?

Once I finally got around to showering and starting my day Brad and I met up with our friends Jason and Erica for the afternoon.  The weather wasn't quite as nice as we had hopped for to have the BBQ we had originally planned, but we still had plenty of fun. 

And here is something I learned on Sunday: Happy Hour prices do not start until 3pm on Sunday at Oswego Grill.  Do not go there thinking they have Happy Hour all day Sunday.  You will be disappointed.  Well I shouldn't say that.... my chopped salad still tasted fantastic, but my Brad's bank account was not as happy with the full prices. 

Now enough details about my weekend that already happened...I must focus all my attention to the Bachelorette (or at least for the first hour - before bedtime).  I will even leave you with a few thoughts on the show:
::Sean I am sad to see you go, you were such a cutie.... and I mean --this is crazy, but here's my number, so call me maybe?! 
::Also - does anyone else think that Stevie is the most annoying guy ever... Seriously though, who brings a boombox to meet someone for the first time?!  And really, we get it - the dude with the 'choppa was annoying,  but it is way more annoying to hear you complain about it, when we all know you complain because you envy him.
:: I am torn on who I want to win.  I actually like both guys she has picked for the final.  I like them much more than I actually care for Emily.  Does she have anything else to talk about other than her kid?  Cool you're a single mom.  What else do you bring to the table?!

Do you go with Team Jef with one F or Team Fast like a NASCAR Ari..... Ah man! who to choose, who to choose.....


Cheers to 25 cuties telling all!

-BB

What Are You Training For?!

via

I apologize for the profanity mom, grandma, aunts, and anyone else that may have been offended....but I just thought this was too funny slash too applicable in my life lately to not post.

I don't know how many times I have been stopped at the gym or the track as of late and had people ask me what I am training for.  I get very mixed feelings when this happens.  A of all: thanks for noticing that the pull ups and box jumps I often do are more aggressive than just 20 mins of walking on a treadmill.  But B of all: why do I have to be training for anything?  This leads me to the question: why can't it be enough to want to be fit and healthy for yourself? Why is it that people who would rather go to the gym than Happy Hour after work are often looked down upon?  When in reality they are just making an effort to live a healthy life style that will benefit them not just now, but years down the road. - insert random article about the health benefits of exercise 


I have been active my entire life.  I come from a competitive family of coaches and athletes.  My high school years were broken up into three different sports seasons and my college schedule was filled with volleyball three-a-days and track workouts for 7 different events.  So yeah, you could say I know how to train for competition.  However, since graduating and finishing my stint in competitive athletics I have learned to approach being fit and active in a different manner.

As much as I loved being a college athlete I quickly realized I was not going to be the next Olympian to come out of Willamette University.  We will leave that to Nick Symmonds.  I am just keeping my fingers crossed that my school record stays up for another year.  With that being said, I quickly learned after college that if I wanted to stay in shape I was going to have to do it on my own.  Where is Coach Brett when I need him?!  So when I feel like it I can sign up for random competitions like Tough Mudder to give me something to train for on days I am feeling less motivated, but at the end of the day I am only training for myself.

At the end of the day my reasons for working out are simple. I want to be healthy and happy!  You won't see me at the front of any marathon finish lines or competing in next years Cross-FIt Games.  But if you and I are next to each other on a treadmill you can count on me trying to beat you.  And yes, there may be a little vanity thrown into my reasons for staying active (I mean who doesn't want to look good during suns out, guns out season?

The top's new. Thanks for noticing!

One of my favorite things about not having to train for a specific sport or event is the variety you can have in your workouts.  One day I can do an intense cross-fit type workout like my girl crush Camille LeBlanc-Bazinet and the next I can go play a game of tennis at the local park.  As long as I break a sweat (which for me doesn't take much) and get my heart rate up at least 5 days a week I feel good about myself.  Speaking of - if you have any good workouts send them my way!  I am already half way through Strong Like Susan's Ab Challenge and always looking for new workouts to mix things up.

And really the best thing about not training to be an Olympian is that on days my body is tired and screaming for fro-yo instead of going for a run I can give into it. I have learned that happiness is finding a balance in my life including in my workouts and my eating habits.

I think Oscar Wilde said it best: 

“Everything in moderation, including moderation.”



Cheers to being happy and active!

-BB

Not Tuesday, But Still Tunes

DJ Babbles on the ones and twos.  (yeahhhh, I think that would be an awesome name if I were a DJ, but then again I also thought wearing Tweety Bird overalls was a good idea in grade school.  So who's to say?)

On to the good stuff.  I am hoping to have Tuesday Tunesdays, but sometimes things don't go as planned.  So here are your Thursday Jams:


Houndmouth :: Krampus

Rumor has it the male singer for this band is the son of Brad's Godfather (were you able to follow that, because I am not sure I do) anyways, they just played at SXSW.  Get ready to hear more good things from them soon since they got signed while they were out there! 



Sean McConnel :: A Prayer You Can Borrow

I found Sean McConnel while stalking Mae Mae at Two Hoots and a Holler.  It's her hubs and he has a great voice.  He is currently on a small acoustic tour in Texas. I wouldn't mind if he came to Oregon soon. 



Kele :: Everything You Wanted

Confession I might have Shazamed this while I was in Forever 21 the other day.  You can read about that experience here.  Later that day when I went to add it to my Spotify I realized I already had it starred.  When you're good, you're good. 



Jack White :: I'm Shakin'

This jam is off of Jack White's solo album. I think I am going to start pronouncing nervous just like he does in this song. ...editor's note: I tried. I do not sound cool like him.  I will keep practicing.



And lastly, thanks for being you The Head and the Heart.  You make me happy:

The Head and the Heart :: Ever Since 

Have been listening to their Pandora station all morning and it is lovely.  This one is off of their iTunes sessions.  Check it out! Ps. I am still very sad that I didn't buy my Zoo concert tickets for them sooner.  Now they are sold out.  (insert sad face)


On a lighter note Happy Thursday! Hope the tunes will help carry you into the weekend. 

Cheers to music!

BB

Fashion Blog Rant of the Week :: Forever 21

.... On Forever 21.

So yesterday I took a trip to Forever 21 in hopes of finding one of these:

 

J. Crew Panama Hat

but in the price range of a girl with plenty of student loans, bills, bills and more bills.  As much as I love my J. Crew, I was trying to be practical for a change.  Look mom, this is me attempting to be responsible! ;) (I can say that because I know she reads this)


Seriously, though, Sydney - from The Daybook - rocks this hat on the regs and looks so adorable and I want to look just like her not creepy at all.  Can I be you Syd?  (I call her that, because in my mind we're besties)

Picture stolen from The Daybook.  Thinking about stealing Syd's kid too, how cute are their matching low tops?!

I will save my love for Sydney and her blog for another day.  I could spend an entire post (if not multiple) on her.  She was the first blog I came across and I just love everything about her.....

Sorry off topic, back to the rant at hand - as soon as I walked into Forever 21 I became super overwhelmed.  Am I the only one that has this problem, because I swear everyone I know (and even those people I pretend to know -  I'm talking about all the blogs I stalk) seem to find adorable clothes there and for cheap....Now I am not sure which of the following triggered it, but all I walked out with was a headache and self esteem issues.  Below is a list of things that I think might have triggered my struggles:

::It could have been from the music that was blaring out of the speakers. Good thing I was alone and didn't want to talk to anyone.  What was that?! I can't hear you over this rap-crap coming from the speakers!!!!!  - said in my best Grandma tone.
::All the shades of neon thrown about the store. But no really, it looked like Katy Perry's hair threw up in there.
::The clutter:  My OCD habits kicked in a little.  They have got to find better organization techniques. 
::The amount of short skirts and short shorts.  Seriously though - how do tweens wear those things and sit down?!  I don't think I could get my arm in one, let alone my entire lower half... And then to be able to sit down and not flash an entire room, yeah. ok....
::Not to mention their annoying return policy. No, I don't want store credit.  -Give me my money!
::The number of teenage girls attempting to be hipster or whatever you want to call the horrible look below (I know they were judging me and my J. Crew skirt the moment I walked in.  I have a sixth sense about these things.):

Pic borrowed from  WTForever21 - which by the way is literally one of the funniest blogs.  Do yourself a favor and check it out.

---- also super off topic again, but does anyone else laugh to themselves when they use the word literally in a sentence because they have seen Season 3 - Episode 8 of How I Met Your Mother?!   You know the one where everyone gets mind blown by all of their annoy habits and Robin's annoying habit is using the word 'literally' incorrectly and then Ted has to correct her, because his annoying trait is being Mr. Corrector and says, 'You mean, figuratively' .... makes me laugh just thinking about it. ----

Annnnnyway, maybe it's just me or maybe I am getting old, but I am always overwhelmed underwhelmed with Forever 21. After more attempts than Sam and Ron trying to make it work, I think it is officially time for me to give up on the store.  As much as I love a good deal, there comes a point where quality trumps quantity. So I am going to try and start saving my pennies for the cute J. Crew Panama hat, even if it is out of style by the time I can afford it. OR if people want to send me free things to wear, I suppose I could turn this blog into a daily fashion blog ;)  ...then again who am I kidding, I am broke and I will probs end up going back to Forever 21 and giving it another try.  The outcome will probs end up looking something like this though:

::There was one small highlight that made my trip to the mall worth it: watching one of the said hipster girls roll her ankle while trying to walk in her awkward looking, hipster-wedge-boot-heel things (and yes, that is the technical fashion term for the shoes she was wearing, in case you were questioning me).  Stick with the flats, baby girl.

Cheers to the opposite of what Forever 21 is!

-BB

Weekend Roundup

Ok, I this post is coming a little late for it being a weekend recap, but every time I sit down to write it I may or may not be in bed and then I get sleepy about halfway through, so it has taken a few days to finish. Plus the fambam was up to visit (minus one broseph) for my sister's basketball tourney and I got some legit funshine time in as well, which leaves me no time for the computer! Speaking of funshine, I am so happy that the weather has finally gotten nice, however, it has also made me realized that I may have to start waking up in the mornings more regularly to get a quality run in.  Yesterday's run after work was hot and I sweat a lot. Plus working out in the mornings will leave my afternoons free for pool time at my apartment.  Now to force myself self out of bed by 5:00 instead of 5:36.  Therein lies the real challenge. Those 36 mins and one extra snooze while my roomie is in the shower are quite a difference. 

Along with my runs and other workouts, I am still going strong with Strong Like Susan's Ab Challenge.  (get it, going strong --Strong Like Susan.  I am funny, I know).  Don't let Susan's friendly smile and warm personality fool you.  She rocks your abs and a little full body while she's at it hurts so good.  Now I am not usually one that follows challenges or workout videos, but I must say Susan has provided great workouts and variation to my normal ab rut routine.  So if you are looking for something to mix up your boring gym sesh, Susan is your lady.  Plus she has replied to me on Twitter, so that pretty much makes us besties now. 

As much as you guys enjoy hearing about my abbies, let's move on to the good stuff aka my attempt at becoming a pro golfer.  As you are all aware, July is my birthday month -- feel free to email me to get my address, so you can send my present in time ;) ....My parents, being the awesome people they are, let me pick out my birthday present early so I can put it to good use.  Here's a little background info for you: recently, I decided I want to get into golfing more.  I have grown up around it and appreciate the sport, but minus the lessons I took when I was younger and the few trips I make to the driving range every summer I am by no means your next female Bubba Watson yet.  Plus, once I heard my little sister can out drive me there was no way I was letting that last long.  So my dad is letting me borrow a set of his clubs, because every normal family has multiple sets just hanging out collecting dust (no? just mine? okay.) My Dad's motto: sometimes it is not you that is struggling, it is the clubs that are and they need a timeout when that happens. Anyway, back to my gift... my parents let me pick out a new golf bag, balls, tees, etc.  Basically they got me everything I need to look like I know what I am doing out there.  Whether or not I actually do, well that's debatable.... 

Sunday, my dad, Brad, and I ventured out to the driving range to test out the new (to me) clubs.  Good news: I am just athletic enough and have the right gear that I don't look like a total idiot out there.  I also found out that I have matured in my old age and can take coaching from my father much better than when I was younger and he coach me in sports, so that's a good thing too! Bad news: there is a lot of room for improvement....mainly on the consistency side of things.  My dad had me breaking a sweat before 10am as we did Hank Haney drills to work on not topping the ball.  I am pretty excited to be able to start golfing more regularly.  Now I just have to get good enough to convince my brothers and dad to let me tag along with them :)

My short term goal is to get out on the course after a few more trips to the driving range.  I want to be confident enough that I can get through a round of golf without having the group behind me yelling at me for taking too long, because I am searching for my ball in the rough every other shot.  Let me know if you want to mock join me!

Also, this is what happens when you've had too much sun over the weekend.  Things started to get a little weird at the Schwabauer house Sunday evening as we were grilling:

My sister and I sure are pretty.

Cheers to Golf and Sun and Abbies!

BB

4 Things I Learned From The 4th!

Hope everyone is feeling refreshed and patriotic after all their celebrating! Here are a few things I learned from yesterday's Amurica Day--


One: Found out the hard way, but not many places are open for brunch on the 4th. Marsee Baking pulled through for the Boy, Roomie, and I though. Even if they were out of bagels for their Eggels (awesome name for a breakfast egg sammie on a bagel, by the way.)



Thanks a Latte! (Get it?!) 

                                                  

Two: It wouldn't suck to live at Pittock Manson :

So many rooms! Not to mention the beautiful view of Portland and beyond!

Sidenote:  My iPhone does not do this view justice.  From the estate you can see clear views of Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, and Mt. Rainier.  Uh-Mazing.


Three: Portland has some pretty good hiking and it's crazy to think it's more or less in the middle of the city. One of the nicest things about it is you can park at the Mansion for free and then head out whichever direction you want.  Head to the left on Wildwood Trail and you'll find yourself on the way to the Rose Gardens and Japanese Gardens.  Head to the right and you've got some awesome scenery.

Four:  Fireworks are hard to sleep through.  Confession - I was in bed before the fireworks started.  Grandma status! I just couldn't help it.  I was tired from the days hiking and brunching, and fro-yoing. Plus, seeing how my coworker and I have to hold down the fort while everyone else is on vaca the rest of the week I didn't want to get stuck in traffic until midnight trying to get home.  5:30 comes early every morning and I don't do well on little amounts of sleep.  

Not sure if the children at the for-yo joint we frequent regularly caught on to Brad's Patriot reference he drew in sidewalk chalk, or if their parents appreciated it, but he sure thought he was funny.

Cheers to Mel Amurrica!

BB

Tuesday Tunesday :: 7.3.12

Happy Day Before 4th of July :)

Here are a few jams to help you celebrate!

If you ever get the chance to see Of Monsters and Men live - I suggest you do it.  This little gal rocks your socks off and I love the dude's voice, maybe even more than hers (which is saying a lot).

Of Monsters and Men :: Dirty Paws


Stumbled upon this next tune for the first time yesterday on my drive home from work, thank you Sirius XM for making traffic more pleasant.  Also, if you have to the opportunity to listen to the KEXP recording of a song, do it! Seattle is doing it right with that radio station. This song gets a little funky in the middle, but go with it.  It's catchy.

Reptar :: Sebastian


I have no idea what is going on in this next video and I am okay with that.

Chappo :: Come Home


True Story: 9 times out of 10 the acoustic version of a song will be better than the original. That may just be my personal opinion, but small details.  This gal is adorable and has a super unique voice.  I can't get enough.

Selah Sue :: Raggamuffin 


Lastly and most importantly, HAPPY 4th OF JULY!!!!  It's not a celebration without Lee Greenwood!!!!

Lee Greenwood :: God Bless The USA!


Still undecided as to what my plans will be for the 4th, but I am pretty excited to have the day off.  Not to mention the fact that my coworker Courtney, who blogs over at The Awkward Hopster, and I will have the office to ourselves the rest of the week.  Party Planning Committee may just be in full force!

Cheers to the Red, White, and Blue!!!

BB