Summer Staples

Today I'm joining in Girl Chat to talk about my summer beach bag staples! It's been pretty cool and crappy here lately (as of yesterday I was still wearing my North Face!), but summer is my favorite season and I'm trying to get in the spirit, especially with it officially starting in just 2 weeks!  Here are my top 10 for a successful beach day!

Beach Bag Essentials by lildesiqua featuring a picnic cooler

1. Sunglasses- I buy cheap ones because I'm forever losing or breaking them.

2. Sunscreen- I'm really bad at putting on sunscreen because I very rarely burn (once, maybe?). I try to put on at least 15, especially when I know I'm going to be out in the sun all day. I also make sure my makeup has SPF in it, but I hardly wear makeup in the summer!

3. Towel/blanket/chair- Honestly I like sitting more than laying out, but I also bring a towel in case I actually go in the water. This chair is perfect because it's low to the ground (also good for concerts), and has a strap so it's easy to carry.

4. Deodorant- I sweat like a man. I know it and hate it, but at least I've learned how to control it.

5. Book/Kindle- Though I won't do it when I'm with a group of people and socializing, I do love reading on the beach and in summer in general.

6. Portable music player- I love this one from SunnyLife. You connect it to your phone/iPod inside to protect it from the heat/sand/water. Smart!

7. Hair ties/hat- You know those commercials or pictures where the woman is standing on the shore, wind blowing freely through her long hair? That's not real life, at least not for me. My hair likes to get all up in my face with any passing breeze. I carry extra hair ties or those claw clips for this reason. Hats come in handy too, but I don't really look good in them.

8. Water- I like freezing a reusable bottle to take with me, that way it stays cool longer. I may have to invest in one of those Yeti stainless steel jug things everyone is talking about though.

9. Snacks- To keep from getting hangry, and for sharing. Because sharing is caring.

10. Bottle opener- Because it's always good to be prepared, especially if you're bringing along a cooler bag :)

What are some of your summer staples? 

March Purchases

After my minimal January spending followed by a February spending freeze, I went a little crazy in March. What had happened was Brad's Deals, the Kohl's Under $10 clearance sale, and rediscovering Groupon Goods. The first price is the listed price, the second is what I actually paid for it. 

Kohl's:

Women's Isotoner Performance Tech Gloves $34 // $17.00

10 ft LED snowman lights (similar)  $25 // $10

20x30" Poinsettia Rug (similar) $30 //  $6

XL Wine Glasses (4) $24 // $9.60

foladable canvas water bottle (3) $24 // $9.60

Ralphie/A Christmas Story Goblet(s)  (2) $30 // $9

Sonoma V Neck Tees (5) $18 // $5.39 ea

Bell and Curfew "True Gent" mug and shoe shine kit $24// $7.20

I discovered last season that I really don't have much any Christmas decor besides 2 little nutcracker statues that sit under my fake Christmas tree, so I got these cute string lights and welcome mat. The mat stay right inside my door as a place to put snowy boots and not muck up my hardwood floors with salty white streaks (which happened this year, despite the minimal snow we got). I never seem to have long sleeve tees, so I bought a bunch to layer. The rest of stuff is (are?) Christmas/birthday/anytime presents. 

Groupon Goods:

Sterling silver leverback Swarvoski crystal earrings $89 // $10

Mystic "Huggie" hoop earrings with Swavorski crystals $35 // $10

Mophie Juicepack case/charger for iPhone 6S $129 // $40

credit card holder iPhone 6 case $35 //$10

Sterling silver heart initial charm anklet $60// $5

large 15x15"framed print $112 // $18

The only jewelry I switch out regularly are earrings and at $10, the price was right. I already gave Blue the card holder case since hers just broke (good timing Dani). Juicepack case is for my work phone, since I can't be worried about that a dead phone if I'm running around. Framed print not pictured because it's a collage print and I haven't picked out the pictures I want to use yet. 

Other:

Target faux leather storage bench $80 // $65.40 - I'm still on the fence about this purchase. The thing is, I've been wanting one of these benches for a long time, but I don't really need it. 

Sears outdoor loveseat $160 // $126.69 - this is getting returned. I have 4 outdoor chairs, and I don't need this. What I need is some (cheaper) cushions for the chairs I already have. Plus even though this is listed as "outdoor," I would feel like it would get ruined if I actually left it outside all season. 

Total Spent: $253.75 (not including loveseat)
Total Saved: $543.25

Overall, I'm really happy with all of my purchases. Plus, I've already knocked out the majority of my Christmas shopping. I will note that when I buy Christmas gifts early, I do have specific people in mind. No running around in December searching for the perfect present and blowing the budget this year! Woot! 

Do you buy Christmas presents year-round or are you a last minute shopper? 

Linking up with Franish for Budgetting Bloggers. 

October Purchases

Aeropostale
Seriously stretchy high-waisted jeggings: originally $36.50, on sale for $18.60
Prince and Fox navy stripe sweater: originally $39.50, on sale for $15.80
Prince and Fox maroon sweater (not pictured- similar): originally $44.50, on sale for $17.80

Target
Pink lace dress/ Halloween Costume: originally $28, on sale for $22.39
dv Jameson brown booties: originally $38,  on sale for $30.39
olive sweater dress: originally $28, on sale for $22.39

Amazon
fashion tube socks (not pictured): originally $13, on sale for $8
detachable Peter Pan collar: originally $13, on sale for $10
windbreaker: $12

Uniqlo
Heat-tech leggings and long sleeve tee: originally $19.90, on sale for $9.90ea


Payless
black and brown Karmen pumps: $25ea
black AE Clinton flats:  originally $25, on sale for $17
black satchel (no longer available): $40, on clearance for $10

$77- 20% off entire purchase= $61.60


Nordstrom Rack
Reef stardazed sandals: regularly $26,  purchased for $13
Speck Macbook Air hardshell case: regularly $50,  purchased for $10
Chicbuds Clutchette (4): regularly $50, purchased for $25ea
Merkury Innovations Apple MFi tassel cable keychain: regularly $25, purchased for $15


Weekend Getaway Purchases
leather gold chain purse: $15
wool newsboy cap: $15
black slingback heels: $40
wool plaid scarves (4) : $15ea

Monthly total: 386. 77

After last month's spending freeze I went a little crazy this month, but I'm not too mad about it. I had been keeping an eye out for sales and got away with a few really great steals, especially at Nordstrom Rack. I bought out all of their clutches because they have a battery pack in them so you can charge your phone while it's in your purse, and who wouldn't want that?! I also bought a bunch of plaid wool scarves because you can't beat $15 each before the holidays. Coupled with a few things I've bought throughout the year at miscellaneous sales and such, and minus one or two more things for Blue, I'd say my Christmas shopping is complete! 

Other than that, I found a Uniqlo sale on all of their Heat-tech underthings. I tried them for the first time last year and it's amazing, especially for layering. It's super thin, but uses some Japanese awesome technology to like, trap your body heat and keep you super warm. 

I needed shoes and was able to score a 20% off coupon from Blue who had made a purchase at Payless recently. Though the Target booties may have to go back, because while I was cleaning out my closet last night, I found a pair that apparently I bought last year and never wore (oops). The other Target and Amazon items were for my Eleven costume. 

Also, did you guys know that Aeropostale is going out of business? I used to shop there as a teen, and then stopped because the styles seemed a bit young/immature for me, but I recently found my way back there to stock up on basics like jeans and sweaters because everything is 50/70% off online AND in store! 

I have no excuse for the weekend getaway purchases. I found this awesome little thrift shop and couldn't help myself. The leather heels fit like a glove (and I love slingbacks in general), and the purse is made of the softest leather I've ever touched. And the wool items are like, the non-itchy, thick wool, not those flimsy wool things that are in stores now. (I know "flimsy wool" sounds like an oxymoron, but it's true!)

I'm pretty sure I'm going to have to go on a perma-spending freeze for the rest of the year now, but I don't even care because I finally feel like I have more than enough to make it through the winter. And I filled a second Thredup Cleanout bag and already need another one, so maybe that will help?!

Have you ever bought something and then lost it/forgot to wear it?

Just me? Ok then. 

Linking up with Franish Budgetting Bloggers. 

The Happy Camper Packing List

Hey friends! Last weekend was my friends' annual glamping trip. I did a recap of the trip here. As I mentioned, it was cold and rainy the entire time, so I was very happy that I had some long-sleeve layers. I didn't bring sneakers though, because I didn't wear them at all last time, and I definitely missed them. Also, I hadn't realized that I made a similar list last year, but here's what I packed this year. 

Camping Trip by lildesiqua

Packing List

Sunglasses/ Baseball cap - I actually didn't wind up wearing these, as it was cloudy/raining the entire trip. 

Bathing suit/towel/ Board shorts/ rashguard tee- for rafting. The shorts/tee came in especially handy because it was cold!

Hoodie/ Jeans- because I tend to get cold. I wore this the majority of the trip 

Water shoes- for rafting, which I promptly threw out afterwards because I think 2 years is a long enough life span for these $5 shoes. 

Sandals- for life and the showers, because ew.

Shorts/tee (and an extra tee just in case)- one for the ride there, and one for after rafting

Sleepwear- duh. Just shorts and a tee for me. 

Toiletries (not pictured)- also duh, just the basics though (no makeup). Oh and bug spray and a package of those bands that keep mosquitoes away. These are my favorite. They last for almost 10 days each, I can use them anywhere, and they really work!

Charger- I forgot that I didn't have any cell reception up there, so I packed it

Cooler Bag/Drinks/Koozies - plenty for all! I also brought Rum Chata. They loved the Cinnamon Toast Crunch shots! 

Games- I brought CAH. Others included a Wii, Jenga, Yahtzee, and a poker set.

What are some things you pack for long weekends? 

June Purchases

June Budget by lildesiqua featuring 3 wick candles

Bath & Body Works

3 Wick Candles: originally $22.50, on sale for $10 ea 

Foaming Sugar Scrub: originally $16.50, on sale for $8.25 

Malibu Smooth Body Scrub (no longer available): originally $16.50, on sale for $8.25 

Total: 56.50 - 20% off total purchase = $45.20

J Crew Factory Printed Boardwalk Pull-on Shorts: originally $54.50, on sale for $30, +50% off clearance items: $14.50

TJ Maxx 3-tired necklace: $25.00 

Home Depot Planter + Soil: $18.00

During my last budget check-in I stated that my clothing/beauty budget would be $250 quarterly/ $1,000 annual. I've gone over that quarterly budget, but since I didn't really buy anything other than shoes ($60) during the first quarter, I'm still below the $500 mark at the 6-month check-in. So I'm good! Woot! Also, I normally would never spend so much at BBW, but it's their semi-annual sale, and I've never seen those candles (my personal favorite) for such a low price before. AND they brought back my favorite scent, Bow Ties and Bourbon, so of course I needed 2 (one for me, one for Blue). And just a note, the BBW and J Crew Factory sales are still going on! :) 

Total Monthly Spending: $102.70

Total Quarter Spending: $322.20

Annual Budget Remaining: $617.80

Do you wait for sales or just buy when you need things?

Linking up with Franish for Budgeting Bloggers.

May Purchases

May Budget by lildesiqua featuring a jersey tank

H&M

Navy ankle pants: $30, on sale for $20

White/ beige / black /print/ palm (not pictured) tank tops: $13, on sale for $5/ea

Blue stripe swim cover-up: $10

Black/white stripe bikini top: $17

Teardrop necklace: $5

Blue polka dot button down shirt (below): $20

Total: $97- 20% off total purchase = $77.60

TJMaxx

Michael Kors sleeveless navy top with zippers: $20

Total Spending = $97.60 (but not really... read on!)

Obviously I need a different color comforter so you can actually see the stuff

On Mother's Day, my mom mentioned that she 1) saw a bunch of stuff that she put on hold at H&M on her lunch hour the day before and 2) wanted to "revamp" her image. I don't like shopping in general, but she insists it's a "bonding experience" and tries to drag me into stores almost every time I see her. Normally I resist all of her attempts, but how can you say no on Mother's Day? Plus, she had already put the stuff on hold, and she claimed it would be quick (it wasn't). Another perk of this particular shopping trip was that H&M has a deal whereby if you donate 3 items of clothing, you receive a coupon for 20% off your total purchase. Also shopping with my mom means she pays for everything, even though it was her day and I was supposed to be buying her gifts But she insists on buying and I don't like fighting in public, so I let her. I think I'm done buying things this season, except for a new blazer which I realized is necessary after my closet clean-out.

Speaking of the clean-out, I was finally able to send in my ThredUp bag, and earned $40.34! Woot woot! They accepted 71% of my Cleanout bag. I don't think I'll ever make that much from them again since I've gotten rid of most of my designer clothes/bags/shoes(from TJ Maxx and thrifting- ha!), but that was super cool! I also earned $62.37 from E-Bates in the last quarter by going through them to book my hotels for my last trip. I'm looking forward to getting that check this week. It really does pay to shop online! I've given up on Poshmark since I only made like $5 on it in the past year.

During my last budget check-in I stated that my annual clothing budget would be $250 quarterly/ $1,000 annual. I think I'm going to re-name this group as a clothing/beauty category since I've recently been spending more on beauty (which was non-existent before). So expect to see some beauty-related/cosmetic purchases included here in the future.

$780.50 - Annual remaining budget
$40.34 - ThredUp
62.37 - E-Bates
$883.21 - Maximum Budget available 

Do you budget? How do you categorize the non-essentials? 

Linking up with Franish for Budgeting Bloggers. 

April Purchases

Old Navy Rockstar Stay-White Skinny Jeans: $45 on sale for $30

Old Navy Open-Front Cardigan (sold out- similar) :$19 on sale for $10

Old Navy Split-Neck Boyfriend Tee: $15 on sale for $5

Old Navy Matte Sunglasses: $12.00 

Victoria's Secret "The Gorgeous" Halter Swim (in black): $44.50

Express Low Rise Barely Bootcut Jeans: $79.90 on sale for $40, paid with gift card $0

Sephora Future Gel Serum Concealer: $14

LUSH Sea Spray: $14, gift

LUSH Mask of Magnaminty: $14, gift

LUSH Rub, Rub, Rub Shower Scrub: free sample

Nine West Side Pump (purchased at TJ Maxx, similar here): $35

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star in gray (purchased at TJ Maxx, similar here): $35

Total Spending: $219.50

I hadn't really set up a clothing budget for the year since I don't really buy clothing all that often, but I think I'm going to start now that I've completed my closet overhaul. I've gotten rid of a lot of stuff that was ill-fitting and/or no longer in style, or at least not my personal style anymore (slutty club-wear from my early 20's? See ya). I'm setting a quarterly budget of $250. A lot of the purchases this month were for an upcoming vacation to Key West/Miami. The most expensive item was a bikini top from Victoria's Secret. I'm usually VERY thrifty and refuse to pay full price for anything, but this is an exception because it's totally worth it. I  usually buy one bathing suit per year, and I like the extra bit of "oomph" this gives my bee-stings. The other "pricey" item was the Express jeans. I used to love these jeans, but they have since redesigned them, and they don't fit like they used to, which is disappointing. But I also needed a pair of dark denim jeans and these happened to be on sale. As for the make-up, well, bloggers made me do it, and I don't regret them one bit!

What's one item or service you don't mind paying full-price for? 

Linking up with Franziska for Budgetting Bloggers! 

My Top 10 Spring Essentials

Anyone else feeling those warmer temps coming their way? I dare say, I don't think we'll be getting any more snow in my parts, and I'm super excited for spring to make it's grand appearance! As I'm switching out the closet, here are some things I'll be keeping handy and wearing regularly.

My Spring Essentials by lildesiqua featuring Marc Jacobs

Hunter Boots: Any rain boots will do, but I really like these because I feel like they're sturdier than some of their less expensive counterparts.

A strong umbrella: Walking to work is like walking directly through a wind tunnel ,so this is a must have for me. And April showers, right?

Sperry top-sliders: A classic. (And I just bought my first pair last year so I'm looking forward to wearing them!)

All the cardigans/lightweight sweaters/hoodies: I wear layers year round, but especially in spring/fall when it's usually cooler in the mornings/evenings and I'm commuting to work. Plus, cardigans are work place friendly, at least in my office.

Tissues scarves: Again, protection from the wind tunnel and a perfect layering piece.

Colorful pants: I wear a LOT of neutral colors because they're easier to match and perfect for work, but spring makes me want to bust out all the colorful pants. Or, all 2 that I own.

Brighter lipstick/gloss: I don't wear a lot of make-up, and usually my lips just have chapstick on in the cold, winter months. But just like my nails, I like to go a bit brighter in spring.

Spring nails: Dark nail polish take over my digits in winter, but in spring I'm all about the lighter pinks, purples, and pastels.

Floral scents/perfume: Daisy is my old standby and has been for a few years, but the fresh, slightly floral scent is perfect for spring.

Happy, upbeat tunes: In winter I'm sluggish and in hibernation mode, and usually my personal soundtrack reflects that. Warmer temps make me want to move more, and I need upbeat, happy tunes to get me up and keep me going. These are my top 10 at the moment:

What are some of your essentials for a happy spring? 

My Holiday/Birthday Wish List

Happy Thursday friends! Since my birthday is next week (WOOT WOOT) and Christmas is around the corner, today I'm sharing my wish list. Of course, any and all gifts are welcome, but "I'll tell ya what I want, what I really, really want!" 

Holiday/Birthday Wishlist by lildesiqua featuring silver jewelry

The Big Ticket Item: A Laptop. 
I usually get myself one big thing each year. Last year it was a new cell phone, the year before that it was a small diamond tennis bracelet (Sidenote: Why do they call it that? No one plays tennis in those. I don't get it.) This year, I'm replacing my laptop which has somehow held on since 2006. It's not super fancy, no Mac Air or whatever here, just something that will load a webpage in less than the current wait time of approx. 5 min. 

The Other Big Ticket/Requested Item: An external Hard Drive. 
Because my birthday and Christmas are close together, I usually request a combined gift from either my mom or s/o. This year I requested an external HD because that laptop I've had since 2006 has never been backed up and I don't want to lose all my schtuff. 

Funny T-Shirts/Sweatshirts: I love these, but I never buy them for myself. 

Shiny Objects: Because who doesn't like a little sparkle during the holidays? Also, my brown watch broke, and this one seems like a pretty replacement. 

GlamGlow: I've been on a skincare kick lately. I like this travel trio because it lets me try 3 different mud masks to find the one that works best for my skin.

Brown Boots: Another replacement item since I wore my previous pair waaaaay into the ground. 

Cold Weather Accessories: I can never have too many hats/scarves/touchscreen gloves/fuzzy socks. This year I really want a warm brimmed hat. 

Throw Blankets: I love my fuzzy throw blankets and use them year round. 

Mugs: Another item you can never have too many of. 

Stocking Stuffers: koozies, ear buds, iPhone travel battery, magnets, ornaments, gift cards. 

What's on your wish list this year? 

Linking up with Joey, Kristin, and Pinky!

Beach Day Essentials and An Invite

I'm sure most of us have gone to the beach at least once this summer (I hope!), but I forgot to post this before and it was sitting in my drafts, so I'm sharing it now. It's also great timing because this Saturday I'm heading to Point Pleasant Beach, NJ for Bloggers Beach Day! This was Michael's idea, and I'm so excited to meet some local bloggers! If you're in the NJ/NY/PA area, I hope you can come! Just leave a comment for the specifics! Here's what I'll be packing in  my beach bag:

Beach Bag Essentials by lildesiqua featuring beverage coolers

1. Sunglasses- I buy cheapies because I'm forever losing or breaking them.

2. Sunscreen- I'm really bad at putting on sunscreen because I very rarely burn (once, maybe?). I try to put on at least 15, especially when I know I'm going to be out in the sun all day.

3. Towel/blanket/chair- Honestly I like sitting more than laying in the sand, but I also bring a towel in case I actually get in the ocean (very, very rare). This chair is perfect because it's low to the ground (also good for concerts), and has a strap to carry it easily.

4. Deodorant- I sweat like a man. I know it and hate it, but at least I've learned how to control it.

5. Book/Kindle- Though I won't do it when I'm with a group of people and socializing, I do love reading on the beach in general.

6. Portable music player- I just found this one from SunnyLife and absolutely love it! You connect it to your phone/iPod inside to protect it from the heat/sand/water. Smart!

7. Hair ties/hat- You know those commercials or pictures where the woman is standing on the shore, wind blowing freely through her long hair? That's not real life, at least not for me. My hair likes to get all up in my face with any passing breeze. I carry extra hair ties for this reason. Hats come in handy too, though I don't really look good in them.

8. Water- I like freezing a reusable bottle to take with me, that way it stays cool longer.

9. Snacks- To keep from getting hangry, and for sharing. Because sharing is caring.

10. Bottle opener- Because it's always good to be prepared, especially if you're bringing along a cooler bag :)

What are some staples that you carry to the beach? 

[via]

Linking up with Kristin and Joey for Stuff and Things.

*I'm not receiving any compensation for the links above. I just really like the brand!

Friday Favorites: Essentials for a Successful Road Trip

Today I am taking the Bolt Bus to Salem, MA. I am *super* excited! So while I was packing, I thought of a few necessities for a successful car ride/road trip:

Road Trip Essentials

1. Music. Music is essential for any road trip. This is a given. I'll be jamming to this all weekend:

Meghan Trainor - All About That Bass

2. Books. I can't read in cars, but I have no problem in buses, trains, and planes. I just picked up Attachments by Rainbow Rowell. I hope it's as good as everyone is saying!

3. Travel pilllow. I did not think this was a necessity until I got one. They are awesome and easy to pack. Just bring it.

4. Charger(s). Especially if there is free wifi. Because you know you will be on your phone/tablet/etc.

5. Snacks. Does this one need an explanation? Nobody likes as hangry passenger. Go prepared.

What are some of your Road Trip/Travel Essentials? 

Amanda

Someone's Got a Birthday!

Today is RJ's birthday! 

Last night I was able to surprise him by getting all his friends to come out, and tonight we're going out to dinner. Since I know he can't read this until later tonight, I'm sharing what I got him:

Happy Birthday RJ by lildesiqua featuring a black umbrella

+ surprise party complete with his fave foods

+ concert tickets to see Rise Against 

+ running shoes

+ Mets umbrella

+ some clothes

+ Jameson

Happy birthday RJ! Hope you have a great day! 

Confessions: The Wishlist/I Suck at Saving Edition

After Steph's Wallet Watch, I swore I would get better at tracking and saving money. And I have. But that month made me realize something: I hate saving money.

It's not that I'm a crazy spender. It's just that I have a lot of bills to pay. And a "Treat Yo'Self" mentality:

Bottle of wine? Yes please. 

Dinner with friends? When? 

Happy Hour? Well.. it's been a rough week...

Groupon for Paint Night? I've always wanted to go!

Karaoke? I haven't gone in years, and can never find anyone to go with me- yes!

See? No bueno.
I can always find an excuse to spend money. Usually I'm spending on experiences instead of material things, and somehow that makes me feel a little better. But now that the watch is over, here are a few things I've been craving:

Goodbye Wallet Watch by lildesiqua featuring a nonstick cookware

new sunglasses: specifically amber ones since RJ accidentally broke mine- and because he's buying me new ones

new eyeglasses: I got insurance money, I'm on my last pair of contacts, and before the Watch, I bought a Living Social deal for an eye exam + glasses.

haircut: I actually have a coupon for a *free* haircut, and I was just waiting until it wasn't as cold out to chop off my locks. Looks like Spring has finally sprung so time for this hair to go!

shoes: I am in serious need of new flats, specifically black and nude. Booties aren't necessary, but I still want them

frying pan: NEED. My only one is small and crappy. Like, really crappy. Everything sticks to it, no matter how much Pam or butter I use. I want this Orgreenic frying pan I've been seeing on TV. I have a BBB gift card that I received for Christmas, so it's time to use it!

HDMI cables: I have Amazon Prime and Netflix, and am considering taking the plunge and cutting cable. This would be a big help in allowing me to still enjoy some TV and movies. I also got some Amazon gift cards via Swagbucks, so it would basically be free!

perfume: I ran out of my favorite one back in September.

jewelry: Um, I just like jewelry, though I hardly own any. And F21 has some cheapies that I love.

Salem, MA: heading here in June! Ok, so I guess I should save...

How do you save?

What are you confessing today?

Link up with Vodka and Soda and My So Called Chaos!!

November Favorites

1. It's candle season! And being a lover of pumpkin everything, this pumpkin spice one sounds like it would smell divine!

2. Pumpkin pie. By far my favorite dessert! And I do make a pretty excellent one if I do say so myself. Which I do.

3. Ohhh Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree... Ok, I know it's a little early to be talking about Christmas, but I just found this fantastic deal where you can get a tree delivered to your home (or apartment, in my case)! This is awesome since I love real trees, but lack a car to get said tree home!

4. Riding boots. They are so comfortable, they match just about anything, and they cane be worn with jeans or dresses/skirts. Oh, and they keep my legs warm!

5. Football season. Even though my fantasy team is completely sucking right now, I still love the game.

6. Infinity scarves, especially chunky styles like this one!

7. All the rich colors of the trees turning, especially here in the Northeast- it's so pretty!

What are some of you favorite things this season?

Currently

Listening - Sweater Weather and Little Black Dress (Thanks Micah!)

Eating - 4 serving sizes per meal. Seriously... where do they come up with these "Suggestive Serving Size"s?

Drinking - Coffee and Oktoberfest/pumpkin ale brewskis

Wearing - 

{via}

Reading - 

Thinking - Whyyyy are there so many issues with this new system (at work)? And why can I not focus or be motivated today? 

Wanting - To buy allthethings! Thank goodness it's almost the end of No Spend October!

Feeling - Anxious. I wouldn't mind just fast forwarding to Saturday- I'm finally going to dress up and go to a Halloween party, which I haven't done in 4 years! Yay! 

My Top 10 Must Haves For Fall

I have a pretty classic style. One thing I love about fall is getting to pull out the scarves and boots. I am all about comfort. And my main issue is being cold- I really really don't like being cold. So layers are key for me, especially in fall, when it's 50 degrees in the morning and 70 by late afternoon! (I just checked the weather- that is literally the forecast for today!)

So here are my "Must Have" Items for the season:

Top 10 Fall 2013 by lildesiqua featuring a yellow v neck sweater

1. A black moto jacket
2. classic denim jacket
3. blazers- any and all. I wear blazers a lot for work. They're great because they offer an extra layer of warmth, I like the shape it gives me, and they are still professional. I'm especially loving the one above!
4. scarves- a lightweight print one, and a chunky infinity one
5. basic black and white stripe shirt- because they go with everything
5. florals. They are so feminine and girly, which is not really my style, but I do like being a girly-girl sometimes
6. cardigans- again, any and all. And in every color. Pleaseandthankyou.
7. chambray- it's versatile enough to wear in the office and out and it's perfect for layering
8. a structured (big) bag, preferably in a neutral color like brown. Mostly because I carry too much stuff with me at all times, and it needs to fit. I like the shape of this one.
9. black ankle booties. I haven't found any that actually look good on me yet, but I'm still searching!
10. tall brown boots. ("Motorcycle boots"?) Perfect with jeans or skirts, especially when it's colder so my legs don't freeze! And they're comfortable enough for everyday wear.


Do you have any "must haves" for fall?

C's Birthday Dinner #1

C's Birthday Dinner #1 by lildesiqua featuring high heel boots

What a beautiful Saturday we're having here in NJ! Kinda wish I was out punkin picking! But alas, C had work this morning, and is now napping for a bit before we run some errands. Hopefully tonight we'll get out with some friends for some Trenton-style Tomato Pie in celebration of my recent PROMOTION!!!

Haha, yes, October is turning out to be a great month so far! On Monday I was given a promotion (with a raise...woot woot!). I'm am now helping with customer service for our new financial system along with my usual duties. So excited! I already had one celebratory dinner-- I was telling my friend right after I found out taht I wanted to go out for seafood with C to celebrate...and she was like "oooh hold on a sec..." After digging through her purse for a minute, she handed me a $50 gift card to Red Lobster!!! She said that she had gotten it as a gift about 5 years ago, and didn't really like the restaurant, so she just gave it to me! (The dinner and wine was delicious by the way- and we only paid $9, which was tip!)

This month is also C and I's 3 year anniversary! We're not doing anything super special or spending money on gifts because we figure we'll buy each other something on our trip in mid-November.

Speaking of trip- we booked our flight last week! We are officially going to India for our friend's wedding for 2 WEEKS! Eeep! So now we just have to figure out our itinerary and book hotels.

C's birthday is also this month (2 days after our anni)! His family dinner is tomorrow, and I hope to wear something like the outfit above. Except I don't own booties. Hmmm. I'm sure I'll figure something out!

I hope you are all having a fabulous weekend!