Music is her Name

8 track Friday - I said a-Hip Hop

2011-06-17T00:52:00.001-05:00

I'd skip the R. Kelly song, but that's just me. ;)

Includes the terribly nostalgic Tone-Loc "Wild Thing." Aaah, childhood memories!

Etsy Tuesday - Boogie Boogie Hedgehog

2011-06-07T22:56:00.001-05:00

'Boogie Boogie Hedgehog' by vespersparrow

luckybeepress $15.00	rainbowswirlz $25.00	zakkachiju $14.00
makeit $24.00	ALDDesigns $18.00	NBDesigns $35.00
seabreezestudi... $16.00	Littlecottonra... $1.15	doodlebugdesig... $8.00
AustriaBrass $195.00	AnneSolfud $7.00	uncommonwhimsy $5.00
sharonfostervi... $4.00	gfelted $250.00	graphicspacesw... $160.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

8 track Friday - suffer in style

2011-06-03T09:31:00.000-05:00

Sorry, darlings

2011-05-29T11:18:00.000-05:00

image from we♥it

I'm sorry that I haven't been posting lately. My camera went kaputski a while ago and I can't afford to buy a new one right now. Unfortunately I don't really have any outfit photos saved up, so there won't be any of those for a while.

8-Track Fridays have been queued through the end of the year, so those will always be popping up on schedule. I also would like to continue adding new content in the form of Etsy Tuesday posts, inspiration posts, and things like Polyvore when I have the time. I've just been really busy and distracted lately - I haven't even been keeping up with my favorite blogs, which I used to read religiously.

A little bit of an update on how things are going:
School is going to be over here at the beginning of June, so things are a little hectic from the standpoint of finding a stopping point, trying to tie up loose ends and tidying up. I had a really excellent interview for a 5th grade teaching position and I've got my fingers and toes crossed that I'll get it! I continue to volunteer as an official with Assassination City Roller Derby. I've been taking a fun cardio belly dance class at the local rec center once a week. I haven't been reading very much. :(

What's new with you, lovelies?

8 track Friday - This is sprummer, dude!

2011-05-20T10:59:00.002-05:00

the hipster headdress

2011-05-11T11:58:00.000-05:00

How? An interesting and informative post by a fashion blogger on the "hipster headdress."

I am so happy that none of the fashion bloggers I follow do this.

I've been going through old entries at Native Appropriations and I'm honestly very surprised and saddened that she has so much content to work with. I had the opportunity to work for the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Oklahoma during an internship while I was in college, got to visit a lot of Native Americans in their communities and even had a great time at a couple of powwows, and got to personally hear some of their stories and witness their community's unique struggles. The way that Native Americans continue to be treated by the rest of society is really sad.

At the same time, I kind of feel like if I stand up and say something, like to my co-worker who mentioned she wants to get a dreamcatcher tattoo, people will just dismiss me as one of those people who latches on to causes just to have something to complain about. I just don't understand how people can do things based on the presumption that Native people, their cultures and their religions no longer exist.

Etsy Tuesday - Rock around the Colorblock

2011-05-10T12:52:00.001-05:00

'Rock around the Colorblock' by vespersparrow

20twentyvintag... $42.00	SomeVelvetVint... $42.00	Stilltreejewel... $36.50
memorimakers $3.00	jamesrowlandsh... $115.00	SomeVelvetVint... $28.00
calliopevintag... $12.00	ModernMode $10.00	SoSoHippo $65.00
youngandukrain... $30.00	recombobulated $44.00	Mazizmuse $49.00
Artgirl2010 $25.00	pillowhappy $22.00	THIMBLEandACOR... $38.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

Inspiration - Down By the Water

2011-05-08T23:42:00.003-05:00

images from we♥it

8 track Friday - Yeah, I'm in Love with an Android

2011-05-06T01:25:00.000-05:00

Etsy Tuesday - Triangle Power!

2011-05-03T11:28:00.002-05:00

I read this post over at yes and yes recently and it reminded me that I really should keep up with my blog, even if I'm wearing work logo t-shirts every day. So here's a new Etsy Tuesday!

'Triangle Power!' by vespersparrow

Hipster, y u like triangles?

spinthread $70.00	EnRouteStudio $2500.00	GlitzGlitter $53.00
eva666 $46.00	prettypennydes... $42.00	mstrf $299.00
tovicorrie $	dirtybirdiesvi... $	BooandBooFacto... $42.00
ruffeoheartsli... $	allminedesign $30.00	sanchezism $430.00
goldfawn $50.00	littleobywolfb... $30.00	thiefandbandit $55.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

April book list

2011-05-02T15:46:00.001-05:00

image from kitten-guts

1. Gunn's Golden Rules: Life's Little Lessons for Making It Work - Tim Gunn
2. Eccentric Glamour: Creating an Insanely More Fabulous You - Simon Doonan

In Progress:

What if the Earth had Two Moons? - Neil F. Comins

Books read in April: 2
Books read in 2011: 10

What are you reading?

Moments of Win

2011-04-29T01:48:00.004-05:00

impromptu photoshoot when i came upon a collection of props from the set of Jurassic Park.

I heard about Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies when I was in college. I dreamed of going there for 12 years; when the opportunity presented itself in April 2009, I bought my ticket and hopped on the plane! We had a wonderful time exploring the mountains, going on ice hikes, trekking across Lake Louise, and visiting glaciers. One afternoon, I even saw a bald eagle gliding right above my car!

Me (in the pink jersey) jamming (ie, scoring points and getting beaten up) for the first time ever!

The Moment when everything changed...

Enjoy more moments of win at this awesome flickr pool!

No lyrics this time. Just... awkward.

2011-04-27T11:22:00.004-05:00

Tunic/top/thing: Forever 21 Plus
Pants: Target
Shoes: Keds
Necklace: Forever 21
Belt: Coldwater Creek (Outlet)
Bracelet: World Market

Sorry I haven't been around in a while, but thank you so much for sticking around! I've been really busy with both of my jobs and roller derby, taxes, job hunting. This weekend I also got into a car accident- I didn't get hurt, but there's all kinds of running back and forth and playing phone tag with trying to get the damage assessed and repairs done, if any.

So this is a shirt I like a lot because it is soft and comfortable, but I don't really know how to wear it. It actually has elastic around the waist but I added the belt to create a little extra detail. But I've worn this shirt several times and I end up fiddling with it constantly throughout the day.

I love these Keds, they are covered in silver glitter, but even after I've worn them and worn them they still tend to chew up my feet.

8 track Friday - Birds

2011-04-22T04:40:00.000-05:00

8 track Friday - you make me feel safe

2011-04-08T10:58:00.002-05:00

Didn't you see my heart leap, like a pup in the constant barley?

2011-04-06T10:59:00.006-05:00

Cardigan: Alloy
Tank and jeans: Just My Size
Flats: American Eagle via Ross
Necklace: Old Navy
Silver cuff bracelet: Gift from Mom

I'm not afraid of the scary sweater anymore! You can still get your own scary sweater, they're on clearance for $19.99.

I remember way back when I was in high school and Alloy carried mostly skater clothes for men. My first purchase from the catalog was a pair of wide legged Kikwear jeans that my mother hated to death.

Hmm... do you think I could still get away with that style? I don't think kids nowadays could wear something like that to school, but I wore them all the time, with my "Smashing Pumpkins" and "Garbage" t-shirts. Aaah, nostalgia!

Oh, the hand over the face is to protect you from the monster zit I've been cultivating. I also have nail polish on for once, but you can't really see it so it doesn't matter.

So what if the necklace is an owl and not a kingfisher! I just love this song.

♫: Joanna Newsom - Kingfisher

It was so easy, and the words so sweet

2011-04-04T23:02:00.005-05:00

Sweater: Not sure, probably Ross - old
Sleeveless shell: Target
Skirt: Lane Bryant
Tights: Walmart
Shoes: American Eagle via Ross
Necklace: Gift

You might have noticed that, aside from black and grey, I have a lot of blue. Blue is my safety color. I fall back on navy especially, when I'm not feeling so great.

Sorry I haven't been posting a lot of outfits. I don't know if I mentioned it before but I've gained a lot of weight recently and so now a lot of my clothes don't fit.

♫:Regina Spektor - Eet

Sunday Derby Sunday - Roller Derby Workout

2011-04-03T12:28:00.000-05:00

This DVD is available for purchase at Wicked Skatewear.

March Book List

2011-04-01T19:17:00.003-05:00

image from we♥it

1. Fingersmith - Sarah Waters
2. The Secret - Rhonda Byrne
3. The Road - Cormac McCarthy

In Progress

Gunn's Golden Rules: Life's Little Lessons for Making It Work - Tim Gunn

Books read in March: 3

Books read in 2011: 8

What are you reading?

ACRD Bout Highlights - March 26

2011-03-30T13:32:00.000-05:00

I love these people.

Sunday Derby Sunday - How to Play Roller Derby by Howcast.com

2011-03-26T11:08:00.000-05:00

8 track Friday - the second wave

2011-03-25T00:16:00.002-05:00

Where I'll be Saturday...

2011-03-24T19:42:00.001-05:00

On the great bayou where they saw it fall

2011-03-22T11:18:00.001-05:00

Button down shirt: Avenue
Layering tank: Old Navy
Bootcut trousers: Dots
Hi-top sneakers: Airwalk via Payless
Watch: Target
Water bottle: Threadless for Target

I just came off of spring break (a whole lot of doing nothing), but this two job thing is really starting to wear me down.

I'm sure one day I'll look back on all of this and laugh.

♫:Sufjan Stevens - Lord God Bird

But I will hold on hope

2011-03-12T12:00:00.000-06:00

Sweater: Target (clearance)
Shirt: Avenue (40% off clearance)
Skirt: Lane Bryant (70% off)
Tights: Walmart
Oxfords: Urban Outfitters (clearance)
Necklace: Forever 21

Took this picture sometime last week.

I hope everyone's friends and loved ones in Japan are okay. I have two friends who are over there right now, and they are both all right, thank goodness.

♫: Mumford & Sons - Cave

8 track Friday - hanging out with lydia deetz

2011-03-11T01:26:00.002-06:00

Lydia was definitely one of my style icons when I was fourteen or so!

Sunday Derby Sunday - Whip It vs. Reality

2011-03-06T20:26:00.002-06:00

From the DNN FAQ

Q: How well did the movie Whip It capture the sport of modern roller derby?

Pretty well! While there are a handful of Hollywoodisms -- for example, a coordinated everyone-stop-dead-and-throw-an-elbow is not a viable tactic in today's derby -- on the whole, the action is represented fairly accurately.

Perhaps more importantly, the film does a pretty good job of demonstrating how meaningful the derby community can be for its members. Modern roller derby provides a unique opportunity for the thousands of people who've become involved as skaters, referees, stats, and support crew to live without labels and do something bold.

So many little details ring true: derby names, comparing giant bruises, the terror/excitement of tryouts, the newfound family of the derby team, the mild lunacy of the after party, the not-about-winning/actually-no-it's-about-winning progression, the toll derby can exact on existing friendships, the newfound confidence, Bliss's "I... am in LOVE with this" moment -- all are completely familiar to modern derby participants.

If there's anything not quite on the mark about the film, it's the age of the protagonist. While the camaraderie of the derby community often spurs its members along the journey of self-discovery experienced by 17-year-old Bliss in Whip It, the real-life protagonists are most often women in their 20s, 30s, and even 40s.

One other key difference: with a handful of local exceptions, physical fights are essentially extinct in modern roller derby. Today's audiences are just too savvy to be taken in by an old-school scuffle, wherein hits to delicate areas are carefully avoided. Fake fights are obvious, but real fights are dangerous -- and don't win bouts.

Learn more at the Derby News Network website, derbynewsnetwork.com

February book list

2011-03-05T17:46:00.006-06:00

image from we♥it

1. The Pluto Files - Neil DeGrasse Tyson
2. The Passage - Justin Cronin
3. St. Lucy's Home for Girls Raised by Wolves - Karen Russell

In Progress:
Fingersmith - Sarah Waters

Books read in February: 3

Books read in 2011: 5

When you smile, those sad eyes look sadder and sadder still

2011-02-27T13:27:00.004-06:00

On me:
Cardigan: Alloy
T-shirt: Old Navy
Jeans: Dots
Flats: Delia*s
Necklace: Claire's

On the kiddo: no idea!

This outfit was inspired by one of Indiana's. When I saw it I said to myself, "I don't have a leopard print cardigan - but I do have that scary houndstooth sweater and zebra shoes!" Unfortunately my co-worker cut off my feet when she took this photo but you can see those same shoes here.

One of the worst things about being an educator working in programs that specifically serve inner city schools with a large population of "high risk" students is that you can have your heart broken every day. I have met the most wonderful, sweetest kids who have the most awful problems: kids who admit they don't eat all weekend because their parents can't afford to buy food, kids who have to wear uniforms borrowed from the school because they don't have their own clothes, kids afraid to walk home through the neighborhood around their school, kids who tell me about their cousin getting shot in the head, who openly admit to being in gangs, girls who do poorly in school because they have to be "mom" to all their brothers and sisters and little cousins when they get home, girls who are pregnant at twelve and thirteen. Kids who have anger issues, or who are overly touchy-feely, and you have to wonder if it's just a phase or if there really is something deeply sinister going on at home.

All of the typical growing-up problems of trying to find an identity, finishing homework, dealing with bullies and passing tests are exacerbated or even overshadowed by all the other problems that such young people shouldn't even have to deal with. Kids ride their bikes back to the school at 4 PM because they have nowhere else to go that is safe and comforting.

Sometimes they don't have a lot of problems at home, besides their family being poor. But if dad gets laid off or mom can't make the rent, they often have to find somewhere else to stay.

And then they vanish. CPS might scoop them up out of the blue. Or, more likely, they move to a different part of town, to live with a friend or relatives or to go to a "better" school, and you never see them again. You're left with this aching hole in your heart because you loved them so much and you just want to know that they'll be okay.

The little ones just vanish. Their parents don't include them in conversation about moving, they just pack up and leave one day. Older kids usually are told that they are moving, so they can warn me before they disappear. I insisted that this sweet, bright young lady pose with me for a picture last week, because I already knew that by this week, she'd be gone.

I miss her a lot, and I worry. But it just reminds me that I have to do the best I can with the kids I have on a daily basis, because I never know how much time I have to make a positive impact on their lives.

♫: Bat for Lashes - Sad Eyes

8 track Friday - Siren Songs

2011-02-25T15:21:00.000-06:00

Teachers get paid too much!

2011-02-21T11:59:00.005-06:00

image from we♥it

Are you sick of high paid teachers? Teachers’ hefty salaries are driving up taxes, and they only work 9 or 10 months a year! It’s time we put things in perspective and pay them for what they do - baby sit! We can get that for less than minimum wage.

That’s right. Let’s give them $3.00 an hour and only the hours they worked; not any of that silly planning time, or any time they spend before or after school. That would be $19.50 a day (7:45 to 3:00 PM with 45 min. off for lunch and plan — that equals 6 1/2 hours).

Each parent should pay $19.50 a day for these teachers to baby-sit their children.

Now how many do they teach in day…maybe 30? So that’s $19.50 x 30 = $585.00 a day. However, remember they only work 180 days a year!!! I am not going to pay them for any vacations.

LET’S SEE…. That’s $585 X 180= $105,300 per year. (Hold on! My calculator needs new batteries).

What about those special education teachers and the ones with Master’s degrees? Well, we could pay them minimum wage ($7.75), and just to be fair, round it off to $8.00 an hour. That would be $8 X 6 1/2 hours X 30 children X 180 days = $280,800 per year.

Wait a minute — there’s something wrong here! There sure is!

The average teacher’s salary (nation wide) is $50,000. $50,000/180 days = $277.77/per day/30 students=$9.25/6.5 hours = $1.42 per hour per student–a very inexpensive baby-sitter and they even EDUCATE your kids!

WHAT A DEAL!!!!

we've got holes in our heart

2011-02-15T21:14:00.000-06:00

Tee: Paris Blues via Ross
Cardigan: Avenue
Trousers: Dots
Shoes: Keds via Ross
Watch: Target
Necklace: Probably Claire's, old

I wouldn't have posted this outfit, except part of the point of this blog is for me to post pictures for my own benefit and not necessarily to please others. For years I was a serial camera-dodger, so for me to set up a camera and regularly take photos of myself is pretty ground breaking.

All of this stuff is stuff you've seen before. I don't participate in the 30 for 30 because I don't think I own 30 articles of clothing. I know bloggers always talk about being poor, but I am so beyond poor it's not even funny. Like no-gas-in-the-car poor. Usually I can deal with it but it's really getting me down this week.

♫: Lost in the Trees - All Alone in an Empty House

How to be Alone

2011-02-14T10:18:00.000-06:00

Sunday Derby Sunday - It Gets Better

2011-02-13T08:00:00.000-06:00

The Cincinnati Rollergirls participate in the "It Gets Better" project.

8 track Friday - oh well.

2011-02-11T02:31:00.003-06:00

Snow snow, go away

2011-02-09T14:17:00.002-06:00

Yet another snow day! The roads don't seem to bad today, so hopefully schools will be open tomorrow.

I was talking with the librarian at the school where I work (doing an after-school program) and she was telling me about all the budget cuts and teacher layoffs our district has planned. I was really hoping to get a full time teaching position next year, but I'm not feeling confident that it is going to happen.

A few weeks ago I made a "collection" on Polyvore of what I might wear if I were a teacher. I know that a lot of teachers dress really casually, but I think that looking more polished shows how important the job is to you. At the same time I'd want to incorporate my personal style with colorful and patterned tights, fun shoes, weird brooches, and jewelry derived from fossils and animal bones. Okay, so I know it's a touch of goth, but I really have been a little obsessed with animal bones ever since I took a Mammalogy course in college. You can learn so much about an animal from their skeleton!

7th grade life science by musicishername featuring boyfriend cardigans

Houndstooth Boyfriend Cardigan, $27
eShakti Surplice Front Fleece Shirtdress, $50
Dancing Like a Star Tights, $30
Red Studded Boots, $40
BDG Utility Tote, $40
Pamela Love Crow Skull bronze necklace, $575

This set was inspired by someone I saw on a street style blog, but after I made it I realized Hillary actually rocks the shirt dress and houndstooth sweater combo all the time!

The other three sets in my collection follow the jump:

6th grade science by musicishername featuring satchel totes

This is the first set I made, so you can see that it's a little less creative, though it still incorporates a fossil statement ring.

8th Grade Earth Science by musicishername featuring sterling silver skull jewelry

This one is probably my favorite, because I've been in love with that hummingbird skirt (and dress!) from eShakti for years. A hummingbird skull necklace matches the skirt. These MIA wedges are very similar to a pair on Modcloth that I've also been in love with for a long time, but they are much cheaper.

Science Teacher - Field Trip by musicishername featuring a corduroy skirt

A field trip set! This is the only field trip based set that I made. Should I make more?

You are a little mystery to me

2011-02-07T23:38:00.005-06:00

Cardigan & tank: Old Navy
Skirt: Target
Tights: We Love Colors
Oxfords: Urban Outfitters

I believe this will be the swan song for these WLC tights. When I put them on, I discovered they had developed two holes on the right knee. I don't know where the holes came from - maybe from my snaggly fingernails, maybe from getting caught on something. I put some clear polish on the developing runs, trusted this skirt to be long enough to cover the holes, and wore them the rest of the day with no other problems. There was also a hole in the toe and a hole near the crotch, but the one near the crotch has been there (I punched my thumb through accidentally months ago) and has done a really good job of not running.

I'm debating on whether or not to invest in a new pair. On the one hand, they are pretty comfortable, super opaque, and I have worn them a lot. On the other hand, they still have that issue of bagging around the ankles and they're more expensive than my flat broke self can afford.

For now though, I think we'll just have to say adieu, adieu, parting is such sweet sorrow. Whether there's a 'morrow for me and WLC, we'll just have to see.

♫: Amanda Palmer - The Ship Song

I know it's a fine place to be

2011-02-06T21:44:00.004-06:00

Cardigan & Top: Old Navy
Jeans: Dots
Shoes: Delia*s

I think this is an under $50 outfit for sure. Every article of clothing is something that I bought on clearance. The sweater was $12 or $14, the shirt I believe was $4, the jeans were $7 and the flats were $10. I wear these shoes all the time, too, it's crazy I've never photographed them before.

This is the first time I've been out of the house for a week. My stepfather came to town with his friend and his son to enjoy the Superbowl atmosphere and see if they could score tickets to the game. I don't like football (I know, I know) so I'm not going to watch with them, but I did go have lunch with them today.

School has been closed since Monday, so I've spent every day in my pajamas. I didn't mind not working at first, because I was sick. Once I started feeling better, sitting inside got real old, real fast.

Did you see that little planet widget I have over on my sidebar now? It's exciting to see the dots pop up when people visit from other parts of the world. Hello international friends! Sorry I'm not that interesting. :P

♫: Veruca Salt - Awesome

Five on Friday

2011-02-04T00:01:00.003-06:00

image from we♥it

All about education.

1. The Destructive Culture of Pretty Pink Princesses
2. Kids fed unhealthy foods learn to prefer them
3. High school biology teachers in U.S. reluctant to endorse evolution in class, study finds
4. Student off hook for Facebook insult of teacher
5 Florida Rep. Kelli Stargel suggests teachers grade parents

Featured!

2011-02-02T10:46:00.000-06:00

Sorry I haven't been posting much. I haven't been feeling well and have basically just been wearing this over and over again.

But I did want to tell you that...

I was one of the bloggers featured on Teachers have Class and Style at Mix Match Fashion. Go check out all the other stylish teachers!

Etsy Tuesday - Faux Bois Frenzy

2011-02-01T17:08:00.001-06:00

'Faux Bois Frenzy!' by vespersparrow

The hot, rustic/retro trend

VioletQVintage $35.00	BethCyrWedding... $1150.00	EvesLittleEart... $52.00
TheVintageApar... $25.00	bluebell $11.00	blockpartypres... $35.00
shemakesremake... $60.00	KnockKnocking $45.00	myimaginaryboy... $50.00
ekohdesign $18.00	cozyblue $26.00	traditionallyu... $17.00
ReadyGo $23.00	anotherjamieda... $118.00	jadeflower $50.00

Treasury tool is sponsored by Lazzia.com.

January book list

2011-02-01T00:15:00.005-06:00

image from we♥it

Read:

1. Clockwork - Philip Pullman
2. Lost Moon: The Perilous Voyage of Apollo 13 - Jim Lovell & Jeffrey Kluger

In progress:

Total for the month: 2

Total for 2011: 2

If you're curious, the Jim Lovell book has been re-titled to simply Apollo 13 after the film came out. It's an excellent read, especially if you're a NASA nerd like I am. Lots of interesting behind the scenes information about the Gemini and Apollo programs.

Been feeling pretty crap so I've spent more time sleeping and less time reading than I'd prefer.

Sunday Derby Sunday - tips for Fresh Meat

2011-01-30T15:44:00.001-06:00

image from we♥it

From Queen of the Rink, here are seven tips for roller derby "Fresh Meat," aka rookie players. Censored by me, because derby girls tend toward the foul mouthed. :)

1. Take off that garter-belt-tutu-thing and pay your f----- dues. Lay track, keep score, haul water, stamp hands. There will be a time for semi-nudity and obnoxious self-promotion. And that time is after you’ve actually proven yourself on the track. Teams don’t draft rollergirls. Teams draft roller derby players.

2. You don’t always get drafted right away. Even if you do everything right, maybe you’re just not what a team needs. Maybe a team needs a jammer and you are clearly a blocker. Maybe you just need more time. Don’t throw a diva fit and don’t disappear. Ask if can help with reffing or NSO duties or whatever. Keep practicing and keep driving yourself. You can be awesome! But it doesn’t happen overnight.

3. Watch the game. Watch as many bouts online, on TV, or in person as you can. Have the rules on hand so you can check to see and familiarize yourself with all the penalties and procedures. Watch with a vet and ask questions about everything. If you get a penalty during practice or scrimmage, ask the ref about it afterward. You don’t sound stupid. It’s a very complicated game. Most the players I know (including myself) say the average amount of time it takes to really understand what you’re doing on the track is one year. One. Year. Of being on a team. Ask and listen all the time.

4. Wax on, wax off. Does a drill seem easy to you? Then you are being a lazy, sloppy, no count, time wasting, dumb b----. The best skaters in the game do hundreds of laps and basics til they puke. Get lower, engage your core, add a power option. If anything is comfortable or easy you are not making the most of the drill.

5. Learn the difference between hurt and injured. Injured means you can’t skate. Broken bone, torn ligament, concussion, loss of limb. Don’t ever skate if your doctor tells you not to or if you are only 75% healed. Tell your coach and captains if there is anything wrong with you before hitting the track. That said, DERBY F----- HURTS. You don’t get to stop or skip practice because you are “hurt.” Being sore, having a bruise the size of a skillet, a little sniffle, or a black eye are not excuses to stay home. Nobody wants to draft a player who is always too “hurt” to be there for her team.

6. Perfect your stops. You do not need a drill or a lot of space to work on stops. Whenever you have a few seconds alone work on stopping as quickly and as low as possible. T-stop with your left and your right skate, plow stop, hockey stop, backwards toe stop. Dragging a toe is an invitation for an opposing blocker to floor you and probably snap your ankle. Don’t ever, ever do it.

7. Derby skating is not session skating. There is never a time for coasting during roller derby. At any given time you should be actively speeding up or slowing down. Read that sentence again- it was a derby epiphany for me. When you are skating fast there is never a need for gliding. Speed does not come from wheels rolling; it comes from pushing off the edge of your wheel. Crossovers, duck walks, juking, choppy, running steps. Get it?

Any questions?

8 track Friday - secret side

2011-01-28T02:29:00.002-06:00

I made this mix to give one of my co-workers a sampling of some gothic music. I was explaining how I'd been a goth in high school and told her that was one of the genres of music I still listen to, and she'd never heard of the genre before.

Girls that glitter love the dark

2011-01-24T20:32:00.000-06:00

Cardigan thing: Ross
Embellished shirt: Old Navy
Skirt: Target (Merona)
Tights: We Love Colors
Shoes: Target (Merona)
Necklace: Forever 21
Watch/Bracelet: Walmart

According to Ashley Falcon, "A head-to-toe black ensemble screams, Don't look at me!"

Or it could mean you just really like to wear black.

I got those black suede wedges that everybody has! The Mika wedges. I grabbed them when they were on clearance back in December, wore them around the house for a few times, and then tucked them away.

It didn't make sense to me to have shoes that I never wore, so I tried wearing these to work today.

I got a few compliments - you can see from my other posts that my attire is usually pretty casual - but man, my feet hurt. Nobody said they were uncomfortable. Maybe I just need to break them in.

I ordered this necklace from Forever 21 - I don't know why, I think because it was so cheap - and they sent me a spider necklace instead! It's the exact same design, with the big rhinestone as the body, but it's just a spider instead of a fly. I'm not going to complain, I vastly prefer the spider.

♫: Hannah Fury - Girls that Glitter Love the Dark

Boosting the signal

2011-01-22T22:10:00.003-06:00

image from etsy

Just passing on the message...

As some of you already know, one of our cousin's sons has been battling a brain stem tumor for nearly 9 months (DIPG--Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma; long term survival rates are dismal). Unfortunately, Mason (age 9) is starting to lose his battle. He very much enjoys geography, so his mom had an idea--to try to get Valentine's from all over the country/world for him.

Because the postmarks are somtimes impossible to read, his mom is asking that if you send one, to please either write the city/state/country it's coming from or to write that information on the inside (maybe 'Happy Valentine's Day from ______, in _City_, _State_').

If you want to help, here's the address:

Mason Kempf
7700 W 96 Ter.
Overland Park, Kansas 66212

If anyone wants to pass along this info to family and friends that might be able to help, I think they would love that. Please be aware, though, that time is of the essence.

Mason already got to have an excellent Christmas... let's make his Valentine's Day even better!

Oh come child, In a crossbones style

2011-01-20T21:54:00.006-06:00

Camp shirt & jeans: Just My Size
Flats: Steve Madden, secondhand
Necklace: Eclectic Outlet
Drugstore hair clip

These are the shoes I was wearing back here that you couldn't see.

This outfit was inspired by this one over at Gretchen's Closet.

Inspired? But it's so simple! And that's the point.

I feel really intimidated by other people's fashion blogs sometimes, because I don't have a lot of clothes and I don't have a lot of money to buy new things. And because I'm larger than "average," it's really hard for me to find things even when I'm thrifting. Sometimes I get frustrated with my limits, sometimes I worry about rejection. Then I see someone else looking really chic in something basic and I think, "I can do that. What was I getting all upset for?"

I could have added a bracelet and a ring though, I guess. I'm still not used to this whole accessorizing thing.

I have purchased a few inexpensive trinkets on Etsy recently and this was one of them. I was really tickled to find this necklace on Etsy because I actually own one of the limited edition copies of the Italian Cat Tarot from 1990. It was one of the first things I ever got on eBay and I just love it. The chain was originally really long, but because it's a ball chain necklace, it was very easy for me to cut and make shorter.

♫: Cat Power - Cross Bones Style

stop before someone ends up getting hurt

2011-01-20T06:13:00.001-06:00

Sweatshirt: Fashion Bug (old)
Skirt: Dickies (secondhand)
Boots: Vintage via Ebay
Leggings: Forever 21 +
Scarf: Torrid, I think.

This outfit is based on the same inspiration as this one. Crazy how two outfits can come from the same photo, isn't it?

I made sure to tuck this scarf in because the pattern is skulls and crossbones. This was from Friday when we watched Peter Pan, though (the live action version), so if anyone had asked, I would have said it was my pirate scarf. The kindergartners don't seem to mind my occasional odd accessory choice (spider necklace, dinosaur necklace, green sparkle spider web socks) so I'm sure they would have been okay with it.

I'm doing all right, and I appreciate the support some of you have given. I didn't grow up with my dad, so we're not super duper close, but it's still really hard now that I'm handling his expenses, being reminded every day that he's gone.

We're not? We weren't, heh. I keep forgetting to use past tense. I understand that's common.

I've gained weight since the last time I wore this skirt, can you tell? You can click the "dickies pencil skirt" tag to compare the photos. I don't think I'll wear it again until I drop a few pounds. It fit okay but to me it doesn't look like it fits okay.

♫: Charlotte Gainsbourg - Little Monsters

Etsy Tuesday - Ice Cold

2011-01-18T08:33:00.002-06:00

If you don't know, it snowed in Texas last week. It's all melted by now, but I kind of miss it. Am I crazy?

'Ice Cold - NWTC' by craftymcgee

Cooler than bein' cool!

mimilove $3.00	breeree $25.00	cowgirlcaities $23.26
TravelingGypsi... $1.25	KZShots $7.50	Canemah $12.99
darialvovsky $49.00	WithAllMyArt $10.00	mischyfpaws $18.00
ACollectibleCa... $9.00	LillaJizo $5.00	babyanimals $22.00
FuzzyU $19.00	OldWorldHandwo... $12.50	SewCreepyConfe... $195.00

Generated using Treasury HTML code generator by Whale Shark Websites.

8 track Friday - strange little girl

2011-01-14T01:04:00.001-06:00

Give me these moments back.

2011-01-11T22:01:00.003-06:00

image from we♥it

I mentioned here briefly about the passing of my father in November. Some issues have come up recently that I have to deal with that seem to be extraordinarily painful and difficult for me. Maybe I just haven't let myself fully deal with what happened until now. Either way, I just need to take a little break from blogging.

If you have somebody to love, love them. Kiss your significant others and hug your babies.

And for heaven's sake, call your parents. Visit them if you can. Ask them about their lives. Swap stories. Even if you don't get along well with them, you'll never realize how much you love them until they aren't there anymore.

Etsy Tuesday - gothic wedding

2011-01-11T08:10:00.003-06:00

Not that I plan on getting married any time soon, but I guess I've been feeling a bit nesty lately! And with the trend these days toward "offbeat brides," I suppose you could guess that any ceremony I would be involved in would be anything but traditional. So I put together this treasury for lovebirds who are looking for something a little darker.

'gothic wedding' by vespersparrow

til death do us part

stephaniemades... $799.00	KahiliCreation... $47.00	urbanheirlooms $100.00
VictorianLowbr... $13.95	maryandangelik... $85.00	ManoBello $99.00
yasoknitting $15.00	mybluetulipdes... $1.50	digforvictory $140.00
RXVrings $1000.00	localovespirat... $22.00	dedalo $70.00
PoppySeedStati... $25.00	AmoreBride $135.00	EJPcreations $54.00

Generated using Treasury HTML code generator by Whale Shark Websites.

OPI nailcolor - Katy Perry, Serena Williams and Black Shatter

2011-01-10T22:43:00.001-06:00

Sunday Derby Sunday

2011-01-09T20:04:00.000-06:00

Since a few of you have expressed interest in my roller derby exploits, I decided that I was going to use Sundays to post information about roller derby in general and about my training and progress and whatever else happens to be going on.

So here's the first post! Back during the Great Depression, roller derby started out as a race between teams to see which team could keep skating for the longest. Since then, however, it has been revitalized and re-imagined as a whole new sport. Here's Rob Lobster explaining how derby is played these days... using donuts.

Pay it Forward 2011

2011-01-08T21:50:00.006-06:00

I'm already participating in this via Facebook, but Carla started it rolling in the blogging world... and Rai made this cool graphic.

I'm a notorious procrastinator, but this falls right in line with my resolution to be creative.

Ha! If you guys had ever seen my artwork, you'd be more excited about this. ;)

1. Stacey Kay of Goodwill Huntingg
2. Christina of Randomness, á la Mode
3. Aura(?) from heavy aura
4.
5.

But everybody thinks I'm weird

2011-01-06T12:45:00.004-06:00

Cardigan: Avenue
Tank: Target
Skirt: Target
Tights: Walmart
Shoes: Urban Outfitters
Scarf: Claire's
Bracelet: World Market

Another visit from the skirt that I never would have bought if not for the influence of fat fashionistas in the blog-o-sphere! And roller derby, which made me feel better about my body in general. So thanks, blog-o-sphere! And thanks, roller derby!

See, my legs are fat. The bulk of leg fat is in my thighs and starts at my knees. So anything I had to wear had to be knee length or longer, because I didn't like my fat knees. But my knees are going to be fat whether you see them or not. So why not wear a skirt that's a little shorter?

This outfit was inspired by a look I saw on Clothed Much when Elaine did her end of the year round-up. Of course I don't have a sweatshirt (I really don't) or lacy tights so I had to change it up a little bit, but the idea is to be inspired, not to copy.

I didn't tuck my scarf in like she did, either, because it has buttons on the fringe and I wanted to show that off. At the end of the day I think I should have, though, because my kindergarten kids kept coming up to me and grabbing and pulling my scarf.

My kiddos are super cute but this whole personal space issue is part of the reason why I prefer to work with older children.

I was a little noisy today, because of the jingly bracelet and the buttons clicking on the scarf. I love that the pattern is cute and a little sinister at the same time - the little stitched-together animals almost look like voodoo dolls. Eek!

Maybe that's the style niche I'm going for. Cute but creepy. I even picked a cute but creepy song to go with this post today.

This guy is my favorite:

♫: Kate Nash - Skeleton Song

Do you hear me? Do you care?

2011-01-05T22:00:00.004-06:00

Cardigan & tank: Old Navy
Trousers: Lane Bryant, thrifted
Shoes: Pink Duchess via Urban Og I think.
Necklace: from high school, probably Hot Topic.

Nothing special today. The pants I brought back from my mom's house - I actually had thrifted them years ago and left them there. How old does something have to be to be vintage?

You can't really see the shoes but they are pointy toe oxfords. They're a little too narrow to be totally comfortable and they're made of some kind of manmade material which is kind of smelly.

I have a really nasty head cold right now, so I'm going to bed early. Goodnight!

♫: Missing Persons - Words

I wanna be her... so do you

2011-01-04T22:50:00.005-06:00

Jacket: Old Navy plus ($20 I think)
Tunic/shirt: Just My Size
Cropped jeans: Avenue
Boots: Vintage Grime via Ebay ($50)
Belt: Coldwater Creek
Necklace: Asos

Here it is, the jean jacket I've been wearing almost every day in Texas in lieu of an actual winter coat!

This outfit features two items that I can't figure out how to wear, yet in a fit of temporary insanity I decided to wear them both at the same time. I bought the boots because of their color - and I never wore them out in public before, because of their color. These pants are shorter than I thought they'd be and don't taper at the ankle like I'd hoped. But when I was coming back from Ohio, I saw a lady at the airport who was wearing cuffed jeans and lace-up boots and I thought, Eureka!

Check it out, I even have detail shots:

necklace: Asos
pins: Needlings on Etsy, free with my owl brooch, and a pin from a promo pack I got when ACRD was promoting Whip It.

Do you think I should keep putting the prices on things? I didn't price a lot of this stuff because I've worn it before and I think I mentioned the price previously. I think it's interesting when other bloggers do it but... um... I'm kind of lazy. :)

♫: Peaches - Boys Wanna Be Her

Etsy Tuesday - An Unkindness of Ravens

2011-01-04T02:02:00.002-06:00

If you hadn't noticed, I happen to like birds. And I've been on a bit of a raven kick lately. I'm still pretty upset about never again being able to find that awesome "Omnivore" raven lunch bag I liked so much, but these other things I found while searching are pretty cool too.

Yes, I know some of them are actually crows. Shh!

Take to the Wind - 5x5 ... SherriConley $15.00	Reverence For Raven Cha... jasontennant $3200.00	Nevermore Raven Wax Sea... beadsss $
SALE Raven Crop Jacket Forgefashion $75.00	CROWS (4) - Wall STENCI... OliveLeafStenc... $34.99	Raven with Black Spruce... AlexMetalArts $530.00
The Raven... a white de... candacejean $	3D Bronze Raven Claw Pe... mrd74 $49.00	FOUR Bird on a Branch S... whitebirdstudi... $
Raven Messenger Bag Deadworry $	Nevermore Tie binarywinter $24.00	Neo Victorian Woodland ... FableAndFury $
Baby raven among forget... tanyabond $12.00	Leather Raven Tail Feat... beadmask $	Raven Soul Totem Goddes... MedicineTreeSt... $95.00

Generated using Treasury HTML code generator by Whale Shark Websites.

Contagious, outrageous, courageous

2011-01-04T00:18:00.000-06:00

image from we♥it

I hope everyone is having an awesome 2011 so far. I know everyone and their mom is doing resolution posts right now, and after some thought I decided to do one as well.

I didn't make any resolutions for 2010. The past two and a half years have been really rough on me, starting with moving to Galveston Island just in time for Hurricane Ike to wipe out my apartment and some of my belongings and proceeding through a series of accidents and incidents - totaled Jeep, broken toe, unpleasant roommates with creepy stalker boyfriends, the illness and death of my father, et cetera. However, I think I've finally found a couple of handholds on the slippery slope I've been careening down and, while things are sort of stable, I have a few things I'd like to work on.

1. Get back into derby. I had a really difficult time with roller derby initially, because I'm not that good at it. I got my feelings hurt a few times, and with everything else going on I didn't feel like it was good for my state of mind to keep trying to do something it didn't seem like I could succeed at. I never totally quit, however, because I love the sport and the people and the whole spirit of it, and there's not a day that goes by that I don't think of it.

2. Get fit. No, seriously. A lot of people make this resolution for no real reason, or to try to drop the handful of vanity pounds they gained through the annual gorge-fest that is Halloween through New Years. But part of the reason I suck at derby is because my cardiovascular fitness is so poor - my legs can keep moving but my lungs get tired. So I need to improve that just to get better at derby.

3. Get back into bellydancing. Before I wore roller skates, I wore a hip scarf, and bellydancing was my biggest hobby. It's something else that used to make me happy and that I think of all the time. It's just so expensive to take lessons, but I'm going to try!

4. Work on creative projects. I'm an artist who never does art. I can draw really well, I just... don't. I've also been trying to learn to knit for, oh, five or six years now. I'll put some serious effort into it.

5. Get a full time job. Right now I have two part-time jobs, both of which are in education. I like them both, but they pay very little and don't offer any benefits. By next autumn, I want to be the teacher of record in my very own science class.

6. Stop eating in the car. I drop stuff and it makes a mess. No more!

Okay, these are my resolutions for right now. I have some other things that I really need to keep on, like trying to tackle my finances and keeping my place tidy, but honestly I think this is as much as I can handle right now. Maybe next month, assuming I'm attending speed skate regularly and knitting before bed, I'll get on all the other stuff. But life is kind of like a puzzle, and if you can take care of the corners, the really important stuff in the middle becomes easier to figure out.

Oh, and keep up with the blog, of course! Haha. :) I love you guys.

♫: Peaches - Serpentine explicit lyrics

December book list

2011-01-02T23:23:00.004-06:00

image from we♥it

Read:

1. The Green Mile - Stephen King
2. Lyra's Oxford - Philip Pullman
3. Once Upon a Time in the North - Philip Pullman
4. The Lightning Thief - Rick Riordan
5. Song Quest - Katherine Roberts

In progress:

Clockwork - Philip Pullman

What are you reading?

I hold a cornucopia and a golden crown

2011-01-02T20:21:00.003-06:00

Top: Fashion Bug, old
Pants: Venezia for Lane Bryant, thrifted
Necklace: Gift

Point of fashion: Woohoo! Socks! :)

I hope that you all had a wonderful holiday season, no matter what you celebrate. This year I flew back to Ohio to see my family for the holidays. I enjoyed re-connecting with my mother and my stepfather and my extended family, including my cousin's new baby.

I didn't get a lot, but I got what I asked for. And anyway, the important thing is giving, not receiving, and I got my mother a really cool gift: the "Thank You, Mood" shirt from Mood Fabrics, modeled here by Michael C. from the last season of Project Runway.

Untitled by musicishername on Polyvore.com

My mom and I both have been watching PR since it started (ANTM, too), and I knew she'd like it. I also got a Top Chef cookbook for her and my stepdad.

Part of the reason I like going home is because my parents decorate like crazy! I don't know what it is, but all the roommates I've had never decorate for any holiday. I guess they figure they're going to go somewhere else for the holiday anyway, so why go through the trouble of junking up the house? But I love holiday decorations; I think they add a lot of festive spirit and help mark the change in the seasons so that every day isn't the same thing in and out. This is especially true in Texas, where the seasons mostly seem to vary between "Warm," "Hot" and "Rainy."

♫: Fleet Foxes - Meadowlarks

8 track Friday - The Vampire Club

2010-12-31T15:03:00.002-06:00

Where do you go to celebrate New Years?

The future's so bright...

2010-12-28T11:50:00.001-06:00

I have started getting a better hang of Polyvore and have been really enjoying putting sets together. When I saw Polyvore was running a contest titled "The Year is 2050: What Will You Be Wearing?" I went looking for a dress to use on Asos, saw this white one, and was immediately inspired to do a set based on the Michael Bay film "The Island." Here is a trailer if you've never seen it.

"The Island" is one of those movies that nobody else liked but me. But I just love futuristic and post-apocalyptic movies and I think the visuals in "The Island" with it being so slick and shiny really appealed to me.

Utopia by musicishername featuring bandeau dresses

I was really disappointed with the other entries because I think a lot of the other folks really missed the train on this one. There was even one titled "Autumn Fashion of 2010." Now what does that have to do with the future?

What do you think people will be wearing in 2050?

You come through for me

2010-12-20T17:38:00.003-06:00

Cardigan thingie: Ross (free w/ gift card)
Shirt: Old Navy ($9)
Jeans: Just My Size ($19)
Shoes: Airwalk via Payless ($16)
Watch: Geneva, Gift
Necklace: Claire's (two years ago)

I've spent a lot of money on clothes in the past two or three months and I felt pretty guilty about it, but I think I've finally gotten to a point where I can go into my closet, grab some things, throw them on, and actually like how I look.

I used to spend hours trying on outfit after outfit and eventually putting on something I wasn't satisfied with, wishing I could just stay home. But most of the time these days, I like how I look.

I try to plan outfits in advance, but this one wasn't planned. It just came together.

There's some crocheted lace stuff on the back of this cardigan thing, but I couldn't get a good picture of it. Maybe next time!

Also, next time I complain about being cold, tell me to shut my trap. My "outerwear" has consisted of a jean jacket for the past couple of months and today I didn't wear a jacket at all.

♫: PJ Harvey - You Come Through

Talk about pop musik

2010-12-18T12:31:00.002-06:00

Sweater: Coldwater Creek Outlet ($19 or so)
Shirt: Target (five years ago)
Jeans: Dots ($9)
Flats: American Eagle via Ross (two years ago)
Necklace: Hot Topic ($10)
Socks: IDEK

Despite containing similar pieces (sweater layered over a shirt, skinny jeans, flats), this outfit is much more "me" than the last one I posted. Still no black, aside from the socks, but the colors are darker and I think the stitching on the jeans makes it a little more edgy and interesting. Plus nothing says "me" more than my t-rex necklace.

Also, thank you blog-o-sphere for letting me know it was okay for fat chicks to wear skinny jeans. I was afraid of wearing these for the longest time, then I finally spotted myself in a full-length mirror in them and realized I look pretty cute!

I have been wearing the crap out of these shoes, and I know they look kind of odd since they are weird and fabric-y, but they are so comfortable! It doesn't make sense because they have no support whatsoever, yet they're more comfortable than a lot of my other flats. I guess because they are just like going around barefoot.

♫: M - Pop Musik

8 track Friday - Holiday Edition

2010-12-17T13:21:00.000-06:00

Lands' End Canvas Polyvore contest

2010-12-16T13:43:00.003-06:00

Have you entered the Lands' End Canvas contest on Polyvore? The winner gets a $500 gift card to Lands' End Canvas! Here is my entry:

Land's End Canvas by musicishername featuring diamond rings

The fabulous skirt I first spotted at Danimezza's Polly Dolly Polyvore Challenge, and I just thought it went really well with the orange of the sweater. Considering the latest Polly Dolly features roller skates, I'm pretty sure I'm going to be participating in this one!

Etsy Tuesday - gifts for Derby Girls (and guys)

2010-12-14T19:30:00.004-06:00

It's been a while since I did an Etsy Tuesday, hasn't it? Well, today I've decided to feature items that would be great gifts for girls and guys who are into Roller Derby. Feel free to buy me any one of these items also. ;)

sk8rh8rdesigns $8.00	sculleydesign $22.00	momoma $15.00
FranksSister $3.00	derbyvixen $	laurenandgrace $64.00
smallfly $24.00	MetalTaboo $52.00	poisonapplefas... $60.00
DollyCool $16.00	MiR1 $45.00	rhodaperdition $4.00
bellehelmets $250.00	Lindsaylindsay... $45.00	flattrackrevol... $20.00

Generated using Treasury HTML code generator by Whale Shark Websites.

I don't know how to connect

2010-12-13T05:14:00.001-06:00

Cardigan: Old Navy ($9)
Tank: Old Navy (??? from 2006 or so)
Cropped pants: Avenue via One Stop Plus ($12)
Necklace: Asos ($14)
Shoes that you can't see: Steve Madden, secondhand

Not a stitch of black. My mother would be so proud.

I don't know if this outfit is very me. All of these items (aside from the necklace) are items I bought simply because I needed clothes in my size. And Saturday morning I threw them on because I needed something to wear. But is any of it my style?

I do love cardigans. I love The Cardigans, too.

♫: The Cardigans - Communication

B-r-a-k-e?

2010-12-12T20:45:00.006-06:00

I don't think I ever mentioned this before, but I play roller derby! At least, I used to. I quit skating in January when I found out my dad had cancer and haven't really been back on the track since. But I volunteered as an official at the bouts - I've been an official at every home bout for my league since June or July of 2009.

I love those girls. I love my league. I think about derby almost every day. Maybe it's about time I put my skates back on.

Anyway, this is my league:

So, yes. Occasionally my style consists of tiny shorts and knee pads. Got a problem with that?

♫:Kelly - Text Message Break-Up - explicit lyrics warning

When our love was new

2010-12-10T13:15:00.004-06:00

Cardigan: Alloy ($39 - and it's on sale now)
Tank: Old Navy ($3)
Trousers: Gloria Vanderbilt via Ross (free w/ gift card)
Flats: American Eagle via Ross ($14 maybe)
Scarf: No clue
Crazy expression: all mine!

This is the sweater I was going to wear with the silver stripe skirt the other day and then I chickened out. The big print on this sweater is what made me buy it in the first place. But when I have it in my hands, it kind of freaks me out. I'm really not sure how to wear it. So I made a lame attempt at pattern mixing because I was so cold, but I think it is pretty obvious from my pained grimace that I was not feeling too sassy in this outfit.

♫: Nat King Cole - Stardust

November book list

2010-12-05T21:22:00.002-06:00

1. The Shining - Stephen King
2. The Golden Compass - Philip Pullman
3. The Subtle Knife - Philip Pullman
4. The Amber Spyglass - Philip Pullman

Currently Reading: The Green Mile - Stephen King

I am a huge Stephen King fan, and yet I'd never read The Shining before. I enjoyed it. It was a real page turner!

The first two books in the His Dark Materials trilogy were very good, but the third one sort of lost me, especially near the end. It got odd and hard to follow.

I think I'm going to tackle the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series next, because I just watched the movie recently and I really liked it.

What are you reading?

Cause at night the sun in retreat, Made the skyline look like crooked teeth

2010-12-04T18:57:00.008-06:00

Sweater: Merona by Target ($14 maybe? IDK)
Skirt: Pure Energy by Target, secondhand ($10?) - It has pockets and I have a pen in the pocket, can you tell? Heh.
Tights: Walmart ($6)
Shoes: Modcloth ($70)
Bracelet/Watch: Walmart ($5)
Owl Brooch: Needlings ($10)
Horseshoe necklace: gift from my momma :)

Today I went to a seminar put on by my alternative certification program on how to get hired as a teacher. I currently teach in elementary and middle schools, but not as a teacher of record. I have a curriculum that I follow and I have to know how to manage the classroom, but I don't get paid a lot or get a lot of respect from parents or other "real" teachers. I'm hoping to have my own classroom by next year!

On the way home I stopped at Wendy's to get lunch (and try their new fries, which taste a bit like fries you get from Penn Station but not as good) and one of the guys working there commented on my hair, then asked me about my ethnicity.

Guys, I hate this. I never know what to say, because I don't want to be rude, but at the same time I feel like it is a very personal question that nobody has any business asking. What difference does it make? I don't go around asking people what their ethnicity is!

Anyway, this was a bit of a daring outfit for me with mixing brown and grey and black. I had a totally different sweater picked out to go with the skirt, but it has a big houndstooth pattern and I'm scared to wear it.

What worked: I was very comfortable and yet still more professionally dressed than a number of the other people at the seminar. This skirt is shorter than I would normally wear but I was ok with it.

What didn't: I think the sweater is a little boring and I have trouble thinking of necklaces to go with this kind of neckline. I need more collarbone-length statement necklaces. Also I tried my Luvees under the skirt, and while I didn't have any painful chub rub issues, they did keep riding up as my thighs rubbed together and I had to adjust them a few times.

♫: Death Cab for Cutie - Crooked Teeth

8 track Friday - December, I'm Sorry & To All Of Your Friends

2010-12-03T03:58:00.002-06:00

I believe in everyone.

2010-11-30T22:56:00.005-06:00

Button down shirt: Avenue ($10)
Layering tank: Old Navy ($3)
Dress: Old Navy ($4)
Belt: From another dress
Shoes: American Eagle via Ross ($12? $16?)

I got this dress on clearance a while ago in a brick and mortar Old Navy store. I used to avoid shopping there because I assumed nothing would fit, but lately whenever I go in I can usually find some things I can wear, such as this dress (in XL, not even XXL!) and sweaters and things. And even though I've probably gained ten pounds since I bought it, it still fits. And it has pockets!

The layering tee is also off the shelf at Old Navy, it's an XXL. They were doing a great sale this weekend and I bought several things - for me!

What worked: I was comfortable for the most part, and I really like how this ended up working. This is probably the most layering I've ever done - I was wearing purple bike shorts also that you can't see to protect from chub rub and to keep me from flashing everybody as I sat on the gym floor. Despite all the layers I didn't have to adjust it much.

What didn't: The dress kept riding up as I walked. It wasn't awful, but it bothered me. The belt got on my nerves a little bit, also - you can see that it is a bit skewed in this picture. I kept fiddling with it all day. Also I was SO FRICKIN' COLD. I was going to wear my grey roper boots with this but didn't want to fiddle with them this morning, but the boots at least would have kept my ankles from freezing.

♫: Joanna Newsom - '81

What do teachers make?

2010-11-27T13:52:00.002-06:00

Five on Friday - Black Friday edition

2010-11-26T00:03:00.000-06:00

1. Socks are a classic gift, but they don't have to be boring. Fiona reviews several products from Sock Dreams with the plus sized lady in mind.

2. JIBRI is having a Black Friday sale - 50% off EVERYTHING, from midnight until noon EST! This is HUGE, because Jibri items are high quality but soooo expensive. Just use the code Black10 at checkout!
Jibri Online
Jibri's Etsy

3. After taking advantage of all the Black Friday sales, help support your local economy by participating in Small Business Saturday.

4. Don't know what to get? College Fashion has some suggestions of great basic pieces to build a wardrobe in British vs American style

5. Why not treat yourself? Check out Own your own beauty: 12 Tips for letting go of Perfectionism.

Boutiques.com

2010-11-21T00:17:00.003-06:00

After reading this post on Adored Austin, I decided to head over to Boutiques.com and create my very own profile. It categorized my style as being somewhat punk and somewhat street and offered these runway photos as examples. I don't think they're too accurate as to where I am now, but they're accurate as far as the style I wish I had.

I can't afford most of the stuff that they offer as suggestions in my boutique, though I do like the majority of the items, the Free People stuff especially. It's pretty cool to have a computerized personal shopper. Is there a site that does this for plus sizes?

8 track Friday - November mix

2010-11-19T08:39:00.001-06:00

too little too late

2010-11-15T11:33:00.004-06:00

Sweater and tank: Merona by Target ($?? they were on clearance)
Trousers: Gloria Vanderbilt via Ross (Free with gift card)
Shoes: Sketchers (gift)
Necklace: Claire's (also on clearance)

This is an outfit from last week, not super fancy but very comfortable.

I was on a field trip with the Girl Scouts on Saturday when I found out my father passed away. He'd been battling cancer for a while, though, so it wasn't a big surprise. I will probably do a longer post about it later.

♫: Ramona Falls - Russia

Five on Friday

2010-11-12T10:13:00.002-06:00

1. "Degenerate" Art condemned and buried by Nazis unearthed in Berlin.

2. The 50s Housewife Experiment - a woman decides to live as a 50s housewife for two weeks, cooking from 50s cookbooks and following style advice from 50s magazines.

3. DIY Archaeology from Seventh Generation. I have things dating from my pre-teen years piled up at my mother's house, so I might have to do a little of this myself.

4. Get $20 when you sign up for Gilt.

5. Send a GLSEN Safe Space kit to a local school. Help schools better deal with the bullying against LGBT teens.

Have a nice weekend!