Yes, this is my desk plant - aka, my pen holder. Convenient, to say the least.
Hey, it works!
[You'd think I like blue writing utensils or something...]
Do you have any random things like this you do at work?
Monday, January 31, 2011
Growing pens (no, not pains)
At work, I use a lot of pens, and I lose a lot of pens. I never know if I should keep my pens in my drawer or somewhere more accessible. I prefer keeping my desk as clear of clutter as possible. [Does that happen? No. Ask my coworker Leigh. She'll tell you... she has to look at my desk.] So, I usually end up sticking my pens somewhere off my desktop, but closer and more accessible than my drawer. See below:
Yes, this is my desk plant - aka, my pen holder. Convenient, to say the least.
Hey, it works!
[You'd think I like blue writing utensils or something...]
Do you have any random things like this you do at work?
Yes, this is my desk plant - aka, my pen holder. Convenient, to say the least.
Hey, it works!
[You'd think I like blue writing utensils or something...]
Do you have any random things like this you do at work?
Friday, January 28, 2011
Definitely "up" and already "coming"
I need to highlight a blog for you:
Amarillo y Crema
A new favorite... her fashion/design sense is impeccable.
Amarillo y Crema
A new favorite... her fashion/design sense is impeccable.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Shifafa?
I was working on my laptop a few nights ago while listening to Diana Krall's "The Very Best of Diana Krall" album.
What in the world is shifafa? I have listened to "The Frim-Fram Sauce" song 17 times (to be exact - thank you iTunes) and every time I have wondered what "shifafa" is.
"That's it! Wikipedia - what sayest thou?"
Definition: "The Frim Fram Sauce" is a jazz song, made famous by The Nat King Cole Trio and performed by a variety of musicians (including Ella Fitzgerald) over the years. "The Frim Fram Sauce" was written in 1945.
"The Frim Fram Sauce" is best remembered for its silly lyrics. The narrator speaks to a waiter in a restaurant, as if in the process of ordering food. Throughout the song, the customer lists numerous real foods that he doesn't want, such as pork chops and fish cakes. In the chorus, he explains what he really wants: some "frim fram sauce" with the "ossentay" and "chifafa" on the side. Of course, none of these foods really exist, so at the end he gives up and says: "If you don't have it, just bring me a check for the water!"
What in the world is shifafa? I have listened to "The Frim-Fram Sauce" song 17 times (to be exact - thank you iTunes) and every time I have wondered what "shifafa" is.
"That's it! Wikipedia - what sayest thou?"
Definition: "The Frim Fram Sauce" is a jazz song, made famous by The Nat King Cole Trio and performed by a variety of musicians (including Ella Fitzgerald) over the years. "The Frim Fram Sauce" was written in 1945.
"The Frim Fram Sauce" is best remembered for its silly lyrics. The narrator speaks to a waiter in a restaurant, as if in the process of ordering food. Throughout the song, the customer lists numerous real foods that he doesn't want, such as pork chops and fish cakes. In the chorus, he explains what he really wants: some "frim fram sauce" with the "ossentay" and "chifafa" on the side. Of course, none of these foods really exist, so at the end he gives up and says: "If you don't have it, just bring me a check for the water!"
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Major Apology
"Anonymous" left a comment that definitely made me stop and think. I owe all who read my most recent post an apology. He/she made some great points. In writing this post, I meant absolutely no harm to African Americans or Caucasians.
Anonymous' comment: "As an African-American attending Brown University, I must say that I take great offense to the comments you have made. After finding out that you were the 'only white girl' in the group, you 'knew it was going to be an awesome day'? Am I supposed to understand that being around a group of all black students is a hoop-la for Caucasian individuals in Utah?"
My comment: In finding out that I was the only white girl (should have written Caucasian, I apologize), I knew I would need to work a little harder: 1) to impress - I was quite intimidated by the fact this group was coming from Brown University (an incredibly well-known and prestigious university), and I had the responsibility to show them around. Intimidated is a good word. 2) to try and temporarily break into your comradery. You were all there together; African Americans usually carry a very tight bond in their friendships, families and communities, and I wanted to make all of us feel at ease because we were going to be spending a few hours together. Is that fair to worry about? (Maybe I worry too much.)
To be completely honest, it was a new thing for me to be around a group of African American students. We don't get that much in Utah, unfortunately; Utah isn’t much of a melting pot. It was a great experience for me to do so. This was only my second year in college - I hadn't had much traveling/ living-outside-of-Utah experience yet. Since the time this experience took place, I have spent time living and working in Los Angeles; I lived in Germany for 18 months and spent time studying in Italy. I appreciate culture. Everyone is different. I respect that. But you can't blame a 19-year-old girl for wanting to fit in with a group different from her. The same story goes for every 19-year-old girl, in every culture. (I did glean a few fantastic fashion tips from two of those girls – they were immaculately dressed.)
Anonymous’ comment: "I especially disdain your comment 'Dat's coo. I gots dis.' Is that what people in Utah think African-Americans sound like? I am especially shocked that you are conducting tours for programs related to public relations. As a good rule of thumb, don't automatically categorize a young black man dancing as Usher, and refrain from talking about 'white girl dances' or any other racially based descriptors."
My comments: I made that comment in my head - it's what we hear portrayed on TV, in music, literature. Does that make it right? No, you're right, it doesn't. However, not everyone speaks like that. Same goes for the fact that not every American speaks with a Texas or New York accent. (Everyone knows some Texans speak with an accent, right? And New Yorkers? Or are my ears just a little off?)
You have every right to be shocked that I conducted a tour for a program related to public relations. You'll be happy to know it was my first and last. I was simply a volunteer - like all who were running that conference. I was a student at the time, in the PR program, and obviously had a lot to learn. Thank you for continuing my education today.
I stated that the young man “leaned back like Usher” because I didn’t know how else to describe his movement. I’ve seen Usher make that movement before, so I thought other people would understand what I was trying to visually describe for them. And, I use the term “white girl dance” very loosely – my friends and I have used that term for a long time at dance parties – by my definition, I would say that a white girl dance is literally, a white girl trying to dance hip hop, but failing badly. That is MY definition. But, I didn’t clarify that in my first post, so you have every right to choose to be offended at that. I apologize.
Anonymous’ comments: “Try to avoid racism in your work in PR. I would appreciate a redaction on your blog, along with an apology.”
My comment: I am not a racist person. This post was not meant in any way to racially profile anyone. Stereotypes have been set in our culture today, and I was simply playing off of them. I think a few of these things were also misunderstandings or misinterpretations - a lack of clarification on my part.
No redaction will appear, because what is posted on the internet, stays on the internet. It would still be available to the public even if I were to delete it. I will however, post this apology at the bottom of the post for future readers to reference.
My sincerest apologies, Anonymous. I appreciate your comments and truly will be much more aware of my wording and writing in the future.
Warmest regards,
AE Jones
Anonymous' comment: "As an African-American attending Brown University, I must say that I take great offense to the comments you have made. After finding out that you were the 'only white girl' in the group, you 'knew it was going to be an awesome day'? Am I supposed to understand that being around a group of all black students is a hoop-la for Caucasian individuals in Utah?"
My comment: In finding out that I was the only white girl (should have written Caucasian, I apologize), I knew I would need to work a little harder: 1) to impress - I was quite intimidated by the fact this group was coming from Brown University (an incredibly well-known and prestigious university), and I had the responsibility to show them around. Intimidated is a good word. 2) to try and temporarily break into your comradery. You were all there together; African Americans usually carry a very tight bond in their friendships, families and communities, and I wanted to make all of us feel at ease because we were going to be spending a few hours together. Is that fair to worry about? (Maybe I worry too much.)
To be completely honest, it was a new thing for me to be around a group of African American students. We don't get that much in Utah, unfortunately; Utah isn’t much of a melting pot. It was a great experience for me to do so. This was only my second year in college - I hadn't had much traveling/ living-outside-of-Utah experience yet. Since the time this experience took place, I have spent time living and working in Los Angeles; I lived in Germany for 18 months and spent time studying in Italy. I appreciate culture. Everyone is different. I respect that. But you can't blame a 19-year-old girl for wanting to fit in with a group different from her. The same story goes for every 19-year-old girl, in every culture. (I did glean a few fantastic fashion tips from two of those girls – they were immaculately dressed.)
Anonymous’ comment: "I especially disdain your comment 'Dat's coo. I gots dis.' Is that what people in Utah think African-Americans sound like? I am especially shocked that you are conducting tours for programs related to public relations. As a good rule of thumb, don't automatically categorize a young black man dancing as Usher, and refrain from talking about 'white girl dances' or any other racially based descriptors."
My comments: I made that comment in my head - it's what we hear portrayed on TV, in music, literature. Does that make it right? No, you're right, it doesn't. However, not everyone speaks like that. Same goes for the fact that not every American speaks with a Texas or New York accent. (Everyone knows some Texans speak with an accent, right? And New Yorkers? Or are my ears just a little off?)
You have every right to be shocked that I conducted a tour for a program related to public relations. You'll be happy to know it was my first and last. I was simply a volunteer - like all who were running that conference. I was a student at the time, in the PR program, and obviously had a lot to learn. Thank you for continuing my education today.
I stated that the young man “leaned back like Usher” because I didn’t know how else to describe his movement. I’ve seen Usher make that movement before, so I thought other people would understand what I was trying to visually describe for them. And, I use the term “white girl dance” very loosely – my friends and I have used that term for a long time at dance parties – by my definition, I would say that a white girl dance is literally, a white girl trying to dance hip hop, but failing badly. That is MY definition. But, I didn’t clarify that in my first post, so you have every right to choose to be offended at that. I apologize.
Anonymous’ comments: “Try to avoid racism in your work in PR. I would appreciate a redaction on your blog, along with an apology.”
My comment: I am not a racist person. This post was not meant in any way to racially profile anyone. Stereotypes have been set in our culture today, and I was simply playing off of them. I think a few of these things were also misunderstandings or misinterpretations - a lack of clarification on my part.
No redaction will appear, because what is posted on the internet, stays on the internet. It would still be available to the public even if I were to delete it. I will however, post this apology at the bottom of the post for future readers to reference.
My sincerest apologies, Anonymous. I appreciate your comments and truly will be much more aware of my wording and writing in the future.
Warmest regards,
AE Jones
Monday, January 24, 2011
White girl hailin' a taxi
Sure, I've hailed a taxi before. [That's how you say it, right? Hail?] Ahem. Obviously, I'm still getting the lingo down. There's an art to it, you know, hailing a taxi. Or so I was told by Jamal, at the 2007 PRSSA National Conference in Salt Lake City.
I was conducting an agency tour for a group of public relations students from Brown University. I met my group of students in the lobby of our hotel - I wasn't sure what to expect, but when I found my group, I knew it was going to be an awesome day. I was the only white girl, and this group was not going to let me forget it. [In a good way.]
I introduced myself and threw out some self-deprecating joke to lighten the mood. They laughed. [Chalk one up for AE Jones and subtle humor.] We walked outside and I told them we were going to have to grab three taxis to get to our agency tour. I looked at them and asked, "Anyone know how to get a taxi for us?" All eyes were on the white girl.
"Say what? You don't know how to get a cab?"
Um. No.
Jamal, in all of his gentlemanly coolness, said we weren't going to the agency unless I got us those cabs. [My thought: "Oh crap. Dat's coo. I gots dis."]
Jamal showed me how to throw my arm up and wave down a taxi. [I had to wait a few minutes for a taxi to drive by... we don't have too many of those here in SLC... not like NY.]
I spotted a cab and the butters started to fly in my stomach.
I raised my hand like a timid little school girl in 3rd grade.
"Girl, get yo hand up!" [Eeeek!]
I threw my arm out there and waved it like a blubbering idiot. But boy, did it get that cab driver's attention. [I ended up looking like this chic in the picture the rest of the day... I flung my arm around so hard I threw my back out.]
But as soon as I got those three cabs idling there, Jamal put his hand to his mouth, leaned back like Usher and said, "Ooooooooooh," [and it was one of those "ooohs" as if someone just got smoked by a sarcastic joke] "our white girl just hailed a taxi!" A few of them did a little "white girl dance" to celebrate. I smiled, blushed, shook my head and crawled into the cab.
Talent # 22: I can hail a taxi. Brown University style.
Note: Please see an Apology post that was written in response to this post.
I was conducting an agency tour for a group of public relations students from Brown University. I met my group of students in the lobby of our hotel - I wasn't sure what to expect, but when I found my group, I knew it was going to be an awesome day. I was the only white girl, and this group was not going to let me forget it. [In a good way.]
I introduced myself and threw out some self-deprecating joke to lighten the mood. They laughed. [Chalk one up for AE Jones and subtle humor.] We walked outside and I told them we were going to have to grab three taxis to get to our agency tour. I looked at them and asked, "Anyone know how to get a taxi for us?" All eyes were on the white girl.
"Say what? You don't know how to get a cab?"
Um. No.
Jamal, in all of his gentlemanly coolness, said we weren't going to the agency unless I got us those cabs. [My thought: "Oh crap. Dat's coo. I gots dis."]
Jamal showed me how to throw my arm up and wave down a taxi. [I had to wait a few minutes for a taxi to drive by... we don't have too many of those here in SLC... not like NY.]
I spotted a cab and the butters started to fly in my stomach.
I raised my hand like a timid little school girl in 3rd grade.
"Girl, get yo hand up!" [Eeeek!]
But as soon as I got those three cabs idling there, Jamal put his hand to his mouth, leaned back like Usher and said, "Ooooooooooh," [and it was one of those "ooohs" as if someone just got smoked by a sarcastic joke] "our white girl just hailed a taxi!" A few of them did a little "white girl dance" to celebrate. I smiled, blushed, shook my head and crawled into the cab.
Talent # 22: I can hail a taxi. Brown University style.
Note: Please see an Apology post that was written in response to this post.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Confession Friday
Okay - here are a few random/embarrassing facts about me to finish off the week. [Do four-day weeks sometimes seem longer than five-day weeks? Either way, I'm glad the week is over.]
And also, sorry that my blog has been kind of off and on this past week - I'm still working on transferring my blog over from blogspot. And now my headers are all blurry... no matter what I do to them in Creative Suite, they come out blurry on here. Thanks for being patient...
1. I love Lisa Loeb. I know she was big in maybe 7th grade, but I still love and listen to her frequently.
2. Yes, I picked my nose in 3rd grade. And my friend taught me about eating what you picked. [Ew. Ew. Who does that? We all did, right? *nervous laugh*]
3. When I sleep, I have to have one foot poking out of my blankets. And, I can't "tuck" my sheets. It drives me nuts.
4. All of the documents on the "desktop" of my laptop have to be organized and alphabetized.
5. My clothes in my closet are organized according to their color and function: jackets, skirts, shirts, pants, etc... all according to color.
6. Bless his soul, but I can't stand Michael Jackson. Sorry.
And also, sorry that my blog has been kind of off and on this past week - I'm still working on transferring my blog over from blogspot. And now my headers are all blurry... no matter what I do to them in Creative Suite, they come out blurry on here. Thanks for being patient...
1. I love Lisa Loeb. I know she was big in maybe 7th grade, but I still love and listen to her frequently.
2. Yes, I picked my nose in 3rd grade. And my friend taught me about eating what you picked. [Ew. Ew. Who does that? We all did, right? *nervous laugh*]
3. When I sleep, I have to have one foot poking out of my blankets. And, I can't "tuck" my sheets. It drives me nuts.
4. All of the documents on the "desktop" of my laptop have to be organized and alphabetized.
5. My clothes in my closet are organized according to their color and function: jackets, skirts, shirts, pants, etc... all according to color.
6. Bless his soul, but I can't stand Michael Jackson. Sorry.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Etiquette Night
I'm supposed to touch a little bit on dating etiquette as well as eating etiquette. I know enough about eating etiquette [don't eat like a pig], but dating etiquette? What the?! I stink at dating!
Can I get some feedback... pretty please? What are some things you would want to hear at a youth etiquette night? How can I be funny and help them appreciate the evening? They're going to be dating dinner while I speak, so half of them are going to be eating with their pinky toes while I teach them how to use a fork. Just kidding. I shouldn't be so sarcastic.
Help?
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Throw a rock at a girl, why don't ya!
Their slogan is classic... and when I get married, I'm telling Mr. Man to buy my ring there. They deserve our business for this:
"Sometimes, it's okay to throw rocks at girls."
Well said, diamond company.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Report
1. This weekend was awesome. Discovered a little bit more of downtown SLC with some friends and came up with the slogan: "Salt Lake... kinda like a city." [Had to have been there to think it is funny. I'm not sure the last time I laughed as hard as I did Friday night.] Saw a comedy show and ate at a fantastic new restaurant: Vintos. [Wood-fired pizza with a fantastic urban feel.] There really is a certain amount of dedication required to "discovering" a city. I'm determined to discover and uncover the gems of Salt Lake City. [Gems meaning restaurants, hangouts, great places I can't/ shouldn't miss, etc.]
2. Today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Bless that man. And equality.
3. Sunday night I got together with some California friends to catch up - five guys to one girl. Umm. Insert blush here. I'm not very good with guys, nor am I the super flirty type, so again, let us say: insert blush here.
4. You know what I love about a three-day weekend? You only have to go to work for four days. Go figure. Happy Monday!
2. Today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Bless that man. And equality.
3. Sunday night I got together with some California friends to catch up - five guys to one girl. Umm. Insert blush here. I'm not very good with guys, nor am I the super flirty type, so again, let us say: insert blush here.
4. You know what I love about a three-day weekend? You only have to go to work for four days. Go figure. Happy Monday!
Friday, January 14, 2011
Guest Post: Painting the Air
A special welcome to Krista from Painting the Air! Thanks for guest posting today, love!
Hi! I'm so happy to be guest posting about fashion here on AE Jones: the blog! AEJ and I have been great friends for a long time. Since ninth grade, actually, although fashionable was not really a word one would use to describe us back then. However, we were also roommates in college and that is when AEJ was the first person to teach me about fashion and inspire me to find my style. She always looked gorgeous and put together and I was still just putting on a top and a bottom and hoping they matched. Living with her helped me realize that fashion is fun! I kind of raided her closet way too many times and the poor girl was more than generous to let me. Now I find inspiration in all sorts of places, but every time I see AEJ, I remember why I first wanted to wear pretty clothes. She is the epitome of loveliness and I'm honored to post on her blog.
I'm here to show you a way to transition your wardrobe from summer to winter without buying all new items. I'm not the greatest example of this; in fact, I went to Target a few weeks ago and hooked myself up with a bunch of new sweaters. But four sweaters does not a wardrobe make, so here's a way to make your outfits stretch a little farther.
This is a maxi dress that I used to wear in the summer with a t-shirt and sandals. Maybe you have a maxi dress in your closet or maybe there is one on the summer clearance rack for super cheap. Either way, it can easily be turned into a winter skirt.
Just wear a sweater over it! Add a scarf, belt, and boots and you've successfully made a summery dress last all through the winter. If it's really cold outside, wear some sweater tights underneath. I think it's just as warm as jeans but a lot more comfortable.
A few tips for really making this outfit work: use a maxi dress that isn't tiered. A tiered one may look too prairie if worn as a skirt. Try a dress that is straight, or one that has a slight a-line cut, if it's not too billowy around the hips. If you have a skirt with lots of pattern, don't be afraid of a pattern on top too! Just be careful that they don't clash or look overwhelming. Try the classic stripes with florals, or polka dots with paisley. Use a belt to help create a waistline if your dress doesn't have one. Most importantly, wear something that you feel good in and that is fun! Fashion is all about expressing yourself, not looking like somebody else!
I hope that was helpful! Thanks for having me, AE Jones!
(Sweater: Target, Scarf: Kohl's, Belt: thrifted, Dress: Forever 21, Boots: Target)
Thursday, January 13, 2011
I need an exterminator
Ugh.
You know that surprised/ nervous feeling you get when a spider surprises you? Multiply that by seven to understand this story.
I was doing a little reorganizing in my bedroom the other night. [I get a little antsy if my furniture is in the same place for too long.]
I pulled my bed away from the wall and what did I find? No, not this, but ridiculously close to this.
Just take away the mouse and the random, nasty dirt collection, [I just found this on Google images - I feel badly for the person who took this picture, though.] and you have what I found under my bed. At least seven spiders were on that little sticky pad. I squealed like a fat kid in a candy shop, except not out of delight.
At least they're stuck to the sticky board and not crawling on my face. I had a hard time falling asleep that night.
The next night, I turned off my lamp and crawled into bed. I heard a little rustle and simply thought it was my blanket hitting a plastic sack at the foot of my bed. I wiggled around to make the bag move. It did. And it kept moving after I stopped moving. My body froze and my ears perked up in that super hero/ adrenaline rush kind of way. The bag was still moving. I turned on my lamp... peeled off my sock... chucked my sock at the bag and watched as a MOUSE ran across the carpet under my dresser. Again, I squealed like a fat kid in a candy store, except this time it was an octave higher, and it may have lasted a bit [lot] longer.
Needless to say, I need to get an exterminator. And no, I did not sleep in my bedroom.
PS... don't forget to visit tomorrow for round two of "Transformers." Krista from Painting the Air has a great tip for us!
You know that surprised/ nervous feeling you get when a spider surprises you? Multiply that by seven to understand this story.
I was doing a little reorganizing in my bedroom the other night. [I get a little antsy if my furniture is in the same place for too long.]
I pulled my bed away from the wall and what did I find? No, not this, but ridiculously close to this.
Just take away the mouse and the random, nasty dirt collection, [I just found this on Google images - I feel badly for the person who took this picture, though.] and you have what I found under my bed. At least seven spiders were on that little sticky pad. I squealed like a fat kid in a candy shop, except not out of delight.
At least they're stuck to the sticky board and not crawling on my face. I had a hard time falling asleep that night.
The next night, I turned off my lamp and crawled into bed. I heard a little rustle and simply thought it was my blanket hitting a plastic sack at the foot of my bed. I wiggled around to make the bag move. It did. And it kept moving after I stopped moving. My body froze and my ears perked up in that super hero/ adrenaline rush kind of way. The bag was still moving. I turned on my lamp... peeled off my sock... chucked my sock at the bag and watched as a MOUSE ran across the carpet under my dresser. Again, I squealed like a fat kid in a candy store, except this time it was an octave higher, and it may have lasted a bit [lot] longer.
Needless to say, I need to get an exterminator. And no, I did not sleep in my bedroom.
PS... don't forget to visit tomorrow for round two of "Transformers." Krista from Painting the Air has a great tip for us!
DOT COM
Look at your URL address bar at the top of your screen... notice anything different? Maybe, the absence of "blogspot.com?"
Mmm hmm! I made the transfer! A very good friend of mine, we'll call him Mr. J [I'm not going to disclose his name because I'm not sure he wants a million single girls rushing to find him on Facebook asking him to do the same thing for them... or asking him out] purchased the domain name "www.organizedstress.com" for me. Wow. Who does that? Mr. J does. [Thank you, Mr. J.] The great thing is, I don't lose any traffic, and it automatically forwards you to my new address. [Insert little squeal here.]
So, enjoy the "new" domain name. I'm pretty excited. And I posted my new button... I wasn't satisfied with the last one, so I did a little remodeling. And, in the transfer, I lost links to my favorite reads. So, be patient with me as I add those again - I'm sorry if I've forgotten some of you!
Mmm hmm! I made the transfer! A very good friend of mine, we'll call him Mr. J [I'm not going to disclose his name because I'm not sure he wants a million single girls rushing to find him on Facebook asking him to do the same thing for them... or asking him out] purchased the domain name "www.organizedstress.com" for me. Wow. Who does that? Mr. J does. [Thank you, Mr. J.] The great thing is, I don't lose any traffic, and it automatically forwards you to my new address. [Insert little squeal here.]
So, enjoy the "new" domain name. I'm pretty excited. And I posted my new button... I wasn't satisfied with the last one, so I did a little remodeling. And, in the transfer, I lost links to my favorite reads. So, be patient with me as I add those again - I'm sorry if I've forgotten some of you!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
My button
Look over on the side of my blog... see any new additions? My new button! Don't forget to grab it and put it on your blog.
And... I have a fun announcement! I'm hosting a special guest post by Painting the Air on Friday! She has a fantastic "Transformers" tip for you!
And... I have a fun announcement! I'm hosting a special guest post by Painting the Air on Friday! She has a fantastic "Transformers" tip for you!
Taco Stand
Taco stands in the city are a working girls best friend. I walk out the front door, turn left, go to the corner and buy my taco.
"One taco please!" [I try to say taco in my best Mexican accent, but I end up sounding more ridiculous than authentic. My name is AEJones; I'm from America and I speak American.]
"Beef or chicken?" [This is the real question. Do I feel in the mood for red or white meat? They're going to be completely different tacos. Tough decision... so I buy two. One beef. One chicken. No one gets their feelings hurt, and I walk away full.]
"Onions?" [Are you kidding me? I could eat an onion like an apple. Have I? Yes.]
The same guy everyday, throws that baby on the grill to warm her up. I hand them the money, they hand me the tacos. Then I make my way to the salsa cooler - three [generous] scoops later, I'm set. [Salsa makes everything better. And, though not very authentic, so does sour cream.] Squeeze a lime on top, roll it up and stuff it in the mouth.
The best part? I just ate a dang good taco. The worst part? No amount of washing with soap and Victoria's Secret lotion is going to get that smell of onions and cilantro off. Worth it? Yes.
PS- check out my friend Jenna's blog... she has a fun first giveaway and is trying to up her followers!
"One taco please!" [I try to say taco in my best Mexican accent, but I end up sounding more ridiculous than authentic. My name is AEJones; I'm from America and I speak American.]
"Beef or chicken?" [This is the real question. Do I feel in the mood for red or white meat? They're going to be completely different tacos. Tough decision... so I buy two. One beef. One chicken. No one gets their feelings hurt, and I walk away full.]
"Onions?" [Are you kidding me? I could eat an onion like an apple. Have I? Yes.]
The same guy everyday, throws that baby on the grill to warm her up. I hand them the money, they hand me the tacos. Then I make my way to the salsa cooler - three [generous] scoops later, I'm set. [Salsa makes everything better. And, though not very authentic, so does sour cream.] Squeeze a lime on top, roll it up and stuff it in the mouth.
The best part? I just ate a dang good taco. The worst part? No amount of washing with soap and Victoria's Secret lotion is going to get that smell of onions and cilantro off. Worth it? Yes.
PS- check out my friend Jenna's blog... she has a fun first giveaway and is trying to up her followers!
Monday, January 10, 2011
A little something good...
I work with the 13-15-year-old girls in my church group. It is a blast; I absolutely love it. I'm still working on building trust with them. I remember being that age - the last thing I was thinking about was becoming friends with my leader. Now that I'm in this position, that is one of my biggest goals - I want them to know they can trust me.
Anyway... at the beginning of every new year, we introduce a new theme - a mission statement of sorts for the girls to live by during the year. I came home after hearing the new theme and decided I wanted to make something for my girls to remind them daily of the theme and their commitment to Jesus Christ. [Hopefully.] The text comes from the Articles of Faith.
You can't really tell here [because of the white background], but I'm going to print this out on heavy weight, 8 1/2 x 11 paper - I increased the margins A LOT so the text really stands out. Pretty fun. I love the letterpress look!
Isn't that text beautiful and inspiring? [When it says "admonition of Paul," it's talking about Paul the Apostle, in the New Testament. Basically that we live what he taught.]
Anyway... at the beginning of every new year, we introduce a new theme - a mission statement of sorts for the girls to live by during the year. I came home after hearing the new theme and decided I wanted to make something for my girls to remind them daily of the theme and their commitment to Jesus Christ. [Hopefully.] The text comes from the Articles of Faith.
You can't really tell here [because of the white background], but I'm going to print this out on heavy weight, 8 1/2 x 11 paper - I increased the margins A LOT so the text really stands out. Pretty fun. I love the letterpress look!
Isn't that text beautiful and inspiring? [When it says "admonition of Paul," it's talking about Paul the Apostle, in the New Testament. Basically that we live what he taught.]
Friday, January 7, 2011
Transformers... no, not the movie
I'm talking clothing. I'm not morphing my blog into a fashion blog, but every once in a while, I'm going to talk clothes. I'm a girl. It's fun.
I had a little "comment discussion" with Vintch where we were lamenting dressing with the cold weather, but also recognizing that we don't have to go out and purchase a whole new wardrobe for winter... we [you] can "transform" a summer wardrobe. [Or maybe you can afford to go out and purchase a whole new winter wardrobe... if so, where's the love!? I'll shoot you my address and you can send me a check.]
Just have fun with the wardrobe you have. It is actually kind of a fun challenge to take your summer clothes and figure out ways to layer, be cute, AND stay warm. Be creative. Be bold.
With that said, I'm going to have a few posts in the coming weeks on "transforming pieces." I will suggest a few of my favorite things that make the transition from summer clothes to winter clothes a wee bit smoother, and I'll also get some gurus to come on and post some of their favorite things. If you'd like to contribute, shoot me an email: aejonestheblog@gmail.com. [Sydney from The Daybook did a great post about this type of thing. Follow her - she is fantastic.]
For my first Transforming Tool: [I sound like a magician..."For my first trick..."]
1. Belts - skinny/ big belts are great. You can get a handful of cute skinny belts from F21 for a small price. [Just got three for four dollars for Christmas. I know. Awesome.] Black is a staple. Gray is great. But I'd definitely throw in a few colors - pink, yellow, moss green. Maybe even gold or blue. You don't need to dress like a nun during the winter season - throw in some color. [Not that there's anything wrong with dressing like a nun... I just prefer, you know, not to. That's just me.]
Skinny belts can be worn over almost anything: blazers, dresses, sweaters, button-ups, t-shirts.
My favorite place to wear them is around the smallest part of your waist... just above the hips. [It accentuates those feminine curves we all "love."]
A few visuals for you:
...totally classy.
But notice: basic tee underneath, cute jacket/ sweater over top. Throw a belt around it and it looks polished and finished. You could also throw a colored belt (camel, pink, yellow, teal) around this to add a bit of color.
You normally wouldn't think of wearing a belt over a chunky sweater, would you? Kind of goes against everything your mom taught you about dressing when you were little. Guess what? Now we're the ones teaching our moms how to dress! A belt over a chunky sweater like this: super, super darling. [I love that sweater by the way, don't you?] You could wear this casual, to the office, on a date, with the girls...
Doesn't this outfit look comfortable? I know it doesn't have a belt around it, but you could totally throw a belt around it. I would do a simple, camel-colored, leather belt.
I think we all know how much I love this combination since I used in a previous clothing post. This gives you a good visual on wearing a belt with a blazer. You don't always have to wear the jacket buttoned - just depends on the jacket.
There we go ma dears... hope "Transforming Tool #1: The Belt" can help you as you transfer some of your summer pieces into winter.
I had a little "comment discussion" with Vintch where we were lamenting dressing with the cold weather, but also recognizing that we don't have to go out and purchase a whole new wardrobe for winter... we [you] can "transform" a summer wardrobe. [Or maybe you can afford to go out and purchase a whole new winter wardrobe... if so, where's the love!? I'll shoot you my address and you can send me a check.]
Just have fun with the wardrobe you have. It is actually kind of a fun challenge to take your summer clothes and figure out ways to layer, be cute, AND stay warm. Be creative. Be bold.
With that said, I'm going to have a few posts in the coming weeks on "transforming pieces." I will suggest a few of my favorite things that make the transition from summer clothes to winter clothes a wee bit smoother, and I'll also get some gurus to come on and post some of their favorite things. If you'd like to contribute, shoot me an email: aejonestheblog@gmail.com. [Sydney from The Daybook did a great post about this type of thing. Follow her - she is fantastic.]
For my first Transforming Tool: [I sound like a magician..."For my first trick..."]
1. Belts - skinny/ big belts are great. You can get a handful of cute skinny belts from F21 for a small price. [Just got three for four dollars for Christmas. I know. Awesome.] Black is a staple. Gray is great. But I'd definitely throw in a few colors - pink, yellow, moss green. Maybe even gold or blue. You don't need to dress like a nun during the winter season - throw in some color. [Not that there's anything wrong with dressing like a nun... I just prefer, you know, not to. That's just me.]
Skinny belts can be worn over almost anything: blazers, dresses, sweaters, button-ups, t-shirts.
My favorite place to wear them is around the smallest part of your waist... just above the hips. [It accentuates those feminine curves we all "love."]
A few visuals for you:
Simple black...
...totally classy.
But notice: basic tee underneath, cute jacket/ sweater over top. Throw a belt around it and it looks polished and finished. You could also throw a colored belt (camel, pink, yellow, teal) around this to add a bit of color.
This is just showing that you can wear a skirt, shirt untucked, and a cute belt on top. This is a little too matchy-matchy for me - kind of one color scheme going on. Throw a gray pencil skirt on and that would kind of mix things up a bit. Since you have the fun collar, you could throw a cardigan on top [maybe black] and put the belt on top.
You normally wouldn't think of wearing a belt over a chunky sweater, would you? Kind of goes against everything your mom taught you about dressing when you were little. Guess what? Now we're the ones teaching our moms how to dress! A belt over a chunky sweater like this: super, super darling. [I love that sweater by the way, don't you?] You could wear this casual, to the office, on a date, with the girls...
Doesn't this outfit look comfortable? I know it doesn't have a belt around it, but you could totally throw a belt around it. I would do a simple, camel-colored, leather belt. There we go ma dears... hope "Transforming Tool #1: The Belt" can help you as you transfer some of your summer pieces into winter.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
100?
Can I just say that whoever becomes my 100th follower is going to get a really loud, stinging, ridiculously enthusiastic, virtual high-five!?
A bouquet of sharpened pencils
Name that movie!
Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks - a classic duo.
[Also seen in "Sleepless in Seattle" and "Joe verses the Volcano"... I love "Sleepless In Seattle", but "Joe vs. the Volcano?" What the? Really?]
"You've Got Mail" is probably my favorite movie. Doesn't matter how many times I watch it, I can still watch it again. I can even squeak my way through every Jimmy Durante and Cranberries song on the soundtrack. [Note: there is only one Jimmy Durante and one Cranberries song on the soundtrack. Fortunately for all of us.] Wink.
PS- One other romantic film you have to see is called "Love Affair." It is the modern version of "An Affair to Remember." Warning label: box of tissues required.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Winners of the Giveaway!
Heavens... I'm so sorry I didn't announce the winners on Saturday! I went back to work and completely spaced this. So sorry!
So... are you ready to hear who won? Drum roll please...
The TWO winners of the fantastic new Mormon Messages DVDs are:
Megan of Mackey Madness who was incredibly supportive and excited for me to reach my follower goal. Thanks Megan!
and Jenna of This is Love who leaves incredibly kind comments. [You all leave incredibly kind comments... thank you.]
Congrats you two! Email me to get me your mailing info and I'll get these in the mail to you. [aejonestheblog@gmail.com]
Thank you to everyone for following! Much love to everyone!
So... are you ready to hear who won? Drum roll please...
The TWO winners of the fantastic new Mormon Messages DVDs are:
Megan of Mackey Madness who was incredibly supportive and excited for me to reach my follower goal. Thanks Megan!
and Jenna of This is Love who leaves incredibly kind comments. [You all leave incredibly kind comments... thank you.]
Congrats you two! Email me to get me your mailing info and I'll get these in the mail to you. [aejonestheblog@gmail.com]
Thank you to everyone for following! Much love to everyone!
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Our Best Bites
Guess who I got to meet a couple of weeks ago?
Sara Wells from Our Best Bites!
Can I say, so awesome and adorable? I didn't get to meet Kate Jones because she lives in Louisiana, but I'll get to meet her in March. These two run a fantastic cooking blog with over 5,300 followers and over 1 million visits a month. Incredible? Yes. Not to mention their incredible talent of coming up with three new recipes every week. Wow... that is pure talent. And be sure to look at their photography - they do it all by themselves. No food stylist or professional photographers - they are their own pro-photographers. You're getting more and more impressed every minute, aren't you?
And, just a few months ago, they were announced as the Better Homes and Gardens Blogger Cook-off winners! Congrats! Keep an eye out for their recipe in an upcoming Better Homes and Garden edition.
In March 2011 [I'm still not used to it being 2011, so I have to differentiate the year], Kate and Sara will be the proud authors of their new national cookbook, Our Best Bites: Mormon Moms in the Kitchen. I cannot wait to get my copy! The cookbook is open for pre-orders now.
Definitely check out their blog - you won't regret it, but your hips might. [He he.]
Sara Wells from Our Best Bites!
Can I say, so awesome and adorable? I didn't get to meet Kate Jones because she lives in Louisiana, but I'll get to meet her in March. These two run a fantastic cooking blog with over 5,300 followers and over 1 million visits a month. Incredible? Yes. Not to mention their incredible talent of coming up with three new recipes every week. Wow... that is pure talent. And be sure to look at their photography - they do it all by themselves. No food stylist or professional photographers - they are their own pro-photographers. You're getting more and more impressed every minute, aren't you?
And, just a few months ago, they were announced as the Better Homes and Gardens Blogger Cook-off winners! Congrats! Keep an eye out for their recipe in an upcoming Better Homes and Garden edition.
In March 2011 [I'm still not used to it being 2011, so I have to differentiate the year], Kate and Sara will be the proud authors of their new national cookbook, Our Best Bites: Mormon Moms in the Kitchen. I cannot wait to get my copy! The cookbook is open for pre-orders now.
Definitely check out their blog - you won't regret it, but your hips might. [He he.]
Monday, January 3, 2011
A wee bit o fashion
Isn't devising an outfit a curious thing? It is like an art. When you put something fantastic together, there is such satisfaction in the world. I bought this new pair of shoes last week and am working on an outfit for their debut. What do you think?
Happy wardrobing!
Happy wardrobing!
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