Thrifty Thursday: Watches

It wasn't until recently that I have grown an affinity towards watches - and the bigger, more gaudy, the better. Watches have increasingly regained popularity in the last year as a way to decorate your arm and showcase style. Big, small, chevron, wooden, graphic - it doesn't matter! It's just fun to experiment.

Check out these vintage watches on Etsy! Only $10!

What's New Wednesday

What's new? A new comforter!! After accidentally burning a hole in our old comforter from drying with too high of heat (ahem, Nick!), we finally sprung for an updated bed spread. I've been digging the yellow and gray combo - it's soothing and neutral.

Finding a color palette for the bedroom when married is tricky - as a girl, I crave a more feminine look but want to find a good compromise for my husband. I think this comforter from Costco is just the right amount of "pretty" without being too girly. AND, it's comfortable, good quality and affordable! Just $89 for the set.

Tasty Tuesday: Pulled Pork

I cannot take credit for this - my hubby took this venture upon himself and cooked an amazing slow cooker pulled pork sandwich. And I don't even like meat! I'm serious! This was d-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s!!

Here is a recipe to try - please keep in mind my husband deviated from the ingredients listed below. But that's awesome that you can mix and match flavors - sweet, spicy or savory - and create such a yummy meal.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 medium garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 cup chicken stock or low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon packed dark brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt, plus more as needed
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 (4-1/2- to 5-pound) boneless or bone-in pork shoulder (also known as pork butt), twine or netting removed
• 2 cups barbecue sauce (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place the onions and garlic in an even layer in the slow cooker and pour in the stock or broth. Combine the sugar, chili powder, measured salt, cumin, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Pat the pork dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork and place the meat on top of the onions and garlic. Cover and cook until the pork is fork tender, about 6 to 8 hours on high or 8 to 10 hours on low.
2. Turn off the slow cooker and remove the pork to a cutting board. Set a fine-mesh strainer over a medium heatproof bowl. Pour the onion mixture from the slow cooker through the strainer and return the solids to the slow cooker. Set the strained liquid aside.
3. If the pork has a bone, remove and discard it. Using 2 forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any large pieces of fat. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker, add the barbecue sauce, if using, and mix to combine. If you’re not using barbecue sauce, use a spoon to skim and discard the fat from the surface of the strained cooking liquid, and then add 1/4 cup of the liquid at a time to the slow cooker until the pork is just moistened. Taste and season with salt as needed.

Motivation Monday: 32 Lessons

Before crawling out of bed to make coffee, feed the cat and get ready for work I peruse Huffington Post on my phone. This morning I read 37 Life Lessons in 37 Years. I have to admit it was an inspiration, and I even had the idea to read the article weekly as a motivator to just enjoy what blessings I have in my own life. But then I decided to take it to the next level and think about 32 life lessons I have learned and share with my readers (as I am 32-years young). Check it out!!

• Lesson #1: Wake up every day with a smile. Starting off on the right foot - or with the right expression on your face - will only perpetuate positivity throughout your morning, day and night! Try it - it works!
• Lesson #2: Make a plan - a daily plan. List out the chores, errands, work projects and life goals on a daily basis. But...(read lesson #3)
• Lesson #3: Regardless of your plan, always be flexible enough to throw said plan out the window. Life is about experiences and an openness to enjoy the occasional spontaneity.
• Lesson #4: Remember that people's words, reactions and/or thoughts are unrelated to you. What others do is not a reflection of you - it's about what is going on in their own lives.
• Lesson #5: Treasure the small things in life. Appreciate what you have in life.
• Lesson #6: And do not focus on the things you don't have.
• Lesson #7: Be goofy, silly and fun. Life can be too serious at times; so don't be afraid to lighten the mood.
• Lesson #8: Just do your best...every day.
• Lesson #9: Don't be hard on yourself - remember that "Rome wasn't built in a day." 
• Lesson #10: Spend time with your friends and family. Time is the most precious, selfless gift you can give.
• Lesson #11: Love all but most importantly love yourself.
• Lesson #12: Be romantic - allow yourself to be open to love and embrace romance.
• Lesson #13: Scare yourself. Face your fears. Overcome your challenges. 
• Lesson #14: Talk to a stranger - whether it be a person in line at the grocery store, or a passerby. Try to at least say "hi" and ask how their day is going. Trust me; putting yourself out there feels less lonely.
• Lesson #15: Make eye contact with people. Don't be afraid to look people directly in the eye. You have nothing to hide or be ashamed of.
• Lesson #16: Advocate for yourself. Don't be combative but don't be cowardly.
• Lesson #17: Be true to yourself. Be insightful. Think about what you want - or what you believe. And own it.
• Lesson #18: Don't be afraid to be alone. 
• Lesson #19: Relax. Enjoy downtime. Don't be a couch potato but don't be a robot either.
• Lesson #20: Read. Read the paper, the news, and/or a novel. Exercise your brain.
• Lesson #21: Dance.
• Lesson #22: Buy someone an unexpected present - a 'just because' gift.
• Lesson #23: The little things count. Send a sympathy card if a friend/coworker/family member is going through something difficult. Or write a congratulatory text or email if something exciting happens in an acquaintances' life!
• Lesson #24: Dream big. Then break your dream into tangible, bite-able goals.
• Lesson #25: Be happy for others. And mean it. 
• Lesson #26: Compare yourself to others then remember that we are each on our own journey.
• Lesson #27: Travel.
• Lesson #28: Don't be afraid to be sexy.
• Lesson #29: Walk the walk. Stopping talking the big game and not delivering. Say what you mean, and mean what you say.
• Lesson #30: Be the kind of friend you want in your own life. 
• Lesson #31: Stop being so hard on yourself...and others.
• Lesson #32: Stop and smell the roses. Enjoy life.

Thrifty Thursday: A Statement

As many of you know, I love to be casual and comfy. But I still like to spice it up a bit! So, the sweatshirt with a statement necklace trend has been one of my favs. And I'm glad it is still "in" - regardless, I would still rock it.

I have found Amazon to carry some fun, inexpensive statement necklaces. Check it out!

Amazon ($10.99)

Amazon ($16.85)

Amazon ($7.99)

What's New Wednesday: Neon

Anyone else inspired by The Bachelor's exciting date at the Salt Lake City neon/electric race? Well, I was! So much, in fact, that my hubby and I are signed up for the Neon Run 5K on April 12 as well as the Electric Run on December 9. Better get training for not only the run but also the dancing. =)

 

Check it out! And here is a limited Living Social deal for the Neon Run this spring.

Tasty Tuesday: Cobb Salad

Cobb Salads are my go-to at restaurants. I secretly keep ranking and at the top of my list is Tap Room! Because of my affinity to the jammed-packed salad, the hubby and I love to recreate at home! Check it out!

Salad
1/2 head iceberg lettuce, cored and shredded
1/2 head romaine lettuce, chopped
1/2 bunch watercress, some of the stems trimmed, chopped
2 ounces blue cheese, crumbled (we used a Stilton)
6 strips cooked bacon, roughly chopped
3 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 medium tomatoes, peeled*, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 boneless skinless chicken breast, cooked and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chives, minced

Make the salad: On a (very) large platter, combine the iceberg and romaine lettuces along with the watercress. Arrange the blue cheese, bacon, eggs, tomatoes, chicken, and avocado on top of the greens in neat rows. To serve, drizzle salad with dressing, season with salt and pepper, and top with chives. Alternatively, toss everything together in a bowl.

Do ahead: Salad dressing keeps, covered and refrigerated, for up to one week. Individual ingredients (except the avocado, which is too prone to browning) can be prepped and chopped, and kept in separate containers in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the salad. However, no doubt due to sturdiness of 2/3 of the lettuces, I found that the entire assembled salad kept surprisingly well wrapped in plastic in the fridge for a few hours.

Motivation Monday: MLK

A little history with a side of service. Check it out! (copied from MLK.gov)

About Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service

January 20, 2014 will mark the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. federal holiday. This milestone is a perfect opportunity for Americans to honor Dr. King’s legacy through service. The MLK Day of Service empowers individuals, strengthens communities, bridges barriers, creates solutions to social problems, and moves us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a beloved community.
Explore this site to learn more about MLK Day and how you can participate. Below are a few links to get you started.

• Why Serve on MLK Day?
• How Can I Serve?
• Learn About Dr. King

What is the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service?

After a long struggle, legislation was signed in 1983 creating a federal holiday marking the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 
In 1994, Congress designated the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service and charged the Corporation for National and Community Service with leading this effort. Taking place each year on the third Monday in January, the MLK Day of Service is the only federal holiday observed as a national day of service – a "day on, not a day off." The MLK Day of Service is a part of United We Serve, the President's national call to service initiative. It calls for Americans from all walks of life to work together to provide solutions to our most pressing national problems. The MLK Day of Service empowers individuals, strengthens communities, bridges barriers, creates solutions to social problems, and moves us closer to Dr. King's vision of a "Beloved Community."

Why Serve on MLK Day of Service?

Dr. King believed in a nation of freedom and justice for all, and encouraged all citizens to live up to the purpose and potential of America by applying the principles of nonviolence to make this country a better place to live—creating the Beloved Community. 
The MLK Day of Service is a way to transform Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and teachings into community action that helps solve social problems. That service may meet a tangible need, or it may meet a need of the spirit. On this day, Americans of every age and background celebrate Dr. King through service projects that strengthen communities, empower individuals, bridge barriers, and create solutions.

How can I serve on MLK Day?

People of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities can get involved. Just fill in your zip code in the Find a Project box to locate a volunteer opportunity in your community or plan your own project.

Learn about Dr. King

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a vital figure of the modern era and a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement. His lectures and dialogues stirred the concern and sparked the conscience of a generation. His charismatic leadership inspired men and women, young and old, in this nation and around the world. 

Following in the footsteps of his father, in February 1948, at the age of 19, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. entered the Christian ministry and was ordained at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. In 1954, upon completion of graduate studies at Boston University, he accepted a call to serve at the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. While there, he was an instrumental leader in the Montgomery Bus Boycott, made famous by the nonviolent resistance and arrest of Rosa Parks. He resigned this position in 1959 to move back to Atlanta to direct the activities of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. From 1960 until his death in 1968, he also served as co-pastor with his father at Ebenezer Baptist Church. Dr. King was arrested 30 times for his participation in civil rights activities.

While Dr. King preached about justice, empowerment, love and peace, in the final months of his life, his attention was turned to fighting poverty. Sadly, more Americans live in poverty today than during Dr. King's lifetime. Forty-seven million Americans currently fall below the poverty line.
Dr. King was shot while standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee and died on April 4, 1968. He had gone to Memphis to help lead sanitation workers in a protest against low wages and intolerable working conditions. 

Learn more about Dr. King’s life from The King Center website.

Thrifty Thursday: Boyfriend Jeans

I love the juxtaposition of a trendy boyfriend jean with a sleek heel, lacy top and structured blazer. Not only is it a sophisticated look, it's comfortable. Here are some great boyfriend jean finds that will not break the bank.

Gap $69.95

H&M $39.95

Target $17.98

What's New Wednesday: Restaurant Week

Restaurant week, again?! Yum and yes! From January 19-24, San Diego neighborhoods will be celebrating the 10th annual Restaurant Week. Take advantage of delicious deals and try a new venue. Check out the participating restaurants and make your reservations today!

Tasty Tuesday: Costa Brava

In the mood for some yummy Spanish Tapas? Check out Costa Brava in Pacific Beach! Go for Happy Hour with friends from 4pm-6pm to enjoy half off sangria and tapas.

Happy Hour: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
1/2 price Sangria
1/2 price Tapas
- See more at: http://khh.cmisol.com/sandiego/bars/Costa_Brava#sthash.RAaVyrk2.dpuf

Happy Hour: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
1/2 price Sangria
1/2 price Tapas
- See more at: http://khh.cmisol.com/sandiego/bars/Costa_Brava#sthash.RAaVyrk2.dpuf

Happy Hour: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
1/2 price Sangria
1/2 price Tapas
- See more at: http://khh.cmisol.com/sandiego/bars/Costa_Brava#sthash.RAaVyrk2.dpuf

Motivation Monday: Avoiding Overcommitment

I'm a firm believe in a healthy work/life balance but what happens with your social activities start to take over your life? Here are some tips to avoid overcommitment. Just say no! =) 

• Take Control: Over promising, overextending, overestimating and overdoing does not help you live a balanced life, take care of yourself or develop a positive and healthy professional identity. It always seems that there's too little time and too much to do. But selecting your activities and opportunities carefully is one of the most important skills to master. Saying "no" and respectfully declining enticing opportunities will serve you much better than taking on a project, then quitting and letting people down once you're involved. 
• Examine your schedule and available time. Sit down with your calendar and list all of your responsibilities, as well as your routine and mandatory activities. After reviewing your schedule, determine if you have already taken on too much. Can you scale back any of your activities to free up more time for new opportunities? Decide what is realistic and what is most important to you in light of your existing obligations.
• Avoid last-minute commitments. While a calendar can serve as a useful visual reminder of standing and upcoming events, too many blank spaces may tempt you to fill them quickly with new activities. Before taking on another obligation, be sure to obtain a good description of what will be expected of you and the time investment. Consider how the new activity will contribute to your development and if it's in-line with your goals. Be sure to set aside time in your schedule for rest and relaxation. Days reserved "just for you" or "just for family" are as important as everything else!
  
• Say "no" and "yes" and mean it. Learning to say no can be a very difficult thing to do. People that you don't see or interact with on a regular basis may not realize the full extent of your time commitments. When your schedule is already pushing its maximum capacity, it's not only permissible, but important, to say no and to feel comfortable setting limits.

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What's New Wednesday: Shopular

Free app! Get alerted to sales and coupons for nearby stores while you shop. This location-aware application pings you with deals from thousands of national retailers like J.Crew and Banana Republic. Check it out: shopular.com.

Motivation Monday: Channeling

I read recently that an effective way to relieve anxiety is to channel said emotion into excitement. That sparked my interest as I'm an anxiety-ridden person, especially as of late. With so many thoughts running through my mind daily, the idea of turning my nervous energy into positive sounds like a vacation on the beautiful seven-mile, white sandy beaches of Negril (ah, Jamaica!). So, I decided to investigate further - I mean, think about it. Anxiety and excitement have very similar physical affects - butterflies in the stomach, shortness of breath, racing heart beat, sweaty palms and inability to think clearly. Sound familiar?

If you are facing some big challenges at work - like a presentation, merger, an impossible project, or have a large social commitment such as a wedding, party, etc, here are some steps to alleviate your stress and shift into excitement.

1. Don’t think, jump into action. Don't allow your mind a moment to process but rather focus on something to do. Put your energy towards accomplishing a task. Distraction - while being productive - is sometimes the best medicine.
2. Know the things that restore you to your center; do them. I personally find salvation in running, reading, yard work and Barre Method. When you are feeling overwhelmed, try to employ one of your favorite activities to escape your anxiety. Again, distraction but with a side of physical and healthy activity. =]
3. Consciously think about the fear/anxiety/excitement scale. Choose to move yourself over just a notch (usually that’s all it is) from anxiety to excitement. If you were excited about this thing, if everything could truly go right, how would you feel? What would it look like? Stay there.
4. Talk it out. Get on the phone with someone and get your anxiety out in the open. If it festers, it grows bigger. Nip it in the bud, out yourself and let saner minds help you through it.
5. And get into motion. (Item 1 again, because it’s important).

Lastly, remember this notion. No one wants to see you fail. Your audience (life companions, the other ‘actors’ in your personal show) are all rooting for you.

Feels Good Friday: 1 year

Holy smokes! I didn't realize my blog was one-year old on January 2! That's exciting - my 2013 resolution in action.

Well, now in 2014 my plan is to have a new blog look and feel by February. I guess I better start brainstorming. =-)

Thanks for reading!

Thrifty Thursday: Active

I used to just wear my husband's old shorts and raggedy t-shirts to run or lift weights, not caring of my appearance during my workout. Of course, I heard the suggestions to "look cute" at the gym in order to be more motivated but preferred my roomier options. That is until barre class - ballet meets Pilates meets yoga meets torture. =) My baggier clothes were no longer an option - they were uncomfortable and not appropriate. So, I finally splurged on some workout gear - shopping at places like Marshall's, Ross and Target. Here are a few options that don't break the bank.

F21 $19.80 (Hoodie)

F21 $19.80 (Capris)

Kohls $32.99

Also check out:
Athleta
Target
Marshall's

2014: The List

I have heard an inordinate amount of times that 67% of people fail to accomplish their New Year's resolutions. Will that stop me? No. I think the New Year is a time to start over - it's my excuse for a clean slate. So, I enjoy creating resolutions to better myself professionally, personally and physically. Here is my list.

1. Do more. I talk a big game but haven't been much of a doer in the recent years. In my early twenties, I didn't think - I just did. Now, to be honest that kind of spontaneity got me in some trouble (think: Army). But, I would like to employ that "throw caution to the wind" attitude and experience more. So, first thing is first. The hubby and I are planning a trip to Ireland. There, I put it in print, which means we need to go. Right, honey? =)
2. Go to the doctor. Albeit I'm a bit of a hypochondriac (I admit it!), I do think I need to get an annual physical to address any issues. I hate the doctor - literally avoid appointments at all cost. But I need to set a good example for my husband. I also need to face my fear of needles; this is getting ridiculous - I'm 32-years old! Moreover, I would like to consider an anti-depressant. I know I'm not supposed to shout that all over the "internets" but I'm not ashamed. Since my mother passed away 11-years ago, I haven't been the same and being happy is somewhat of a challenge. I have tried to conquer this battle on my own but I think it's time for more professional help. 
3. Make more meals. Um, well how about make meals! And not soup, toast, quesadillas or grilled cheese I typically prepare. I want to spend time with the hubby, making meals together. And trying for healthier options. 
4. Learn a language. Okay. Make steps towards learning a language. My husband and I really want to speak Italian. Last year I made the resolution to take Italian classes. Well, that didn't happen so I'm putting it back on the list.
5. Appreciate the great outdoors. Take walks, hike, swim, run by the ocean, go to the park. I want to unplug - not watch television (as much), get off the computer and put my phone down. I just want to appreciate nature.
6. Be a better friend, family member and wife. Period. 
7. Appreciate my body. With every picture I cringe - my immediate urge is to delete from my phone, computer, Facebook, Instagram. But I need to remember that looks are fleeting and that I should appreciate what my body can do - run, Bar Method, Insanity, bike rides, paddle board, swim, etc. Instead of concerning myself with an unflattering photo, I need to focus my energy on my health.
8. Create professional goals. While I am proud of my accomplishments thus far, I have a strong sense I'm capable of more responsibility. So, I need to create a clear, strategic plan in order to not be stagnant in my career. 
9. Become more active in my community. I joined the PB Town Council last year, but I haven't done much with my role. I would like to expand upon my commitment and create more of an impact - whether that be running for Traffic Commissioner, volunteering more or organizing more events for my neighbors.
10. Restructure 30andfaddy. Towards the end of 2013, I became lazy with my blog; so, I would like to revamp the site in order to fit my needs and create more interesting content for my readers.

What are your resolutions? Regardless of your goals, here's to a new year! Welcome 2014!