Simple Spaces

In my opinion, clutter has the power to overwhelm you. To make you feel less motivated and to make tasks seem more daunting. Some people think I am crazy for decorating my cubical, but in reality, I spend most of my time here so why not enjoy it! Here's 3 simple steps for keeping your home office [or even your cubical] calm and clutter free:

Photo and decor cred to Katelyn James Photography

1. Keep things neutral. A neutral palette puts the mind at ease and gives off a feeling of 'clean' that will be sure to keep you stress free. Don't completely shy away from color; pick one or two accent colors and incorporate them into your design through furniture and accessories. 

2. Less is more. Maybe your job demands 5 different colored highlighters or 3 envelope styles... that doesn't mean we need to see them all. Find a desk that has adequate storage or buy magazine racks or desk organizers to hide knick-knacks and clutter. A clean desktop will be a fresh space to start up new projects and will help you keep from feeling 'swamped' by your work.

3. Mix things up regularly. If you're anything like me, you find yourself bored with your office decor every few months. Go out and buy yourself a few new pieces, but make sure to recycle or stash away the old ones, until you're ready to remodel again. File organizers or pen holders come in all shapes, sizes, and designs and tend to be on the cheaper end of things. Cough cough, Target dollar section! Just remember what you learned in tip #2 and if you do opt to add to your desk, take something away, as well. 

Happy Wednesday. I can almost see you, Friday.

J.

Imaginary Dream [thought] OTD

For me anger is fuel & passion. Something I don't like motivates me to initiate change; sometimes this means changing myself and sometimes it means helping others change. Speak your mind. But keep your ears on. Each story has 2 sides and everybody has a little villain in them. I was a villain this week.

Be willing to accept your flaws and separate who you are from them. Bad qualities shouldn't define you. Above all else...

“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.” -Wendy Mass

Mid-week food for thought. Take it how you will.

J.

Imaginary Dream OTD

Less of a dream, and more of an awesome [AWESOME] idea. So simple, that you'll wish you thought of it years ago. Photo and idea courtesy of the genius mom blogging at www.noisecoveredindirt.com. I haven't had time to check, but I am willing to be she has other great ideas, so check out her page!



I don't know about you, but after 1 day my suitcase is torn to shreds. I have heard about rolling clothes to save space, but never thought of rolling a hole outfit. Love this. Take one roll out, dress, and repeat each day. 

Useful tip for for my upcoming travels. We are nearly 1 month away. I love vacations booked last minute; almost instant gratification. 

You're welcome. ;)

J.

Imaginary Dream OTD

Today, I am dreaming of a magical world. A world free of fighting and anger, and filled with mystery and whim. I need that.

Take me away.

J.

Friendships in your 20's...

Life in your 20s has its ups and downs. On one hand, you are breaking free of that horrible time suck they call 'school' and taking back your free time, but on the other you're learning that your college days are long gone and that your priorities and, more importantly, schedule are changing. 

Welcome to my life. 

I graduated college a semester early, so I was able to stay 'stuck' in my old life for a little longer. My weekends still revolved around going out partying and I was over 21, but certainly not too old to dance on a bar. 

But with the mid-twenties approaching (I turn 25 next month) I am finding it hard to find friends on my same page. I like to go out for drinks and don't get me wrong, I love dancing. But I'm a lot mellower than I used to be... I like to think it's the real me. That the party-goer me was just my insecurities coming to life and looking for acceptance. My fiancee has had a lot to do with that change as well. Not merely because I now have someone to do nothing with, but because I've learned to be less selfish and think of others wants and needs, too. He is not the going-out type, at least not to the places that I would have frequented. Now I find myself second guess making plans to go out to these places, not because I am choosing him over my friends, but because I want him included in the things I do. Hes at the top of my priority list. 

In a nutshell, I found a really great article that sums up exactly why you drift from your friends and old lifestyle, once you're in your 20's. Check it out here -----> 7 Reasons Why You Lose So Many Friends in your 20s.

Do you have extra friend baggage to get rid of?

J.

Welcome back workweek

Monday blues, are back at it again. Cheer yourself up with these hot spring fit and flares from some of my favorite retailers [that can accommodate any budget]. I love the fit and flare dress for 1 reason... it is flattering on every figure. Color can't help, but make you feel cheerful, right?!

1. Target

Fit & Flare Scuba Dress 

Score this summer dress for only $9.98 (online clearance)! Available in plum, as featured, red, royal blue, and the always classy black. Dress it up with heels and a moto jacket for a night out, or pair with flats and a blazer or jean jacket for work or day drinks with your girls.

2. Urban Outfitters

Daisy Strap Dress

Very feminine and soft. Lace up back detailing, that adds great character to an otherwise simple dress. This one comes in a little pricier at $69.00, but if you're lucky you might find a sale or free shipping code that can help keep your pocket book happy.

3. Banana Republic

Ponte fit and flare dress

A more refined twist on the fit and flare. This number can easily take you from day to night, when accessorized properly. The modesty of the long sleeve appeals to all ages and the fitted upper half makes for a classic, but trendy look. This one breaks the bank at $130. But Banana Republic clothes are staples to your wardrobe and will last you for years to come. BONUS: Log on and shop today and receive 40% off your purchase with code 'BRRAIN'.

Happy shopping!

J.

Imaginary Dream OTD

A friend of mine shared this on her Facebook and it is too good and true not to share. 

Live your life and have faith that everything will fall into place. 

Wishing all of you a wonderful weekend. Enjoy the sunshine!

J.

!!!

UPDATE:

I am going to Vegas! Flights booked, rewards purchased and soon to be booked, too. YIPEE.

--Freak out dance party-- annnnnnnnd

Done.

:)

J.

Imaginary Dream OTD

Photo taken on my most recent trip to Vegas in October of 2013; I got engaged on this trip, so Vegas will always be close to my heart.

Dreaming of Las Vegas, with hopes of getting to return next month. Sadly, my dreams of attending the Derby were shattered when I realized airfare was at best $800, with a minimum of 2 layovers. Not for me. 

Any who, I play a very fabulous Facebook game called myVEGAS. In a nutshell its a slot game rewards program through MGM. Rewards range from free hotel stays to buffet vouchers to Cirque tickets at the MGM owned properties. The game encourages the player to purchase chips, but in the almost two years I have played, not once have I bought chips. You simply build a 'Strip', collect chips from your casinos and daily spin, and play blackjack or various slot games to earn loyalty coins that can be cashed in for real life [AWESOME] rewards. Super fun. Super addicting. BUT between my fiancee and I, we had over $700 worth of rewards when we visited last fall... I would say that's worth the time put forth playing. Once again our chip counts are up and we want to cash in. 

As I've mentioned in a previous post Spirit Airlines offers discounted fares to those who pay a $59 annual fee for their $9 Fare Club membership. My plan is to purchase this, as I have flown Spirit three times in the last year alone. I am looking at a Vegas trip sometime in May and have found fare club flights for as low as $48.99 each way. Now, to get vacation time approved. 

Me-good. Fiancee-working on it. Keep your fingers crossed for me.

Goodnight, world. 

J.

Ladies night

Photo taken last night at Rudy's Redeye Grill in White Bear Lake, MN. Apps, dinner, and Rudy-tinis with one of my favorite gals.

The importance of girlfriends is often overlooked. From a young age girls start ditching their besties for their boyfriends. And let me tell you, you will regret this. I know this, because I too was a girl who ditched my pals to spend every waking minute of free time with a guy. Blah. To ruin the ending of my story, I lost all my friends.

Now, its not to say that you shouldn't love your man and want to hang out with him. But you have to aware of the consequences tied to too much time with your man...

1) He may or may not be around forever. Chances are if you have a good group of girlfriends, they will be by your side through thick and thin, including when that prince turns out to be a big fat frog. If you don't make time for the girls, they may stop including you and before you know it, you are building a friend base from scratch. Maybe not so hard when you're young, but quality friendships take time once you're into your 20's. 

2) You will start to find your guy less appealing. There is nothing that can make or break a relationship quicker than spending all your time with one person...simply for the fact that you get to know the ins and outs of them and at times these can be bad. In my experience the following things can emerge once you and your guy have reached a certain state of comfort with each other: burping, farting, ragged or dirty clothes, SWEATSHORTS, socks on the floor, unequal chore share (dishes, laundry, garbage), and general uncleanliness or disregard for ones appearance. Your man might not want to get done up and take you out on the town once he's got you locked in. Rather than get upset, use this as an opportunity for you to keep on top of your friendships and head out with your ladies! 

3) You will miss them when they are gone. Plain and simple, you will long for the late night girl talk over wine, the all day shopping excursions, and fun lunch dates at tasty cafes. Since college, I have had numerous best friends move out of the state, to different continents, and cities that take over an hour to drive to. Even though our distance is unrelated to our men, its hard to keep in touch. But try to find time to make them a priority; you won't regret it and likewise, each time you're together it will be as though no time has passed. That is the indicative of  lifelong friends. 

Hold onto them tightly, they are hard to come by.

J. 

Style Icon

With the Derby fresh on my mind... I can't help but reflect on my [current] favorite style icon. 

Now, typically a style icon refers to an individual who's personal tastes are what others wish to emulate. Mine, however, is a designer and her COMPLETE collection. Drum roll please!
Ladies and gentleman, Kate Spade. 


You can purchase this adorable handmade 8x10 Kate Spade quote print on Etsy for only $12.90.

I love all things Kate Spade. Her colors, shapes, patterns, and general wittiness. The woman speaks to my heart. I love that her looks are classic, with a modern twist. Every girl should dress like a lady at least 1 day a year. Something about putting on a classic dress and heels makes me gitty. 

Start building your Kate collection now by following this link -------> This way to cute stuff!

Imaginary Dream OTD

Today I am dreaming of the derby... the Kentucky Derby. Which just so happens to be fast approaching (May 3rd and 4th). I would love love love to attend this race, not necessarily for the horse racing (well maybe a little, competition runs through my veins), but for the hats! I love Southern Belle style and the derby is the poster child for keeping it classy in the modern age. Big floppy hats, decked with bows, flowers, pretty much anything (weird things have happened) and a-line dresses of the Kate Spade genre. Ahhh love. 

I am currently combing the internet for cheap airfare, since General Admission tickets are still available for only $50 (Saturday ONLY -- $30 for Friday ONLY events)!! Hurry, though, there is limited availability.

Buy tickets now!

Mint juleps are on me.

J.

How to get Lucky in Love

From the minute we are born, we are pretty much brainwashed. Girls are likely adorned in pink hospital blankets and an over-sized flower headband. Boys in blue and coming out swinging a baseball bat. *Props to you gender barrier breaking parents that like yellows and greens!* Our environment shapes our world; our wants, our style, our sense of self, really. 

Is it bad that Disney and other kid-friendly brands want to cram a bunch of prince charming, happy ending bogus down our throats? My answer is no.

Photo courtesy of my April 2013 trip to Honolulu, HI -- statue replica of the iconic WWII coming home photo located on the shore of the docked U.S.S. Missouri.

To some extent this Disney thinking does instill unrealistic hopes and dreams for the future. But why shouldn't we aspire to have a prince charming?! 

Here is a list of five rules to follow and live by, to ultimately make sure you get Lucky in Love.

1. Throw out the crap-shoot idea that you need to settle. Don't make someone a priority in your life, if you are just an option in theirs. You deserve to be with someone that [in some of my favorite words] 'thinks the sun shines out your ass'. Someone who would rather do nothing with you than something with anyone else.

2. Know what you want. You cannot expect to find your prince charming, when you can't even pin point what you're looking for. Figure out your 'likes' then prioritize (this will make sense after rule #3) what is most important to you in terms of a partner and a relationship. Then refer to rule #1.

3. No one is perfect. Learn that first and foremost. You won't find the exact man you dreamed up. I am sorry, but you just won't. I love my fiancee more than I thought would ever be humanly possible, but there are things he does that make me want to pull my hair out. And in the BIG scheme of things, that's OK. 

4. You will need to change. In relationships we constantly clench to the notion that 'It was them, not me.' Don't get me wrong, often times this can be the case. But refusing to acknowledge your part in a failed relationship is, in my opinion, the biggest no-no. Relationships are about compromise and if you aren't willing to work on the less appealing sides of you, then you should just get yourself some cats, pack it in and prepare to date yourself... forever.  I was ignorant and defensive when past boyfriends wanted to call me out on my flaws, but looking back this information is without a doubt helpful. Step back and take a good hard look at yourself. Are you selfish with your time? Do you feel the need to turn everything into a fight? Would you want to date someone like yourself? Hmmm....

5. Lastly, let go of past relationships, but not necessarily the person you were with. One of my best girlfriends and I discussed this last night. We concluded this: you broke up for a reason, so why waste your time dating again. Too true, but at the same time we noted this: people can do a lot of changing and growing within a few years. I certainly am a lot different than I was five years ago. If you plan to rekindle an old relationship or even build a friendship with an ex, let go of all the things you hated about the relationship or person from before. Forgive them for their faults and let them forgive you for yours; start fresh, or your relationship, romantic or not, will never be successful. Likewise, the biggest thing I can say about this is to give yourself time to grow without them. Don't jump back into relationship with an ex from 3 months ago. Regardless of what lines they feed you, they have not changed. This is not enough time to change and grow. Be cautious with your heart and don't invest more time into someone that is ultimately not worth it.

These rules can be applied to anyone. Man or woman, of pretty much any age. Don't hesitate to drop a comment if you need a little gal-pal advice.

Good luck, lovies. 

J.

Imaginary Dream OTD

Today, with the lunch hour fast approaching, I am dreaming of [and drooling over] this molten burger from the original Lucky's 13 Pub in Mendota, MN. This is their Juicy Lulu, hand stuffed with American cheese. I cut into this baby and instantly my plate flooded with yellow ooey-gooey goodness. 

If you want a fun atmosphere, with good food and drinks swing into one of their three Twin Cities locations in Mendota, Bloomington, or Plymouth or head West to their Nodak location in Fargo. For directions, a virtual menu, or more foodie photos, check out their website by clicking here.

Cyber Spring Sale

Gals in there 20's and even 30's are often times torn between two worlds when it comes to clothing. 1) I work in a professional setting and need to present myself respectfully, but I don't want to compromise my style and flare. 2) I love wild patterns and crazy colors and want to look hip. I pave the way for my own style and don't care who has a problem with it.

Okay, maybe more realistically you are a tamed down version of one of these. You get the picture though.

Regardless which of the above statements you identify with, Ann Taylor's Loft will have something for you. I am head over heels for this store, as it offers such a wonderful balance. Your typical business separates come to life with bold colors, toned down [but still fun] patterns, and cute accents or necklines. If you want to build your wardrobe, for real, you will need to make an investment. However, Loft has frequent sales and if you are die hard clearance shopper/guru like myself, you will have no problem here. FOR INSTANCE...

Loft is currently have a Cyber Spring sale with 50% off everything AND free shipping (unicorn kind of rare)! 

I recently picked up this Eyelet Front Top in store for $15. Casual and cute for weekend errands and totally work appropriate when paired with slacks or a pencil skirt.



Start shopping now. Click here!

J.

What a Weekend

Happy Monday internet folk. I hope that each and every one of you out there celebrated to your hearts wildest desires. Be that of a simple Sunday in, extravagant Easter gathering, or just some good ole sunshine, since we were blessed with summer weather! 

I am a bit behind on my dreams, but will post today to make up for lost time. 

Monday was rough for me today. A busy weekend wore me out, but all of the good vibes yesterday kept me up late-ish. The snooze button was hit far too many times today. Whoops. BUT my Monday blues were met with these blooming little gems. :)

Best yet, I picked these up PRIOR to Easter for $4.99. 

Another warm day here in MN, wishing well to all. 

Keep positive. 

J.

Imaginary Dream OTD

This is a dream not only of one of my oldest and dearest dream destinations, but also of future success. The kind that would allow me to purchase a vacation home like this, or at least a hotel like it for a night. :):):)

"A dream is a wish your heart makes." - Walt Disney 

J.

Friday Favorites

Ahhh, finally Friday. Happy end of week cyberspace, kick back and relax, you earned it. With Easter approaching I am sure there is plenty of hustle and bustle in your homes, but take a break and check out a few of my currently trending favorites:

Favorite household-helper gadget -- Rubbermaid's Paint Buddy Touch-up Tool. 

This one breaks the bank a bit at nearly $84, but with free shipping and potential for countless hours saved doing an entire repaint, you can't go wrong. Buy yours here!

Favorite Up-Cycle -- Spray painted cans



A) Everyone has some type of old can laying around their house 
B) They are super inexpensive to make (spray paint = $5?)
C) THEY ARE SO CUTE!

Favorite Pet Picture -- Most Comfortable Dog in the World



Favorite Food Idea -- Spinach Pie (MMMMMM!!!)

And I leave you with a Favorite Quote; applicable to each and everyday, but especially this weekend since life is good and we have lots to be thankful for. Hoping that loved ones are close. 

Happy Easter Weekend!

J.

Things to do in the great state of Minnesota

With all of this winter weather burdening our happy thoughts of boats, beers, and bikinis, what better way to shake your Thursday blues than to dream of all the fun you will have in a few months OR depending on how antsy you are, next week (we are getting up to the high 60's!!). 

A jam for the theme of the day, it is all ironic isn't it?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8v9yUVgrmPY&feature=kp

And while you're tuned in, check out this list of 120 activities that you could be partaking in once the grass is green. 

120 Activities to Do in the Twin Cities

Here's some shots I took last summer while engaging in activity #13.

And just when you thought it couldn't get any better... Como Zoo and Conservatory is cheap to visit(suggested $2 donation, but not required -- haven't you been meaning clean out your couch?!) and open year round.

J.

Imaginary Dream OTD

Today I am dreaming of Spring. Not so hard, thanks to these gorgeous locally grown Tulips. However...

Mother Nature is apparently dreaming of Christmas. Yuck. Drive safe MN. See you when the sun is shinin'.

J.

Imaginary Dream OTD

I'm dreaming of Hanauma Bay on the island of Oahu. I got to capture this perfect image and try my luck at snorkeling, at this favorite Hawaiian spot, almost a year ago to the day.

May this magical place find it's way into your heart and your imaginary dreams.

J.

Pack up, ship out

I am cheap. I love cheap.

I constantly am told that I find the best deals. Keep in mind the scope of my great finds ranges from clothing to vacations. Whatever type of deal you may be looking for, I am your Guru.

This post, however, is about VACATIONS.

My days are filled with imaginary dreams of far away places and the nagging feeling that I need to get away. Don't get me wrong, I have it good... but I am practical. In every aspect of the word, and even since I was a child. I am the kid that fell in roller blades and to this day, won't go near a pair. I won't go on a whim and book show tickets or a last minute flight, because I can't handle the anxiety of all of the other factors that come into play.

Will hotels be available? Will I need to rent a car? Am I not going to be able to buy groceries the following week, since I blew all my money on things that came up!?

But, I just so happen to be a great planner... so my life is not completely dull. I do book random weekend trips, but I do it cautiously. Timing is everything. Enough back story and onto the part you care about.

My top choice in airlines is Spirit Air. They have a limited coverage map, but they are sure to keep your pocketbooks stacked! If you put your name on their email list, you will be informed when fares are at their lowest. Many times they will offer cheap flights to select destinations on select dates and other times they will have coupon sales for 10-24 dollars off.

UGH! You may be thinking, I don't have the time to sort through all of that business. Completely understandable, but Spirit has you covered. Their site is organized as a low fare calendar, meaning that they show you the fare prices on the dates you choose, but also the increase/decrease of dates around your choices. This is key, to plotting out a cheap trip. Maybe Friday is too expensive, but a Sunday departure is $50 cheaper aka. MANAGEABLE. And now you're headed on a weekend girls getaway.

Currently Spirit is rocking a low fare sale with one way flights as cheap as $20 for Spirit's '$9 Fare Club' members (what it is: flat fee of $59.95 and a years worth of discounts) and $30 for non-members.

My home airport is MSP (Minneapolis-St.Paul) and if you are in the area you could be jet-setting to the below locations for, you guessed it, super cheap!

Denver - as low as $60 RT
Chicago - as low as $70 RT
Las Vegas - as low as $78.99 RT
**(non-member rates)

Pack up, ship out, you're worth it. Book here!

J.

So you think you're going to be a blogger...

When I first approached blogging I had my eye on the prize; work from home, write about my life and things I love, opportunity to buy myself new things [guilt free] and with any luck, become successful enough to have sponsors.

I mean, come on, who doesn't want designers to dish out free products to them.

But reality soon sunk in. I do not have a photographer boyfriend or best friend, fancy camera, or even a clue as to how to photograph myself. Don't get me wrong, I am uber talented when it comes to 'selfies', but full on body shots? Forget about it! I thought 'just what I need, an entire webpage devoted to pics of myself that make me cringe'. Likewise, I wasn't about to have some company or label go off on me for not presenting their clothing properly (pssst! I am 5' 3" on a good day and a far from board like).

So where did that leave my blogging career? Here.

This blog will be a smorgasbord of all my thoughts, ideas, helpful tips, an occasional outfit post, travel plans (for me or for you!), and everything/anything J (me).

Drop in, look around, stay for a day or a lifetime. But most importantly...

Enjoy.

J.