Lunch with LooLoo

Organizing in the New Year

2012-01-05T06:52:00.000-08:00

I found an item in Bed Bath and Beyond that changed my life yesterday. Ok I'm exaggerating, it changed my closet, which makes me happy and brings me a sense of calm, which in turn changes my life.
The item that changed my life. Get one HERE.

It's Real Simple's Scarf/Belt Hanger . My closet went from being messy and overwhelming to actually having free hangers to work with! Scarves were taking over my closet!

See the before .... brace yourselves.

And the after, now you can all breathe a sigh of relief.

All with one little item that with my trusty coupon only cost me $8. Here's the best part - $8 for two of these lovely organizers!

Run out and get one ladies! You can hang your belts on there too if you have a belt obsession instead of a scarf one like mine.

Home for the Holidays

2011-12-29T07:14:00.000-08:00

This year I hope all of these things were true for you:

My first batch of sugar cookies!

Lots of yummy goodies to fill your belly.

Lots of good booze to lift your spirits and help you cope with the craziness that is the holidays.

Our very first full size tree. Santa came!

Beautiful holiday decor to surround you and keep your spirits jolly.

My wonderful husband and I.

And more than any of these things, I hope you were surrounded by loved ones. Family friends or whomever makes your heart smile.

My longtime friend Erin, and her boy, my godson, Cassius.

Still more fun to come for New Years! Any fun plans? Do you go all out or keep it lowkey?

Tis' the Season for Coconut Flakes

2011-12-01T08:32:00.000-08:00

I recently gained a new appreciation for Malibu rum while on my honeymoon in Aruba. Shocking.

I've just learned that they came out with a new Malibu Holiday/Winter Edition that features actual coconut flakes in the rum! I'm sooooo goddamn excited!

I love the flavor of coconut in absolutely anything. However, believe it or not I'm not a huge fan of sweet drinks. Here are a few solutions I've come up with to this problem when it comes to mixing up some Malibu yummyness for my glass:

Malibu and black cherry seltzer. Just enough sweet and absolutely delicious!
Malibu and club soda with just a splash of coca-cola. Obviously Malibu and Coke is a staple at most bars, I find the amounts of sugar in Coke to be disturbing so this is my fast fix to this problem.

What will you be mixing up this holiday season?

DIY Holiday Decor

2011-11-30T09:37:00.000-08:00

I'm a huuuge fan of Real Simple Magazine. They sent me a cute DIY project slideshow this morning for holiday decor and I thought I'd share.

The gold gift bow wreath is my favorite, how about you?

Credit here.

I plan on attempting some DIY garland next.

I found some great DIY projects on Design Sponge. Check it out!

I made my own Christmas wreath this year and it came out just as nice as the marked up ones you find at places like Pier 1. I also find some satisfaction in DIY projects. I'm no Martha Stewart, but I take pride in saving $ and sprucing up my home at the same time.

What easy DIY projects have you done? Please share!

Credit here.

This year I'm taking my first stab at making glorious Christmas sugar cookies. I hope they come out looking somewhat recognizable.

Cybertastic!!

2011-11-28T11:09:00.000-08:00

Today has been a cybertastic day so far! Yes I made that word up.

Photo credit here

Free shipping and deep discounts is sooo much better than fighting the holiday crowds at the stores!


Photo credit compliments of MSNBC

I'm trying to avoid being brainwashed by all of the Christmas hype that is all over the televisions, radios, and any store you walk into nowadays. Whenever possible, shop local, and shop with cash so the store owners don't have to pay credit card fees.

I tried to create a holiday list with at least half of the items from ETSY.

ETSY is a great way to do some local shopping, and support small business. Most sellers do take credit cards instead of paypal if that is an issue.

This holiday season I plan on keeping my focus on what is important, family, not shopping malls or gifts or last minute stocking stuffers. I can't deny that a nice thoughtful gift puts a smile on my face, however stay focused on your family and your blessings that come in the form of beautiful people who are part of our lives.

Happy holidays my friends!

Photo credit here.

Keep calm and carry on and get out of the malls whenever possible!

We're Married!!

2011-11-08T09:07:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry to my followers that I've been such a slacker. I was busy getting married!! We are officially a family now and I couldn't be happier!

Here is my pre-ceremony shot that I wanted so badly. What do you think? I started to cry of course (happy tears). I was a ball of emotions that day.

Please follow this link to see a small sampling of my wedding photos. Michael Bloom Photography is amazing! I would recommend them to any and everyone! He made me look like a goddess in the below photo, I seriously can't even believe it's me! And such fun wedding party shots. I'm still waiting on all of the photos, but the sampling alone has me drooling!!

All the wedding stress is over (Thank Christ!) and now I get to settle into the warm fuzzy holidays with my husband. I'm thinking warm fire, hot cocoa, Christmas music, ridiculous amounts of food! All with the man I love.

Mmmmm get in my belly!!

I love to decorate for the holidays!

Friday Funny

2011-09-30T10:02:00.001-07:00

Always come back to my ninja love.

Happy Friday everyone! I hope you all have a lovely fall weekend.

List 10 Things You Are Grateful For

2011-09-27T07:39:00.000-07:00

With my wedding fast approaching, (so sorry for my lack of posts lately!) and my nerves and moods in constant flux I thought it might be a good time to go back to an old journaling exercise. List 10 things that you are grateful for.

1) My wonderful fiance, and soon to be husband, who not only sticks by me through everything, mood swings and all, but loves me (and tells me everyday) in the midst of all the craziness.

2) Alcohol, yes I said it. No, I'm not an alcoholic, but it sure has been helping me out lately when my nerves need some calming.

3) My wonderful family and friends who have been unbelievably generous and helpful with the planning of our wedding. Their love and generosity never ceases to amaze me.

4) My car. I thought my baby needed new brakes, and I was going to be screwed with a huge bill right before the wedding. Took her in, and low and behold, she just needed a little TLC, nothing major. Still have a few months on the brakes.

5) The financial ability to even have this wedding! I complain about the costs almost daily, but when I really think about it, I'm so happy that everyone is coming together to celebrate our union. It make me feel so honored and spoiled all at the same time.

6) My job, yes it is making me bat shit crazy lately, but I'm still happy to have one. Trying to tie up all those loose ends before my big break for the wedding and honeymoon!

7) My upcoming honeymoon/vacation. We're going to aruba! I've never been to the bahamas and I'm looking forward to a whole lotta R&R. Especially after planning a wedding!

8) My health! Yes sounds kinda funny since I suffer from 2 autoimmune conditions. HOWEVER, they have both remained relatively calm in the midst of all of the wedding stress. I'm so so thankful for that! Feeling good!

9) Massages! I treated myself to one last week. Deep tissue and boy was I sore and boy did I need it.

10) The upcoming holidays, I'm beyond excited to have my first Thanksgiving and Christmas as a married couple. I'm going to be all warm and fuzzy and lovey and destressed this year for the holidays.

What are you most grateful for at the moment?

Remember, even on the worst of days, there is always something to be thankful for.

Swarovski Ladybug Love

2011-09-08T13:35:00.000-07:00

I have a slight obsession with ladybugs. I love them, any charm, nicknack or tiny figurine I can find of one I end up purchasing.

With my impending nuptials I've been a stressed out mess lately. Aaaand Swarovski send me a little birthday gift of $15 credit so I treated myself to the newest addition to my collection. (I can justify any purchase) Meet Lucky Ladybird.

Lucky Ladybird

Now I need to buy a printer's/letterpress drawer to hang on my wall to hold all of my little neurotic collectibles. This one I found on etsy is of particular interest to me.

You can find it here on etsy.

Go Green! Go to a Yard Sale!

2011-08-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

Do you know that here in the US, we produce one third of the worlds trash?

I feel like I'm performing an earth-friendly service by purchasing from yard sales vs. stores. Why not get something for a quarter instead of paying full price for it at Homegoods or Walmart? Especially if you have the ability of washing it, ta-da!! Good as new!

I've always been a huge fan of yard sales, and great finds for great prices. There are a few select items that I wouldn't purchase from a yard sale necessarily, but not many. I'm planning a yard sale for Labor Day Weekend, so I'm super excited.

I have yard sale strategy. I plan on putting my key items (sure to sell) in the front, making them visible to all who drive by.

I've even found a very handy "How to Host a Garage Sale" tips guide on Real Simple's website.

I've purchased brand new items with tags still intact, everything from hiking bags to silverware holders to blankets. Why the hell not?

Do both your wallet and the earth a service by stopping by next time you see a yard sale! If it's washable then it's doable, and haggle away, that's half of the fun!

Brouse these Recycling Fun Facts to get excited about going green. Your children and grandchildren will thank you.

Today, and everyday my friends...

2011-08-18T12:02:00.000-07:00

this is my wish for you. Using this as a reference always helps in times of trouble.


Find this @ quotablecards

Just keep swimming, just keep swimming....

I love everything on the quotablecards website! They sell anything from stationary, candles, magnets to tote bags, mugs and framed quotes/wall art. All of the saying are lovely. Definitely check out the website.

Pre-Ceremony Photos / Would you do this?

2011-08-15T09:02:00.000-07:00

What do you think of this idea? You don't get to actually see eachother, but you do get to feel the touch of your soon-to-be husband's hand?

I love this idea! A pre-ceremony shot without actually seeing eachother. I must have one of these. Oh the anticipation!

(Photo by Gina Leigh )

Etsy, My Bestie

2011-08-01T10:56:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard of the website Etsy yet, well get on board! It's an amazing site where crafters can sell, anyone can purchase, and you can network with fellow crafters or buyers. I've found many fantastic items on the site at unbeatable prices. Best part is, every item is unique and more than likely one-of-a-kind!

For when I finally acquire a macbook, I must have one of these:

You can find cookie monster here.

For when we finally finish paying for our upcoming wedding maybe I'll be able to purchase some original artwork for our bedroom. Gorgeous!


You can buy this fantastic piece here.

I've gotten so many wonderful wedding DIY ideas from Etsy. Below are a few I will attempt on my own.

These can be bought here.


This can be bought here.

Buy this beauty here.

I actually went ahead and bought this print, couldn't resist. Find it here.

My mother went ahead and bought us the card box below, personalized of course.

Order one here.

I want these items just because, well, they're fab!


Purchase this here.


Angora Jersey Thumbhole Armwarmers. Buy them here.

Yes please! Buy this Gold ring w/semi-precious Carnelian here.

Friday Funny: I Heart Dennis Leary

2011-07-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

"A coffee flavored coffee!!!"

There has never been a time I've watched a Dennis Leary clip and not laughed. I had the pleasure of seeing him live on his comedy tour recently in Albany, NY at Palace Theatre. Hes still got it!

My Bridal Shower.......

2011-07-27T10:18:00.000-07:00

was a hit! I was surprised with a gorgeous Jimmy Choo cake, which was an exact replica of the shoe I will wear on my wedding day. Ladybugs everywhere, since I'm obsessed with them. The best part of all: wonderful family and friends everywhere!

My wedding shoe replica cake! Made by Corsino Cakes.

It was really such an honor to be joined by so many people, a good majority of which traveled over an hour, just so they could celebrate our impending marriage. I'm in awe of how lucky I am to have so many amazing supportive people in my life.

I know you're really supposed to create a bouquet out of the ribbons from the shower and use it at the rehearsal, however my friends thought the hat was much better. What do you think?

Bridal Shower Antics

I had my makeup trial done the morning of my shower, and I'm very happy with the results! Might as well have somewhere to go when you're all dolled up.

My MOH picked out the most adorable favors for the shower. Ladybug magnets! I was soooo close to buying these for wedding day favors!

There were also gorgeous gerber daisies everywhere. Love Love Love!!!

Thank you to everyone who came, helped out and made the day so special for me. I love you all!

What I Can't Live Without

2011-07-26T10:02:00.000-07:00

So here are a few things that I absolutely could not survive without.....OK maybe I could, but I'd be a rather bitchy individual.

I love HONEST TEA! If you haven't already tried it, please do! It's very low in both calories and sugar so it's good for your waistline, also it's loaded with antioxidants. Wayyy better for you than Lipton tea, unless of course you drink the unsweetened version of it (I do).

I highly recommend the flavors pictured here: Lori's Lemon, and Peach Ooh-La-Long
Yummmmo!!!

Rosebud Salve is my ultimate savior. I use it on my lips (the only thing that helps them when they are really chapped in the winter), I use it on my hands, my cuticles, and in the winter when I have static hair, you can rub a bit in the palms of your hand then smooth over hair lightly, and BAM, problem solved! You can always find this product at Sephora.

To relieve some stress and burn some calories get off your butt and try ZUMBA! This latin dance-inspired fitness craze is taking over and it is easy to find a class most anywhere you look.

I hate treadmills and most aerobic exercise boors the hell out of me. I love to dance so Zumba is the perfect workout for me. I can dance for over an hour straight and I am soaked in sweat so I know it must be doing something. Also, this has always been a major source of stress relief for me.

Even if you feel you have two left feet, I guarantee no one is watching you. Just keep on moving and have a good time with it, you'll love it!

Please try Dove's Shea Butter body lotion if you haven't already. The scent is divine and it leaves my legs and body feeling silky smooth!

When it comes to makeup I love my Laura Mercier! It covers up the never ending dark circles that are under my eyes. And the tinted moisturizer serves as an excellent alternative to heavy foundation. Both are excellent products and well worth the $.

Do tell, what products should I be trying? What is it that you can't live without in your daily routine?

Ahh Yes, and last but certainly not least, I love getting into a bed made with crisp freshly cleaned sheets more than about anything else. Not anything, but just about! Who's with me here?!

Bridal Shower Jitters

2011-07-21T12:07:00.000-07:00

My bridal shower is quickly approaching, this weekend, and I'm so excited I can't focus on anything. Therefore I will blog instead of working.

I know the date, time and location, otherwise the only other details I know is that there will be some beautiful gerber daisies there.

However I suspect there will also be some delicious cupcakes, since I'm obsessed with them! Hoping for red velvet (fingers crossed)!

It's overwhelming to me that all of these people are coming together to celebrate just for lil ol' me. I must get used to this attention thing. There will be more of it to follow at the wedding, I suspect.

Oh, only other thing I suspect is a mountain of gifts. My inner child can't help but be giddy. It's like christmas morning for adults! I'm a registry stalker too, by the way. Kind of ashamed to admit, but I know I'm not alone there!

Even more exciting than the cake, presents and flowers will be the presence of all of my loved ones, friends and family, showing up to celebrate my future marriage, love and life. I am truly blessed.

Have a great weekend all, I know I will!

XOXO
- J

Friday Funny: "Do you like me now??"

2011-07-15T08:57:00.001-07:00

This young girl is wise beyond her years, and for your amusement, incredibly funny. Spastic too, which I can appreciate.

My favorite part: "What's 2+2? Gonorrhea."

Happy Friday everyone! XO

M&M's Coming to a Wedding Near You?

2011-07-14T07:06:00.000-07:00

I love M&M's just as much as the next gal. Chocolate in every color imaginable, how could you not!

However I've noticed a bit of a trend, M&M wedding cakes! What do you think?

Check out M&M's wedding website.

This is amazing, however they managed to balance those cake layers on the bowls. Nothing short of a work of art!

They are always great as favors or part of the candy buffet, if you choose to have one. You can get the wedding date, names and even your faces printed right on there!

Don't forget the notorious wedding bands photo op! Why not add a pop of color?

I love the color and clarity of this image, perfection!

My man would love some of these for sure! Too bad he's allergic to chocolate.

Whatever the wedding scheme, theme or colors, you can always incorporate some M&Ms in a classy way in my opinion.

M&M love FOREVER!!

Friday Funny: Ziplining

2011-07-08T08:26:00.000-07:00

This is hysterical. What a way to make a wedding reception entrance.

A few words of advice to soon-to-be-married folk: save the ziplining for the honeymoon!

I must say, the groom made a nice recovery, just got up and walked away like nothing even happened.

Fresh Faces

2011-07-06T10:45:00.000-07:00

I'm nearing the date of my wedding makeup trial and I've been compiling photos of some beautiful celebrity faces.

I do not wear a ton of makeup in my day-to-day life so I just want to look as fresh and glowing as possible on the big day.

My search for bright fresh eyes seemed to keep going back to the looks of Jennifer Lopez and Kim Kardashian. Their makeup artists do it best in my humble opinion. When they're not doing the dark smokey eye look they look so fresh and natural!

Below is a photo of my worst nightmare. Hello "wayyyy too much bronzer, your face doesn't match your neck" look.

Just for fun I'm posting a few celebrity wedding photos. I think Ivanka is one classy broad. I hope to look as fresh and fabulous as she does on my wedding day.
Ivanka Trump wearing Grace Kelly-inspired Vera Wang

Alyssa Milano in Vera Wang

Khloe Kardashian in, SURPRISE, Vera Wang

Rebecca Romijn looking amazing in Ralph Lauren

Which celebrity has the best wedding style? I think Rebecca Romijn looked amazing!

The Power of the NINJA!!

2011-06-17T12:16:00.001-07:00

I love all things ninja, especially jokes. Have a laugh or a smile and happy Friday!!!

And my favorite, the Ninja Sipper!

Bridal Blah Blah Blah

2011-06-15T19:32:00.001-07:00

It’s getting down to the wire so I’ve got wedding on the brain, as per usual.

I’m excited to have my favorite signature drink on hand, labeled “Bride’s Punch” however I might need to drink it out of a sippie cup. If I spill a deep red colored cocktail on my dress it could be disastrous.

But tell me if you could resist this combo: Passion fruit flavored vodka, pomegranate mango juice, with a splash of club soda. Mmmmmmmmm!

I’d like medium coverage with rose petals on either side of the aisle. If I leave anything for guests to toss at me it will surely be rose petals, those don’t hurt as much as rice and I feel bubbles have been done to death.

I envision the aisle chairs similar to this photo except with gerber daisies in our color and thick gold ribbon.

Love the color combo on these seating cards!

I must say, I might have been more excited about the shoes than the dress. I’ll admit it! I’ve always wanted a pair, and this may be the only pair I’ll ever own, but I can wear them with anything! Jimmy Chooooooos!!!!! Check out their bridal collection. The color is perfection, I can (and will) wear them with anything. Trust me when I say they WILL NOT sit in my closet and collect dust.

I’m super excited for our wedding, please join in my excitement and tell me what you think. I’m always up for any and all ideas!!

West Elm me!

2011-06-15T09:56:00.001-07:00

I love all things West Elm. Even if I become a millionaire someday I think I would still want to decorate my home from top to bottom with all things West Elm.

From the bedding to the furniture to the vases, I’ll take it all! I've been known to search out west elm via craigslist on a regular basis...

I’ve been drooling over this vanity for several years. Hopefully by the time I have some spare cash, they’ll still have it in stock.

What do you think of this line? If you like clean modern décor and lines than you’ve gotta love this!

Detox Naturally & Functional Medicine

2011-06-14T09:03:00.000-07:00

I follow Dr. Mark Hyman regularly as he practices functional medicine and is well respected in his are of expertise. Finally a medical practice I can respect!

Functional Medicine focuses on finding the root cause of illness or disease instead of just masking the illness with a quick fix of medication. Instead of sending you home with a prescription, let’s figure out the root cause and try to cure you through alternative methods (ex: diet, exercise, relaxation techniques).

Wikipedia defines functional medicine as: “a form of Western complementary and alternative medicine unrelated to the Western biomedical approaches.
It claims to focus is on treating individuals who may have bodily symptoms, imbalances and dysfunctions. Functional medicine seeks to identify and address the root causes of disease, and views the body as one integrated system, not a collection of independent organs divided up by medical specialties.
Functional medicine practitioners provide chronic care management with the belief that "diet, nutrition, and exposure to environmental toxins play central roles in functional medicine because they may predispose to illness, provoke symptoms, and modulate the activity of biochemical mediators through a complex and diverse set of mechanisms.“

A favorite article by Dr. Mark Hyman of mine came out recently. It gives you some quick facts on chemical toxins in our environment, and how we can detox naturally, and incorporate these habit into our everyday lives. A graph from his article is below, please click on the link and give it a read.

10 Simple Steps to Enhance Detoxification

Proper detoxification is so essential for health that you need to start enhancing your body’s ability to detoxify today. Here is how to do it:

1. Drink Clean – Drink plenty of clean water, at least eight to ten glasses of filtered water a day.

2. Eliminate Properly – Keep your bowels moving, at least once or twice a day. And if you can’t get going, then you need some help. This can include taking two tablespoons of ground flax seeds and taking acidophilus and extra magnesium citrate capsules. If you have any chronic diseases or problems, you have to be careful about taking supplements and should work with your doctor.

3. Eat Clean – You should also eat organic produce and animal products to eliminate the toxins, hormones, and antibiotics in your food.

4. Eat Detoxifying Food – You should eat 8 to 10 servings of colorful fruits and vegetables a day, particularly family of the cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, collards, kale, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi) and the garlic family (garlic and onions), which help increase sulfur in the body and help detoxification.

5. Minimize Drugs – Avoid stimulants, sedatives, and drugs, such as caffeine and nicotine, and try to reduce alcohol intake.

6. Get Moving – Exercise five days a week with focus on conditioning your cardiovascular system, strengthening exercises, and stretching exercises.

7. Avoid the White Menace – This includes white flour and white sugar.

8. Sweat – Sweat profusely at least three times a week, using a sauna, steam, or a detox bath.

9. Supplement – Take a high-quality multivitamin and mineral supplement.

10. Relax – Relax deeply every day to get your nervous system in a state of calm, rest, and relaxation.

Drink your water, eat your colorful fruits and veggies, sweat it out as much as possible and be well my friends!!

Want to wear a $600 dress for under $50?

2011-06-13T11:02:00.000-07:00

Rent the Runway, now!!!

I’m super excited to finally be "renting the runway" at renttherunway.com.
For anyone who doesn’t know about this site consider yourself informed! You can rent ridiculous designer dresses for as little as $40. If you sign up they send you all sorts of promo codes and discounts.

If your weight fluctuates or you just can’t be bothered digging through racks and spending days trying to find that perfect dress, I highly highly recommend this site.
Also, if you have a favorite designer like me, Nicole Miller, and you know exactly what size you are or that that designer is always flattering on your body type, what more could you ask for but this site?

They send you a second size free of charge if you are unsure of the fit, and they provide free return shipping.

What do you think of my choice? It’s a Robert Rodriguez Black Label dress (above) for a September wedding I’ll be attending as a guest. It's a $600 dress that I was able to rent for under $50 with the promo code they provided me with.

Below are a few more favorites of mine that are available on rent the runway.

Bacon Lovers Unite!

2011-06-09T08:57:00.000-07:00

I have a slight obsession with bacon, it’s delicious, don’t hate.
I’ve seen a few bacon t-shirts that I’d love to rock, however I’ve been noticing some vendors taking it a little too far.

Bacon toothpaste anyone? How about some soap? We also have bacon flavored jelly beans, gum balls, lip gloss and some dental floss, because who doesn’t want that fresh just brushed bacon flavor lingering in their mouth?

Bacon lovers wear your t-shirts loud and proud, just stay away from the toothpaste!
I must admit, I’m diggin the wallet too.

These lovely bacon items can be found at Perpetual Kid.

Dressed to Impress

2011-06-08T13:19:00.001-07:00

I always thought I’d wear white to my bridal shower, but was having doubts because I couldn’t find anything appropriate. I wanted the perfect mix of fun, flirty, yet respectable. After all, Adam’s family will be there, and who doesn’t want to make a good impression on the soon to be in-laws?

I finally found the perfect dress this past weekend at Calvin Klein. What do you think? I might accessorize with a different belt with more of a bold color.

How would you accessorize this outfit? Flats or heels? Bangles, or chunky rings? A splash of color with the belt? Heeeeelp!

Belts are from New York & Company and the bangles can be found at Macy's.

Crunchy Goodies

2011-06-03T10:15:00.000-07:00

Does anyone prefer the crunchy part of the brownie like me? You know, the part that sits along the edge of the pan. It's the one I always go for with all baked goods. I'm buying this baker's edge pan, and if it was at bed bath and beyond it would be on my wedding registry!

Even Oprah loves it! Hello favorite things!

Banana Pervs and Ice Pops

2011-06-03T08:07:00.001-07:00

Why do I feel like I’m doing something x-rated when I’m eating a banana, lollipop or even an innocent ice pop in the heat of summer? I’ll tell you why, because of pervy men who think it’s the best thing since sliced bread and beef jerky.

Some old geezer almost broke his neck this morning peering from the next lane over into my car waiting for me to take a bite of my breakfast, a goddamn banana!! What is wrong with people?!?! I wonder if that man has a daughter, I sure as hell hope not.

These pervs have brought me to the point where I can’t even enjoy an ice pop or lollipop in public anymore. I feel like a goddamn porno show for all the losers who forget that they're old enough to be my father.

I’m pondering a social experiment involving huuuge firecracker ice pops, bananas, corn dogs and foot-long hot dogs. Hidden camera perhaps??? Watch out pervs cause I’m pissed off and I’m under a lot of wedding stress, I’m gonna call you all out!

Florist Patrol

2011-05-11T12:29:00.000-07:00

In preparation for meeting with the florist, I'm posting some of my favorite ideas for ceremony decor. I feel so unprepared so I'm really hoping the expertise of my florist can help me out in a major way. I know my wedding colors and I know what I like, unfortunately that doesn't mean I have exact photos of my vision.

I used to think carnations were cheap but I gotta say this is an adorable aisle marker for a garden wedding.

I prefer bright orange lilies but this might work too...

This is a great way to provide attendees with petals to throw at the end of the ceremony.

Great way to reserve the VIPs chairs for our fall wedding!

Would go with the carnation chair ball accents very well, but maybe with roses for the alter pieces, hmmmm...

This is a very clean and modern look for the boys boutineers, exactly what I'm going for. Classy, modern, clean and perfect!

This bouquet makes me drool...I love the textures, colors, every little thing about it!

Ceremony Decor Dizzy

2011-05-06T09:12:00.000-07:00

I've been struggling with how to decorate the ceremony space for my wedding. Adam and I are getting married in a plainer than Jane garden area. Basically the venue is providing the chairs, that's it. I need to wrack my brain for the cheapest most beautiful fix to my problem.

Below are a few images of some gorgeous ideas, not so sure they're on the cheap though...ahhhhh!

I love the idea of ribbons lining the back row of chairs, in my wedding colors.

This can be done for a reasonable price, silk gerber garland here I come!

Who knew renting a modern non-tacky archway or urns to flank the ceremony site would be such a headache...a potentially expensive one at that!

Great idea! Too bad I bought my seating cards already..grrrr

Can I please have a photo like this of our ceremony? Pleeeassseee!!!

Happy to Tape

2011-04-27T13:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Tape, the Japanese masking tape that's all the rage in the crafting community is making me feel all warm and crafty inside. I can't decide what to do with it first! I want to wrap gifts, create beautiful vases and make wedding favors with cute little happy tape bows!

I'll take one in every color and design please!

Wedding Cake Obsession

2011-04-26T12:41:00.000-07:00

My wedding is coming up in only 166 short days and I think I've changed my mind on the cake/cupcake tier about 1,000 times.

Two tier cake on top of the cupcakes or 1 tier? Modern or contemporary or smack you in the face bold?

Come to think of it I've changed my mind on a lot of things. Anyway, I'm going to share a few favorite photos / ideas of mine that you might see coming up at a wedding near you!!

Look at these beautiful clean lines and pops of bold color. Love it!

I'm not a big fan of paisley but this cake has changed my mind!

I can't deny, my heart belongs to the cupcake tier. Our wedding colors are burnt orange, chocolate brown and gold so of course, I would pick the below images as my favorites!

With a cala cascade on our top tier cake. Hoping for a 2 tier cake to top the cupcake tower...

I'd love little cala accents on our cupcakes. Perhaps to mark a specific flavor.

I will certainly have to make one of these, so fun!

ADORABLE!

I'll close with a beautiful quote, since I can't say it any better than this!

“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” ― Laozi

Unconditional Love

2009-06-02T07:57:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I was exposed to my first Body Building Competition, thanks to my 18 year old muscle bound brother. It was his first competition and he had dubbed me as his “assistant”. What this job would entail I wouldn’t find out until it was too late.

As we entered the small high school auditorium in Westerly, Rhode Island I viewed the stage area and the swarm of hard bodied competitors both male and female, most of which looked like they could squash me with their pinky finger. Mind you this is a “Natural Body Building Competition” as my brother pointed out. They are required to complete a polygraph test and sign some documents stating that no illegal substances were used in an effort to “bulk up”. Well if this is the case I’m not sure I ever want to see what the non-natural competitors look like, roids and all.

I sat with my family as we watched them set up the staging area. I was then instructed to go to the car to get my brothers food, which consisted of brown rice, a banana and some sausage. When I looked around I noticed the rest of the competitors all seemed to be eating the same thing – rice. I then learned as I offered my brother some water that it is customary to not drink any fluids prior to the competition. I guess dehydrating your body aids in making the muscles appear more defined. Now I’m worried that my brother may pass out on stage.

Both my brother and his 2 friends who were competing with him and against him all had their legs up in the air resting on the row of chairs in front of us, odd.

“What are you all doing with your legs?” I asked.

“We have to keep them elevated otherwise the blood pools in the legs and your calf muscles won’t really appear as defined as they could” He replied gruffly.

Suddenly I was running outside after my brother and his two friends.

“Come with us, and bring those vinyl gloves I told you to bring”

What happened next I try not to give much thought, but really it is the point of this entry, unconditional love. I put the gloves on as my brother handed me a spray bottle full of tanning fluid. He took his shirt off, and right there in front of the main entrance to the high school I started spraying some instant pro tan concoction and then spreading it evenly as to not leave a streaky appearance. The stuff dried fast and suddenly we were running late according to my brother so I was like a robot, spray then rub in, spray then buff, spray then distribute. Suddenly I notice his friends getting in line and taking off their shirts. What?! I was not aware I was assisting all 3 of them! After I get all three of them rubbed down from the waist up we are running backstage to finalize getting them stage ready.

I enter the backstage area and witness all of the hard bodies standing around in their speedos and stringlike things that pass for bikinis, red speedos, neon green speedos, gold speedos, sparkly speedos. They were doing pushups and lifting weights and posing in front of mirrors, all the while rubbing themselves down with instant tanning sprays and gels that look something like chocolate pudding. I could taste the tanning sprays as soon as I entered the backstage area. The smell assaulted my nasal passages, throat and mouth. My lungs were getting a tan that’s for sure.

Once we got to our area I could tell the boys, who were new at this, were a bit shy.

“Drop your pants boys no time for being shy we are on a time schedule!” I yelled. Who was this person?!

“Don’t ever doubt my love for you again, you owe me big time.” I remarked to my brother.

Now instant tanner needs to be rubbed into the legs, yeah I’m talking ass, thighs, right down to the feet. I’m a robot now, my brother is first in line, then I move on to his friends, I tried not to think about what I was doing and just focus on getting the job done as quickly as possible.

My brother’s 40 something year old mentor comes over after we had finished prepping and observes my handiwork.

“Where did you find this girl Matt, I can’t even get my girlfriend to do this?” He asked.

“He is lucky I’m related to him, this is what you would refer to as unconditional love.” I answered with a smile.

My brother went on to place 1st in the Debut category and 2nd in the Teen category, which made it all worth it, tan lungs, hands and all.

The Most Obnoxious Patient

2009-05-17T10:50:00.000-07:00

When I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease my doc suspected that I had been living with the condition for 2-3 years. I have a major problem with this. Why had none of the bazillion doctors I had seen in the past 2 years made the connection?! I’ll tell you why - doctors are not gods, they make mistakes like everyone else, and for the most part are overwhelmed and uninterested in doing any extra research.

According to Healthgrades.com, a reputable healthcare quality company, an average of 195,000 people in the U.S. died due to preventable, in-hospital medical errors in each of the years 2000, 2001 and 2002. I will not be another statistic. Had my condition gone undiagnosed for much longer it is very likely that I could have died from complications of my disease.

Unbeknown to me my GYN had Ulcerative Colitis. When I was seen for my annual visit she took one look at my bloodwork and told me to immediately see a GI doctor, only then did I receive the proper diagnosis. Never mind the hematologist, the 3 rheumatologists, the sports injury specialist, the chiropractor, and my general physician that I had been seen by over the last 2 years, all of whom had my bloodwork and knowledge of my ongoing symptoms; which were all red flags for IBD.

I am proud to admit that I am now one of the most obnoxious patients a doctor will ever come across, why? Because I research, I ask questions, I come to appointments armed with detailed notes on what I can argue with my doctor about on any particular visit. I’m not going to let my doctors slip up, I’m going to make sure they are paying attention.

It is so very important to become an active part of your own treatment team, become a helpful partner in managing your own health care. Many doctors will be threatened by this, most doctors don’t like when you question their particular form of treatment. If this is the case, find a new doctor!!

I am now an informed patient who takes full responsibility for MY health agenda. I am the only advocate for my body and if my doctor has a problem with 20 plus questions – NEXT!

After all we are the ones living with these diseases, not them.

Disconnect

2009-04-28T08:03:00.000-07:00

August 2007
Following my colonoscopy I was trying to come out of the haze of anesthesia they had put me under, and process what my doctor was telling me.
“As I suspected, you have Crohn’s Disease.” She touched my arm in a sympathetic manner, and I could feel my mother sitting to my left, inhale deeply as she heard the news. I nodded as she explained the pills she would send me home with. Ten pills a day, wonderful.

On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the worst my doc had seen, I was a 7, fantastic. I then asked for saltine crackers as I hadn’t eaten in almost 30 hours. I inhaled the crackers and watched as my mother asked the questions. Thank god she was there to bear witness because I had checked out at that point. I was anemic, with internal bleeding in my ileum, tired, weak, drugged and hungry.

At the moment I got the news all I could feel was a huge sense of relief that at least I finally had a term for what I had been going through. I wasn’t imagining it all, it wasn’t all in my head that I could barely make it through an 8 hour day at work without collapsing from exhaustion. Six doctors and one year later I finally had a term, which meant people would now believe me, and take me seriously. Finally there was an explanation, which meant there had to be hope.

It wasn’t until an hour later, while sitting and waiting for a sandwich that the gravity of my situation hit me like a ton of bricks. I assume this is when the meds wore off. My mother was standing at the counter waiting for our food, and I was seated in the middle of the deli. Suddenly I was sobbing uncontrollably; I had no concern for any of the other customers who were there. I was having some sort of tunnel vision, it seemed like an out of body experience. I couldn’t believe what was happening to me, what I would have to endure. It seemed I was outside of my body watching myself when I took my mother’s advice, pushed past the onlookers and walked towards the car.

I'm Taking Steps in White Plains for the CCFA. Visit my page!

2009-04-28T07:55:00.000-07:00

http://online.ccfa.org/goto/JenSantiago

A very worthwhile cause! Soliciting for donations on my blog, yes I am shameless.

The Morbid Admitting Department Followed by More Morbidness

2009-04-28T07:25:00.000-07:00

April 2009

After 10 minutes of catching up on my smut reading in the Admitting holding area at Greenwich Hospital I’m called into one of the offices to begin the admittance process. Basically I sign my life away and make sure they know who to call if I die.

Upon entering the room and sitting down I glance around to take in my surroundings. What is the first thing I notice? A list titled “Funeral Homes” in boldface with contact numbers tacked up next to the telephone, nice. I’m not sure about anyone else, but this is the last thing I want to see as I’m having a wristband with my name and own personal barcode slapped on. Not to mention the question “Are you sure your mother is the only one you want to list as your next of kin?” Thanks lady, why not wheel me into the morgue right now?!

Just as I started to settle into my hospital bed and was concentrating on putting all of the morbid thoughts behind me, I observe a stream of very distraught people moving in and out of the room across the hallway. Normally I wouldn’t take notice of such things, however on this particular visit, I had been placed in the Medical Oncology department, AKA cancer ward. I usually don’t bother the nurse with keeping my door closed as they have to monitor my vitals every 15 minutes, and tend to forget about me which leads to the damn machine beeping uncontrollably until they come back. In an effort to stay on their radar I keep the door open. After this particular visit I will have no problem asking them to close my door in the future.

I’m no longer focused on my reading and I’ve turned off the TV, my attention is now focused on the show that is taking place directly across the hall from my room. After watching 10 or more people move in and out of the room looking visibly shaken, the priest shows up. He appears to float across the hallway and into the room with his floor length black cloak and white collar. I’ve done this hospital thing long enough to know what he was there for. He was there to administer “Last Rites” to the patient, the sacrament of the dying, or as Wikipedia would call it “Anointing of the Sick”. This is when I pressed the nurse button and kindly asked them to close my door. Jesus Mary and Joseph get me the hell out of here!

The Cards I Was Dealt

2009-02-11T18:14:00.000-08:00

I have an arthritic condition called Ankylosing Spondylitis - yes, say that 5 times fast, and Crohn's Disease. It took a slew of incompetent doctors 6 years to figure out what was wrong, which to me was 6 years of misery, of feeling like shit with no answers.

One might think the diagnosis of a chronic incurable disease would be heartbreaking. By the time I received my diagnosis all I felt was relief, relief that I wasn't losing my mind, and that there was a reason behind why I was constantly struggling and feeling horrible, and there was some form of treatment. No there is no cure for either condition, but just the knowledge that there were drugs that could help me manage my symptoms was the light at the end of my tunnel.

Dont get me wrong, in the 6 months following my Crohn's diagnosis I went through all the stages of mourning. I was in denial for a while, questioning my doctors knowledge of the disease, seeking second opinions, I was angry, I was depressed, and you know the rest. I had to mourn the death of my healthy self, because at the onset of my diagnosis, when I looked into the mirror, I didn't even recognize the pale, skinny, pathetic looking person who stared back at me. Dark circles under my red swollen eyes, cheekbones that protruded because of the weight I had lost, and a look of hopelessness in my eyes. Who was I? Was I going to let this change me? Why is was this happening to me? What had I done to deserve such a thing?

I threw myself my own personal pity party for about a year, then as the meds started to kick in and I started to gain my strength back, I started to remember who I was prior to becoming sick. I volunteered at a local homeless shelter to force myself to open my eyes to others, that YES, could possibly be worse off than myself.

Four years after my AS diagnosis and two years after my diagnosis of Crohn's disease I am finally able to say I've made peace with the cards I've been dealt, and even better I can say that it has taught me some very important lessons.

Everyone is fighting their own personal battles, no one is free from pain, despair, or hard times. I cannot say it any better so I will quote one of my favorite pieces of literature. "Accept misfortune as the human condition" - Tao Te Ching Once you are able to do this, you gain acceptance, and by that action alone, you gain everything, you have the ability to take control of your life once again.

I will share a piece of poetry that I've written. I hadn't written a poem in at least 10 years so be warned, but the process was very therapeutic to me and I hope you will enjoy. At the very least I hope this can help at least one person out there who is trying to come to terms with a chronic disease.

Enjoy, be well, and most importantly, be strong.

Affirming My Strength

My reflection in the mirror

Paleness and fatigue is all I see

I look but don’t recognize

My body has betrayed me

You say you can’t cure me ‘It’s chronic not deadly.’

Blue pills, yellow pills, too many pills

These strangers are trying to break me

Hospitals and needles; can you inject me with faith?

The physical pain I can take

It’s the helplessness that kills me

I keep pushing, keep breathing

Please give me my space

I focus on strength, not fear

Watch me endure, no more fighting back tears

Finally I’m in a place where no one can touch me

I’ve found acceptance and THIS is what saves me