Wish List Wednesday

Happy Hump Day everyone! It's one day closer to the July 4th long holiday weekend. Although I'm not sure why I'm excited, the oil is so bad we can't exactly go to the beach. :-(

Welcome to my first edition of Wish List Wednesday! I plan to highlight some of my "must haves" every week, leading up to my milestone birthday in August. I'm trying to convince myself that the big 4-0 won't be that bad...

What do you think of my first three selections? Obviously they won't be worn together, HAHA! Enjoy!

Bernardo, Moolah Sandals, Gold, $109

Lilly Pulitzer Raquel Dress, Shimmy Shell, $258

Kenneth Jay Lane, Pink Raj Elephant Bangle Bracelet, $89.50

My Pair Tree - How Cute Is This?

Happy Tuesday, Shopaholics! Hope you're having a great start to the week. It's soooo hot here I just want to stay inside, in the AC.

Today I want to introduce you to one of the cutest - and useful! - products I have seen in a long time! Shopaholics - meet My Pair Tree! My Pair Tree is a one-of-a-kind hanging shoe rack that holds six pairs of your favorie flip flops or sandals. 

I met the creator of this product - Mary Ellen - through Facebook. When she offered to send My Pair Tree my way to try, I was thrilled. Let's face it - I have a lot of stuff, and I'm always looking for a way to organize that stuff. I am literally swimming in flip flops over here. :-)

This is very easy to use - you can place it on a hanger in your closet or display from a hook on a wall or door. Personally I prefer the back of the door method, as it keeps everything in plain sight. I've found if I can't see my goodies, I don't really use them.

One thing I figured out from testing this product - you can use it to hang anything! I had been searching for a way to display and store my Lilly Pulitzer Murfee scarves, but I hated the idea of folding them and putting away in a drawer. So this product is a perfect solution! My Murfees are now displayed using a My Pair Tree! :-)

                                                     
My Pair Tree comes in a huge variety of ribbon choices to match your personal style. Hello, preppy pink and green for this Shopaholic! :-) If you're looking for a storage solution for shoes, scarves, lightweight handbags, you might want to consider My Pair Tree. I plan to stock up!

Check out the website HERE. There is also a Facebook fan page HERE, where you can stay up to date on specials, new products, etc.

Enjoy and have a Terrific Tuesday!

Lilly Pulitzer Sales You Need To Know About!

Happy Monday, Shopaholics! Hope you had a fantastic weekend and are enjoying your Monday!

Deal Alert!  Tuesday is a huge Lilly Pulitzer shopping day on two of my favorite websites! I thought you all would want to know what is coming, so you can plan accordingly! Sales begin at 11AM EST. Me, I won't be leaving the house on Tuesday until I've seen what will be featured! :-)

The Garnett Hill - Lilly Pulitzer collection will be on Rue La La. Isn't the Treasure Chest Collection to die for??? Based on the preview, it appears there will be lots of goodies! Are you a member of RLL? If not, click HERE for your invitation to Rue La La, as my guest.

Also on Tuesday, Lilly Pulitzer will be appearing on One Kings Lane. When Lilly was on OKL back in February, the products were all part of the stationery line (which is produced by Lifeguard Press). I racked up and ordered all types of goodies then, and am ready for some more. :-) One Kings Lane is also "invite only" - if you're not a member, please comment with your email address and I'll send you an invite. If you're not comfortable posting your email address, feel free to email me (lori.driver@hotmail.com) and let me know you'd like an invite. You want to be set up in time to shop, as these items typically sell out quickly.

Did you find any fun sales this weekend? Are you buying any special pieces for your 4th of July celebration? There are so many things I want, I need to wait on some good sales!

Have a Marvelous Monday!

A Favorite New Lilly Dress & A Giveaway Winner!

Happy Sunday to my Shopaholic pals! Hope your day is wonderful so far! Mine is stacking up to be busy, working around the house. So much for a restful Sunday!

Today I want to introduce you to my newest favorite Lilly Pulitzer dress. Everyone, meet Janet.

Earlier this week, I was shopping in Belk (dept. store in my area) and saw this dress from the Summer collection. Once I tried it on, I knew she was coming home with me!

There are two versions of the Janet dress, one is lurex and the other is cotton lawn. The lurex is lightweight and perfect for our hot and humid weather. The neckline is so pretty and detailed - and the way the shoulders are cut in just a little makes the dress extremely flattering. I wore my new Janet dress on Friday and got so many compliments (I purchased the one pictured above - print name is "Do The Wave").

Now I think I "need" her in the other lurex print, which is "Off The Hook".

I must say I'm in love with so many pieces of the Lilly summer collection - every time I think I'm satisfied with what I have, I find something else I "need". HA.

What do you think of Janet? If you're debating - I say go for it! At only $148, you won't be disappointed! Maybe she'll become your new favorite too!

Have a great Sunday!

p.s. We have a WINNER in the Lilly Pulitzer giveaway - congratulations to "Shrimp & Glitz"! Please contact me (lori.driver@hotmail.com) so I can mail out your goodies! Thanks to everyone who entered!

Happy Saturday!

Happy Saturday, Shopaholics! Hope you're having a wonderful day!

Today I'm headed to see my favorite stylist Phillip Drummond, my hair needs some serious help! I'm at least a week (maybe two!) behind on my highlights. Oops. Then I plan to run a bunch of errands, and maybe spend some time in the sun. DH is working all day.

What are your plans for the weekend? Be sure to tune in tomorrow, I'm going to show you my "new favorite" Lilly Pulitzer dress. *swoon* I'm in love!

Have a great day!

Caroline Grace Jewelry - SALE and Shopaholic Special!

TGIF, everyone! First I must apologize for my lack of posts, and being sooooo far behind reading all your blogs! Since DH started the new job, things have been absolutely nuts around here. The oil keeps coming - and it's getting very heavy now. I don't have Buffett tickets for next week (scalpers bought them all up - I can't find one local person that was lucky enough to get them!)Please someone give me a break.....I really need to see Jimmy, for my mental health if no other reason!

Anyway, who loves Caroline Grace Jewelry like I do? Many of you! :-) You will be thrilled to hear they are ringing in summer with a huge sale! The details:

Now through June 30th, we'll deduct 10% off any order over $100, 20% off any order over $200, and 25% off any order over $300. Just mention "Summer" in the notes at checkout, and your discount will be sent to you in the form of a paypal refund once payment is received. (If you prefer an adjusted invoice with the correct total prior to payment, just let us know.)

In addition to the sale prices, Caroline Grace Jewelry is offering a "Shopaholic Special"! Thank you, I'm honored. :-) All Shopaholic readers will receive FREE SHIPPING. Just "convo" Caroline Grace on Etsy and mention you're a Shopaholic reader, and your invoice will be adjusted with any applicable discount and free shipping!

Now - what to buy? Here are some treasures I just love...

Seahorse Queen and Baby Cuff, $136

Lori Necklace in Sterling Silver, $224

Flora Chandelier Earrings (available in tons of colors, with silver or gold tone accents), light as a feather too. $44

Edelweiss Lariat Necklace, $58

Be sure to join the Caroline Grace Jewelry Facebook fan page, so you can see new goodies as they are listed! You will absolutely love the designs and quality of CGJ! I get so many compliments when I wear mine. Even the DH approves. That's huge! :-) What are your favorites from the ETSY shop?

Have a great day and Happy Shopping!

p.s. Lilly Pulitzer giveaway winner will be announced late tonight - I'm so far behind I still have to conduct the draw! The lucky winner will be posted on Facebook first, so if you're not there, go sign up to "Like" the Shopaholic In Alabama page. :-)

Good News and Goodies!

Happy Wednesday everyone! Busy times around these parts - and I have good news to report!

#1 - Jimmy Buffett is coming to town for a concert next week!

#2 - The DH is working as a boat captain, at least for now! Even better, it appears he will be working so many hours he'll miss the UPS deliveries! :-)

#3 - It's possible that Caroline Grace - of Caroline Grace Jewelry fame - is finally coming to visit next week! (nothing like Jimmy Buffett to finally get her to town!) BUT I'm happy she didn't leave town before mailing these gorgeous earrings out to me...(also available in the Etsy shop).

#4 - The Eliot shirtdress in Toile is also headed my way...

Don't forget - today is the last day to enter the Lilly Pulitzer giveaway - check out the original post HERE. Have a wonderful Wednesday!

p.s. Fair warning - next week starts "Wish List Wednesday" in honor of my upcoming milestone birthday. Best start saving that $$$...

National "Wear Your Lilly" Day!

Happy Monday, Shopaholics! Hope you had a wonderful weekend!

Are you participating in national "Wear Your Lilly" day today? This annual event celebrates the "official" start of summer - although we've been experiencing summer temperatures for several months here on the Alabama gulf coast!

Today I'm running errands around town, in and out of the car and the heat, so I plan to be cool and comfortable in my new Lilly Resort shorts in Aquamarine Fresh Catch Toile.

Paired with my new Wynne top in White.

What Lilly are you sporting today? Have a great Monday!

p.s. Ask me how bad I'm wishing I had those white leather McKims to match my ensemble...

Happy Father's Day!

Happy Sunday - and Happy Father's Day!

I'm more than happy to admit that I'm a "Daddy's Girl". I love my Father to death, he and DH are the most important men in my life. Hands down.

Today I'm starting the day with an early breakfast with my parents, Grandfather and his wife. Then off to visit the in-laws, and a cookout at my parents house this evening! It's going to be busy, but these are the days we treasure! 

Hope you have a great day - the picture was taken in New Orleans at the Superdome - don't my parents look young??? :-)

Lifeguard Press, Lilly Pulitzer Shift Note Cards, and FREE Shipping!

TGIF, my Shopaholic friends! Can you even believe it's Friday? I'm wondering exactly where the week went - seems like it flew by!


Are you familiar with Lifeguard Press? I know my fellow Lilly lovers are, as they produce the Lilly Pulitzer stationery and gifts lines. Additionally, Lifeguard Press also produces lines for Jonathan Adler and Susan Branch. As many of you will remember from last week's post, they contacted me a few weeks ago and asked if I would be interested in reviewing some of their products for my readers. I was so excited (and honored!) to create a partnership with this wonderful brand.

Did you know the Lilly Pulitzer drink umbrellas from Lifeguard Press were featured on the TODAY show this week? You can see the link on the Lifeguard Press Facebook fan page HERE. It's awesome to see a favorite like Lifeguard Press/Lilly featured in the national media, whether it's TV or print. It proves one thing - someone else has good taste! :-)

 

Today I'm going to review the Lilly Pulitzer Shift Note Cards, which you can see on the Lifeguard Press website HERE.

Everyone knows I love to send notes - I just mailed a ton this week! These die cut note cards are trifold style, in the traditional Lilly Pulitzer "shift dress" patterns. There are ten cards in the box, five different designs, two of each design.  The decorative box is ready for gift giving - matter of fact, I have several boxes set aside for occasions such as birthdays, thank you gifts, gift exchanges, etc. 

When sending my shift note cards, I really enjoy matching the pattern of the card to the personality of the recipient. This is especially fun when I actually know the person's favorite Lilly pattern.  If you've considered trying them, now is a great time, because...

In honor of our partnership, Lifeguard Press is generously offering FREE SHIPPING on their website to all Shopaholic readers. Just use the code "SHOPBAMA" when you are checking out. FYI - there is no minimum order required to qualify for the free shipping.

Be sure to check out all the goodies on the Lifeguard Press website HERE. Happy Shopping!

Have a Fantastic Friday and a Wonderful Weekend!

Why I'm NOT Boycotting BP...

Happy Thursday, my friends! Hope you're having a wonderful day and an easy week! So far, so good around here. Quite "boring" compared to last week, that's for sure!

Many have asked me how I feel about BP, since I live in coastal Alabama, on the front lines of this oil spill disaster. I am truly experiencing this firsthand, for me this is REAL LIFE - not just an image you see on the news every evening. I smell the oil. I go over to the beach daily, sometimes twice a day, to see how it looks. I have to scrub small amounts of oil off my feet before I come inside again. Sure I try not to get in oil, but those pictures you see on Facebook that were taken at the water's edge? You have to get a little oil on you to have those shots. This is what I call "My New Reality". An oil forecast daily, a "smell test" daily, and changing emotions.

When this catastrophe first happened, I was filled with nothing but anger. Angry that it happened. Angry that we were drilling so deep to begin with. Angry that 11 people lost their lives. Angry that it was not being discussed (at least for the first 5-15 days) at the national level. Angrier every day, as it became clear that this was not going away, and the impact was going to be catastrophic to my home and everything I love. 

Eventually my anger changed over to more of a sadness, some might even consider it a depression. I was (and still am) very, very sad about what was unfolding in front of my eyes. Sad that I felt so helpless. Sad that people were losing their livelihoods. Sad that wildlife was suffering. Sad that entire industries were being wiped out. Sad that a way of life I'd always lived - and quite frankly, taken for granted - was changing. 

I've learned in life, that when we get angry and sad, we look for someone to blame. Naturally I am blaming BP. As time moves on and we learn more about this disaster, it becomes clearer every day that BP was lax. Their safety record is questionable. They took shortcuts. They wanted to save $$$, even though they do make a lot of $$$. (Lesson - everyone wants to save $$$ - even billion dollar corporations). 

It has become somewhat "stylish" now to Boycott BP. However, I have to tell you, I'm not participating in the boycott. Don't get me wrong, I'm not driving out of my way to purchase their product...but I'm not refusing to either. Honestly, at first, I was one of those saying "I'm never buying their gas again - I'm voting with my wallet!"

Here are my three reasons why I'm not participating in "Boycott BP". I realize some of you won't agree with me, and that's ok. But I think food for thought is good.

1) We need BP to remain financially solvent through this crisis. The cleanup process will take years. The claims process for lost wages, lost business, etc will take years. They have to be in business to make these payments. Wildlife and wetlands restoration is going to be very costly.

2) The vast majority of BP "gas stations" are independently owned. The owners simply purchase their product from BP. That could be my husband's or Father's business (they're not of course, but go with me on this). To boycott them, would only put another family in financial peril. Do we really need another family in hardship, given the state of our local, national and global economy? I don't think so.

3) Believe it or not, the crisis is actually employing a lot of people who otherwise wouldn't have a job. All the jobs aren't direct employment by BP, in fact, the vast majority of them are contractors acting on BP's behalf. However it is at least a temporary boost to the economy of the Gulf States. Some of these jobs will ultimately become full time employment opportunities. Using my logic in reason #1, BP is paying for the services of these contractors.

So those are my reasons. Am I still mad at BP? Heck yes I am! But I'm hopeful they can figure out how to fix the gushing geyser in the depths of the Gulf, cap the well, and clean up their mess. I want them to stay in business to make it happen and to make the Gulf whole again.

What do you think? I'm interested to hear your comments. Have a great Thursday!

If You Can't Bake It, Fake It!

Happy Wednesday everyone! I cannot believe it's already "hump day" - honestly where is the time going?

It's well documented that I enjoy laying in the sun. YES, I know. The sun is supposed to be bad for me. YES, I know. Tanning causes skin cancer. YES, I know. I'm supposed to wear high SPF. I do. Especially on my face. As a result, I always end up with another problem...my face is lighter than my body. Significantly lighter.

Do you use a bronzing powder? I have found that using one is the best solution to my "problem" with the white face and tan body. :-) Lucky for you, I have tried many bronzers in my day - meet "The Best Bronzers Around".

Stila Sun Highlighter
Retail price is around $26 and you can purchase at Sephora, Ulta, or directly from Stila.com. This powder does NOT have any gold flecks, but allows me to gradually build up the color on my face to match the color on my neck/chest. Use a large powder brush for application, and apply all over the face. Remember - start slow and build up the color.

Rimmel London, Sunshimmer Shimmering Maxi Bronzer in Sun Love.
This retails for less than $9 in most stores such as Target, Walgreens, and CVS. I absolutely love the gold flecks in the powder, and the product gives you a natural looking, sun kissed glow. Use with a large powder brush across the cheeks, forehead, nose and chin.

Benefit "10". Available at Sephora, Ulta, etc. Retails for $28.
This is perfect for use as a blush or bronzer. You are essentially applying two colors to your face at one time. Make sure the pink color is applied towards the apple of your cheek (it acts as a highlighter), and the bronze on the bottom. This gives your cheekbones more definition and ultimately slims down the face. I prefer to use this product with the brush that is included. Good news --- perfect for year-round use, not just to match your summer tan.

Givenchy, Fleur de Frangipanier Unique Compact Powder, $45 and only available on sephora.com. I am absolutely DYING to try this product. According to Sephora, the Givenchy is a compact powder that utilizes a unique shade-blending technology.


What it does:


This powder was created using a special shade-blending technique that blends three different shades from the top to the bottom of the pan. Though they are always blended in the same proportions, the motives they create are unpredictable, which makes every single powder unique, just like the Frangipani flower that inspired this product.

I'll admit, I'm a sucker for beautiful designs and packaging, especially when we're talking about cosmetics. Perhaps the good folks at Givenchy will read this, take pity on me, and send a supply my way??? Yeah right! Then I woke up! :-)

Do you use a bronzing product? If so, what is your favorite? I can't wait to hear all about it! You guys already know, I love cosmetics - talking about them, reading about them, and trying them.

Have a wonderful day, and don't forget to enter the Lilly Pulitzer giveaway (see yesterday's post).

Lilly Pulitzer Giveaway!

Happy Tuesday, my Shopaholic friends! Hope you are having a wonderful start to a new week! It's still super hot around these parts. Apparently the dog days of summer arrived very early this year!

Today I have a fun surprise for you - a Lilly Pulitzer GIVEAWAY! :-) This one is sponsored by - ME! As you guys know, I shop often (ssshhh don't tell anyone) and wanted to share some of my goodies with a lucky winner!

Items included in this giveaway:

(1) Lilly playing cards with pink case
(1) Lilly green notebook
(1) Lilly Bees Knees Patch Mix & Match Stationery set
(3) Lilly Perfume Samples - Beachy, Squeeze & Wink
(1) Lilly Shifting Gears small keychain
(1) Lilly pink mirror with case - lizard type fabric

Now, all the ways you can enter to win this fantastic set of goodies:

(1) Sign up to follow this blog and comment. If you're already a follower, please comment to enter!  This is good for one entry.
(2) "Like" Shopaholic In Alabama on Facebook HERE for one entry.
(3) Comment on this post with your favorite item from the Lilly Pulitzer website HERE.
(4) "Share" this on Facebook or Twitter - be sure to copy me on Twitter @shopaholicinal or leave the Facebook link for your post. This will also give you one entry.
(5) Sign up to follow me on Twitter - @shopaholicinal - for one entry.

Giveaway will end on Wednesday, June 23 at midnight central time. After a random drawing, the winner will be announced on Thursday, June 24. Good luck and have a Terrific Tuesday!

p.s. I will be hosting another HUGE "Shopaholic Giveaway Days" in a few weeks, in honor of my upcoming milestone birthday (ssshhh it's the big 4-0). If you're interested in sponsoring a giveaway, please contact me at the email address on the right sidebar. Thanks!

Baby, It's Hot Outside!

Sun with waves of sunlight radiating outward

Happy Monday everyone! Oh my goodness -- it is so HOT here! Yesterday I took my nephew over to the beach - just so he could see it, as we couldn't have our normal "beach party". The sand was literally burning the bottoms of our feet!

The wind is just barely blowing. It's 94 degrees with humidity in the 85-90% range, creating a heat index of 105-109. I'm showering two or three times a day. If you just walk outside, you feel like you need a shower! Crazy - considering it's still June - and technically not "summer" yet! At least according to the calendar...

How is your weather? Stay cool today - and don't forget to use SPF! :-)

What A Difference A Day Makes......Oil Spill Update

Happy Saturday, my friends! The oil spill situation got a little bit worse here in Gulf Shores/Orange Beach, AL yesterday. The thick, nasty, chocolate pudding looking stuff has arrived.  I knew it was big trouble when we received the following email from the condo owners association:


Special Edition - Bad News about the Oil Spill



Friday, June 11, 2010

DAY 53 of the Oil Spill

We are very disappointed to report that suddenly, today, the beach has become covered with dark oil. The oil looks like old motor oil and has the faint smell of oil. The consistency of the oil goes from a liquid to globs. We had hoped that we would only have globs of oil which would stay on the surface of the sand instead of liquid oil which penetrates the sand.


There are no birds or other animals in the water or on the beach. The oil droplets seem to be mixed into the top layer of the Gulf water and the oil extends as a dark mass as far as you can see in all directions. No doubt the tide will carry the oil all the way to the tide line over night. All of the water is cloudy with oil and you cannot reach the water's edge without stepping in the oil. There is no place to swim.

There are no booms off shore. The clean up workers on the beach are wasting their time until the spill quits moving ashore. Once the amount of oil coming ashore is reduced, it should be fairly easy to clean up the beach. Of course, liquid oil is more difficult to clean up than globs of dried oil. The beach machines will have to sift deeper into the sand and there will be much more sand to haul away. I don't see the need to have the beach crews picking up globs of oil until the machines do their work later.

If you are headed to Gulf Shores, plan to use the pools and lagoon and enjoy the seafood in the restaurants. The seafood at Gulf Shores is not contaminated and it is safe to eat. There still is plenty of it. It is unlikely that "sitting on the beach" will be a destination for a while. Oil also has been reported at Orange Beach and in Wolf Bay (Perdido Pass).

Much to my chagrin, you can find us at the pool today! I'm trying to look at the bright side - at least the pool is an option, right? Have a wonderful Saturday!

In Love With Eliot...

TGIF, Shopaholic friends! Did I get you there? No, my husband's name is NOT Eliot. haha

Several weeks ago I ordered the new Lilly Pulitzer Eliot Shirtdress from one of my favorite Via Shoppes, Under The Palm Tree. Today I finally wore my new frock and honestly, I. am. in. love.

The Eliot dress is cool, comfortable and perfect for sweltering Gulf Coast summers. The fit is forgiving (very important when you've been eating carbs like I have the past week!) and flattering!

Trust me - if you've been considering this dress, take the plunge and order it. It will make a great addition to your summer wardrobe selections. Shopaholic Confession - I have another one headed this way! Sssshhhh don't tell anyone....

Have a Fantastic Friday and a lovely weekend!

Lifeguard Press, Lilly Pulitzer and a Shopaholic Special!

Happy Thursday, my Shopaholic friends! Thanks for your kind comments here on the blog and the Facebook page, your emails and good wishes! They have been much appreciated the past few days! :-) 

Are you familiar with Lifeguard Press? I know my fellow Lilly lovers are, as they produce the Lilly Pulitzer stationery and gifts lines. Additionally, Lifeguard Press also produces lines for Jonathan Adler and Susan Branch. Anyway, they contacted me a few weeks ago and asked if I would be interested in reviewing some of their products for my readers. I was so excited (and honored!) to create a partnership with this wonderful brand. Of course I was thrilled when a box of goodies arrived!

The first item I'm going to review is the Lilly Pulitzer Patchtastic Watch Set, which you can see on the Lifeguard Press website HERE.

This watch set is so much fun! They are somewhat nostalgic as they remind me of my beloved Swatch watches from middle and high school. Since the bands are interchangeable, it's like getting two watches for the price of one! I've heard from a lot of friends that have Minnies, they LOVE these. This is an absolutely perfect gift for a little girls birthday party! And by the way, this "big girl" likes hers too! I've been wearing mine with solid polos and denim skirts, as well as mixing and matching with other Lilly Pulitzer patterned items in my wardrobe!  I highly recommend this watch set for gift giving, for yourself and for travel. It is a great alternative to wearing your expensive watches, especially on summer vacations! 

In honor of our new partnership, Lifeguard Press is generously offering FREE SHIPPING on their website to all Shopaholic readers. Just use the code "SHOPBAMA" when you are checking out. FYI - there is no minimum order required to qualify for the free shipping. 

Be sure to check out all the goodies on the Lifeguard Press website HERE. Happy Shopping!

Have a great Thursday!

Too Much!

Hello my lovely friends!

Hope you are doing great today, I haven't had the motivation to blog the past few days. Before you think I'm lazy (haha), let me tell you what's going on around these parts.

1) The DH was laid off on Monday morning. Even though I'm soooooo tempted to make his (and my!) ex-employer a believer in the power of Social Media and talk more about it here, I'll refrain from that activity. I have confidence he will find something else quickly, he's a super smart dude and has lots of great experience. This will ultimately work out for the best!

2) I'm missing the Lilly Pulitzer warehouse sale, which started this morning in King of Prussia, PA. This is a SUCH a fun, semi-annual sale. I love attending the sale! It's so awesome to be able to visit and socialize with all my friends across the country while we get bargains, have dinner and wine, and give our best Bret Michaels impression in our hotel room. You know how the males have "male bonding"? Attending the sale with friends is the ULTIMATE "female bonding". I plan to be there for the fall sale in November, can't stand to miss another one.

3) Our beaches are under attack from this oil spill. This morning, nasty big patches of oil started washing ashore in Orange Beach, AL - approx. 8 miles from us. This is the stuff that looks like chocolate mousse, not tar balls. It's hard to try to focus on something else at this point. You can smell it in the air. It's not strong, and it's not making us sick or anything, but a constant smell like mild burning. BP workers are everywhere I look, even though it doesn't appear they are accomplishing very much. I have lots to say about BP, but I'm saving that for another day.

4) Just to keep things fun, I busted up my knee yesterday. I tripped and fell (over my own two feet of course, because I really am a klutz!) going into my Dad's office. Directly on the concrete sidewalk. My left knee is a mess, the entire knee cap is covered with a huge "boo boo". We're talking 2 big bandages to cover it for sleeping. It actually feels like it has a heartbeat at this point, it's throbbing! I'm using the new Neosporin with Pain Relief, which is helping.

So anyway...that's what all is going on around here. None of it is good or fun. I'm thinking we're due for a break and soon, because this is just TOO. MUCH. TO. HANDLE.  I'm wondering if I made the big man upstairs mad or something!

Have a Wonderful Wednesday - I am trying!

Beach Essentials...

Happy Monday everyone! Today I thought it would be fun to show you everything that we considered "essential" for yesterday's beach fun. Yes there was oil at the beach, but we stayed far away from it all. We didn't get in the water at all, as a "swimming advisory" was posted.

What are your beach essentials? Do you use any of the same goodies? Am I the only one who puts an 85 on her face and an 8 on her body? HAHA. That new Hawaiian Tropic "Dry Oil" is fantastic! Additionally, the "Maui Babe" can be hard to find, but it's so worth it! Be sure to use sunscreen underneath on sensitive areas, or use alone in areas that are already VERY tan. (I like to use this on my feet). The Shiseido powder has been discontinued (booooooo) but you should be able to find everything else at Walgreens or CVS.

Happy Sunning!

p.s. My nose is still burnt - what's up with that!?!? Even the 85 Neutrogena or the 45 with zinc oxide doesn't work! Any suggestions? Help!!!