Final Revamp – The Birthday Blog Design

So … notice anything different?

I have finally introduced a new design for the blog!

One goal I set out for myself during the revamp to 26 was introducing a new design at the very end. I wanted something more classic and simple; a design that was personalized for me. When trying to describe what I wanted for the design, all I could say is that I wanted it clean. Apparently that made sense in my brain and I think it turned out really well!

I have to credit a close friend for helping me with this redesign. Kari of KCillo Photography designed my new logo (which I love!) and took all the photos for the blog. I could say I helped design the logo but really I sat next to her randomly making suggestions.  She somehow took an idea I had in my mind and made it come to life for which I am very thankful.

Now I am off to celebrate my birthday, adult style. Which means 8 hours at work with the possibility of free coffee and happy hour after. Lets be honest, after 25, cocktails are the new birthday cake!

I hope you all enjoy the new design! 

Week Six in Review

I cannot believe it! The six-week revamp is over. (Insert a round of applause and a sigh of relief) I am actually surprised I have been able to keep up with it. When I first set out to do this, I honestly thought it was going to be a struggle and that I would have to really push myself each week. (I guess I don’t feel that strongly about my dedication to things … awkward much?) But, truly, this has been the most fun I have had with this blog in a while. It really has opened my eyes to where I want to take this blog in the future!

New Projects accomplished my Final Week (yay!):

I discovered fun new work snacks. I know this may not be that exciting for everyone but if you are stuck behind a desk or running around an office for 8 hours a day, finding healthy and delicious snacks is akin to finding the perfect pair of jeans. I found these snacks at a local organic grocery store and am now hooked. I mean, I found falafel flavored chickpeas! Yum!

I have also tackled the first difficult task of transitioning into fall. I found a great pair of jeans. I know, I know. I was impressed as well. Jean shopping is the fall equivalent of swimsuit shopping. I don’t know who chooses the lighting in fitting rooms but they have a sick sense of humor. After many, many hours of shopping and a few (insert a million) silly “selfie” photos sent to a very patient friend, I found a pair of distressed jeans I love. (If anyone is interested, I bought Joe Jeans! Similar here)

I finally embraced my love of over-accessorizing. I have always held myself back in the mornings when I would try to decide what to pair with my outfits. One day I realized that I honestly didn’t care if others don’t like the look, I love tons and tons of layers! So I did it! I stacked away. Much to my shock, I was complimented several times for my accessories. So … thanks! I am now stacking jewelry to my heart’s content. (If all else fails, you can never lose me in a crowd. I now jingle!)

Weekend Rewind:

This weekend was a big one in the world of Champagne and Sarcasm. I finally set up an office space for myself. In such a tiny apartment, I would find myself blogging from bed or lying on the couch. I really wanted a space I could set up with the computer, notebooks, magazines, and everything else that inspires me when I write. I am so happy with how it turned out.

I also had a photo shoot with KCillo Photography for updated promotional photos for the blog and Facebook page. She even designed a brand new logo for the site. The new design and photos will premiere this Wednesday. (aka my birthday!!)

Now that the six weeks are up, I am so excited to move forward with a new passion for the blog! I will be back this week with an all-new design and all new posts. But, of course, the same old sarcasm!

Week Five in Review

I cannot believe we are down to the last two weeks of this challenge. I really have enjoyed trying new things. I can honestly say I do feel better about where my life is going. Just by trying new things, I have discovered new things about myself and have found more confidence in who I am. (Pretty inspiring, right! HaHa) 

This week really was a week of firsts. I had my very first Pinterest Fail. I attempted the “At-Home Gel Manicure.” I bought all the supplies for this during my lunch break on Monday. I was so excited to try something that would allow me to have perfect nails for half the cost. I painted them Monday using Essie “Fiji.” It looked it a little streaky so I repainted them with a cheap brand Tuesday. Thursday midday and they were a hot mess! My nails have never chipped so badly. If anyone has used this trick or a similar technique and had it work, please let me know!!

I also received a special package in the mail on Tuesday. My May Designs books had arrived. I am now the proud owner of two matching books and note cards for the blog. I love the how they turned out. I can not wait to use them to organize all the brilliant things I have to say. (Insert note of sarcasm!) 

A new trend I am going to attempt to try is the Fedora. I really don’t know if I can rock this look but I sure am going to try! Pictures to come soon … if I ever feel brave enough to walk outside wearing it!

Weekend Rewind:

Friday was spent at happy hour, which really was a great time. Aka … the rum and coke inspired purchase of a fedora. Saturday was spent enjoying an outdoor street fair and looking at new apartments in our neighborhood. Sunday was even more relaxing. Cleaned the house for a bit, which turned into an hour-long Pandora dance party. I took some clothes to consign (and got a great Zara top for $16!) Current Boutique is such a good find in Logan’s Circle. Late afternoon was spent blogging on the roof.

All in all, a great weekend! I cannot believe next week is the last week of this revamp!! 

Week Four in Review

So this may be a day late, but I promise it’s not a dollar short. This past week was a busy one. I completely ran out of time yesterday to write a post. My apologizes, everyone!! After week 3’s “something new” everyday, week 4 was more about focusing on just a few new things.

The biggest thing I did this week was open a business. I am now working as a personal stylist through Keaton Row. Style has always been something I love and now I have a way to channel that love into an actual activity. Don’t worry though. This blog will not become all about the business but I am sure I will post fashion pieces from time to time.

One great thing about living in the city is always having new restaurants to try. This past Friday, one of my best friends was in town and we decided to head out for happy hour and food. Diego has just opened on 14^th St NW rather conveniently close to my apartment so we decided to give it a try. Great drink specials ($5 Brut) and delicious appetizers (the corn tamales were amazing!). This place is definitely a win in my book!

Weekend Rewind

This weekend was a serious blast! I took the day off on Friday and hit the outlets (with the  same friend who later joined me for cocktails!). I splurged at Kate Spade. (How could I not? The purses were 60% off!) Saturday was spent with some of my closest friends now living in Virginia, eating and drinking just like old times in 29 Palms! I even made a few new Pinterest recipes (found here and here.)  The popcorn was delicious and the mac and cheese surprisingly easy to make! Sunday was all about getting ready for the week though we did make a pit stop at the PX to pick up some moto gear (aka Marine Corps shirts and such.)

Now it’s Monday and I am already missing the weekend and my friends. But, I am excited for the week has in store!

Have a great week everyone! 

Week Three in Review

Halfway there! This week was a busy one. Since we hit the home stretch, I decided to push myself and try something new every day this past week. It was a blast! (Exhausting but a blast!)

A few new things I tried revolved around beauty and fashion. I styled two new pencil skirts and tried a new summer nail trend. These things might seem trivial and I guess in the grand scheme of things, they are. However, by putting that little extra effort in the morning, I felt great all day. It really helped to boost my attitude. It’s funny how something so small as a new skirt or nail polish can put a whole new spin on the day! (That paragraph was oddly cheerful and not at all sarcastic … hmm, am I losing my edge?)

This week I also tried a new at home workout via Pinterest. I really enjoyed the workout but my favorite part was wearing those ridiculously short shorts around my house. (I might have even indulged in a Pandora Hip-Hop radio inspired dance party post workout … and when I saw “might have,” I mean definitely! What can I say? I have no shame.)

Weekend Rewind:

This weekend was all about getting my closet (and my life) organized. Friday night was spent crazily digging out the depths of my closet while drinking wine. It seemed like a good idea at the time. (Honestly, wine is always a good idea.) By Saturday morning, I had accumulated a rather large pile of stuff to donate. I feel rather proud of myself. On Saturday, I splurged on some organizational goodies from the Target. It’s actually a great time to go since they have all the “back-to-school” paraphernalia out. Sunday was spent putting everything back into place in the closet. I did take a small break to have brunch down on Barrack’s Row and explore the Capital Hill Books!

(And, if anyone is interested, one of the books I started is so horribly good. Ya know what I mean? The main character is described to look just like Spike from Buffy theVampire Slayer. So bad but so good!)

The Week Ahead:

Pinterest recipes, random metro stops, and cleaning out the dresser!

Have a great week everyone!