The last bit of freedom before the work/school marathon....

Classes begin Monday.  I have taken this last week of freedom and spent time with friends and family.  I've been the lady who lunches and shops (yes, I busted my resolution to shop less...but every day is a new day and I'm starting over; I'm going to get it right).

Dressbarn turtleneck, Dressbarn skirt (thrifted), Nordstrom wool scarf (thrifted), Nine West booties

Tuesday, I had lunch with my dear childhood friend Rose.  Rose didn't want to have her picture taken because she's growing out her hair and felt that her hair was at an awkward stage.  I think she looks beautiful just as she is, but I know that I am particular about photos and hair too.  She was kind enough to indulge me and take some photos....

I may have taken pictures in this same spot previously...its the very old library building which is now a Masonic hall and banquet facility.  Its such a beautiful building, I just love looking at it.  I feel so small in front of this massive building.

We had a great time talking at lunch...we're both a couple of chatty magpies when we get together.  We grew up as neighbors and have so many cherished memories of childhood.  One of her memories of me....I used to pile on the makeup when I was just starting learn how to put it on.  Her mother kindly took me aside and gently suggested that I would look prettier without the heavy green frosted eyeshadow.  Thank you Beverly...you taught me the lesson of a lifetime and it has stuck with me; the only time I enjoy heavy makeup is when competing!

Rose and I shared a great fondness for the hot Chicago Cubs players of the time...Rose crushed on Dave Kingman and my hot dude was Bill Buckner.  I really enjoy reminiscing with her.

I wore these Lia Sophia earrings, 'Sunbeam' with Tuesday's outfit;....they're one of my favorites.  If I can actually pick a favorite.

On Wednesday, I broke my spending moratorium. I'm disappointed that my resolve lasted only 9 days.  I justified my spending by reminding myself that the great sale prices will not be available in a couple more weeks and I'll be inundated with school/work demands from next week until May.
  I did have some practical needs....but I went full retail on almost all of my purchases which I rarely ever do.  Some of my purchases are featured below in Thrusday's review.

 With the outfit above I'm wearing three LS pieces; two of this necklace, 'Panorama" and the 'Ladylike' ring.

I receive so many compliments when I wear this ring.

I put this Michael Kors bag on layaway.  It's  significantly reduced T.J. Maxx price was too tempting to pass up.  I usually carry mini-bags and larger tote or computer bag, but I need a day bag that's not as big as a tote, but larger than my usual small bag. 

INC skirt (thrifted), Dressbarn turtleneck, unbranded leopard scarf.

The skirt is hanging a bit "kattywhompus" as Rhonda is fond of saying.  It was a very long leisurely day, and my picture reflects that, but it was a wonderful day and I enjoyed wearing the skirt.  While we were out, the scarf looked really cute tied as bow...but its droopy here!

We had a tasty lunch at Cafe' Bon Femme.

....and we enjoyed out cute British waiter, Tom.  We had no idea what words he was saying because we were too enchanted with his darling accent.  Tom was a great sport and agreed to allow us to snap his picture; before taking I did ask to make sure he was on the lam from the law....haha!  We don't want to splash his picture all over the blogosphere if he was!  

My lunch!  I could eat like this nearly every day.

....as long as I have these delicious peppery, crisp sweet potato fries along with my meal.

Rhonda's French Onion soup smelled divine.  Isn't it pretty?

cHalet dress, Blondo boots

Today....I'm wearing one of my purchases from yesterday.  Bangles, a sweet boutique shop was having a 50% off fall and winter wear sale.  At half price, I paid about what I would exact to pay for a nice dress at full retail.  a bit pricey, but so out of my norm of thrifting that I don't feel too bad about it.  I don't normally shop retail and especially boutiques, but I couldn't resist.  I fell in love with this dress the minute I put it on.  Its very soft and comfortable.  It looks good unbelted, great belted.  Today, I wanted the ease of an unbelted dress.  The boots are new;  they're waterproof fashion boots and I'm excited to have them because I can wear them all winter and still be fashionable.  

Barbara Lesser jacket.  

These beautiful Lia Sophia pieces are from the new spring catalog and will be available on the 28th of January.  I have decided not to purchase too many of the new pieces because my business is a bit slow right now.  I'm giving it time to pick up, but have had a number of ladies back out of scheduled parties recently.  I'm thinking of trying out my own Lia Sophia online website to generate more sales.   

I chose these three pieces because they really represent the versatility and timeless character of LS jewelry.  In this picture, there are three pieces; two of the same necklace in two different colors and one pendant slide.  Each of the necklaces consists of three detachable strands and a double clasp for maximum versatility.  The clasp is designed to function as a clasp if you wear it short and a decorative accent and clasp if you wear it long.  These pieces can be configure in about 7 or eight different ways.  

Although the necklaces look gold in the picture, one is silver tone and the other hematite.  The slide is silver.

They're really fun to wear!

I had a lot of writing to do during my break, so I didn't have as much leisure time as I would have like to, but I made the most of the time I did have.

I'm thankful that my work/school schedule allows me built-in time off and mini-vacations.

My salary is low...until I finish my Masters degree....but I have what I need and enjoy some wonderful leisure time and time to connect with cherished friends and family.

Now....on to the school work marathon.

I'm taking a deep breath......

Taking an easy weekend...

and here I go.........