Yes, I want a deer head for my living room.

It's pretty pathetic that I have yet to cross off more than one thing on my summer bucket list this year.  I'm sad and embarrassed.  Since tomorrow is my birthday, I am planning to pick up some spirits in order to develop my signature summer drink.  The instagram wall idea has really got me thinking about decor.

Our poor little living room is pathetic.  We have old, hand-me-down furniture.  It's really a beautiful room though.  It's the room that we and guests spend the most time.  It is the first room that I really want to invest in decorating.  The walls were already painted when we moved in, and I love the color.  A grayish-blue with white trim.  I've been fervently debating decor ideas and have a pretty clear idea of what I want.

Source: ikea.com via Kristin on Pinterest

I want a version of this couch from Ikea.  I'm thinking of a darker grey for a couch so every spill does not show up.  The grey I prefer is a little bit darker than the above version.  Since our couch sits in front of large windows, it won't clash with the walls.  The problem is our little kitties who love to claw our current couch.  Will they destroy the new one?  Even a "cheaper" Ikea couch?

Source: littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com via Kristin on Pinterest

I'm pretty obsessed with lucite (and those antlers on the wall).  I want just a lucite coffee table to replace our huge, awful one that has followed D all the way from south Georgia.  I think the lucite will give things a bit more of a modern feel.

Source: theyellowcapecod.com via Kristin on Pinterest

We have three large windows on the back wall, and they're currently holding these terrible red, suede curtains (what can I say? They came with the house, and we're cheap).  I adore these simple but chic curtains.  I think they'll pair perfect with the grey couch.

Source: ikea.com via Kristin on Pinterest

Obviously this rug is going to tie the curtains in together.  Perfection.

Source: danielleoakeyinteriors.blogspot.com via Kristin on Pinterest

Source: fourwallsandaroof.files.wordpress.com via Kristin on Pinterest

Then it's the deer head (but I promise it would be all white) that would be the focus of the gallery wall that meets your eye when you walk in the door.  It would be surrounded by instagram pics and fun printables and other Pinterest DIY ideas.

First priority is the couch & coffee table...

Closet craving :: Spring to summer.

Last year I was feeling pretty new and improved after losing weight while training for my half marathon.  I stopped wearing so many dresses/skirts and started rocking more shorts.  I'm feeling the same short vibe again this summer.  Since I'm on a never-ending budget, I've got just a couple of cravings that may cost a bit more.  I have to be practical when making purchases that have a larger price tag.  Here's a couple of items that are going to take me easily from spring to summer (and a one even into fall).

Scalloped Shorts

[J Crew Scalloped Short, $118]

This girl can not will not even dish out that much on shorts that may not carry their trend over for the next three years.  I'm digging this whole look though.  

[Aqua Scallop Trim Shorts, $58]

These are definitely more the price point I'm looking for; however I'd love to see them prior to buying.  They are listed as being polyester, and I'm not sure how I feel about that.  I'm leaning more towards the J Crew pair.

White Blouse

[J Crew Blythe blouse, $98]

Now this, I'd be willing to dish out the money for.  I only wish I could afford one in white and another in the coral color (I need way more color in my wardrobe).  Taylor recently posted about how to style a white button down.  She got me thinking this is something I desperately need to invest a little money towards.  

[Equipment Signature Blouse, $208]

I've been lusting over Equipment since I spotted this blouse a while back.  In my dreams...

Turns out I was pretty nice this year.

I mentioned a few things I definitely wasn't getting this year, a MacBook was at the top of my list being the most expensive thing on there.  As it turns out, I was good enough to have to extra cash floating around to get this beauty...

While my wallet/2012 travel budget aren't thrilled with the purchase, I certainly am!  I'm really excited about the possibility of this increasing my blogging ability and frequency.  Don't expect any 2011 recaps from me since I did not even bother with transferring all of my old pictures over to clog up my MacBook's space!  I will be checking in later this week or early next to tell you all about our fabulous trip to the Bahamas + a few bits about Christmas.

I hope you all had a great holiday filled with your favorite traditions!

Closet Craving :: What I'm not getting for Christmas.

I told you about our trip and my stocking stuffer cravings, but I have a few things I can only dream of getting for a gift.  Here are a few items I’m lusting over.

Macbook Air

 [So sleek and pretty! Image via Google]

Don’t get my wrong; I’m so grateful for my little Dell hanging in there for as long as it has.  If I ever get my act together and buy an external hard drive, it’ll probably [knock on wood] last me a lot longer.  Nonetheless, I am still running on Windows XP.  Um, the Apple iCloud won’t work with Windows XP.  I could die.  I can’t upload my my iPhone pics as effortlessly as I should be able to.  I'm scared to upload more pictures in worries of overloading it.  If I’m going to make the new laptop plunge, it has to be a Macbook.  I can get a teacher’s price, but take my word for it, it’s still not cheap.

Michael Kors watch

 [Image via Google]

Tara asked for the same thing!  I’ve had this on my Amazon wishlist for a bit now.  I’ve never spent a lot of money on jewelry, so it’s definitely a gift item.  It’s just so pretty! 

Canon Rebel Camera

[Amazon]

I've been debating having a nicer camera but never gave into the idea because they are so bulky.  I don't necessarily quickly whip out my little Canon PowerShot, but given my love and desire for travel, I really want a quality camera to document my travels.  I'm glad I didn't bite the bullet and buy this camera yet, but I'm on the lookout.  Do you have any smaller, "quality" camera recs?

We're headed to Georgia this weekend and then to the Bahamas early next week.  I'll be away from the blog for a while but may send some quick updates your way via phone.  Happy Holidays!

Christmas Craving

I’ve been counting down the three weeks until our winter break at school begins.  We’re done on December 16^th, and I have THREE WEEKS OFF following that.  Like I said, I adore this school schedule.  D and I decided to do a quick little trip this year sort of as our Christmas present to each other.  We’re doing an all-inclusive in the Bahamas for four nights.  I’m beyond excited.  Since D and I are vacationing, we figured we would go smaller on the gift front and do stockings with a smaller monetary limit.  Here are a few of my Christmas cravings

Fun nail polish 

Source: mangobluete.com via Kristin on Pinterest

Nail polishes are the perfect stocking stuffers!  I loving matte polishes this season or any of Essie's winter collection.

Leg warmers

 [American Apparel, $18]

Olivia mentioned AA when I posted about my want for over-the-knee socks.  I think these are amazingly perfect.  Pair with some thin socks and keep your feet extra warm in winter boots.

Earrings

 [18K Gold Plated Black Pearl studs, $19]

[18K Gold Plated Woven Studs, $19]

 No, not diamonds for me.  I lost my favorite black "diamond" studs before we left Athens.  My "pearls" finally looked so awful I could no longer wear them.  The current cubic zirconias are on their last legs as well.  It's beyond time for a couple new pairs...

Elephant necklace

[J Crew, $24; on sale for $14]

I fell in love with this necklace quite a while back.  There's something about a cute critter on a necklace that I love.

Garmin footpod

 [Amazon, on sale $36]

I'm pretty sick of using my unreliable Nike+ for running.  With the cooler weather coming in, I'm doing a lot more running on the treadmill.  I'd love to finally have a footpod to sync my Garmin on the TM.

Winter weather wear

[J Crew Cozy Knit Headband, $14 on sale]

Source: ae.com via Kristin on Pinterest

[AE Rainbow Knit beanie, $19]

Source: ae.com via Kristin on Pinterest

[AE Rainbow Loop scarf, $24.50]

Until I can crochet awesome pieces like these, I can always use more ways to keep warm!

I could go on forever, but I keep the rest on my Amazon wishlist...where I also keep my pricier wants :)

Closet Craving :: Fall/Winter necessities + Giveaway?

It’s been quite a while since I did a closet craving post.  I’ve already picked up a couple necessities I wanted for super cheap (which is amazing for me to find sales at the beginning of the season).  There are just a couple of other pieces I’m certainly coveting for the season though.  I have some dependable brown and black boots and some good sweaters.

Over-the-knee socks 

Source: shop.nordstrom.com via Kristin on Pinterest

I want some over-the-knee socks to wear with boots this winter.  I'd prefer gray along with a few other standard colors.  What better way to stay extra warm?!  Where can I find these for cheap?!

Checkered/Gingham shirt

 [J Crew Perfect Shirt in Gingham $72]

I refuse to spend the prices ole J Crew wants for theirs (you've got to be kidding me that a button down cotton shirt should EVER cost $72??)  This would be perfect for layering with sweaters this winter.  I've been coveting a shirt like this for a while.

Another pair of “jeggings” 

Source: jenhammer.com via Kristin on Pinterest

I got a cheap pair from Target last year and I basically live in them.  They are super comfy and surprisingly don’t stretch out like my regular jeans.  They are the best for pairing with tall boots.  I tried on a clearance pair at Gap recently, and they were awful.  No butt pockets – no buy.

Colored tights

Source: jenloveskev.com via Kristin on Pinterest

I have a plum/purple pair, but I’m vying for navy and maybe mustard.  Plus I want to wear skirts a bit more to work in the winter.

A chunky knit

Source: thegirlsoflincolnpark.tumblr.com via Kristin on Pinterest

I'm thinking a chunky scarf especially, but I'll settle for a chunky knit sweater too!

A cover for my iPhone - Speck or Kate Spade

 [Kate Spade Tropical Stripe Hard Cover - $40]

[Speck CandyShell - $35]

I'm trying to decide between both of these.  My Speck case held up wonderfully with my iPhone 3, so I'm confident in the brand.  I wish I knew how hard/tough the Kate Spade case actually was.  I am excited to have a bright case since my last one was boring black.

Now here is where the “giveaway” comes in.  Maybe I tricked you a bit because technically I don’t have a giveaway yet.  I’ve been planning to do one for quite a while, but I wanted to hit 100 followers first.  Help me hit one hundred followers by following through Google Friend Connect, and I’ll present my giveaway.  I’m hoping to be able to do the giveaway in December, so I’m planning to make it festive!  I won’t reveal everything I’m planning to giveaway (primarily because I haven’t determined it all yet) but think stocking stuffer items, my favorite things, and even a donation to a charity of your choice!  Spread the word and help me hit 100!

Wishlist.

I usually don't make a big fuss about my birthday.  I'm not much into all eyes being on me.  I adore a good surprise (as you know) but not in party form.  I like a low-key dinner date and presents :)  My birthday will be in 14 days.  I'm lucky enough that this year D is forgoing the annual beer festival so I can spend my birthday not in a hotel room and surrounded by the beer industry.  In honor of the big 2-6, I figured I'd make a wish list.  I'm not fancy enough to put them all into one picture, so here goes a list.

GARMIN FORERUNNER

[The 405CX with a heart rate monitor]

I've mentioned this a few times on closet craving posts.  I'd love to have it prior to the half marathon in November, but it's hard for me to think about dishing out that kind of money on one item.  I'm obsessed with having the heart rate monitor and something to accurately gauge my speed.  

TOMS

[Linen Pinstripe Wedges]

 [Pale Pink Cordones]

I've loved Tom's for a while now, but again it's just not something I've dished out the money for.  I know I would get my money's worth since I'd probably wear them a ton to school.  I've been obsessed with the wedges since they first came out.  I remember having a conversation with BFW about how much I loved them but was curious about their comfort level.  She ended up purchasing a pair and loved them and their comfort!

MASSAGE

Another thing I've been dying for.  I know I am going to need it with my increased running.  I even had a weird soreness in my lower back after running last week.  It went away after a day, but I can tell my body just needs some TLC. 

RUNNING GEAR

[The official sticker/magnet for my car]

[Running for Women by Kara Goucher]

[I love this Don't Stop shirt]

[Trigger Point foam roller]

[GU Chomps for my half training]

I have officially become a crazy person.  I would have never thought I would actually WANT running stuff for my birthday!  It's not all fun (and admittedly I'd probably be a bit bummed if that was all I got), but I am excited about it.  Since I officially signed up for the Outer Banks Half Marathon in November, I really have to up my running game.  I want the magnet as motivation.  I've heard great things about Kara's book and have been dying to read it.  Since I rotate the same training clothes all the time, I'm dying for the C9 High Impact Sports Bra  ($18.99), C9 Reversible shorts ($25), and the C9 Singlet Running Tank ($9.99) And of course, I still haven't purchased anything from my last running wants list.  

BAG

[Different color that I love found here]

I've been wanting this bag for ages now....seriously since like 2008.  Nothing has changed.  I still want it, but I still can't/won't pay the price.  I guess I should considering I've wanted it for 3 years now.  I even remember having a conversation with BFW about this bag (which she later purchased in another color too!).

Now I'll be happy to pass on my shipping address and sizes ;)

Closet Craving :: More running gear

On my last craving post about running gear, I mentioned a doctors appointment to get my breathing in check.  I checked that off the list.  I complained about needing new shoes, and finally got these badass kicks:

[Nike Lunarfly+ for only $17!  Right in my price range!]

I haven't gotten anything else from that first craving post, but the doctor was most needed.  I still haven't gotten a really good sports bra for support, which I really need.  I'm definitely still craving the Garmin Forerunner.

[I'm sort of obsessed with the 405 version]

I hate the bulkiness of the 305 version.  I really just want to not have to carry my huge bulky iPhone on every run.  It would probably be beneficial to just get an armband to hold my iPhone, but why?  I want the Garmin eventually anyway.

IPOD SHUFFLE

So once I get the Garmin, I'm still going to need something for some music.  Here's where the trusty iPod comes in handy.

Yep!  That bad boy will clip on wherever and keep me motivated.  I'm just a runner that needs to have music.  I do want to try out an audio book, but those things are expensive.  I have one that I bought a couple of years ago for Europe, which I plan to try out on a run.  

HANDHELD WATER BOTTLE

[Nathan Quickdraw 22-ounce Bottle Carrier]

[Nathan Quickdraw Elite - also 22-ounces]

[FuelBelt Sprint 10-ounce]

Now that I am starting to fully run longer distances (averaging running around 4 miles per day on week 8 of Couch to 10k) and in the heat, I'm thinking water is a necessity.  I don't love the idea of having to hold something else or looking like a fool running on the streets with a water bottle, but I'm thinking well being here.  Obviously a 10-ounce would be pretty solid for a hot 4 mile run, but once I start training for the half, runs will get longer.  

RUNNING SHIRT

  [Because I will!  Found here]

My pace is crazy slow these days.  It is still hard for me to get an accurate pace outside by just using my Nike+.  Today the app told me this today:

9:45 was my fastest?!  And I was in the green most of the way?  The red 37 was at the end when I thought I might pass out.  Nike+ told me the entire time that my average pace was around 13:00, so I was shocked to see that 9:45 holding steady.  I was creeeeeeeeping up the hills.  Anyway, I don't think any of this was accurate.  It is still safe to say that in the running world, I am definitely an "I'll get there eventually" runner (but still a runner nonetheless!).

And of course, I could always use more work out clothes from Target! 

Closet craving :: Running Necessities

I mentioned about a month ago that I need new running shoes.  Since I started the Couch to 10k program last week, I've really been noticing my dire need for new shoes.  Unfortunately, the budget does not allow for new shoes now.  I have an ongoing list of running necessities I need to have in order to be truly ready for my first half in November.  Thanks to a hefty college tuition bill I have to pay this month, none of these will be even close to happening until June or July (cringe inside).

DOCTOR APPOINTMENT

[via weheartit]

Not that kind of doctor though.  About two years ago, I started having some breathing problems.  I went to the doctor and was told I had bronchitis.  While the bronchitis and coughing eventually cleared up, the breathing problems did not.  Since moving to Raleigh, I've been to the doctor twice.  She switched me to a steroid inhaler after I was practically using the other inhaler daily.  It appears that my breathing problems happen solely at home (in my own home) and when working out/running.  The problems vary in intensity depending on the day.  Some days it's not too bad when I run, other days it is very difficult to breath.  I end up being short of breath and it's very hard to breath in.  It's definitely affecting my running.  I know I need to go back and re-evaluate since the steroid inhaler is not working.  With a doctor co-pay at $30 (and she mentioned x-rays last time, no thank you) and a possible prescription, I don't have that to dish out.  I know when I find something that works, my running will improve.  

SPORTS BRA

After hitting the shred in only a sports bra and in front of our bedroom mirrors (TMI?!), it's obvious I need better support for high impact activities like running.  Women's Health complied a list of best sports bras.  The one pictured above is a Natori Sport underwire sports bra and apparently costs a whopping $48!  Yikes.  The other high impact sports bras they list are equally or more expensive.  This may stay on the necessity list for quite a while.

GARMIN FORERUNNER

As Megan and others have noted, the Nike+ is not the most accurate.  I had speculated this for a bit.  I don't think it'll be completely necessary to have this before the half since I'll be running to finish, not for my speed.  It would be nice to eventually have the Garmin to note my actual and real speed and distance.  

Of course the doctor appointment and running shows are first priority.  It's always difficult every month when the rarity happens that I have extra money.  Typically I am putting it in savings to save for another trip (or more recently I was trying to save for D's birthday).  It's so hard for me to take money to spend on doctors or large price items these days (even clothing and shoes).  While I desperately want to update my wardrobe and running necessities, traveling is so much more fulfilling to me.  I do know that to succeed in my goal of running the OBX half (and not kill myself), I am going to have to take some money for doc and shoes.  

I better start playing the lottery.