Smells like Fall

Philosophy "I Love Candy Corn" Shampoo, Shower Gel & Bubble Bath

I pick up a bottle of Philosophy's Pumpkin Spice shower gel each fall, but the candy corn version might take its place this year.

Fall 2009 Shopping | Part Three: Military

While I was growing up, my father was enlisted in the National Guard. He may have been gone one weekend a month, but there were plenty of upsides to his enlistment: including the beautiful Goebel doll he brought back from Germany and the soda crackers that were part of his MRE rations. But I remember the clothing most vividly. I was fascinated with the sense of honor, duty and leadership the uniforms invoked. And now that my younger brother has enlisted with the Army, the military-trend resonates even stronger with me and my newfound patriotism.


(pictured clockwise, starting with upper left)

Burberry, Felt Duffle Coat, $695
Fendi, Military Detail Blouse, $436
CC Skye, Braided Knot Mesh Cuff, $110
Michael Kors, Men's Goldtone Bracelet Watch, $250
J.Crew, Cadet Funnel Neck Sweater, $98
Tory Burch, Military Studded Leather Messenger Bag, $475
Vivienne Westwood, Draped Dress, $752

Unhappy Weekend

photo via ffffound

Well, so much for my relaxing, carefree weekend. My boyfriend and I were eager to spend the day poking around the city - starting with mini golf. On our way across town, we stopped at a gas station and discovered that my debit card wouldn't work on the pumps outside. I popped in and asked the attendant to run my card. No luck.

Frustrated, I called my bank to learn there was a hold on my card due to potential fraudulent activity. As the customer service representative read through the list of yesterday's charges, my stomach kept dropping: three were mine, five were not, and another string of charges were attempted after the account was stopped. I have no idea when or how my account number was compromised. I never leave my wallet unattended and I only shop at trusted stores and Web sites. Yet it still happened.

Now I'm left feeling violated, sans my stolen money until my dispute paperwork is processed, and sans debit card for the ten days it'll take to send a replacement with a new account number. It just shouldn't be this easy for someone to access and tamper with an account.

Sigh.

Happy Labor Day Weekend

photo via fffound

I have absolutely nothing on this weekend's agenda other than lounging, reading and enjoying the late summer sun. What are you doing this Labor Day weekend?

Back from the Wild

Phew! I'm back from my office retreat to Dillman's Bay Resort in Northern Wisconsin. We generated an incredible amount of new ideas and solidified friendships (with a few intense work-related conversations peppered in, of course). I don't think we could have asked for a more beautiful, inspiring setting.

As for right now, let's just say I'm relieved to be home!

Wilderness Retreat

I work at a local business magazine with a staff of 12 people. In an effort to work on the business, rather than in the business for a few days, we're taking off to northern Wisconsin for a 4-day, 3-night strategic planning retreat. I'm expecting long days going over financial data, brainstorming and team-building activities - and, of course, a few late-night cocktails to ease the stress of spending over 72 hours straight with coworkers.

I'm planning to pack easy, comfortable items: a pair of slouchy jeans, an oversize cardigan, cozy scarf, leather sandals, aviator sunglasses, a maxi dress, khaki shorts, rumpled button-down shirts, a long necklace (the antler one featured below would be perfect) and a copy of The Kite Runner if I'm lucky enough to find any alone time.

To kick off the weekend, I'm driving to my parents' house even further north. Unfortunately they only have dial-up Internet - and I'll be completely unplugged at the retreat with no cell phone service and no Internet service. The only piece of technology I'll have is my camera.

I'll be back to regularly scheduled updates when I return Wednesday evening with photos from the adventure. I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend!

UGG for Men?

I'm sure UGG boots are cozy. In some instances, I almost think they're cute (primarily on young girls). But let's face it, I'm just not keen on the Australian brand's Classic Boot.

I'm even more unnerved by the brand after receiving the latest Saks Fifth Avenue e-mail this morning.

Yes, that's right. A man staring wistfully into the distance dreaming of his new pair of UGG Classic Short Boots. I'm sorry, but I could never respect a man sporting these. Could you?

On another note, I can get behind the Corinth Tall Wedge Boots featured for women.