Jilly beansTALK

Uniform

2012-02-16T10:45:00.000-05:00

This has seriously been my uniform for much of the winter. Black skirt, black tights, black Avenue booties, paired with my black trench coat.

Kind of boring, but practical for work! What's your uniform been lately?

Coat: Dots

Skirt: Target (old)

Booties: Avenue (fall 2011)

Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T12:00:00.001-05:00

I like Valentine's. I really do. It's a day you can tell anyone that means something to you, you love them and care about them. I think people get a little caught up in the notion Valentine's Day is only for romantic love (and maybe that is the true definition of it. I don't really know. I've never researched it), but you can't harp on a day where the intent is to celebrate love. And, if someone needs one day designated to do it, then so be it. It's better than none because isn't love is all you need?

With that said, I wanted to post of my favorite love songs (and it's cheesy at best). Meat Loaf's I'd Do Anything For Love (But I Won't Do That). Before you laugh (it was also made fun of in the new movie The Vow), listen to the lyrics. They're actually pretty meaningful even if the song is meant to be theatrical.

People ask what exactly Meat Loaf won't do for love, and if you listen to the lyrics just once you can name a few things he won't do.

Meat Loaf won't lie to you, forget the way you feel right now, forgive himself if he doesn't go all the way with you tonight, ever do it better than he does with you, ever stop dreaming of you every night of his life, forget everything and see it's time to move on, let it all turn to dust, and cheat. He'd do anything for love, but he won't do those things, and I think that's pretty darn admirable.

So ENJOY some Meat Loaf (the full 12 minute version of the song) and have a wonderful Valentine's Day!!

Neutrals

2012-02-12T19:23:00.000-05:00

I need to take more outfit photos of the quality outfits I actually wear, and not the ones that are so so, but I just have time to snap photos. You know what I'm saying?

I was also a little sad to hear about Whitney Houston's passing. I'm not going to lie that I was listening to hear non-stop this week. I'm not sure how it is in other countries, but here in the US, we really hold our national anthem in high esteem, and Whitney was the only singer who could truly do it justice when she sang. Vocally it's a VERY difficult song, and most vocalists can't sing it well. Not to mention a lot of singers feel they need to put their own spin on it, when I think most Americans just want a singer to sing the true form of it. She did it two decades ago before the Super Bowl, and so EVERY year the week after the Super Bowl, I tend to listen to her for a solid week (and yes, I have her version of the US national anthem on my ipod). May she find her voice wherever she is tonight.

Jacket: Target (old)

Shirt: Old Navy (old)

Jeans: Old Navy

Boots: Forever 21 (fall 2011)

Scarf: Eddie Bauer outlet

Necklace: Charlotte Russe

Link Love and Flashback Friday

2012-02-10T08:06:00.000-05:00

LuAnne from Weesha's World looks GORGEOUS in her maxi color blocked dress.

Meet the most stylish dog, EVER: Logan.

Shareen from Vintage Mavens rocks a neutral metallic outfit.

Everything about the outfit Sabrina is wearing is perfect.

I'm loving Victoria's soft and hard mixed outfit here.. and her blend of brown and black, one of my favorite combination colors.

a very young me! I think I should get this haircut again... kidding!

Weird Happenings of the Last Week

2012-02-02T20:26:00.000-05:00

Weird happenings of the last week: I've been in the newspaper four times. My new dentist fawned over my teeth last week after a cleaning (apparently I have "gorgeous, gorgeous teeth" and do excellent home care). It made me feel less self conscious that I had a few tiny cavities (first time to the dentist in 2 years, yikes) as today she told me I don't realize how nice it is to work on a mouth that looks like mine. Also, I celebrated one month of no new clothes and accessories! YAY!

Anything unusual happen to you?

Utility Jacket: Sears (old)

Shirt: Target (old)

Skirt: Avenue

Shoes: Avenue

Necklace: Charlotte Russe (old)

Link Love and Flashback Friday

2012-01-27T08:38:00.001-05:00

LINK LOVE

Keiko Lynn wears leather leggings and boots so well.

Night lights has the perfect pre-Valentine's day outfit with blushing colors.. and I have to post another outfit from her too. Love her blog.

I love how simple Juggling Chic's outfit is. Black and denim. Simply chic too.

I've seen the marbled nail idea floating around the blogosphere the past couple months. I really need to try it.

My Thrifted Closet looks so good in her color block outfit.

FLASHBACK FRIDAY

Fourth of July celebration.. I'm second from the right!

Winter Florals

2012-01-25T18:58:00.000-05:00

I basically stole this outfit from Franceta of Frantic Dreams. She did a better job styling her winter florals.

Also I seem to only like the photos of me making a face of some kind. Enjoy!

Blazer: Target (late summer 2011)

Sweater: K-Mart (winter 2010)

Shorts: Forever 21+ (Summer 2011)

Shoes: Avenue

Brooch Love

2012-01-23T18:48:00.001-05:00

I did it. I brought out the pastels. I don't even care that it's still January. Sometimes you just need a little pastel in your life, AND a large ostrich/peacock brooch (can't decide what kind of bird it actually is).

And, it's January 23 and I have not bought a single new piece of clothing or fashion accessory. I was doing fairly fine until about last week. It hits me in waves.. especially when I'm reading blog posts or see pictures of the new items hitting stores for spring or even just looking at Etsy. But it's good that I can't just go out there, rush and buy something.

How are all you doing with your New Year's resolutions?

P.S. I'm on Pinterest.. follow me if you're on there!

Shirt: Old Navy (last spring)

Jeans: Old Navy

Blazer: Target (last summer)

Boots: Forever 21 (from fall collection)

Necklace, Brooch: too old to remember.. sorry!

Link Love and Flashback Friday

2012-01-20T17:23:00.000-05:00

I'm going to try my best to link to my favorite outfit posts or inspirations for the week (or maybe every couple weeks). I'd like to show my readers whose blogs I read and find inspiration. It's also a good pin board for me to style similar outfits with the things I have in my closet (thanks to my spending freeze, no new items!).

Also with this post (which I hope to get out on Fridays) will include a Flashback picture from my youth!

I hope you enjoy and THANKS for reading!

at Disney World watching a performance in 1990!

Frantic Dreams brings out the floral shorts for the milder winter in Toronto.

Atlantic Pacific shows off her denim outfits this month.. and you all know how much I love denim.

Every time I see StylePantry's J-Crew's shoes, I WANT them with a passion. I will take these in any color, and low and behold they still have my size (9). :)

Sandra from Niotillfem, the hottest export from Sweden to land in the US since Alexander Skarsgard made a post about her favorite (celebrity) boys.

Laura from The Blog of Worldly Delights looks fantastic in her blue inspired outfit with a velvet blue thrifted blazer.

Golden Globes Fashion Review

2012-01-15T20:42:00.000-05:00

As with the last two years, here are my favorite dresses from the Golden Globes! (in no particular order). Who were your favorite?!

Claire Danes

from MTV Style Blog

Jessica Chastain

She's nominated for her work in The Help but she was in one of my favorite movies of 2011, The Debt. Which she was really better in too. Did anyone see it?

Angelina Jolie

Naya Rivera from Glee

from MTV Style Blog

Diane Lane

from MTV Style Blog

Kate Winslet

from Bohemea

Julianne Moore

from Bohemia

Don't Go Out of Style, Please!

2012-01-15T08:30:00.000-05:00

I FINALLY got my porch back! YAY! My camera takes much better pictures outside than it does inside, but then again it could just be my lack of photography skills (I'm actually positive that's the case).

Anyway, this skirt was one of my last purchases before my spending freeze. I love it. I hope pleated skirts never go out of "style" but I'm sure if they do, they'll always be classic enough to wear no matter what.

Also, I went and got my hair trimmed on New Year's Day.. and it wasn't until I straightened my hair that I noticed the hairstylist did more than a trim... it kind of makes me sad. Because at the moment, I have major retro hair envy ala this:

Gotta love Brigitte Bardot.. and this random model. Are you feeling any certain hairstyle at the moment? If so whom?

Shirt: Target (old)

Skirt: Avenue

Shoes: Burlington Coat Factory

Necklace: Charlotte Russe

GlassesUSA.com

2012-01-10T16:00:00.001-05:00

I sometimes get asked to do reviews or become affiliates with websites dedicated to some sort of fashion. I often say no because I've 1] never shopped at the site, 2] don't think the site and my blog would be good partners, 3] I don't want to bog down my readers with useless reviews, etc., just so I can monetize my blog.

GlassesUSA.com contacted me to see if I'd be interested in partnering with them on something, and I immediately thought well, no, I don't wear/need prescription glasses, BUT yes, I want to because I think having access to affordable eye-care is important to me AND a lot of my readers. I don't wear prescription glasses now, but I did for a VERY long time (I had corrective eye surgery).

I do remember how expensive glasses were even with health insurance which is why I said yes to partnering with GlassesUSA. They offer a 110% lowest price guarantee and 100% satisfaction guarantee as well as a Refer a Friend program (how cool is that?). Here are some of my favorite glasses on their site! (I obviously like the dark and retro frames).

By the way, you can try all their glasses frames on with a virtual mirror!

AND, with a New Year there often comes New Year's Resolutions, so with all the promises of healthy eating and exercising, I think annual eye check ups should be put on the list. They're important for your overall health as well! So if you find yourself in the market for new eyeglasses (or you just want an extra pair or two or three), USAGlasses and I are offering my blog readers some deals at their site. I hope you check 'em out!

New Year Sale:

Take 20% off any pair of eyeglasses and get FREE US shipping with the code: New2012

Take 10% off any order of prescription glasses. Code: Blog10

HAPPY SHOPPING!

Minnie Mouse Outfit

2012-01-09T19:09:00.000-05:00

I instagram'd this photo saying that when wearing red pants, you just have to go all out #minnie mouse. I truly believe it!

Flats: Old Navy

I also love outfits you can wear to work and then switch out shoes and it's good to go out in. This would be one of those outfits! Ignore the BAD lighting, and I can't even post photos of my face because this weird "red" eye happened.. not really red, but white eye and I looked totally like a demon!

The owner of the bar I go to often son wanted to be in the photo.

Shirt: Old Navy

Jeans: Old Navy

Heels: Avenue

Ok... why not show a demon photo? (And, NO.. the red eye photo editing thing would not take it out).

December: As Viewed Through the Eyes of My Phone

2012-01-02T16:16:00.000-05:00

Like most, my December was pretty busy! For once I had holiday party after holiday party as I tried to balance the crazy holiday season with work (because it doesn't stop). I often wish the United States would just shut down between Thanksgiving and New Year's.. one long extended vacation. Lord knows most of us need it!

First Friday December in downtown Scranton! Some Scranton building photos and some of the artwork I liked.

A vendor created her own art with the umbrellas she was selling.

I saw the following picture at a gallery in the King of Prussia mall outside Philadelphia. It was painted by Frank Kolbmann, and I really like it.

I hung out with Alvin at the movie theater (but no I did not see the Chipmunks movie).

This is the tree my uncle put on my porch thus not allowing me to take outfit photos there. I obviously manipulated this photo.

Outfit preview.

Christmas party.

Outfit preview 2.

My favorite tree from the Festival of Trees.

I did some napkin art!

I went to the Bethlehem Steel Stacks and ArtsQuest for a special tour!

Then my group and I ate dinner at Bube's in Mount Joy at the Catacombs. One of the best meals I've ever had in one of the most interesting atmospheres.. Bube's in an old brewery that serves meals in the catacombs 50 feet below the ground!

One the way down, the hostess gives everyone a little history tour. This is where we ate!

And that's all for December! I'm looking forward to January and 2012.. only a few more months until spring :)

Favorite Outfits of 2011

2011-12-31T17:00:00.004-05:00

And in no particular order, here are my favorite outfits (that I photographed anyway) from 2011! 2012 means my third year of blogging, and I'd like to step my game up with remixing pieces (I'll have to with my spending freeze!). Let me know if there's anything you'd like to see in the blog for next year. AND as always, THANK YOU for taking the time out of your busy day to stop by JillybeansTALK. I appreciate it more than you know! Have a safe and happy NEW YEAR!

OOTD

2011-12-29T11:14:00.000-05:00

Thanks for all the advice on my idea of a spending freeze for 2012. I'm sure you'll see blog posts about it in the upcoming year. My friend Megan may be joining be in the freeze so maybe I'll see if she'll do some guest posts (or start a blog of her own)! Also it gives me about 2.5 days to do any sort of shopping.. is there anything I desperately need for 2012?! hahaha..

And now that I'm on the topic of 2012 (and going into my third year of blogging).. is there anything you'd like to see more of or less of on the blog? Anything you'd like to see on here that I never post about? Let me know.. I'm open to some change :)

Blazer: Target

Top: Old Navy

Skirt: Avenue

Shoes: Payless

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T22:15:00.000-05:00

"Seeing is believing, and sometimes the most real things in the world are the things we can't see."

The Polar Express

In the spirit of last year's post (one of my favorite posts on this blog), MERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS!

It's funny how my parents used to make my brother and me pose for holidays... these are kinda my first outfit posts!

And apparently I was just as good at taking outfit photos back then as I am now!

My VERY first outfit post as a blogger was my Christmas outfit from two years ago. AND, yes, these are fake glasses.. my dad made me wear them.. seriously!

And this was last year's Christmas outfit...

And this year's Christmas outfit.

Blazer: Target

Shirt: Target

Skirt: Strawberry

Shoes: Burlington Coat Factory

Hat: Target

2012 Forecast and Decor

2011-12-19T20:40:00.000-05:00

I think for 2012 I am going to go on a spending freeze. No new clothes, shoes, accessories. No unnecessary book purchases. I shall buy nothing that I can't live without... with absolutely certainty that is. My goal is to make it last the entire year, but I honestly don't know if I'm strong enough to do that.. maybe with some help and encouragement I can. I know many of my readers have gone on one before.. have any advice?

My friend, Courtney, has the most amazing apartment. Not only is the apartment layout just perfect, but her decor goes above and beyond. Whenever I get there and when I leave, I can't help but think I need to step up my living space decor game. She just has the knack for decorating, and I could quite honestly just live in her apartment.. we have VERY similar taste, but I would just be a copy cat. I often find it difficult to decorate in my apartment because my carpets clash with my furniture (red carpet in hallway/living room and green in bedroom), and I'm not allowed to paint anything (my walls are a really bad yellowed based off white). Because my landlord is my uncle I'm going to slowly ask him if he'd consider ripping out the carpet to see what's underneath, and if it's not hardwood floors if he'd install different flooring. Maybe that could help my lack of cohesiveness in my place.

Anyways, I was at Courtney's apartment for a Christmas party, and I decided to take some snapshots of her place to show you all.... is your home space decorated really well? Are you jealous of friends/families places? Do you wish you could change your place? Excuse the bad photo quality.. I used my cellphone!

Festival of Trees

2011-12-14T23:01:00.000-05:00

The Trolly Museum and Lackawanna County Arts and Culture department put on the Festival of Trees everywhere to benefit Toys for Tots. Area organizations and companies are asked to decorate a tree in the year's theme and are judged by a local committee (this year's was the Art of the Tree). The non-profit where I work decided to decorate one this year, so a group of us got together, came up with a concept and decorated. I have to say we did pretty well with ours (we bought all the items from the dollar store!), and we won People's Choice! Of course, we had like 10 employees there to buy up the People's Choice votes, but it still counts, right?! But Toys for Tots were the real winners of the night though. I'm glad we were able to support such a great foundation.

Jacket: Target

Top: Target

Skirt: Strawberry

Shoes: Avenue

Purse: thrifted, Salvation Army

Here's some of my co-workers.. there were a few more on the tree decorating committee that weren't there for the picture!

Instant Glam

2011-12-11T12:24:00.000-05:00

The "skirt" in my photos is one of the only items in my closest that instantly makes me feel all girly, pretty and glam. It's so easy to swish around in but not feel overwhelmed by the poofiness. It's the easiest way to feel like a princess without this large and fairytale like gown.

What's in your closest that makes you feel instantly glam?

I wore this outfit to the Scranton Hilton business holiday party. Good food, drinks and dessert was had.

Top: Avenue

Dress (used as a skirt): Target

Shoes: Avenue

Holiday Outfit Inspiration

2011-12-09T09:00:00.001-05:00

Last year I did a five part holiday outfit spread for the blog. I wanted to link to the outfits in case anyone needed some inspiration for this year!

Outfit one!
Outfit two!
Outfit three!
Outfit four!
Outfit five!

And here's a preview of the outfit I wore last night for a holiday party!

Holiday Parties

2011-12-08T11:16:00.000-05:00

If you are a long time reader of my blog, you've probably noticed I take a lot of pictures on my porch. Well... my uncle (who I rent from) decided to put a very LARGE Christmas tree on my porch that takes up almost the entire porch! So I'm trying to find somewhere in my apartment to take photos, but it's not working too well... so I'm pre-apologizing for any future posts until the decor off my porch is gone!

Anyways.. you can see the tree's lights tinted my photos red.. which goes with the skirt, haha. I wore this to a holiday luncheon I had on Monday! I have four holiday parties this week.. can't wait to look fancy and artsy. What do you guys have planned for holiday parties?!

Turtleneck: Old Navy

Skirt: Strawberry

Shoes: Sears

My November

2011-12-03T21:16:00.000-05:00

Through the eyes of my phone and the photos I saved.

I did some decorating.

I went and saw some glassblowers do their thing.

We did a graffiti clean-up for work.

I FINALLY got an iPhone!

I saw In the Heights.

The industrial arts festival I help plan, Arts on Fire, won the Hometown Star Award at the SAGE Awards!

I went to Harrisburg, and breads n' spreads had the cutest salt and pepper shakers at each table.

The building where my training was at had an art installation being put in the whole time I was there.

I went to the Broadstreet Market in Harrisburg.

I continued a long standing project of mine... scanning old photos.

I saved the following photos from a blogger's inspiration post.. love this one. SO true!

I turned the camera on the cameraman at the Feed a Friend Thanksgiving meal giveaway.

I went to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins game with my friends!

My friend Courtney bought two beers at once at the game.. I love this photo of her!

My dad and my Aunt Diane at Thanksgiving dinner at my grandfather's.

And finally, our classy and fancy Thanksgiving plastic and paperware!

Why Hello, Boots! I'm Glad You Don't Hurt Anymore!

2011-11-27T19:25:00.000-05:00

I've had the boots in my pictures for a couple years, but never wore them much because they always made the pads of my feet sore (as in made them sting after a few hours.. OUCH!). But alas, I brought them out again, and I don't know if it's because I've been wearing shoes that make my feet hurt even more (hello, Nine West heels.. I'm talking to you!), but I've been wearing these non-stop for days now! They don't hurt my feet anymore, and that's a good thing because I absolutely adore them!

Anybody else have shoes like that?

Blazer: Sears

Tunic: Target (Pure Energy)

Jeans: Old Navy

Boots: Dorothy Perkins

Thanksgiving is almost Here!

2011-11-22T18:54:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving is almost here! I just have to make it until 1 tomorrow, and then I have a mini-vacation as my employer gives us Thursday and Friday off. I'm excited to relax and catch up on sleep and life.

I'm going to my grandfather's for Thanksgiving, and my mom just gave me her homemade pumpkin pie (my favorite thing about Thanksgiving) and pumpkin roll.

What are you excited about for Thanksgiving (or for my non US readers, this weekend)?!

Cardigan: NY&Co.

Dress: ASOS

Boots: Torrid

Sideage

2011-11-17T11:12:00.000-05:00

I didn't have time to crop these photos, so please excuse the excess sideage!

How's everyone's week so far? I'm so happy it's Thursday.. I CAN.NOT.WAIT for the weekend! Anyone have any cool plans?!

Blazer: Target

Dress: Forever 21 Plus

Ballet Flats: Walmart

an Interview

2011-11-15T21:17:00.000-05:00

Samille over at the Thick Spot interviewed me. So go check out her blog and my little ol' interview. You might learn some fun stuff about me :)

And because every blog entry should have a picture.. here's an oldie but goodie of me!

THANKS FOR READING <3

I love you, Home.

2011-11-14T08:37:00.000-05:00

I finally have an iPhone! I have Apple everything else, and Verizon cell phone service. About a year and a half ago, I had to upgrade my broken phone and got a Driod... low and behold about two months after that Verizon gets the iPhone. Luckily, my Driod kind of crapped out on me and the Verizon peeps said they'd let me upgrade without any fees, so I jumped at the chance. When my iPhone was finally in my hands, I felt like I was home ;) (hahaha, yes very cheesy).

And since the iPhone feels like home, why not show some pictures of my real home (and love) Scranton?

P.S. I'm on Instagram now.. follow me at JillybeansTALK!

Scranton Lace Company ruins

A little instragram action.. somehow my mom managed to snap every photo of me in a blur!

Jacket: Target

Shirt: Old Navy

Jeans: Old Navy

Boots: Forever 21 (these are quickly becoming my favorite for this season)

Scarf: so old I don't remember, sorry!

I went to the Scranton Cultural Center last night to see In the Heights. I'm still on the fence about it, but I don't think I really liked it :/

Scranton School Board Building

A view of a part of downtown from the Cultural Center

Live

2011-11-10T11:37:00.000-05:00

How about a live picture for once? I usually post my outfit photos a few days after I wear them (and I have about 3 or so outfits waiting to be posted), but I thought, hey.. why not change it up a bit? So, I'm currently wearing this as I type up this post.

I work late on Thursdays so I often to wear jeans to work to be comfortable.. plus I love jeans. I feel naked without some sort of denim on my body. Do you ever feel naked if you're not wearing a certain item of clothing or accessory?

Blazer: Charlotte Ronson via JcPenny's (old)

Shirt: Old Navy

Jeans: Old Navy

Shoes: Nine West via Macy's

Bracelet: Forever 21

Ring: Charlotte Russe

Frolic

2011-11-06T20:40:00.000-05:00

I was in the paper THREE times this week! All the mentions were for work, but only one had a picture, and to be quite honest I've been waiting for the picture to appear for about a month now. It was for the "Out and About" section, and the Times-Tribune photographer Jake took the photo during the Chocoholic Frolic fundraiser to benefit SCOLA the literacy program. I feel like a mini celebrity with all the appearances in the paper though!

Here's Jen and I in all our glory!

I have to admit the last couple months my style has been a real experiment since I started my new job. I no longer have to wear a uniform, but I often have to look very professional. I'm experimenting with balancing the business professionalism with my personal style and to show off my personality without compromising anything. It's kind of hard. On days I don't have meetings, I tend to cater my personality and style, but days I do have meetings, I'm corporate girl. Also, I've been trying to use items in my closest I haven't looked at in years which in itself is a mini-experiment.

How do you guys balance everything?! Any tips?

I sometimes like it when my camera blurs everything out.

Oh, I have to admit I switched out this blazer at the last minute for my plain black one (it's warmer and it was a tad chilly this day!).

Blazer: NY&Co. (old)

Skirt: Thrifted

Belt: modcloth (taken from a dress and it's old)

Boots: Burlington Coat Factory (old)

Rings: (top to bottom) Renaissance Faire, JcPenny's, and Anthracite Heritage Museum gift shop

Halloween's Pasts

2011-11-01T08:13:00.000-04:00

Ideally this post should have went out yesterday, but we had to postpone our Halloween event at work until last night due to Saturday's snow, and when I finally got home last night, I was too tired to do anything remotely productive!

But, enjoy my Halloween's pasts!

My very first Halloween!

AND, I'm sure I wore a costume this year, but this photo was digitized... and it's Halloween-y. I probably wore this outfit the day before Halloween!

Dorney Park Halloweekends a few years ago!

I went as Lady Gaga from the Paparazzi video two years ago.

Apparently vampires like Lady Gaga (P.S. I didn't know this guy)

Than two years ago on Halloween itself, I went as myself?!

Vampire Jill showed up!

AND, last night at our work Halloween Harvest Festival... I'm Charlie from Top Gun and Gaby is Olive Oil!

October went as January for Halloween

2011-10-30T18:26:00.000-04:00

Yeah... it snowed several inches yesterday. I know I live in the Northeast, but we almost never get snow like this before the December. It's almost all gone today since it's not even November yet so the temperatures are still a little warm. But the snow has my mind all warped, and I'm thinking it's really January or February and not October 30th. It doesn't help that I started using Peppermint Mocha creamer last week and bought the She and Him Christmas album. I hope that didn't tease the snow gods to produce some of their white stuff.

Hat: made by my friend, Katie

Shirt: Target

Jeans: Old Navy

Jacket: Sears

Shoes: Forever 21

Scranton Iron Furnaces, Celtic Samhain and Bonfire!

2011-10-27T19:00:00.006-04:00

It's no secret I love Scranton. But did you know my absolute favorite place is the historic Scranton Iron Furnaces? I was lucky enough to intern then work there for 5 years and now I'm still involved during volunteer work with Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum who runs and operates the furnaces. You might have seen my post last Friday night asking people in the NEPA (Northeast Pennyslvania) region to come out to the Bonfire fundraiser for Arts on Fire festival (which I'm also lucky enough to be on the planning committee).

I have to admit, I wasn't involved with the bonfire planning, but I helped that night setting up and did some "door" "work" taking tickets and checking IDs, and as soon as I could, I left those duties to the college students whom came to volunteer and I hung out at the spectacular event.

Here are some pictures from the night... all photos taken by museum volunteer Lynn LoRusso (as you can see she takes AMAZING photos).

My favorite picture by far.

The fire team

There was also a pumpkin carving contest.. along with the Tom Petty Appreciation Band playing music, beer, wine, apple cider (both plain and spiked), and apple bobbing!

Holiday Dress Wish List

2011-10-26T15:00:00.033-04:00

It's practically November, so it's not too early to be thinking about holiday dresses right? RIGHT?! I mean, I'm already craving Christmas music playing in my cubicle, so dreaming of the non existent holiday parties I can go to and wear new dresses to shouldn't be that far off my radar. In all seriousness, I should have at least ONE to go to, and to be honest I should wear a dress from ASOS I purchased from last winter's clearance sale that I've never worn before... but I can dream about all these too. And, maybe.. just maybe ASOS, eshakti and Avenue reps are reading this and will offer me one. A girl can dream, right? :)

Anyone else dreaming about holiday party attire? If so, what's on your wish list?

from eshakti.com

from avenue.com

And...

2011-10-25T19:48:00.000-04:00

I think I need to start touching up my make-up before I take outfit photos... I always look dead tired on camera, BUT when I look in the mirror prior, I look fine. Anyone else ever have that problem?

Also, I'm gonna admit it, but I'm jealous of plus-size people who DO NOT have double chins. How'd they'd score the lottery?

AND, anyone good with cameras? Does anyone know why my first photo always comes out nice and clear and the rest don't? I don't change the setting or anything... it's kind of frustrating!

A wind storm basically started right before the self timer went off!

Blazer: Charlotte Ronson via JcPenny's (old)

Dress: New York and Co. (old)

Booties: Sigerson Morrison for Target

Bangs

2011-10-22T15:00:00.002-04:00

I did it.. I went back to bangs, and I don't regret it. They're so much more versatile than not having them. I mean, if you really think about, you can pull them back, spray them and pretend they're not there.. you can sweep them off to the side, or you can just rock 'em. I only wish my hair wasn't thin, because I would love nothing more than to have full fringe ala Zoey Deschanel... doesn't she have the most beautiful bangs?

Blazer: Target

Top: Avenue

Jeans: Old Navy

Boots: K-Mart

Celtic Samhain Bonfire and Harvest Festival

2011-10-20T20:42:00.000-04:00

If you live in the NEPA area, please come out tomorrow night and celebrate the Celtic Samhain Bonfire and Harvest Festival at the historic Scranton Iron Furnaces. ALL proceeds benefit the annual Arts on Fire Festival held in June at the furnaces.

If You Go:

WHEN: 8 PM - 11 PM

WHERE: Scranton Iron Furnaces (159 Cedar Ave.)

PRICE: $10 in advance, $15 at the door.. you can purchase tickets online too!

HAPPENINGS: Tom Petty Appreciation Band, beer/wine/spiked apple cider, virgin apple cider, donuts, hot dogs, pumpkin carving contest, bobbing for apples, history of the Celtic Samhain readings, AND of course, a BONFIRE!

It'll be so much fun... I promise!

Pilgrim

2011-10-19T21:45:00.000-04:00

In the morning in my mirror (and my head for that matter), this outfit did not look like I just stepped off the Mayflower. I knew it was fairly conservative, but the khaki colored maxi skirt and the long sleeved white button down made me think of Dr. Quinn Medicine Women instead (all I really needed was boots, but they didn't jive with my work meeting scheduled for the day), and I could handle looking like Dr. Quinn. BUT it wasn't until I took the pictures where I realized I pretty much looked like a Pilgrim.

I still really like the skirt though.. a cozy fabric and it's nice and warm.

Blazer: Target

Skirt: Old Navy

Shirt: Target (very old)

Belt: can't remember... sorry, it's old!

It's that Time of Year

2011-10-11T11:00:00.001-04:00

Where I break out my favorite jacket! HOORAY! It was cool enough in the AM to wear, but it was too hot in the afternoon to keep it on, though... but still, I got to wear it, and that's all that matters.

Jacket: Target (old)

Jeans: Old Navy

Top: Avenue (summer 2011)

Shoes: Payless (spring 2011)

Movie Crush

2011-10-10T10:11:00.000-04:00

I'm starting to have a new small actor crush. Aaron Johnson. First I saw him in Nowhere Boy where he played a young John Lennon. That movie was fairly decent, but I think I spent most of the time going, "Who's that guy? He's so good looking."

Then this weekend, I randomly bought Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging at Five Below for $5. It looked cute, and besides I saw Aaron on the back cover, and thought if worse fails, I'll have something to look at for 2 hours.

I guess the movie is based off a young adult book series, and it was one of the most adorable movies I've seen in a while. It reminded me of a good 80s teen comedy of the likes of John Hughes. Not to mention a young Aaron Johnson and another cute male lead were in it. Go rent it!

P.S. He's also the male lead in Kickass.

Black and Brown

2011-10-06T10:38:00.000-04:00

A few years ago I would cringe if I paired black and brown (or black and navy), you know those forbidden color combinations. Now black and brown is one of my favorite pairings.

Plus these corduroys kept me nice and warm. I swear only in Northeast Pennsylvania does the weather go from 48 degrees and rain one day to 70 and sun the next.

I need to do something with my hair... bangs again? Any suggestions? It looks soccer mom-ish.

These are my new favorite boots.. I keep wearing them with EVERYTHING!

Cardigan: New York and Co. (old)

Shirt: Target (old)

Pants: Old Navy (old, but they have them in store now just boot cut)

Boots: K-Mart

My Week in a Recap

2011-10-01T23:00:00.000-04:00

So, I've had a busy week. I have no outfit photos (and most of the photos are from my cell phone)... BUT I think a lot of these are pretty awesome anyway. AND, I want to say HELLO! to all my new followers I've received over the last few weeks!

AND I need to say THANK YOU to Adrienne from What Lola Wants for giving me a blog award too!

Thanks for reading, everyone. I'm going to have a small giveaway coming up soon.. so please stay tuned :)

Week Recap (in no particular order)!

I got my first EVER celebrity Twitter follower, and it's Tom Cruise (verified and all). I think my Tweets about Top Gun had something to do with it ;)

We threw a festival at work today and had a tattoo booth for the kids. I stole a tattoo, and I think it's pretty badass. How can a skeleton with wings flying on a guitar not be badass?

Festival photos!

Art Project

One of the K-9 Units for the city of Scranton came and did a little demonstration!

I was in Harrisburg Monday through Wednesday for some work training. The capital building's fountain water was pink (I'm assuming for Breast Cancer Awareness)!

My hotel was pretty nice, but the VERY large mirror in front of my bed freaked me out, but they gave complimentary lavender linen spray so it evens out.

I went to the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire last Sunday. It wasn't at all what I expected, but it was pretty good. It was Scottish weekend, and I was a little disappointed there weren't many hot guys running around ala Jamie Fraser. BUT there were alot of hot hipster-ish guys.

Not sure how an elephant fits in with the Renaissance, but it was there.

Queen Elizabeth was there..

Scotch Egg Eating Contest

The Men in Kilts contest

Free Movie Night my work put on!

And, another piece of clothing RIPPED on me.. this time a shirt that I loved so. I guess that's why it sat in the back of my closest for so long! But, I couldn't go home and change since I had hourly meetings because we were getting our annual Pennsylvania assessment done at work :(

Luckily it had ruffles on it, so I used paperclips to cover the large rip since I couldn't go home to change.

This was a few weeks ago, but I wanted to show the photo I took of my table setting. But, I went to Lackawanna County's Arts and Cultures Department annual Wake Up with the Arts breakfast. It was such a great time. Each table was designed by a local artist, and I sat at the Valerie Kiser table decorated with milk bottles. Noah Scanlin from skulladay.com was the guest speaker. I never heard of the website before, but he had some pretty interesting stuff, and talked about some other 365 day projects on the web (some of which I had heard of before).

Utility Jacket

2011-09-22T20:08:00.000-04:00

These aren't the best pictures in the world (or the greatest outfit), but I'm in love with my new coat. I purchased it on SUPER clearance at Sear's a few weeks back for $8 (it was originally in the $50 range). I love army utility coats. They're tough, edgy, sexy, flirty and girly all in one.

Also I love my new rings.. so pretty. The set to the right looks like something a medieval person would wear as a wedding ring set if such things existed at the time.

Jacket: Sears

Shirt: Target (old)

Jeans: Old Navy

Shoes: Lulus

Rings: Icing by Claire's

Blossom Batik

2011-09-18T20:00:00.001-04:00

On occasion I get offers from companies/persons to do a review of their product. I often say no especially if it isn't my style. Originally that was the case with this tunic. I just couldn't imagine wearing it anywhere. But then, I couldn't get it OUT of my head and kept imagining where I COULD wear it.

So, after saying no I asked if I could do a review instead as I thought it would be pretty awesome to wear as a cover up at the lake or beach. Well, after a major mail snafu (not the shippers problem but the postal service), I finally received the tunic. A little late for beach wear, but I can definitely save it for next year!

PROS: great color! There's a lot of different varieties, but I really liked this green tye dye tunic. It's long enough to definitely be a cover up and light enough for hot beach/lake temperatures, and it is a unique cover up for sure (or top if you like).

CONS: It is a little boxy and non-flattering.. even when belted.

(why does my camera love the blurriness anymore?! It's a GOOD camera too!)

About BlossomBatik: BlossomBatik is a online business focused on tops which using batik as a main motive. BlossomBatik selling a variety of exclusive handmade batik top which made in the exotic tropical Malaysia weather from 100% high quality rayon. This handmade

batik top are comfy to wear and suitable for any occasion.

Website: www.blossombatik.com

Batik Process:

This is the simple process taken.

The first step in Batik is to design a pattern and have an idea of what you would like to create.
Wax is then placed in specific areas on the fabric using a "Canting" tool. Wax acts like a barrier to the color dyes and allows a color to remain while the remaining non-waxed fabric absorbs the dye.
Then wax is removed with hot water.
The batik process of dyeing and waxing repeats. The wax can be removed and re-applied several times to make beautiful and intricate designs. Repeating until all the desired colors and patterns are obtain

Contact: blossombatik@yahoo.com

Shipping: We offer worldwide postage. Item will be received in 14 working days.

Tracking: Available for the country who can provided details of outside package.

Rip

2011-09-15T20:08:00.000-04:00

Here's the thing that happened with this outfit. I took photos before work, and after seeing them I decided to make a few minor adjustments: tuck in my shirt, add a skinny belt and switch the blazer out for an all black one. And, man, did I look sharp! But, I didn't have enough time to snap the new photos, so I decided I'd just do it when I got home from work. BUT then the unspeakable happened... my pants ripped! About a 6 inch gash on the left thigh (if you look closely, you can see a seam runs on the front of the pant and not the side).

I'm genuinely pissed off about the rip because it was my first time wearing the pants, AND I REALLY REALLY liked them. But I guess that's what you get for getting them on severe clearance, so it's not like I can take them back (especially since I threw the receipt away anyway). So BOO on that!

Has anyone ever had the rip happen to them?!

Blazer: JcPenny's (last winter/spring)

Top: Target (very old)

Pants: Avenue

Shoes: Payless (spring)

Another Pleated Skirt

2011-09-12T18:54:00.000-04:00

In the month that I've owned this skirt, I've worn it about half a dozen times, and so far, I haven't repeated styling it.. now if only I took outfit photos more than once :)

Sweater: Target

Skirt: Avenue

Shoes: Payless (old)

Rings: Charlotte Russe

Earrings: sorry don't remember, but they're old anyway ;)

NEPA Flooding (Regular Blogging Posts to Resume Next Week)

2011-09-09T15:21:00.000-04:00

It's funny when natural disasters happen in other areas (like the flooding in Vermont from last week's Hurricane Irene or the fires outside of Austin right now), I can watch the news streams and read the stories, but it never truly hits home until something happens to my beloved area. If you follow me on Twitter, then you've probably seen some of the tweets I've retweeted or my thoughts during the last few days.

Market Street Bridge in Wilkes-Barre photo from KRZ

It seems rather silly to write a post about the annual Pennsylvania Downtown Conference I attended this week, NYFW or FNO when much of the area I live in is reeling from the devastating flooding that has been happening over the last several days. Great portions of the greater Wilkes-Barre area (thank God their levees held up) and NEPA are going through something incredibly heart breaking right now, and even though I'm a Scranton girl (and we were fortunate to NOT experience flooding this time), it still brings tears to my eyes to see the videos, the photos and hear the stories of those affected by the rain of Tropical Storm Lee.

The Meshoppen bridge

In 1972, Hurricane Agnes set historical flood records for the region, and Tropical Storm Lee has matched that (and exceeded it in some parts). The NEPA region received over 3 MONTHS of rain in just 5 DAYS! Scranton (where I live) has received almost 9 inches of rain in 5 days. I've spent a good deal of time in Wilkes-Barre this past year and know many who live there. I hope everyone stays safe, and if you are safe, please stay away from any flooding, the rivers, creeks and brooks so emergency personal can handle any situations without worrying about flood gawkers!

Hershey Park

A friend's place of work

Please keep Pennsylvania in your thoughts and prayers.

There will also be a collection for food and items at the Taylor and Wilkes-Barre Walmarts on Saturday and Sunday from 9 am - 6 pm for anyone in the NEPA region that wants to help out!

Lazy Day Outfit

2011-09-05T15:02:00.000-04:00

Sometimes all I want to do is put on a pair of leggings, the flip flops I hate so much, a cozy sweater and just relax for most of the day.

What do you wear to relax in?!

P.S. Happy Labor Day to my US readers!

Vest: Forever 21+ via Forever 21

Sweater: Old Navy

Leggings: Sears

Flip Flops: Old Navy

Bracelet: Forever 21

Beauty Product HELP and OOTD

2011-08-30T19:59:00.000-04:00

So before my OOTD, I have to ask a recommendation of a product question. A few weeks ago, I had this KILLER pimple on my face that was so LARGE, I even contemplated not going out because of it (But I did with some major green concealer and coverup, although it was so large, you could still see it... there was no escaping it, at all). Now that the "pimple" is technically gone and healed, it left a nice red spot on my face that makes it APPEAR as if I STILL have the gosh darn pimple.

I call it the "pimple" that won't go away! Because my skin is so fair (and as most people call alabaster), it's VERY noticeable and is making me VERY self conscious. Anybody know of any products that will fade it?! I've been putting some Queen Helene Coco Butter on it since that helps with healing and fading, but it just doesn't seem to be doing anything. So if anyone has any ideas please leave a comment!

Sweater Cardigan: Old Navy

Tank Top: Old Navy

Skirt: Thrifted, Salvation Army

Sandals: Payless (old)

Also, as an aside, I'm not the biggest Beyonce fan. I do like some of her songs here and there, and she always seems to kill it on stage for live TV performances, but how ADORABLE was her performance pregnancy announcement and Jay-Z's reaction when MTV panned to him on camera?! It might have been the cutest and best pregnancy announcement, EVER, especially since the two barely even admit they're together most of the time.

Dear Payless Shoes:

2011-08-29T10:00:00.005-04:00

I really want these two pairs of shoes from Payless except.. they're $55 EACH! I don't want to spend $55 for a pair of shoes at PAYLESS, and I don't care if it's a designer collection and way cheaper than it would be to purchase the real things.

I wish instead of their BOGO campaign, you could just get a coupon for 1/2 off ONE pair of shoes.

Anybody else feel this way?! Or am I the only one?

Lela Rose for Payless

Isabel Toledo for Payless

Oh, Irene!

2011-08-28T10:52:00.000-04:00

We've been getting rained on steadily since 11 PM last night here in Scranton. I'm not too worried about anything because I don't live near any of the rivers, creeks or brooks, but there are some evacuations going on right now in the NEPA region.

Living in Northeast Pennsylvania (NEPA) we get rain from hurricanes often as they come up the coast since the only barrier from the Atlantic is New Jersey. But wind and rain can do plenty of damage, so let's hope Irene doesn't do anything major. The weather forecasters said by 5 PM she'll be gone and the sun will be out. Either case, I have a date with my couch and some movies ALL day.

I hope everyone on the East Coast is staying safe!

These pictures were taken the other day!

Shirt: Forever 21+ via Forever 21

Skirt: Avenue

Shoes: Payless (winter 2010)

Belt: Forever 21+ via Forever 21 (from a dress)

Mixed

2011-08-23T19:41:00.000-04:00

One of the best things about having a job that doesn't require a uniform is rediscovering pieces in my wardrobe I haven't worn in forever (or more than once). This top and skirt are just two items I've recently started wearing again.

I don't know why my camera sometimes take shots like the first one, than takes shots like this.

Polka dots and leopard print. I think the small mixture of prints here worked really well!

These are penny loafer heels!

Blazer: Charlotte Ronson via JcPenny's (winter 2011)

Shirt: Old Navy (old)

Skirt: Target (old)

Shoes: K-Mart

Born in the USA

2011-08-19T14:37:00.000-04:00

Here's one of the Make It Work scenerios I was talking about in a previous post. This is the first time I've purchased something from Forever 21's regular sized line. It's an oversized crop t-shirt of Bruce Springsteen, and I saw it by a rack while I was waiting in line to get checked out. I didn't even try it on, but was just hoping the M/L would fit. If you read this post, you'll see why I couldn't pass it up.

Nothing is more Americana than the cover of Born in the USA album.

Denim Shirt: Target (old)

T-Shirt: Forever 21

Jeans: Old Navy

Wedges: K-Mart

T-Rex Necklace: homemade DIY

Flirty Skirt

2011-08-16T20:17:00.000-04:00

I like these shorts I got on sale at Forever 21 a few weeks ago. I made my friend drive down to outside of Philadelphia where the closest Forever 21 with Forever 21+ is so I could buy some fun professional clothes. I came home with a few items (that were ALL a little non-professional.. oh well), but I think I can make these work for the office with different items paired with it.

I'm not sure if I can legally post this photo. It was take at the Everhart Museum's opening for Buds, Blossums and Berries exhibit (where I wore this outfit, obviously). I had my friend illegally snap the photo next to one of their permanent pieces. The Everhart doesn't allow photos in their museum. OPPS :)

These wedges are BEYOND comfortable. They have them in red too at some K-Mart stores!

T-shirt: Target

Shorts: Forever 21+

Wedges: K-Mart

Necklace: Forever 21

Making It Work Request

2011-08-12T11:54:00.000-04:00

I received such a wonderful comment on my blog yesterday from a reader. I hope she doesn't mind me posting it, but here it goes:

OK, now I'm about to get random...I found your blog actually a couple of weeks ago via your old post about shopping at Charlotte Russe. I'm a bigger girl (46/38/48) and I never thought to shop there til I read that post. I'm glad I did, because an XL there fits me very well (according to their size chart, it SHOULDN'T)! Your blog gave me the courage to try out Forever 21 too and in some things, their L fit (baggier/looser tops, cardigans, vests...their fitted items are way too small). ITA if you are a fuller figured girl you should try shopping anywhere you think has cute stuff and at least see if it fits. You might be surprised! I'd love to see you do another post on this topic, maybe go into some other "skinny" stores and see if there are items that would fit larger women.

The post she is referring to is a making it work (plus-size girl shopping in a straight size store) entry at Charlotte Russe. I shop there on occasion (mostly for their accessories), but often enough some of their clothes can fit a plus-size girl just fine.

I have to admit, though, unless otherwise stated or if I'm wearing something from a speciality store such as Avenue, Lane Bryant or Forever 21+, almost ALL my clothes come from the regular section (I can fit into their larger sizes). All my Old Navy items, Target items (some even from their junior section; unless it's from their Pure Energy junior plus section), etc., etc., are items that could be considered "making it work."

But, I'm willing to try other stores for a Making It Work series, if anyone would like to see it! Where would you like me to go? Leave a comment with some store ideas, and if we have them in the Northeast Pennsylvania area, I'll check 'em out and see if Making It Work can happen there :)

AND, because a post should always include photos here are some from Scranton's First Friday (all the art galleries/stores downtown open new exhibits the first Friday of every month) August. I wasn't going to post these because the outfit isn't anything special, but my friend and I ran into this creature... I wonder where she got the dress?!

T-shirt: Old Navy

Jeans: Old Navy

Sandals: Forever 21

Randoms and OOTD

2011-08-11T16:13:00.000-04:00

I got a new job, and I start Monday. So this week I went around trying to look for some dress pants (I had a uniform at my last job, and I only have a few winter pants). Man oh man, they are hard to find, and they run REALLY SMALL! Am I the only one? I tried on my regular jean size in the pants and could barely get them pass my thighs. Do jeans run large? Or are dress pants the true indicator of your real size? Needless to say, I didn't buy any, and I will suffice with dresses and skirts for as long as I can manage. Where do you buy your dress pants?

I watched Last Night and now I can't get the deliciousness that is Sam Worthington out of my head. I love men with ambiguous hair color. He seems ruddy in nature (pale skin, freckles, reddish skin hair), but yet the hair on his head seems dark and maybe once blonde. It's like he's an American Irish boy, but he's not (Born in England, raised in Australia). I can't wait until his new movie, The Debt, comes out.

This is one of those tops I wear often but never seem to photograph, and then I lost a button on it and couldn't find the extra that came with it. A saleswoman at Avenue was nice enough to let me have the extra on the same top that was now in the clearance section. So after the big sew in, I had to take a photograph of it, so it knew I loved it so.

Crochet Vest: Avenue (last summer)

Sheer Floral Top: Avenue (you can probably catch it on clearance NOW!)

Jeans: Old Navy

Wedges: Payless

Simple OOTD and NEPA Plug

2011-08-09T13:51:00.000-04:00

The power adapter for my laptop went caput AGAIN (third time this year) on Sunday. It was acting a little frisky for a while now, but it wasn't the same issue as before (wires frayed inside) therefore I thought maybe it was my laptop charger port or something else. Well, I took it to The Grove Media on Penn Ave. in Scranton to check it out. If you EVER have any issues with an Apple product, need repair, or just want to buy an Apple product, I'd recommend going there. They're authorized Apple Specialists, and they were SUPER friendly and got me an adapter replacement FREE of charge (since my adapter was under a 1 year warranty... something the Best Buy people never told me twice this year, may I add). Great customer service, and it beats having to drive all the way to Allentown to the closest Apple Store!

Anyway, it's one thing when you want to un-plug your life, but when it unexpectantly happens, it kind of sucks. I couldn't use my laptop cause there wasn't that much charge left, and it took about a day to get my replacement (there was an error issue with my computer), and let's face it, yeah I have a smartphone, but they just don't compare to a real computer for sometimes, and there were things I wanted to do yesterday that involved my laptop.

Oh well.. now I'm back; I got my new power adapter. I missed you, blog readers and the interwebs, and it was only for one day, haha.

Here's a quick OOTD.

I wear this shirt ALOT, but never seem to ever photograph it until now.

Shirt: Target (summer 2010)

Jeggings: Old Navy

Shoes: Payless (old)

Necklace: modcloth (old)

P.S. Old Navy changed their design of their new Rock Star jeggings.. I picked up a pair this weekend for $20, and I'm loving the new design. They feel and look more like jeans.

P.P.S. Also, I picked up this cute necklace from Target a few months back, but never photographed it in an OOTD, but I wear it constantly. LOVE IT!

OOTD

2011-08-04T12:37:00.000-04:00

I love denim in any form. A pair of jeans and a denim jacket are essential in a wardrobe. Thank the fabric Gods for inventing it ;)

These are my favorite sandals. I've been wearing them for the past few two summers!

Jacket: Target (old)

Dress: Old Navy (old)

Sandals: Miss Trish from Capri via Target (old)

Floral Print

2011-08-02T19:16:00.000-04:00

Thank you to all those that left a comment about the cowboy hat. I DID wear it to the Tim McGraw concert, but unfortunately I didn't get any photos (and I had a CUTE outfit on too!) because it poured as soon as I pulled into the parking lot until Tim went on... therefore my cuteness melted with the rain. Good thing I had a hat on, though, because my hair stayed nice!

This outfit is from one of the FEW days this summer that was rather cool. The weatherman is predicting rain and a nice 75 degrees tomorrow, and is it weird to say I can't wait for it?!

P.S. On occasion, I post my thoughts on subjects other than plus-size fashion. I've been thinking about posting a weekly column (something you might find in a newspaper) on my blog. I've already written a few, but I've just been e-mailing them to a friend. They would be similar to this and this, but with some kind of moral question or affirmation attached to it. Would it be alright with you, my readers, if I posted them here? Or would you rather this blog just focus on OOTD, plus-size fashion, etc.? (I would forewarn in the title post if it was a column post!) Let me know your opinion!

Blazer: Target

Top: Avenue

Jeggings: Old Navy

Shoes: Payless (winter 2010)

To Cowboy Hat or Not?

2011-07-29T13:36:00.000-04:00

Should I wear this straw cowboy (ok, maybe it DOESN'T exactly look like a cowboy hat, but it could pass for one!) hat for the Tim McGraw concert tonight or no?

Whitey

2011-07-28T12:52:00.001-04:00

I.can't.stop.wearing.neutrals.. more specifically whites and off whites. I don't know what it is about them, probably because they make me FEEL cooler (literally.. as in not sweating my ass off), but I really don't think that has anything to do with it. Maybe it's just not summer without a little lightness.

P.S. been showing my business cards to non-business associates aka my family and friends. When they ask if they can have one, I say yes, and tell them they can chose a design. EVERYONE IS CHOOSING THE SAME CARD! After I say something, a few put it back and picked their second favorite, but I think I only have one or two left of the Trolley Museum card (I can't lie, though.. it's my favorite picture of me EVER). I guess if I ever need to order more, I can just print up 50 of those instead!

I look like I'm moody in these pictures, but I swear I wasn't. I think I was just HOT!

Shirt: TJ Maxx or Marshalls (can't really remember, but they basically sell the same stuff anyway)

Jeggings: Old Navy (online women's department)

Shoes: Target

Country Music

2011-07-26T15:39:00.001-04:00

I'm not a HUGE fan of country music, but I LOVE Tim McGraw. So when my friend Lena won tickets to see Brad Paisley and Blake Shelton, she told me I was her plus one. I'm not one to balked at FREE tickets to any kind of concert, so I went with her. I didn't know a blessed thing Brad Paisley sang (oddly, I knew one or two songs from Blake Shelton), but to get ready for the show, I listened to Tim McGraw all the week long up to the concert. But that sort of backfired, because as soon as I got there, all I wanted to see was Tim McGraw again (I saw him once courtesy of my brother who bought the tickets as a graduation present from high school. It is still the best concert I've EVER been to regardless of genre).

Well, both my parents listen to country music ALL the time, and I was telling my mom how much I needed (ok ok.. wanted) to see Tim again. Well, a few snowballing things later, and I'm going to see him this FRIDAY in New Jersey with my mom. I'm SOOO excited!

These photos were taken the night Lena won the Brad Paisley tickets (btw, she's a BIG fan of Brad Paisley. SO thanks, FROGGY 101!)

This might be one of those "mishap" outfits again.

I love watermelon bubble tea... actually, I'll take any flavor of bubble tea.

Vest: c/o City Chic

Top: Old Navy (last season)

Jeggings: Old Navy

Sandals: Miss Trish from Capri via Target (earlier this summer)

Purse: Mulberry for Target (old)

Necklace: Charlotte Russe (old)

Bubble Tea: Thai Thai downtown Scranton (they have such DELICIOUS food)

Lena just KNEW I was taking her photo.

Memorial at the Lackawanna County Courthouse

Free concert on Courthouse Square sponsored by Lackawanna County Arts and Culture. Stephane Wremble Trio played (he composed the music for Midnight in Paris). I felt like I should've been dancing with a lovely man.

Lena and Jana with all the stuff we won from Froggy. Lena got the tickets, and we all each received a Genesse t-shirt, a free cd of our choosing (I chose Tim McGraw's Number One Hits, even if I already had ALL the songs on there), a bottle opener keychain and a FROGGY 101 bumper sticker (if you watch The Office, you can see a FROGGY bumper sticker in almost every episode).

BTW, they played REALLY well, and even though I didn't know anything they sang, if you are a Brad Paisley or Blake Shelton fan, I'd definitely recommend seeing them live!

Also, THANK YOU to all my readers/friends who voted for me in the City Chic Blogger Lookbook contest. I didn't make the Top 10, but I'm still really happy people voted for me :)

One Skirt, Three Ways Challenge- Day Three

2011-07-22T11:34:00.000-04:00

DAY THREE!

I hope all my US readers that are experiencing the heat wave are staying cool and hydrated!

Skirt: Thrifted, Salvation Army

Dress (used as top): c/o City Chic

Cardigan: Target (VERY old)

Rings: Charlotte Russe

Sandals: Miss Trish from Capri via Target (old)

One Skirt, Three Ways Challenge- Day Two

2011-07-20T21:04:00.000-04:00

DAY TWO!

I styled it in two ways (one with the blazer closed and one with the blazer open)

Skirt (used as dress): Thrifted, Salvation Army

Blazer: Avenue

Belt: so old I can't remember

Shoes: LuLu's

Gold Bracelet: gifted

Heart Bracelet: modcloth

Ring: Charlotte Russe

Earrings: Avenue

P.S. thanks to everyone who voted for the City Chic Blogger Look Book contest... if you haven't already "Liked" me, I'd be forever grateful if you would :)

P.P.S I forgot to mention if you follow blogs through Networked Blogs, you can now follow mine through there!

City Chic Blogger Look Book

2011-07-19T23:44:00.000-04:00

After a little snazz, I was finally featured in City Chic's Blogger Look Book. The Look Book has been a tremendous success for City Chic, and I'm so happy. So for the next Blogger Look Book, they're going to feature the most popular bloggers by having people vote on their Facebook page.

(Because I'm all about shameless self promotion), I know many of you read all the blogger's featured (and I gotta admit, so do I), therefore I'd really appreciate your vote for the next Look Book! All you have to do is go to City Chic's Facebook page, and hit "Like" on my photo and tell City Chic you'd love to see me again.

THANK YOU to all my wonderful readers out there. I simply can't thank you enough for coming to my site (whenever I post) and commenting. It means the world to me to know I've made some great blogger friends in the interwebs, and I hope you keep coming back for more!

One Skirt, Three Ways Challenge- Day One

2011-07-18T14:58:00.000-04:00

DAY ONE!

Skirt: Thrifted, Salvation Army

Tank: Harley Davidson (stolen from my dad; was a t-shirt)

Shoes: Forever 21

Skull Bracelet: ASOS

Bead Bracelet: gift

Rubberband Bracelet: homemade

Will you join me?

2011-07-16T16:27:00.001-04:00

I know this is short notice, but will you join me in a short, sweet and simple challenge (my first!)?

That's a preview of the skirt I'm using. First post will be Monday; second, Wednesday and the last on Friday. (If you e-mail me a picture of the skirt you'd like to use, I can try my hardest to make you a banner before Monday, or you can crop this and just use the right hand side!)

Also, I purchased some business cards for my blog! I found out about moo.com from style remixx. You can upload ten different pictures to use on your card. I love 'em! They weren't even supposed to be dispatched until Monday, July 25th (I ordered them this past Sunday). But they sent them out on Wednesday, and they were delivered to my house today. Speedy service; great quality. I'd definitely recommend them!

P.S. thank you to Samille for giving me a blogger award!

P.P.S don't forget to leave a comment if you plan on doing the challenge! I want to follow and see the results :)

What does Freedom smell like? (and OOTD)

2011-07-14T14:21:00.002-04:00

I went to the local watering hole for a couple (two, three) drinks with a friend. She decided to order some food. Bobby, the bartender, comes over to take her order and props himself by his elbows on the bar to lean in and hear what she's ordering. Now he's not normally a man that wears cologne (or I've never noticed and believe me, my keen sense of smell would've spotted it), but last night, I got this whiff of it coming off him.

Me: Bobby, are you wearing cologne?
Bobby: No, why?
Me: Because I smell it and was gonna ask who you're trying to impress tonight.

Now, we came to a conclusion that the fragrance I was smelling was his deodorant, and damn, I really liked it. I'm a fan of men's cologne (I have an embarrassing back catalog of constantly sniffing a close male friend in college because I loved his cologne so much; he got over the unusualness of it.. eventually), and now apparently, I'm a fan of men's Old Spice deodorant.

Bobby: It's this new deodorant I just bought. It says it smells like Palm Trees, Sunshine and Freedom.
::ensuing laughter from all::
Jen (my friend): What does Freedom even smell like?!
Me: Freedom smells like gun powder, apple pie, hot dogs and leather from a baseball.

But apparently Freedom really smells like Old Spice Fiji deodorant, which seems just fine to me.

(I received this picture text from Bobby when he got home. Ahh Freedom)

Thanks to Le blog de Mademoiselle Plume for the color inspiration!

This picture would be great if my eyes weren't wonky. Oh well.

I did not want to take this outfit off.. someone invite me some place where I can wear it again, please. Pretty please!

Dress (worn as skirt): Target (fall 2010)

Shirt: Target (VERY old)

Shoes: Payless (winter 2011)

Ring: Charlotte Russe

Necklace: I don't remember, sorry!

Mishap

2011-07-11T13:36:00.000-04:00

I think one of the great things about attempting to document my personal style is the fact a picture tells a thousand words. I felt like this outfit I'm about to show you was pretty darn cute. It was flowy, semi-stylish and perfect for a casual Sunday.

Then I saw myself photographed in it. Not very flattering. Nope. Not at all. But isn't that the great thing about pictures? I've posted some outfits on here where I wasn't all too confident about, then saw myself in the photos and went "Ohh... niiice. I looked better than I thought!" Then sometimes I see myself, and I'm glad I took pictures, because now I know to NEVER recreate that outfit again.

I think this outfit was too voluminous. It didn't show off anything. I'll probably pair each piece with a different more fitted item next time.

Can anyone relate to my photograph stance?

Also, I have to admit, I am in no way whatsoever an advocate of flip flops. Yes, they're comfortable, cheap and so easy to put on and go, but to me, they're kind of sloppy and unprofessional (and hey, 20 somethings and teenagers pair them with everything.. even a gosh darn formal outfit or meeting with the freakin' president of the U.S.A!). So, I really don't wear them unless I'm at the lake/beach, walking from the locker of the gym to the pool for my laps OR if they have some really fun embellishment. ;)

Top: TJ Maxx (Spring 2011)

Jeans: Target (Summer 2010)

Flip Flops: Avenue (they were a $1 for a $10 purchase, plus they're jelly flip flops, so it makes them cooler than anything else) ;)

Bracelets: Charlotte Russe (old)

Interview

2011-07-06T15:10:00.000-04:00

I hate trying to plan an outfit for an interview. Everything I've read and have been told since I graduated college is a suit is the way to go. Blue or Navy, white shirt, nice pair of heels. But isn't there something so bland, boring and conventional about it? Don't you think if you have a job interview, and you show up looking like everyone else, that there isn't something special about you? Because let's face it, if the employer called you and a few others, you're resumes are probably very similar.

I was lucky enough to be able to hire employees in my last job. I have to admit I didn't like it when they came in looking like a slub, but I wasn't always thrilled when they looked like everyone else. The people that gave the best interviews (and the ones I subsequently hired) were the ones that looked professional yet showed their personality (in the interview AND the way they dressed), which is why I hate "interview" suits (not all suits because they are some beautiful ones out there; just ones that society forces us to wear for certain events, I guess). I don't think they show anyone's personality (unless maybe if they're designer).

But I hate them even more for women then men. Why do you ask? Because

1. There are NO women's suit stores! Let's face it, you can't just go to Women's Warehouse and buy any kind of suit you want. Men are definitely lucky in this regard.

2. Suit pieces rarely look good on me. Either the jacket fits perfectly or the pants, but never either, and you can't mix and match because the black pants that work well won't match the fabric or the color of the black jacket that worked. Again, we don't have a Women's Warehouse where we can mix and match and THEN get it all tailored to our bodies on site for a nominal charge.

3. Black and navy suits looks horrendous in the spring and summer months (and let's face it, they're HOT. So not only are you nervous about a job interview, but you're also sweating because your suit is hot).

So, I'm lucky to be in a field where the suit option for an interview is optional. But that doesn't mean, I can't look very professional. I was on the prowl the other day looking for a dress that was professional enough for an interview and the workplace because almost all the dresses I own are either too formal or too casual.

Jacket: Target

Dress: Target

Flip Flops: Avenue

I ended up picking up this dress at Target for $12! The dress was conservative in style, but had a nice design and color scheme to it.

In case you were wondering, I did have a job interview yesterday... and I'm not sure how it went. I really think the job is interesting, and I'd like to do it, but I'm not entirely sure if I razzled dazzled them. *Fingers crossed* I did better than I thought!

So what's your idea of a great interview outfit?! Do you like women's business suits? If so, where do you find the good ones?

Believe me, I didn't look this slouchy (this was hours after the interview). I'm pretty sure I was trying to cram myself into the picture's view.

My dad stole his camera off me; so until I can re-steal it away from him again, I'm back to my old crappy digi.

Can you see the embarrassing difference in color between my upper body and my legs?! It got worse over this past weekend (and yes, I even tried to tan my legs too, but they just said, "No, Jill.. eff off.. we like being pasty white!"

Jacket: JcPenny's (very old)

Dress: Target

Shoes: Target

This Magic Moment

2011-07-01T15:58:00.002-04:00

Is there a better song than this?

The Drifters- This Magic Moment

I'm going away for the 4th of July weekend to the Finger Lakes in New York! To all my American readers, have a fantastic Independence Day weekend :) And to everyone else, have a great weekend!
When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
The Declaration of Independance, Thomas Jefferson

Double Post (possibly NSFW)

2011-06-30T22:15:00.001-04:00

FIRST: Dirty Dancing

I don't know what it is lately, but I've been obsessed, in a mild manner, with "oldies" music. You know, the stuff my late 50ish parents would've listened to as children. The Elvis station on Pandora can do no wrong for me. They play him, Johnny Cash, the Beach Boys, Dusty Springfield, and all those one hit wonders where you know the song playing, but might not know the singer/group. Quite often, the station plays songs featured in Dirty Dancing. I LOVED that movie as a kid (still do), so anytime I hear a song from its soundtrack, I immediately imagine the scene where it comes on in my head and recreate it because, really, could Johnny Castle do no wrong? He was freakin' hot. He could dance. He was loyal. He would do anything for Baby and Penny. And, NOBODY PUTS BABY IN A CORNER, right?!

Anyway maybe it's a because of the bedroom scene where Baby and Johnny FINALLY get it on, but I always imagine when a wonderful slow, sensual song comes on, I'm slow dancing with the man of my dreams and not in that high school prom sort of way where his hands are on my hips and my arms are around his neck and we sway back and forth and not really look at one another. But, in that way, where we might actually just be standing there.. so close, we're touching, but we're not. We're dancing in this way that isn't overtly sexual, but it IS. You get what I'm saying?

Anyway, I'm sure you ALL have seen the movie before.. if not, and you don't know what scene I'm referencing to, I'm posting screen caps for all you to enjoy, because of course, I HAD to watch Dirty Dancing this weekend, and re-fell in love with it. Love Baby's clothes. Love the chemistry between Baby and Johnny. Love the music, and most of all LOVE the dancing!

The youtube user disabled embedding the video, so here's the link of the video (I could, though, do without all the bending Baby over and swooshing her).

SECOND: OOTD

These aren't great photos, nor a fabulous outfit, but I thought I'd post it anyway. It can't all be about Dirty Dancing, right?

Shirt: Target (very old)

Capris: Old Navy (old)

Flats: Walmart

Daytime LBD

2011-06-25T11:47:00.000-04:00

First, I have a beauty question for you all.. if you've been reading some of my Tweets over the past month, you'll know that I was a major IDIOT and forgot to apply sunscreen to my arms one day. It was the worst mistake I made because I got a MAJOR sunburn. I'm still recovering from the carnage of it all (my arms ARE still peeling.. I feel like I'm a reptile woman!), but now my skin has a large discrepancy of color. Has anyone ever used those lotions that gradually give you color.. like Jergen's? If so, do they work? I'd really like to wear a tank top this summer, but right now, the mark left by my mistake is too great to allow that!

Anyway, this little black dress that I bought YEARS ago at Old Navy is probably my favorite.. of course its sleeveless so, I paired it with a chambray shirt. I thought this outfit looked pretty good for a day out with my mom. Does anyone else wear a LBD for daytime fun?

Dress: Old Navy (so old, it might be considered vintage now, haha)

Shirt: Target

Shoes: Forever 21

AND, remember the Sally Hansen crackle nailpolish I was talking about? This is the silver color paired over a blue. BTW, this blue color (China Glaze, Frostbite) has been my go to color so far this summer!

Stuck on Skinny

2011-06-19T18:11:00.000-04:00

I think I'm so stuck on my skinny jeans that I don't want to give any other denim a chance. But when the 1970s flare jean styled trend came back around for this past spring and summer, I really liked it. I mean, I even went out a bought a pair of the jeans in March, but I didn't wear the pair until last week. I wish I didn't have such an affinity for my skinny jeans, because I really think the flare look flatters me most. But for some reason, I feel frumpy in voluminous bottoms. Anybody feel that way too?

P.S. Excuse the poor picture quality.. I had my mom snap photos of me with my cell phone (which sometimes takes AMAZING photos, but sometimes doesn't) while in the grocery store!

Cardigan: Eddie Bauer

Shirt: Avenue

Jeans: Old Navy

Shoes: Payless

Purse: Forever 21

By the way.. these wedges are extremely comfortable. I own more pairs of heels than I care to admit, but don't wear them often because I have to wear flats to work... but I've been running errands in these, that's how comfy they are! I love 'em :)

And, Sally Hansen came out with their own crackle nail polish.. I snapped up the gold, white and silver since I thought the neutrals would be easier to pair with other shades. This is the gold paired over some white polish. I like it, but the gold is sheer, so I'm not sure how well it might look over a dark polish. I'll have to try that soon. Anyone else pick these up; if so, what colors?!

Light and Airy

2011-06-13T19:31:00.001-04:00

I really like this cardigan from Forever 21+. It's light, airy and wonderful for hot weather. It's light pink in color and has oriental fans printed all over it. The sleeves are an awkward butterfly, and I tried my best to show it off.. but like I said they're awkward, so even my best wingspan poises didn't do it justice.

Also the cats underneath this car watched my mom taking photos of me the entire time.. those sneaky things!

Top: Forever 21

Jeans: Old Navy

Shoes: Forever 21

Belt: Target (old)

Arts on Fire

2011-06-07T20:27:00.001-04:00

For more than half a year, I've been planning (along with a dozen others) an industrial arts festival called Arts on Fire and a fundraiser for the Anthracite Heritage Museum & Scranton Iron Furnaces Associates (the place I report to work). This past weekend was the Fire at the Furnace fundraiser and the Arts on Fire festival. It was a MAJOR success. I couldn't have been happier (especially for the fundraiser since we got 500 + people!!).

I managed to take some photos of Saturday's arts festival, but I couldn't take any for the fundraiser on Friday night because I was too busy manning "the door." I'm positive someone got a picture of me Friday night and when I find it I'll post it because I really liked my outfit. I wore the new black pleated dress from Forever 21 Plus that a lot of bloggers are talking about (they no longer have it on their website or I'd post a picture of it), and I liked it.. nice and breezy for a hot summer day/night, and easy enough to pair it with a blazer for a chillier evening.

Fran, a volunteer docent at the museum

The major event of the festival was the iron pour by Keystone Iron Works! The fundraiser was on top of the furnaces for Friday night.. and they tapped it twice. Then Saturday they brought the furnace down to the bottom, and were supposed to tap it every hour. However, due to the weather (damn you, rain!), they stopped at 3!

Pouring the iron into sand.

Closeup of the iron in the sand

Pouring the iron into a mold...

I'm not sure what the phrase is here.. but they let the bottom of the furnace out, which meant the iron pouring was over for the day.

A view from the top of the real iron furnaces.. here they're breaking the molds the iron was poured into, and digging the iron out of the sand.

For little over a year now, I've been trying to do the half moon manicure on my nails, but I've failed with the directions the magazine have been giving. I finally googled it and found a great video on youtube, and decided to try the girl's method. It totally worked! Here's the video (embedded was disabled by youtube account user) and my finished product.

Have any of you tried the manicure? I like using colors in the same palette (pink and red.. I used two blues for the weekend, but didn't get a picture of them!).

Oh Philadelphia!

2011-05-31T09:33:00.000-04:00

Last Wednesday I went to a training I requested from my employer. The training was by the Conservation Center for Art and Historic Artifacts and held at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. The training was on Basic Handling of Paper artifacts, and while the course was basically a refresher for me, but the conservators did provide some new tidbits for the conservation trade. The curators at the museum I work should really go to these trainings, but they don't. It's really a shame since I learned that a paper cleaner they swear by is in fact BAD for the documents in the collection.

I know it's graduation season, so if there are any young readers of my blog out there and are just starting on their career path, my advice to you is constantly keep learning and stay up on current trends. Not only does it get you out of the office for a day (yay!), but it helps you stay indispensable from people who aren't willing to do trainings!

Anyway, I've been wearing an outfit similar to this for the past several weeks. A white top? Check. Skinny jeans? Check. Ballet flats? Check. I don't know why, but it's semi chic and easy. Unfortunately, even if I blow up this photo you can't see the detailing, but believe me it isn't just a plain white shirt.

Does anyone else seem to have a "uniform" as of late?!

This is me in front of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. P.S. I'm not wearing a necklace, it's just the name tag badge CCAHA gave me.

Shirt: Avenue

Jeans: Old Navy

Flats: Old Navy

Purse: Forever 21

And some photos of Philadelphia.. I gave my corpsmember, Nikki, my camera and told her to go for it.

City Chic Sale

2011-05-28T18:51:00.000-04:00

City Chic is having a SALE! 50% off EVERYTHING online. Go do some Memorial Day shopping (for my US readers), and pick up some cute stuff.

P.S. how awesome is the art direction in the ad?!

For Your Information and Curiosity

2011-05-25T21:10:00.001-04:00

I stole this from Stephanie. It's short and sweet, and hopefully you'll get to know me a little bit better!

me spring 2006

Age: 27 Bed size: Queen Height: 5’5”

Chores you hate: Honestly ALL of them (haha) but in particular vacuuming/swiffering floors and cleaning the bathroom.

My dog growing up, Buddy.

Dogs: I had a mutt growing up from when I was about 2 until I was 16 (which is when he passed). His name was Buddy, and probably the best dog that ever existed (according to me). But I tend to enjoy golden retrievers or labs the best.

Essential Start to your day: Washing my face.

Favorite color: I honestly have no favorite.. I like ‘em all, BUT if I had to chose, I’d pick purple.

Gold or Silver: For costume jewelry, it doesn’t matter, but for jewelry that’s worth something and expensive, silver.

Instruments I play: None.. I did play the piano and clarinet briefly as a wee lass.

My current crew... they're really great!

Job Title: Currently, I am a supervisor of a crew of young adults in curatorial training program.

Kids: I have none, but hopefully someday I’ll get to be a mom!

My brother, my mom, my dad and me at my brother's wedding in October 2007

Live: Just outside of Scranton in Dunmore, PA Mom's Name: Shawn Dad's Name: Thomas
Nickname: People who know me say Jilly often, people who really know me call me Jilly Bean, but honestly most people (even the aforementioned ones) just call me Jill.

One wish: To have a million more wishes :)

Pet Peeve: Far too many to list.

The trailer has my favorite quote in it!

Quote from a Movie: From the movie Whip It, Bliss says “You guys (the roller derby girls) are like my heroes.” To which Maggie Mayheim replies, “Well put some skates on; be your own hero.” Such a great, inspiring thing to say to a young woman (or hell any woman).

Right or Left handed: Right.

My brother and me.. Tom is only 15 months older than me, and when he lived in Pennsylvania, he was my best friend. This picture always makes me say, "ever the best of friends."

Siblings: One brother, Thomas (28).

Time you wake up: During the week day usually around 6:45 AM, but lately my body has been waking me up at 6 (grrrr!!). On the weekends, I usually get up anywhere from 8-10 AM depending upon my night before.

Vegetables you dislike: Brussel sprouts in any form. I like most veggies, but often I prefer the vegetable either cooked or raw, but rarely both (there are few exceptions but broccoli and cauliflower I like both ways).

What makes you run late: Nothing; unless I’m with another person, then they usually do.

X-Rays you've had done: Teeth, head, feet.. I think that’s it.

Here I'm making some parmesan chicken.

Yummy food you make: I can actually cook, but I don’t really like to.. I make awesome mashed potatoes and meatballs though.

Zoo Animals: I don’t really go to zoos, but I guess I like seeing animals I don’t normally see roaming around Pennsylvania.