FAREWELL 2009

Today is the last day of 2009 and I would have to say that it's been a year of ups and downs. I'm blessed to be able to have a job when many of my friends and family are unable to find work. It can be frustrating at times, but I'm grateful. This year has taught me so much about the value of friendships and how I was able to depend of ME for enjoyment and fulfillment. Going out to eat alone has become the norm where I can mentally evaluate the decisions in my life and continue to plan my next move. I've truly enjoyed the fruits of my labor. Traveling was a big thing for me this year and I enjoyed every minute of it. I met a lot of new people along the way and I'm learning to become more social. I have a tendency to isolate myself, afraid that I wouldn't be liked. Finally, this blog has allowed to reach so many people that I may not have known if it weren't for my daily postings, your emails, and all the wonderful comments I've gotten thus far. We can all look at this year and point the many faults that may have occurred, but why not remember the good. This is the last day of this decade and many of us aren't guaranteed to see another. I thank you all so much for your support, your kind words, and all that you have done to help me along the way. 2010, will be a bigger and better year for Chatty Patty, and I hope that you all stay on this train and enjoy the ride. Patty loves you!

FAVORITE ONLINE CLOTHING STORE

Without a doubt, I know I’m a shopaholic and I have the bills to prove it. This website may very well be the reason for my continuous downward spiral into debt hell. Ebay! Yes people, Ebay is the best place to shop for modern and vintage clothing. Most of the vintage pieces and even the jacket I wore to All Black Everything all came from Ebay! I love shopping on this site, because you are guaranteed to find one of a kind pieces that no other girl in the club will be sporting. The sellers are from all over the world. I don’t have an Ebay horror story, because I read the feedback of the sellers prior to bidding. If you have the patience and are willing to step out of the box, try bidding on an item on Ebay. It’s an instant addiction. To note, a very close second was www.asos.com. Every outfit I’ve brought from the site fits like a glove.

TRENCH COAT LOOK

The weather is still chilly in Miami and since I'm suffering from a cold, I decided to bundle up to keep warm. This is what I wore to work today.

Sleeveless trench coat: Heritage 1981

White long sleeve under shirt: Forever 21

Brown pants: Old Navy

Snake skin inspired pumps: Nine West

FAVORITE DESTINATION OF THE YEAR

I went to a lot of places this year, Trinidad, 3 times, Grenada for Spice Mas, and NY. NY is like home, so I will take that out the equation. Well, call me bias, but Trinidad is still my favorite destination of 2009. Trinidad is the like the party central of the Caribbean. Beautiful men and women are all over the island. You may think that my trip for carnival was the best, but it was actually when I returned in the summer that I have a great time. My boyfriend, my sister and I went and we had a ball. We partied as soon as we landed up until the night before we had to leave. I love me some carnival, but the summer in Trinidad can be just as good.

FAVORITE ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Without any hesitation, the winner is RIHANNA! Not since the days of Madonna, has a pop artist influenced everyone from fashion, music, hairstyle and tattoos. Who didn’t get a star tattoo or cut off their long hair only to style it in a short crop do like Rihanna. Her street fashion is to be admired and respected. I don’t care if she has a stylist that picks out her items of clothing daily; she wears it with such confidence. Hate if you want, this Bajan chick has the world on lock! I love me some Rihanna, so if you are looking for me to say anything negative, then you can beat it. Entertainment Weekly has voted Rihanna’s new album Rated R the best pop album of 2009. Despite her public breakup and abuse from CB, she has been able to overcome the obstacles, only to stand up stronger. Things are just getting started for Rihanna, and I wish her nothing but the best and will continue to support her!

*Pictures were taken from www.starpulse.com.

MORE CVS SALES

I went to CVS today to buy some deodorant and found myself wondering in the makeup aisle. Damn, how the hell did that happen? Lol! Anyways, CVS is having a huge 75% off sales on many of their makeup products. There was so many to choose from, but I decided to stick to what I needed and that was some lipsticks. I didn't want to choose the norm, neutrals, pinks and browns, I wanted to get red and burgundy color. I picked up Revlon's Color Stay Lipstick in Red Velvet and Fabulous Fig. They were $2.45 each! As you can see in the pictures below, the colors are very vibrant. I can't wait to show them off!

ALL BLACK EVERYTHING

Today was a chilly day in South Florida! Can you believe 40 degrees? Well I decided that black was the best color suited for this weather. This is what I wore to work.

Ivory cardigan: Forever 21

Black top: Forever 21

Black slacks: Target

Black pumps: BCBG

Accessories: Forever 21 ring and earrings, Michael Kors watch Nordstrom

FAVORITE TELEVISION SHOW

This was a tuff one, because there aren’t many shows right now that I would run home to see, but when it comes to fashion, I’m in tuned. Project Runway, and Gossip Girl came in a very close second and third, but hands down, my favorite television show of 2009 has to be The Rachel Zoe Project! There are no stylist that loves, breaths, and lives fashion on a 24/7 basis like Rachel Zoe. Every time I tuned into that show, I was able to learn something new. I admire her love for vintage clothing and she is the one that brought back the fur vest that all the celebs are wearing. Her clientele is proof of her success! Who wouldn’t want to jump on a plane and go to Paris Fashion week with your supportive husband in toe and your gay assistant for fun shopping trips? I seriously am waiting for the next season of The Rachel Zoe Project. Bravo can you hurry up!

FAVORITE MOVIE OF THE YEAR

Never have I gone to the movies this many times, in my life. It just wasn’t something that was important to me. From He’s Just Not That Into You, to Orphan, to Brothers, all of these movies were so great, but none could compare to Precious. Based on the book “Push” by Sapphire, this movie is about a teenager in Harlem who is physically, sexually and emotionally abused by both of her parents, which resulted in the birth of 2 kids from her father. Monique became the breakout star of the film and I have so much respect for her and what it took for her to dig deep inside to play this volatile character. Hands down, this movie was emotional from beginning to end. It makes you appreciative to be brought up in a home where you never had to experience such things. Great film and great cast!

OUT ON THE ROAD SATURDAY LOOK

I went out Saturday to get my nails done, TGIF with my sister and headed to the mall to do some shopping and this is what I wore.

Denim sleeveless jacket: Forever 21

Red & White striped halter dress: Zara

Red sandal: Target

Blue Green handbag: Aldos

Earrings: Forever 21

Watch: Michael Kors

BURT'S BEES SCRUB

Since I've gone back to using Clinique products, I tried out their exfoliating scrub and realized that it was too harsh for my skin. I was looking for something lighter and saw that my brother had Burt's Bees Peach & Willowbark Deep Pore Scrub. It's retailed at CVS for $8.99. I tried it yesterday and realized how creamy it was though you can see and feel the ground Peach Stone. I followed that with my Clinique Cleanser and the toner and I didn't feel any irritation and burning, which was great for me. Visit your nearest drugstore or www.burtsbees.com.

FAVORITE YOUTUBE MAKEUP BLOGGER

I have never been into make-up until I started watching these girls’ videos on YouTube. It was hard for me to choose the winner, because each one of these women and men has influenced me into wanting to take care of my skin, and splash on a little color. They’ve made me to appreciate my beauty and want to try out different make-up products, and now I’m completely hooked. I will buy a palette before I even buy a pair of shoes. Yes it’s sad to admit. Hands down, my favorite make-up blogger is none other than Michelle Phan. If you get the chance to see her makeup tutorials, you will see how great her videos are and the editing is crazy! Her voice is soooo soothing and welcoming. She never looks bothered or upset like some of these other girls. She loves what she does and it has paid off. She has her own stream of products and she's always traveling. She lives the life that many of us dream about. She doesn’t do as many videos, but when she does one, it’s worth checking out. If it weren’t for Michelle Phan, I would still be wearing makeup, on a rare occasion. A very close second was Fafinette x 3. She’s also sick and her blending skills are off the hook!

FAVORITE BLOG OF THE YEAR

I could be a biatch and say it’s Chatty Patty, but that wouldn’t be right. I follow a lot of blogs for many different reasons. Blogging has becoming the new way of letting the world into a piece of your life, and like many of us, maybe more than they should. Lol! One blog has continued to grab my attention. It is the reason why I started my own blog. www.afrobella.com. A former Trinidadian living in South Florida, this woman’s blog is so informative. She’s gone to so many places in the local area and can give you the ins and outs of different restaurants, bookstores and spas. I was sad to see that she was moving to Chicago, but that move didn’t stop her from continuing to give us some great blogs. She’s since, quit her job and pursued blogging/writing full time and it has paid off. So many doors have opened for her. She continues to inspire me and I hope that one day, I too can make blogging a full time job.

GOING OUT FOR DRINKS LOOK

Christmas night, I went for drinks with my sister, my man and his friend and this is what I wore that night. I usually put on something more dressy for this day, but I wasn't in the Christmas mood this year and so I looked very simple and comfortable.

Green top: Old Navy

Dark Blue Jeans: JCPenny

Brown Strappy Sandals: Nine West

Accessories: Forever 21 earrings, MK watch

Clutch: Passage To India

I GOT MY NAILS DID

Went to the nail shop yesterday and did my nails. I'm use to getting the pink and white set but since I'm trying to budget and spend less, I got a regular full set and chose vibrant colors to make my nails pop. One of my favorite new makeup bloggers did her nails in a similar design where 2 of her nails on each hand were done in a different color with some designs and I decided to try it out and I LOVE IT! I did my toes in the same design.

CHRISTMAS EVE LOOK

This weekend, I thought I would be partying like a rock star, instead it was more like grandparents, because even my parents seem to be partying more than me these days. Well, I went out Thursday night to How Mi Look Thursdays and this is what I decided to wear.

Top: Simply Fashion

Shiny Leggings: American Apparel

Shoes: Boutique on South Beach

Accessories: Michael Kors Watch, Forever 21 Earrings,

Clutch: Ebay

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Merry Christmas from Chatty Patty! Share these times with your family and close friends and cherish every moment spent together. Many of us are grieving this holiday, because there are so many people that aren't here to enjoy this special occasion, but they are here in spirit. Thank you for all your support for 2009! Patty loves you!

JEANS DAY @ WORK

So I was happy to find out that we had another jeans day today, and this is what I decided to wear.

Blue and White stripe top, Forever 21

Destroyed Blue Jeans, Forever 21

Red Pumps, 10 dollar shoe store

Accessories, Michael Kors watch & Ray-Ban reading glasses

FAVORITE CHATTY PATTY POSTING

You're My Addiction was written on March 17th. This posting was a 100% true story of my addiction to this guy that I just couldn't seem to get over.

It’s Saturday night, you’re at the club and the session is going real nice. You go to the bar to buy a drink and wait for the bartender to hand you that mango martini. Standing at the bar is this sexy rasta. Tall, brown and giving you the same look you are giving back to him. He introduces himself and so do you. You have a small conversation before exchanging numbers and going back to your respective corners. You don’t take him on, because you are convinced that all men, in the clubs are not be trusted. You leave club and go back to your place, but you receive a text from that guy, wanting you to meet him at Dennys, but you play hard to get, because you don’t want to come off easy. So you decline the invitation and decide to meet at another time. Days pass and the guy decides to come to your place, so you continue to play the tough role and decide to meet him outside your complex so that he has no idea which apartment you live in. Approaching him, you realize how gorgeous he is and you instantly become more attracted to him. The phone tag continues days and weeks later, until he decides to come to your place one night. Though you try to resist, you can barely stay cool, with all the heat rising throughout your body. Soon, the clothes are quickly torn off, the kisses become more intense and the hands begin to touch places that you wanted to touch from the moment you met. You are angered by the fact that he failed to tell you about the size of his manhood and the fact that he knew all the right places to put it. The sex was the best you had experienced in a long time and when the night ends, you are hoping that you will be able to reenact this session that you just created. Unfortunately, you realize, that your feelings for him are much stronger than his. You begin to wait by the phone, anticipating the next time, he will satisfy your every desire. You begin to call him constantly, without him returning any of your calls. Your friends are telling you to get over it and just take it for what it is, a “Hit and Run”. You soon come to your senses and realize that you’re a beautiful girl and know that you shouldn’t have to chase down anyone. Just when you thought you were over him, you see his fine ass in the club again. He calls you over and starts to whisper in your ear about how sexy you look. The d.j. starts to play something slow and he pulls you over and the two of you begin to dance. With your bodies rubbing against each other, you are reminded of how bad you want to do it right in the middle of the club. He tells you to come to his place after the club, and you quickly race to his house. As he opens the door, the clothes are off, your bodies are wet, and your legs are in positions you never imagined it could go. You tell him how much you like him and hope that you can spend more time together, and he agrees. Yet again, you realize how difficult it is for him to keep his word and how quickly he has become your obsession. He’s the Mr. Big to your Carrie and you feel like you are caught in the whirlwind of Sex & The City. You’ve been schooled on this situation and you should know better, but you don’t listen to what you’ve been taught. You continue to wait on his phone calls and turn down dates with other men. “Get over him”! “Can’t you see that he doesn’t want you”. “But he said that he would call me”! “He’s probably out of town or maybe he lost his phone”. Weeks past, even months. You continue to accept his random invites and he continues to use you like the desperate loser you have become. When does the obsession end and the soul searching begin? Its not until that faithful day at Barnes & Nobles, when you picked up that little pink book titled “He’s Just Not That Into You”. You finally realized your worth! No need to lecture you, pick up the book, sit back and take notes. It saved my life!

FAVORITE RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

I've gone to this restaurant twice now. Not only is the food superb, but the environment is so sheik. I LOVE IT! I’m a vegetarian, and I often find it difficult to find great vegetarian spots in S.F., but hands down, this vege burger is the best I’ve ever eaten, next to Houston’s. I’m talking about no other than Yolo Restaurant! You would literally feel like you’re in an episode of Sex & The City. It’s a mature atmosphere. Great host/hostess! Great waiters/waitresses! Best Vege Burger! Okay, I had to say it again. Located in East Las Olas Blvd in Ft.Lauderdale. It’s a really popular restaurant, so a reservation is highly recommended.

FAVORITE TREND OF THE YEAR

Whether you have a small frame or a full figure, everyone and anyone will look great wearing a pair ofTIGHTS/LEGGINGS! Tights was the rave this year, whether the wet look or sequin. You can dress a pair of tights with a pair of strappy sandals, flats, and even knee high boots. Though it’s my favorite trend of the year, I’ve seen so many people abused this look and it’s starting to make me put my tights into retirement. Can I say no more tights with granny panties? PLEASE!

FAVORITE ITEM OF THE YEAR

I featured so many items that I loved and I was so excited to share it with you, in hopes that you would feel the same way too! I’m always buying all kind of products in hopes that I can stick to something that works. This item was included in my Patty’s Favorite Things contest, in which my follower, Shanelle County was the lucky winner. My favorite Item of the Year 2009, hands down is my Crabtree & Evelyn Body Scrub. My brother introduced me to this item earlier this year and since then, I’ve been completely hooked. The aroma is so great; it will fill up your entire bathroom. I use this product once a week and I can’t get over the way my skin feels and smells after I’m done. Literally like a baby’s backside! I swear by this scrub and since my bottle is almost done, I’m so looking forward to getting more and trying out their other products.

WHAT'S TO COME ON CHATTY PATTY!

From now until the 31st of December, I will be counting down all my favorite things of 2009! I will list my favorite destination, restaurant, artist, night club (dance), make-up product, trend, television show, and even favorite Item of the Year, you name it, it will be on my favorite list of 2009! I had a great year writing and editing Chatty Patty all by my lonesome and I look forward to bigger and greater things for 2010! I've been saying for months now that I will be revamping Chatty Patty and I promise you, it will be done. It's taking me longer than I thought, but all good things come to those who wait. So continue to spread the word! Patty truly loves you! I really do!

WORK LOOK OF THE DAY

Since I'm at my job more than I'm in a night club, it will only be right that I feature more work looks. Hopefully I can hit a club or 2 to show you how I really get down.

Cardigan, Forever 21

Tunic, Charlotte Russe

Slacks, Old Navy

Shoes, Nine West

Accessories, Michael Kors watch, unknown store gold bracelet & earrings, Ray-Ban reading glasses

MAYBELLINE'S LIP BURNING LIPSTICK

I recently purchased Maybelline's Volume XL Seduction Plumping Lip Color. I am telling you all to stay far away from this product because it was the reason I had the cold sores on my lips. I brought the same lip stick for my mother and she too felt an instant burning and irritation as soon as she applied it on her lips. I would of returned it to Walgreens, but I lost the receipt and have no proof of purchase.

LUSH HAUL

For a long time, I've seen the Lush store at Aventura Mall, but never cared to check it out. After longing to buy some natural soaps, oils and other products and hearing great things about their products I decided to check it out. From the moment you enter the store, you're instantly awakened to the scents of all of their soaps. I saw the Strawberry Feels Forever oil and was told that after taking a shower, you will rub it all over your body and it leaves a sparkling oil feel to your skin. The Running to Embassy soap smells like peppermint, which I loved and I had to have it! Finally my mind ran across a face mask. I wanted something as natural as the Carol's Daughter mask I used to use years ago (it has been discontinued). I picked up Mask Mag, because it too had a mint scent and you actually saw the little particles in mask that allows you to exfoliate your skin at the same time. My purchases came up to $34.94. I received a free soap sample too. I'm sure that I may be late to the Lush phenomenon, but for those of you that don't know, this is a great spot to find some uniquely shaped, natural, vegan soaps, bath bombers, body oils, masks and more.

GUILT FREE SHOPPING BUDDY

I love my man, but seriously, I hate to go shopping with him sometimes. When I go to the mall, I don't want to feel rushed or as if I'm spending too much money. He and I both love fashion, but he's a person that knows what he wants, goes in the stores, makes the purchases, and leave. I love to go to different stores, analyze the clothing and shoes before I spend my money, but I always have him breathing down my neck about "that's too much money" or "what you need that for" or "you love to waste money". This is why I prefer to go by myself. Believe me, he and I have had plenty arguments about this, and at the end of the day, I'm convinced that maybe, shopping together isn't a good thing anymore. We went on Friday, and I have to say that he behaved himself, but still I would prefer to go with my mom. She and I are so much alike and we enjoy spending money and going to 3 and 4 malls in one day. So my solution is to find someone, like yourself who enjoys shopping, just as much as you do. No nagging! No guilt trips!

HOLIDAY RELATIONSHIP TEST

One of my Facebook friends posted something that I found to be very interesting. Is Christmas the holiday that proves your status in a relationship? Let’s be honest, if you are seeing someone that doesn’t get you anything for Christmas, or even spends time with you on that festive day, then I believe you should reconsider your status. I’m sure there are those that are fine with being just a matey, jump-off, or side chick, but I have to wonder if during the holidays, you tend to feel a little lonely knowing that buddy is spending time with his wife and you’re left watching the marathon of The Christmas Story on TBS. Large up all the wifey’s like myself, who know that they have a good man, have the gifts, and quality time to prove it. These are the times of the year, when I’m so appreciative that I am in a loving relationship and I don’t have to worry about having the Christmas blues, but there are so many of my friends and family who are not in the same position as I am. Let’s face it, 2009 was a bad break up year for so many people I know and love, and I’m sure I will have some comforting to do with them. I just pray that 2010 is a hopeful year, not just for having a man in their life, but just the ability to move on.

LAST MINUTE DEALS

FYI ladies, Bath & Body Works is going to have their big sale, starting on Monday December 28th, so if you have any pennies remaining after all your Christmas shopping, then take advantage of this yearly sale. I always get such great deals on their candles, lotions, soaps, and more. Don’t miss out. Aveda is having some great deals for the holidays! Imagine getting a stress relieving mani, pedi, and eyebrow wax for only $30.00 or what about an elemental nature facial, mani and pedi for $50.00. You can’t beat these deals. It is only going on till this Friday, December 25th, so make you appointment today! Visit www.avedaflorida.com or call 954-990-0484. If you love New York & Company, you would love their 50% off EVERYTHING sale ending TODAY! Check them out at www.nyandcompany.com for details and availability.

RHIANNA'S DENIM LOOK

I saw this hot street style from Rihanna and decided to duplicate the look. It's a great casual wear for shopping and hanging out with the girls.

Sleeveless denim jacket, Forever 21, $24.80

White skinny stretch pants, Zara's, $30.00

White tee, Forever 21, $3.99

Brown strapless sandal, Bakers

MICHAEL KORS OVERSIZED MEN'S WATCH

As you can see, I got one of the items on my Christmas Dream On List. Yes, its the Michael Kor's watch I've been eying for so long! It is the over sized/men's watch that everyone is sporting these days. SJP wore it on Sex & The City season 3 and since then, I wanted a pair. My boyfriend got it for me at Nordstrom for $190.00. I love the fit! They have them in all white, which I'm hoping to get for my birthday. That one is more sporty than this all gold watch. Though my man thought that the all white was more attractive, I prefer this one, because it's something I can wear everyday. Thank you babes for the lovely Christmas present. Let's see if I will get anything else off that list!

AVEDA FACIAL APPOINTMENT

I had an early morning facial appointment at Aveda on Saturday, which I wasn't thrilled about. I still haven't caught up on my sleep from last weekend, and I had to drag my ass to the shower. I got there about 5 minutes late, signed in and waited to be called. The Aveda student's name was Jessica and we greeted each other and she led me to the room. Usually, I will be given a foot bath in a little room before I enter the actual room where the facial takes place, but that didn't happen. I thought "oh man", but that was short lived, because the foot bath now takes place in your room, which is great. They use Aveda's smoothing body polish, a purifying, skin-refining exfoliate. This product is great! I brought it when I first started going to the spa. Just take a bowl with some warm water and soak your feet prior to apply this product and you will see a difference in the way your feet feels. Okay, so back to the facial. I told Jessica about my hideous breakout the other day and how it left me with these dark acne scars. I would assume that she would want to do the enbrightenment facial, but she opted to cleanse and exfoliate my skin to get rid of the dead skin. She introduced me to the scents, which are all great. She started with a massage of my neck and upper chest, and stretched my limbs to relax my body. I loved how she asked if I was dealing with stress, which I had some minor episodes, my nothing to talk about. The cleansing and exfoliation felt good. She was very gentle and concentrated on my problems areas. She did some minor extractions, which was surprising. I guess I don't have as many black heads as I thought. I had a 1 hour session which seemed to be not long enough. I just love the feeling of being pampered. So Jessica recommended that I come back in 3 weeks, to do the Enbrightenment Facial and also treat my under eye dark circles. Checking out, I was thankful that I took a morning appointment, because by 10:00 am, the waiting area is swarmed by so many women, it can be a bit crazy. The facial went great, my skin looks great, and the picture shows that the dark mark on chin area has already started to lighten. Ladies and gents, if you haven't gone to Aveda, you're missing out on a great experience. I've written countless reviews, so check it out!

SHOE DAZZLE

I love reading some of my favorite blogs and you tube videos, because you get to learn something new everyday. Well upon reading DulceCandy87's blog, she wrote about Shoe Dazzle. This is an online shoe store from Kim Kardashian were you have to become a member, for a monthly fee of $39.95. This membership includes a free pair of shoes each month of your choice. When you sign, you are asked a set of questions, so the stylist can get a feel of your personal style. Once you've completed the questionnaire you enter your credit card information, where you will not be a charged a fee until you've requested your first pair of shoes. Each month, a stylist will show you some shoes that fit your style and you simply have to click which shoe you prefer. You are then charged the $39.95 fee. If next month comes, and you are not satisfied with the shoe selections, you can click to deny that month's payment, but you have to do that within 5 days of the monthly transaction. You can cancel your membership at any time. I checked out the website and let me tell you, the shoes are HOT! I think this is great for any girl on a budget. I signed up today and I will wait till after the holidays to make my first selection. I suggest you all go to the site, www.shoedazzle.com and read all the information before you sign up!

LIFE CHOICES AND HAVING FUN

Sometimes I feel that I set too high of a standard for anyone that has any importance in my life. I give so much of myself and often my efforts are taken for granted, or not even acknowledged at all. 2009 has been a wonderful year for me, especially with the launch of Chatty Patty. This blog has allowed me to break free of my writers block and allow my thoughts to take the lead. It has allowed me to meet so many people that I may have never met, if it weren’t for this blog. Your personal emails have made me feel closer to some of you that I only know you by your screen name. We’ve made connections, by sharing our joys, pains, and triumphs. I will be eternally grateful to all of you that have supported me from day one. The sad reality is that many of my close confidants aren’t even followers of this blog and though it may be a small thing, it is still hurtful in a way, but it makes me stronger. This year has taught me that your friends may not always be your greatest supporters. They may laugh at your ideas, and tell you it can’t be done. I think it’s so important in a friendship to be able to know that your friends have your back at the end of the day, but the realization is that they won’t. People are caught up in their own life and at the end of the day; we have to let it go and not allow their absence to interfere in our progress. The things that you do for your friends may not be the same in return. It’s up to you to realize if the friendship is worth keeping. I’ve always had an internal battle with my friends, wondering which one’s to keep around and which one’s should remain at a distance. You would think that as we grow older, this war would end, but to me, it's only getting started. In April, I will be turning the big 30, and it amazes me that the things I thought I knew at 21 was nothing at all. At that age, we think we don’t need to hear mommy and daddy’s lectures. “They don’t know what they’re talking about”, but I’ve come to realize that they certainly do. Our twenties are about us trying to find ourselves and define ourselves. I’ve played around and I had a nice life at it, but at the end of the day, defining who I am as a person is important and sticking to my beliefs is even more important. I want my thirties to be about embracing and celebrating my life. I see so many people live these miserable lives where their daily routine is to clock in and out at a job they hate, and not reap the benefits of their paychecks. That person has never and will never be me. I work too hard! If there is anything that I want to continue is to enjoy the things I love to do while becoming wise at how I do it. My life could end tomorrow and I want to say "fuck yeah, I did the damn thing"!

JEANS DAY AT WORK

Today is Jeans Day at my job, which was thrilling, because I am doing some holiday shopping with my man after work and I hate to walk around the mall in my work clothes. I wore these skinny boot cut jeans from Saks 5th Ave, which I don't remember the price. I may have gotten it from a butterah. Lol!!!! I paired it with a navy blue and white dotted top from Charlotte Russe. I love this top, because it hides all my mid section imperfections while flattering the smallest part of my body. I wore my red pumps from the 10 dollar store! I wore this gold bangles that I got from a hot accessories store in the fashion district in Miami. I hope to do a review on that store very soon. I found this Sexy 2 finger ring from Forever 21 that I've been wearing everyday. I want a real gold one, so I will be going to the flea to get a price quote. I topped it off with this gold earrings from Forever 21.