Join the Gossip Turns 2!

Two years ago a little girl and a dream came together and It resulted in the birth of Join the Gossip. Haha OK just kidding, that was way cheesy!

But really, two years ago I decided to develop this blog. At the time I was contributing to Beauty Chat (unfortunately no longer an active blog) and decided that I wanted a site of my own to talk about random ideas.

I used to post daily, and that is my biggest disappointment now--that I haven't posted as regularly as I'd like. I have been trying to get something up every few days and hope to keep doing so.

Topics found here have ranged from beauty to vacations and everything in between. I thank all of you for reading my blog and leaving your thoughts. Many of you have been readers since the very beginning. No matter how long you have been following Join the Gossip, I want to let you know that it means a lot to me!!

If you are interested, check out my very first post here.

Photo courtesy of: ohdeedoh.com

Fa La La La La!

Yup, that’s how we do it in Southern California — a Christmas tree surrounded by palm trees =) But we don’t have snow…

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas!

I hope you all enjoy yourselves, no matter how you choose to spend this special day.

Ralph Lauren Polo Blue

As I mentioned in my last post, I have a hard time buying gifts for guys. Girls are so much easier! When my mom mentioned that my brother needed cologne for Christmas I thought, "Cool, that'll be easy!"

Not so much.

Somehow I have never bought cologne before. So I didn't really know where to start...other than the Sephora in my local JCPenny. Luckily I had a great staff member to help me with my task.

All of the scents I was smelling reminded me of perfume, too feminine. Then I came across Ralph Lauren Polo Blue. It was just right! For a 2.5 oz Eau de Toilette Spray I paid $52. Not too bad. And if you buy this through Sephora's online store, you will get free shipping!

Now I just need to wait until December 25 to see if HE likes the scent. As will all fragrances--for men or women--they smell completely different on different people. Let's hope it works out...

Photo courtesy of: Sephora

Last Minute Gift Ideas

This year’s Christmas shopping has been incredibly easy. In addition to finding almost all of my gifts without leaving the comfort of my home, I have scored some great deals. In fact, I even have more ideas for presents that will please, without breaking the bank.

If you are looking for gifts for girls (because I suck at buying gifts) here are some ideas, all cost less than $20:

Technakohl Liner in Graphblack
MAC -- $14.50

This is an awesome liner, one of my favs. It goes on so smoothly and doesn’t smear off easily. And you can’t go wrong with the color. Black eyeliner is always safe.

Sequin Twist Headband
Forever 21 -- $3.80

Paired with a casual or dressy outfit, this accessory is sure to add a little extra glam to any look. I like this so much I think I’ll pick it up for myself!

Engraved Gold Initial Ecru Boxed Card set in 20

Barnes & Noble -- $19

Stationary is always needed—for notes, thank yous, whatever. So having monogrammed stationary just makes your letter that much more personal and special.

Small Jar & Shade (Sparkling Cinnamon) Gift Set

Yankee Candle -- $14.99

Who doesn’t like candles? Especially nice ones like those from Yankee Candle? I especially love that the candle will be illuminated with this cute holiday shade.

What about all of you? What are you go-to gifts? And do you have any ideas for mens' gifts? I need ideas for my dad and brother!



Photos courtesy of: MAC, Forver 21, Barnes & Noble, and Yankee Candle

Twisted Peppermint

A few years back I was given Bath & Body Works Twisted Peppermint body mist and lotion as a Christmas gift. The scent is so yummy, unfortunately it's only really appropriate for the holidays. So once Thanksgiving passes and the countdown to December 25 beings, I bust out the trusty ol' holiday scent!

In addition to having leaving a long-lasting peppermint fragrance, the spray also contains glitter. Now I am not talking a little simmer (although that's what the bottle says), I mean glitter! As I am typing I can literally look down at my sweatshirt and see a sea of sparkles! Oh and how I adore anything that glitters =)

If you are looking for a little extra holiday cheer, this is sure to do the trick. The bottle looks different now, mine actually has peppermints floating around in it, but the product is still the same...fabulous!

Right now Bath & Both Works is having numerous sales. I suggested you pay the store a visit in-person or online for some great seasonal purchases.

Photo courtesy of: Bath & Body Works

I Miss My Baby

About a year and a half ago I was awoken by a faint yipping sound. The next few moments would change my life forever...

My brother's friend had almost ran over a small dog. After trying to find the puppy's home, my brother decided to take the dog in. Now, it's the middle of the night and my parents and I are meeting this skinny pooch with a long body, little head, and missing fur. The poor thing was pitiful!

Already having a dog, my dad insisted that we find a good home for this house guest. After putting up photos at his work and nobody showing interest in the dog, I begged and pleaded with my parents for them to let me keep her and they gave in!

First thing was first--a much needed, and expensive, trip to the vet. This little girl, who we named Kiki, had mange and ringworm and was clearly neglected. Eventually with numerous medications she improved and became a healthy member of our family.

We aren't sure how old she is but we think she's about two now. And we also think she's a mix between a Chihuahua and rat terrier, but not positive.

My family loves dogs and we have always had them. Out of every one of them, Kiki is definitely the most loving. She always wants to be held and hugged. If you stop rubbing her belly she uses her little paws to grab your hand and pull it down to her stomach. If you walk into another room, she follows. If you leave, she howls.

That being said, when I moved out of my parents house I found an apartment building that allowed pets so I could bring Kiki with me. So I moved in and brought her with. That night I left for a few minutes to go to a friend's house. Within 15 minutes my landlord called to tell me that Kiki was crying and three tenants had complained. For a Chihuahua, she is really quiet. We never have problems with her barking!

I am pretty sure that being alone in my apartment scared her. Since she wasn't cared for during the first months of her life, I think that she has a strong need to be around our family. This explains her desire to be hugged and loved constantly. She can handle being alone with my other dog, so despite my extreme sadness, I decided that it would be best for her to live with my parents and our other dog.

That night I met up with my parents and gave her to them. On the way back to my apartment I balled like a baby. I literally felt like I was giving my child up for adoption. Although I miss snuggling with her everyday, luckily, my parents only live an hour away so I get to see Kiki every weekend.

She's absolutely the best part of my week!

UPDATE: I totally forgot to mention this...on top of all of Kiki's other issues, she has seizures =( We actually found out she is epileptic last month, so now she takes two pills everyday. The pills seem to be working though!

A Christmas Tree that Outdoes Rockefeller's

I know this sounds totally cheesy, but during the first season of The Hills, Lauren and Heidi went with their respective beaus to The Grove during winter. There was fake snow falling all around them and it looked so magical!

Since I live down the street from this popular LA shopping center, I figured I'd check out the holiday decorations for myself. I may be 26, but who doesn't love a little Christmas magic? After picking up a few books from Barnes & Noble (Mayflower: A Story of Courage, Community and War as well as The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe), I headed outside to take in the Christmas tree and fake snow.

This year the Chicago Tribune described the tree at the Grove as, "A fir tree from Northern California decorated with more than 10,000 lights and 15,000 ornaments." And even more impressive, NBC explains, "The 100-foot white fir is actually taller than the one at New York City's famed Rockefeller plaza, which was only 72 feet tall last year." So you can understand why I couldn't get the entire tree to fit in my iphone camera's frame!

Caramel Brulée Latte!

According to Starbucks, "The new Caramel Brulée Latte is a decadent espresso drink featuring the rich, creamy taste of a classic caramel dessert." Delightful, right?!

I can't get enough of this wonderful beverage myself, and I highly suggest you try it out if you are a Starbucks lover. It brightens my mornings and will hopefully do the same for you!

By the way, the Carmel Brulée is the one in the front of the picture =)

Photo courtesy of: Starbucks

Gifts for the Parents

We love sports in my family. Ever since I was little I remember watching football with my dad every Sunday. He even coached my sorority football teams for Greek Week. It;s the same passion with my mother as well. My mom and I aren't typical females I guess because we are obsessed with sports just like men. We're "those people" who even watch baseball (willingly) on TV and enjoy it!


So yesterday when I saw that NFLShop.com was having a buy one, get one 50% off sale I was thrilled. I bought both of my parents sweatshirts in their favorite teams.

I got my mom a Broncos sweatshirt. It's a part of Touch by Alyssa Milano and cost $69.99. Totally cute!

For my dad--a Chargers sweatshirt. This originally retailed for $59.57, but with the sale I got it for $29.98. A great deal!

They are currently holding a 20% off sale if you have a football lover that you'd like to Christmas shop for. Happy shopping!

Photos courtesy of: NFLShop.com

I Love Me Some American Eagle!

I made the mistake of reading an American Eagle e-mail incorrectly. I thought that I could use a discount coupon to receive 25% off my purchase the day after Thanksgiving. However, the coupon was for the day of Thanksgiving.

Anyways, after speaking with an extremely nice lady, I was able to get 20% off and free shipping--pretty good for an expired discount code. Below are my purchases, with the discount applied.

AE Cadet Jacket

Was $79.50

I paid $23.96

AE Chain Rosette Necklace

Was $19.50

I paid $15.60

AE Black Teardrop Bow Earrings

Was $12.50

I paid $10

AE Classic Tights in black and Grey

Was 2 for $20

I paid 2 for $16

I know that Black Friday is about waiting in crazy lines and buying things for others, but I couldn't resist! That jacket was an incredible deal, I just hope it fits properly. I always get a little nervous buying clothes without trying them on.

What were your Black Friday purchases?

Photos courtesy of: AE

A Unique Gift

Recently I made a purchase for my good friend, Elana. I actually loved the item so much that I bought one for myself, too!

The items? Monogram art by ARTnSEWL. I love the fact that they are made out of old books. As writers, I knew that this would be inspirational for both Elana and I. The way that these beautiful pieces of wall art are made, they look old and significant and I really adore that.

I went with an "M" to represent my last name, Morrissey. I purchased an "E" for Elana.

If you are looking for a unique, creative gift for the holidays, head over to ARTnSEWL's Esty shop and browse.

Photo courtesy of: ARTnSEWL

Black Friday? I'll Pass!

I am not the typical girl...I don't particularly like shopping. I really don't like shopping with other people. I prefer to go to the stores that I need and get it over with. That being said, I do not plan on going shopping today. Good luck to all of you that are braving the crowds. I hope you find great deals!

If I were going shopping, here are a few things I would love to pick up:

Photos courtesy of: Walmart, Nordstrom, Urban Decay, Forever 21, and Overstock.com

A Christmas Carol Thanksgiving

Today I am alone for Thanksgiving and I can't help but equate my situation to "A Christmas Carol." It's not because I am a Scrooge, it's the being by myself part. My family went to Arizona but I had to stay back in LA because of work yesterday. I could have driven over there to meet everyone, but with the traffic it wouldn't really be worth it--I'd be driving more than visiting. Anyways, I am a pescetarian so I don't eat turkey. My 2009 new year's resolution was to become a vegetarian, but I am a cheater and now eat fish...sorry off topic! Point is, I don't eat turkey, hate stuffing, pie, yams, and cranberry sauce (I know I am a weirdo!) so I am not missing out in the food department.

Back to a Christmas Carol. I don't ever want to end up alone, it's sad to be alone on a holiday. I am lucky to have friends who have invited me to join them, but I don't want to intrude on their families. The fact that they even offered means a lot to me. I am going to sit alone and feel sorry for myself instead today haha! I am actually content right now watching a First 48 marathon, because nothing says Thanksgiving like murder mysteries! I need to turn this stuff off! I did get a chance to bake cookies for the first time ever, though. They may have been Pillsbury and I may have only had to put them in the oven, but nonetheless it's a big accomplishment for me =)

Tomorrow my family comes home so I plan on going to my parents house and enjoying the rest of the weekend.

Sorry for the sentimental post! I hope you all have a great Thanksgiving, and to my non-American readers, happy Saturday!

Photo courtesy of: Snoopy.com

An Oak Glen Mini-Getaway

Last weekend I headed to Oak Glen with a friend. Located about two hours east of Los Angeles and a half hour northwest of Palm Springs, this quaint little community is known for its apple orchards.

As a kid I visited and had a magical time picking apples (and cherries when they are in season), so I have been wanting to go back and explore as an adult. As I have complained a million times on this blog, I love Fall and never get to see it because Southern California isn't exactly known for our trees and wilderness. Seeing an actual Autumn is the main reason I wanted to go back.

Unfortunately there was recently a frost and all of the apples died =( I knew this going up there, but figured we would still have a blast leaf peepin', cider sippin', and checking out the farms. I was disappointed to learn that the little town has become pretty commercial, not the idealized vision I had in my head from what I remember as a child. It reminded me of a swap meet because people were selling random stuff like blankets, hats, and other sorts.

I was a bit sad that there wasn't much apple food being sold, and those that were, were pretty expensive. This may very well be due to the frost though. A small warn apple cider, which was literally half the size of a tall Starbucks drink and not much larger than a paper cup that kids keep in the bathroom to use for teeth brushing, was $2! Maybe I am just being cheap...

However, there were some little shoppes featuring apple specialties and trinkets, and I did get to see some Fall. Of course, nothing compared to the New England Autumn that I was dreaming for, but nonetheless, there were a few yellow and orange leaves on the ground =)


We started at the top of the mountain and made our way down through the farms. Along the way this is what we saw:

An old home that reenacts Colonial and Civil War America.

Oak Glen School House Museum built in 1927. Grades 1-6 were taught here by one teacher.

A little shop selling country trinkets.

We spotted two roaming peacocks that didn't seem to mind visitors.

Late afternoon the trees started to look more like those of Autumn.

I hope you all have a great weekend! Enjoy the beauty around you and rest up for next week =)

Vampire Diaries Came Before Twilight

I am obsessed with Vampire Diaries! While most are going crazy over Twilight, I am addicted to this teen show on the CW. I think it's a great story (thus far) that most people aren't aware of. With all of the recent vampire hype it's easy to get overwhelmed by the fad. However, Vampire Diaries came years first--so for all of those people who say that this show is a copy, not true. And in all actuality, Bram Stoker started it all and nobody has anything on him!

The plot is based on a "forbidden" love and features an ultra hot cast, including Paul Wesely (Stefan, the good brother) and Ian Somerhalder (Damon, the bad brother). I am a Stefan fan, but Damon ain't too bad to look at either ; )

Monday, December 14 begins a full week-long Vampire Diaries marathon on the CW! So if you want to start watching but feel it's too late, it's definitely still possible to get into it.

Is anyone else with me on this show?

Photo courtesy of: Teen Vogue

You Know You Want Some Jammies!

The last day to enter my jammie swap is this Wednesday--Nov. 18. I will pair up the swappers on Thursday morning. Be sure to enter today!

We all love to get nice packages, so this is a great opportunity to participate in a swap without having to break the bank or go crazy shopping. I'd love for you to be a part of my first time doing a swap, so please sign up here if you are interested.

Also, I suggested you head over to REVERIE to check out the giveaway being hosted in honor of the 100th post.

Another great giveaway os being offered over at FricChic! Visit her blog to enter for your chance to win an awesome headband.

Photo courtesy of: uwec.edu

Dreaming of Warmer Days Past...

This post is two months late, but I thought I’d share anyways.

In September I took a family vacation to Lake Mead, Ariz. for some fun in the sun! We go to a place called Meadview, which is close to Grand Canyon West. Many only come to this area to visit the newly built Grand Canyon Skywalk (which you will never see me exploring!), so it’s nice and peaceful on the water. I hate when there are too many boats, it gets scary.

Although I am not a fan of the desert, this area is quite beautiful during sunsets. The back of the Grand Canyon glows in hues of reds and orange. It's quite a sight to see. My parents actually have land out there and are hopefully building on it soon. I can't wait for the summer nights when we are able to sit on the porch and watch as the day turns into night. Since the sky is so clear (as there isn't really a city nearby and there are absolutely no building for miles) the stars are so beautiful and bright.

Along with my mom and dad, my two college friends join us. Somehow I was the sober one this whole trip, and the rest of them indulged in the beverages. I would like to disclaim that there was no drinking and driving on the water though—safety first.

The weather was perfect, high 90s. The water on the lake is always great too because it’s so warm! In addition to cruising around on the boat, we enjoyed some wakeboarding and tubing. Here are some pictures of the fun:

My dog in her tiny life jacket

My dad and I

My mom and I

Me wakeboarding

Now that Fall is upon us, I can only dream about the next time I get to go back. Summer of 2010, I’ll be waiting for you!




Don't forget to sign up for the jammies swap!

WhoWhatWhere Daily: White House Black Market

I subscribe to the WhoWhatWhere daily newsletter and get e-mails featuring hot trends and fab outfits. Yesterday's graphics completely blew me away so I wanted to share!




I literally love every item showcased here! I feel like I need to buy all of it...although my bank account wouldn't appreciate it. Instead, if I had to settle for only one item, I'd def buy the Hematite Flower Stationed Necklace for $48.

There is a White House Black Market by my parents' house but I have never really payed much attention to the store because I always thought it was for middle aged women--wow was I wrong! I am going to head over to their site to do some shopping, I suggest you check out White House Black Market as well. They are currently offering 20% off purchases online when using the code 8896.


Don't forget to sign up for my jammies swap!






Photo courtesy of: WhoWhatWhere.com

Amelia

Sorry for the late post, my camera was dead and I couldn't transfer the pics!

This year at my work Halloween party I decided to go with a warm costume, as our party was held outside. After being cheap, lazy, and indecisive for weeks, I finally came up with an idea: Amelia Earhart.

It really was quite an easy look to put together. Leather jacket, white scarf, hat, goggles…then you can go with leggings and knee high, flat boots or straight legged khakis and plain black shoes. Since I didn’t have the right boots, I went with the latter.

Here’s my final look, compared to a picture of Amelia:

It’s not really a playful outfit like most girls opt for, but to be honest it’s just for work so who cares? I did wear a different outfit for a costume party Saturday night.

According to my grandma, I am actually related to Earhart. She married a Putnam, which is my great grandma’s maiden name. Who knows if the story is true or not.

In case you are unfamiliar with Amelia Earhart, she was famous for being a female pilot in a male-dominated world. In 1932 she became the first woman (and the second person ever) to fly solo over the Atlantic. Numerous other records were broken by her after that monumental flight.

Sadly, what Earhart is most known for is the mystery that surrounds her death. In 1937 she attempted to fly around the world. In one of her last communications she reported low fuel. One more message was received after that, then nothing. Nobody ever heard from her again. The most expensive air and sea rescue attempt ever was made, but with no success.

Currently Amelia, the film about her life portrayed by Hilary Swank, is playing at select theaters. I hope to see it soon!


Don't forget to sign up for my jammies swap!

Photo courtesy of: Wikipedia

We're jammin'!

I wanna jam it with you.
We're jammin', jammin',
And I hope you like jammin', too!

Why am I quoting a Bob Marley song? Because I am hosting my first swap—jammies!

My good friend, Stephanie, suggested that I hold a pajama exchange and I love the idea! So let’s make this happen. Here’s how it works:

1. If you’re interested, leave a comment with your name, email address and city/state you live in.
2. I will pair up all of those who signed up (trying to match people up who live near each other to reduce shipping costs) and let you know your partner by Wednesday, November 18.
3. You will contact each other, exchanging your sizes and addresses.
4. Purchase a pajama set—it can be one piece or two pieces, but must be a complete outfit—that costs between $20 and $25.
5. Ship the pjs by November 30th.

*Sorry, U.S. residents only, to keep shipping fees low*

I recently partook in a swap for Halloween and had a blast; however, it’s only fun if you fully participate after signing up. It’s disappointing to put effort into your swap and get nothing in return, or something that doesn’t fit within the $20-$25 limit. I understand that the economy is hard, so if you feel that the price range is too high, I apologize and you do not have to sign up. But I’d love for everyone to participate if they can/want to!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me: leeannmorrissey@gmail.com.



Photo courtesy of: Tinkerbell's Closet

A Fabulous Friend

I am so lucky to have such a great friend in my life. This morning was horrible, everything was going wrong! First, I forgot to pay my rent on the 1st so I received a note from my landlord saying that I have to pay a $50 late fee. After finding that notice, I go to the garage and find that my parking spot neighbor has all of her car doors open and doesn't have the decency to close them so that I can back out of my spot--I have incredibly unfriendly prople in the building. Next, my 3G is down and I cannot make an outgoing calls on my cell phone.

After feeling sorry for myself for the better part of the day, and complaining via email to Stephanie all morning, I was pleasantly surprised to return from a break and find flowers on my desk at work! A pot full of Fall colored flowers at that (she knows my obsession with the season and my desire to experience the color changes of Autumn) that smell amazing!

Be grateful for those special people in your life and don't take them for granted. We often get caught up in our "problems" and don't realize just how lucky we really are and how our little trials are easily conquered with the help of great people =)

The Beauty of Fall

Halloween and Fall are my favorite times of the year. I have always been drawn to the spooky…even though I am a scardey cat! Haunted locations, horror movies, falling leaves—I love it all.

Unfortunately, I live in Southern California so I don’t get to experience the New England supernatural, which by the way is my ideal of Halloween/Fall. Here, our leaves don’t really change (in fact we don’t have many trees to even allow for a color change), our history is fairly new, and most people don’t partake in the Halloween spirit. It’s really quite sad.

I especially enjoy reading blogs that allow me to live vicariously through them. My favorite is New England Girl. In addition to being a totally sweet blogger, she has the best stories and awesome pictures to illustrate life on the East Coast. You seriously need to check out this blog.

I also recently came across another cool blog, New England Love. This is another fantastic place to see beautiful Fall colors and photographs of historical locations.

Do any of you know of any New England/East Coast blogs?

I decided since I cannot see Fall in real life yet (I am making it my mission to get to the East Coast next year though!), I would browse the web for some photos. Here are some that I particularly adored:

Please not that none of these images are mine. If any belong to you and you would like me to remove a photo, please let me know and I will do so immediately. Thanks!