That Time I Caught a Saints Game in the Superdome!

Before I get to my Saints recap, I have a big Monday Morning Gossip announcement. Starting next week Kimberlee of I Have A Degree In This will be my linkup co-host! If you're not familiar with her and her blog, get acquainted! She's awesome and going to be a great addition to MMG. Next week, head over to her blog for the blog hop! Next week I have another big announcement so she'll be hosting the link up, then we'll co-host together from then on!

Now, are you ready for some football?!

Last week I made the trip of a lifetime - all the way to New Orleans to see my favorite team, the Saints, play at home in the Superdome. This was the first time even seeing them play since LA doesn't have a team and San Diego is in a different conference. You can imagine how excited I was!

We had amazing seats, sitting at the 25 yard line in the ninth row. SO close to the field!

This last picture is of my favorite player, who happens to be the best tight end in the league, Jimmy Graham. This was his dunk celebration after one of his two touchdowns of the game.

On Wednesday I'll do a recap of the other activities from the trip. Come back to see what else we did!

I'm also linking up for Are You Ready for Some Football & This Weekend I.

What are you blogging about today? Linkup and share your post! If you're new to the linkup, here's how it works:

1. Blog about your gossip - all topics accepted so why not link up?!
2. Include the badge (below) in your post and/or link back to Join the Gossip.
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Werk It

 

SHOP THE LOOK:

zipper shirt / black peplum jacket / pants / heels / leather handbag / necklace

I have a confession, I work for one of the largest online designer retail companies and don't dress cute enough. My previous job was really casual and after four plus years I got into a routine. I don't dress poorly, I just dress casually. A lot of jeans and cardigans. More preppy than trendy.

I need to step up my game! The above outfit would be a great look for work. All of the items are from Topshop - no I don't work there, they're a rival company so don't tell my boss.

Be sure to stop by next Monday to link up for Monday Morning Gossip and to get a recap of my trip to New Orleans from earlier this week. Have a great weekend!

Guest Post: The Stories of Kelsey

Happy Wednesday! I arrived home from New Orleans last night and I'll have a bunch to recap soon. But today Kelsey of The Stories of Kelsey is giving me a little extended blog vacation and filling in. Check out her post and be sure to visit her blog!

   

Hello all you Join the Gossip fans! Thanks to Leeann for having me over on her blog today! I thought I would introduce myself to you by telling you a few fun facts about me.

I've been hit by a car while crossing the street as a pedestrian. Full story here.

I hiccup at least 10 times a day and it sounds like a baby Tera Dactyle. It is so loud and I have no idea when I am going to do it. It is definitely embarrassing. 

 

I always said I would never live in Utah but after having to turn down a great opportunity in Boston my husband and I found ourselves living here and it is actually pretty great. 

 

I always avoid stepping on man holes after my college roommate's grandmother fell down one while walking down the street.   
Even though I look pretty healthy I battle with Ventricular Tachycardia in my heart and Endometriosis.  I once was pulled over for jaywalking. I wasn't sure what to do so I just sat down. Yes, they put their sirens on and everything.   

I am really good at hula hooping. I could probably go for hours and hours if I didn't get bored and stop. 

 

  I am a master aesthetician and so I have a huge love for skin care.    ------
  I thought today I would share some of my favorite tips and tricks for achieving healthier looking skin.  

Facial Massage I know it sounds crazy but just like your body loves getting a massage, your facial muscles really like it too! Some of the benefits of facial massage are stimulated blood & lymph circulation, helps improve muscle tone,  helps absorb product, and reduction in puffiness & sinus congestion. Start at your chin and pay extra attention to your jawline. and with circular motions work your way up up your cheeks. Make sure to go over the bridge of the nose. Work your way up to your forehead and circle your way out to your temples. Spend extra time at the temple to help relieve stress.

 

Try New Products Just because you read a raving review or saw a great commercial for a certain product doesn't mean that it is the right product for you. We all have very different skin types that require different products. Just because your best friends loves a certain brand doesn't mean it is the right one for you. It takes the skin about 2-3 weeks to get used to a new product. Give a new product at least that long to see how your skin reacts.  

Use Sunscreen Daily Yes, even in the dead of winter. UV rays can go through the windows of your house, car, and even through the clouds. It is important to always wear at least an spf 15. Many moisturizers now come with an spf included so you don't have to feel like you are going to the beach slathering on sunscreen just to go to work. 

 

Be Aware of External Factors Although internal factors have a big impact on the health of your skin, external factors do as well. Misuse of products, poor maintenance and care, environment, pollutants, air quality and of course the sun have a huge impact on the health of your skin. Did you know 80% of premature aging caused by external factors can be attributed to the sun? This is why sunscreen is so important!   
Hopefully you were able to learn a few new things about how to care for you skin. Feel free to leave a comment, leave an email or visit my blog Stories of Kel if you have any more questions!

Guest Post From Casual Jenny

Today my agenda consists of touring the New Orleans Garden District. I did this last year when I visited but I'm a sucker for some sightseeing so I'm having another go at the neighborhood. Jenny of Casual Jenny is here to talk TV while I'm gone. Be sure to show her some love!

 



Hi! I'm Jenny and I blog about my new house, new husband, food and DIY over at my blog Casual Jenny.   I hope you will stop by and say hello!

I am excited to be guest blogging for Leeann while she's away! Have fun, Leeann!

Her recent post about the upcoming fall TV season got me reminiscing about some of my favorite shows that are off the air. Fortunately, you can still watch most of them on Netflix!

30 Rock 
Hello, who doesn't love Liz Lemon!? I know this show only ended last year, but I was super bummed. It is hilarious!It's about a show similar to Saturday Night Live and it's head writer, Liz Lemon.  From Tracy's billions of dollars, Jack's Republicanism, Liz's quest for love and all of the amazingly hilarious minor characters (Lutz....seriously!) I could watch this show over and over on Netflix.

Freaks and Geeks
My husband and I just finished watching the first (and only) season of this show, and I am so glad we did! It is so relatable, but also funny and lighthearted. Plus, it stars a young James Franco. Just sayin'. It follows a brother and sister, Lindsey and Sam Weir, who are a freak and a geek, respectively, through a year of high school. Our favorite character was Bill, one of the geeks. He seems to be one of the only cast members who hasn't really done much other work, which is sad, because he is amazing!

Wings

Okay, yeah, getting into 90's territory here. I just have fond memories of watching this with my grandma when I was young and would visit her in the summer. It takes place at an airport in Nantucket, Mass, and focuses on two brothers who own a small airline.  Most of the more "adult" jokes went over my head at the time, but I definitely recognized this was a good show! It stars the guy who was on Monk too! Just a fun sitcom. You can catch it on Netflix!

Northern Exposure

Okay, again with the 90's shows but seriously....I tell everyone I can to watch this show! This is another one my grandma introduced to me (she has pretty good taste in TV now that I think about it!) It takes place in small town Alaska and follows the lives of the strange and interesting people there, namely a New York doctor who was forced to move there to pay off medical school loans, a female pilot, and May-September couple, and a former astronaut. Unfortunately, the series isn't available on Netflix or Hulu! I have one season on DVD and I hope to get more of them!

Newsradio

My last pick is Newsradio. This show takes place in a radio station full of eccentric characters. It stars Phil Hartman, Andy Dick and Joe Rogan, too! Phil Hartman passed away in the middle of the show's run, unfortunately. He was too funny. This show isn't on Netflix, but you can watch it for free on Hulu!

Guest Post: Birthday Weekends by I Have A Degree In This!

I'm currently in NOLA right now (either on a huge high or low depending on how the Saints game played out). But the Monday Morning Gossip show goes on either way! Today one of my oldest blogging buds, Kimberlee of I Have A Degree in This, is hosting. Take it away Kim!

Thanks Leeann! Happy to take over today for Monday Morning Gossip. This weekend I headed to Jersey to celebrate my parent's birthday. It was filled with plenty of backyard activities including an intense wiffle ball tournament. It's always good to go home for some delicious homemade food and for some R&R away from the city.

Sunday night I tuned into the 65th Primetime Emmys. Neil Patrick Harris did a good job hosting. I loved the opening monologue. This year they did more in depth tributes some actors along with the typical In Memoriam section. It was such at tear jerker to hear from their fellow friends/co-stars about the person they really were besides the character they played. But onto happier topics... Breaking Bad won Best Drama! I need to catch up on last night's episode so no spoilers please!

What are you blogging about today? Linkup and share your post! If you're new to the linkup, here's how it works:
1. Blog about your gossip - all topics accepted so why not link up?!
2. Include the badge (below) in your post and/or link back to Join the Gossip. IF THERE IS NO LINK BACK I WILL DELETE THE ENTRY!
3. Add your link to the list below.

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Fall 2013 Fashion Wishlist

 

Shop the look at ASOS:

Frock and Frill Drop Waist Dress with Scallop Embellishment | Lord & Berry Lipstick Crayon

Ganni Platform Berry Sandals | Leather Satchel Company 14'' Berry Satchel

 

This fall it's all about berry - clothing, accessories, makeup - you can't go wrong with the rich hue. Although a deep color, it's still bright and cheery enough to add pop to an ensemble. I'm going to give the shade a go in the form of lipstick. While I love a good red, this season berry may be my substitute.

In other news...
Tomorrow I'm headed to New Orleans to catch a Saints game! I'm SO excited!! While I'm away I have three guest bloggers filling in, starting with Kimberlee from I Have a Degree In This hosting Monday Morning Gossip. Come back Monday to link up. Remember, all topics are welcomed. Then on Tuesday Jenny of Casual Jenny is filling in and Kelsey from Stories of Kel on Wednesday. Stop by and show them some love!

New Fall 2013 TV Lineup

Each Fall I'm always excited to check out new shows for the season. In addition to my favorites coming back (Revenge, New Girl, Vampire Diaries, The Walking Dead, etc.) there are several new ones that I'm eager to watch.

This year my list is pretty short. Usually it's so long I have to drop shows because I physically can't watch all of them.

MONDAY
Sleepy Hollow - Fox Premieres: Monday, Sep. 16 at 9/8c
Headless horseman? Done! Premiered last night and it's the perfect mix of suspense and history.
The Blacklist - NBC Premieres: Monday, Sep. 23 at 10/9c
James Spader is always great and I'm sure this thriller looks like it's going to be a hit.


THURSDAY
The Originals - CW Premieres: Thursday, Oct. 3 at 9/8c
This Vampire Diaries spinoff aired it's pilot months ago. I liked what I saw but half of the CW shows I like get cancelled, hopefully it lasts.


FRIDAY
Dracula - NBC Premieres: Friday, Oct. 25 at 10/9c
You can never have too many vamp shows in your life. Am I right?


SUNDAY
Witches of East End - Lifetime Premieres: Sunday, Oct. 6 at 10/9c
I don't know much about it but Eric Winter is in it and Freddie Prince Jr. is making an appearance. Hotties! I'm in.


Now that the shows are typed out I can see the level of obsession I have with the supernatural/horror genre. Oops. My name is Leeann and I am addicted to the creepy.

Are any of these shows on your list? Any that I should add to my list?

Here's the TV Guide Fall 2013 Premiere Calendar for ALL shows.


Photos courtesy of: TV Guide & Girls Talk TV

Beer & Bags

Another weekend in the books! While mine started with some afternoon beer at work, that was the height of the excitement. I didn't feel that great so I kept it casual and stayed in Saturday night. The benefit of staying in was that when the 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target collection went live at about 2am PST I was able to snag a few bags. I was prepared to line up at Target Sunday morning but thank goodness I didn't have to!

I got the 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target Medium Satchel in purple.

My mom snagged the 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target Medium Satchel in Gray.

The bags that we selected were the ones we wanted which makes me super happy. They were both online only (currently sold out) and different from the black and taupe bags that it seems everyone else picked up. I actually didn't realize not all of the purses would be available in-store. Good thing I didn't wake up early to sit outside my local Target for nothing! The only negative about ordering online is having to wait for the shipment. And of course I go on vacation this weekend so my bag will probably show up then with my luck.

Did you pick up anything from the collection? If so, who braved the store? I wanna hear about the experience!

What are you blogging about today? Linkup and share your post! If you're new to the linkup, here's how it works:

1. Blog about your gossip - all topics accepted so why not link up?!
2. Include the badge (below) in your post and/or link back to Join the Gossip. IF THERE IS NO LINK BACK I WILL DELETE THE ENTRY!
3. Add your link to the list below.

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Afforable Fashion at SAMMYdress

Today I want to introduce you to SAMMYdress.com, an online clothing shop providing stylish apparel, shoes, jewelry, and more at crazy-low prices. Like so low you’ll want to buy everything. Think Forever 21 prices and lower.

Let’s be real, we’re all on a budget so having the option to pick up affordable fashion items is key. It’s great to invest the big bucks in some staple items, but for those trends that you’re not too sure about, it makes more sense to go with affordable options instead of breaking the bank. Plus, if you don't look the look, you don't have to feel guilty for wasting money!

Here are some of my favorite choices of Women's clothing at SAMMYDRESS.

This post was sponsored by SAMMYdress. All opinions are my own.

Fall 2013 Trend Alert: Leopard Print

This fall leopard is back in a big way. Think last year, then double it. Even though the print isn't a new trend, it can still be a bit intimidating. If you're not comfortable going all out in leopard clothing, try incorporating this animal accent in small doses. Here are my favorite ways to add a pop of the print.

{PICK UP THESE PIECES}

1. FOREVER 21: Leopard Print Pouch
2. SHOPBOP: Sheriff&Cherry Classic Wild Cat Honey Sunglasses
3. TARGET: La Mer Triple Wrap Watch
4. TOPSHOP RALLEY: Single Sole Heels

Linking up for Random Wednesday Style Sessions & Wednesday Whims

Party, party!

This weekend was filled with parties with some of my oldest friends. No matter how much life changes, it's great to have a core group of people you can get together with and feel like no time has passed.

Saturday was a first birthday party for my sorority sister's daughter. She had the most adorable Candyland theme with incredible decorations. Check it out, all of these characters she made by tracing onto cardboard, cutting out, and painting!

       

Sunday was a bridal shower for a friend I've known since elementary school. Again, adorable decorations! Her theme was Tiffany's and every little detail was perfection.

     

Oh and on top of quality time with amazing friends, my Saints won! But did you see the end of the game though? It doesn't get more exciting than that. 

After that perfect weekend not even a Monday can dampen my mood. Here's to a great week ahead!

What are you blogging about today? Linkup and share your post! If you're new to the linkup, here's how it works:
1. Blog about your gossip - all topics accepted so why not link up?!
2. Include the badge (below) in your post and/or link back to Join the Gossip. IF THERE IS NO LINK BACK I WILL DELETE THE ENTRY!
3. Add your link to the list below.

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California Republic

 

Today I'm wearing this California Republic tee and majorly obsessing over it. I also have the necklace on. It's from Target, check your local store. While I haven't thrown on a pair of boots and jacket just yet - because it's still 100 degrees in SoCal! - this is totally how I'm going to style the T-shirt into fall.

If you're feeling a little California Love, pick up this Rebel Yell California Bear Cut-Off Tank!

Be sure to stop by Monday for Monday Morning Gossip. Remember, all topics are accepted so everyone can link up!

POM Cocktails

Summer may be coming to a close but there's still time to savor the tastes of the season. Today I have an easy go-to cocktail recipe for those long days and warm nights - POM Wonderful Juice mixed with flavored Bacardi Rum. It's fruity, refreshing, and ridiculously easy to make.

Mix one 8oz. container of POM juice with a 50ML mini bottle of flavored Bacardi. Raspberry, blueberry, pineapple, they all taste great with the pomegranate juice. Because both bottles are so compact this is a great drink to take with you to a BYOB BBQ or a trip to the pool.

Try one out, thank me later.



Post powered by POM. All opinions are my own.

Fall 2013 Accessory Trends

Despite the fact that it's probably been the hottest week of the summer here in Southern California, it's never too early to start prepping for fall. Small steps, though. Before worrying about warm-weather clothing let's focus on Fall 2013 accessory trends.

Here are the items to start picking up now.

The Classic Beanie: The accessory that will never go out of style. I bought this Urban Outfitters beanie months ago and have been eagerly waiting to wear it.


Embellished Belt: Studs, sequins, and beads - the more the better. In exchange for a statement necklace try a fancy belt. In addition to being gorgeous, they're figure flattering.


Midi Ring: I have an obsession with BaubleBar midi rings. Pair with simple, delicate rings, and stack up each finger. Forget the arm party, it's all about your digits this fall.


Oversized Clutch: The oversized clutch is my best friend because it's the perfect place to store those flip flops for a night out on the town. And it's in style, double bonus!


Nude Matte Lipstick: Natural makeup is on-trend this season. The easiest way to incorporate a natural look is with nude lipstick. Opt for a matte as opposed to a gloss.


Are any of these trends on your radar this fall?