The Fabulous Duo

45 Minutes...

2012-02-05T13:43:00.000-05:00

That's about how long it took for many Target stores across the US to completely SELL OUT of the Jason Wu collection.

Oh and the online selection? SOLD OUT. All of it. Gone. Byebye. Deuces. And I thought I was checking "early" at 9am EST! HA! Jokes on me...

My Target of choice (Ridge!) had only two small racks remaining after having a full section dedicated to Mr. Wu. The store manager was actually on camera this morning (as I was the creepster in the background, scavenging to find my size in ANYthing...) saying that all of the handbags sold out first, then the dresses and skirts. Folks were staking out the fitting rooms and standing by the registers should things not fit or the sales total too high for their pocketbooks.

I saw barely anything in my size at first, but then an associate came by with a couple skirts that didn't make it past the check-out. The size?

Mine.

SCORE!

I am disappointed that I wasn't there in time to get thee dress I was looking for (inspired by FLOTUS) but considering the fact that I showed up 2.5 hours after the masses and still walked away with some skirts is a joy!

What'd I get?

Pretty solid, I think. The rose and black skirt fits like a tulip skirt a little more than the image implies. And it has pockets. Who doesn't love pockets?!

I still want these two pieces though...

I have my own personal Target aficionado working on the dress for me. I have a feeling I will luck up and find the skirt myself.

All in all, I think I'm pleased. Not sure if I would fight with women over these items though. It's never THAT serious... today.

Ha!

If you were able to Wu today, share what you got! Oh and for those that didn't Wu today, worry not. There will be returns this week - trust and believe! Happy Shopping!

bisou,
Katelyn

Jason Wu for Target February 2012

2012-02-01T15:38:00.000-05:00

I was flipping through my latest Harpers Bazaar or something and saw this:

Yes. Yes. Mmhmm. Jason Wu is launching a collection at Target. Don't know who Wu is *tee hee*? He's known for the dress fabulousness our FLOTUS wore during the Inauguration Ball.

And although he isn't selling an affordable version of the gown, his pieces are sure to make you happy. That ad was all it took to get me excited! Since all Targets will NOT carry, be sure to find out if yours does! Sunday is just a few days away...

Happy Shopping!

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Dual Purpose Fabulousness: Baby Bubble Bath

2012-01-28T17:39:00.000-05:00

Like many of us, I literally run around ALL day. Whether its slanging Coke across this region or attempting to understand the difference between annuities and perpetuities or finding scholarships for my church kids... I'm on the go. And by the end of the day am in desperate need of a relaxing experience. Insert the following product: Johnson & Johnson Bedtime Bubble Bath.

I know, I know. It's for babies. Even better! Since its gentle enough to lull a teething tot to bath time bliss, don't we expect the same? Its soft scent and ability to soften your skin (akin to a baby's bottom, yes?) What's not to love?! I'm sure there are other more mature options out there but...We are all babies to somebody, right? LOL. Try it out. Especially if you're a Mom (or Dad). Use the little tikes stuff and double its value! :)

Happy Bathing!

bisou,Katelyn

P.S. Be sure to get the bubble bath, not just body wash. The bubbles are insulation and keep your water toasty!

Cincinnati Shout-Out: The Style Sample

2012-01-24T16:24:00.001-05:00

It's always nice to see nice things happening in the hometown, and I just wanted to do a quick feature of Tamia of The Style Sample. She's super cute, creative, stylish and Cincinnati-based. I've come across the blog before via CincyChic.com and she's a really good blogger!

picture from thestylesample.com

I also noticed that she was recently featured in an article on the popular site Coco&Creme which prompted me to visit the site again. I will promptly be adding her blog to my regular reading list!
~ Veronica

New Campaign Slogan??

2012-01-20T16:49:00.001-05:00

LOVE this!

bisous,
Katelyn

Wait. Are we bougie?!

2012-01-18T16:27:00.002-05:00

Apparently, TFD may say one or two of these things...

Or all.

Give or take a few.

GROUPON!

xoxoxo,
TFD

Hello, Winter!

2012-01-05T13:41:00.000-05:00

After a mild December and crazily warm intro into the New Year, Mother Nature has decided to send Jack Frost our way. Brrr!

Instead of fighting the temperatures with anger (which does no good to any!), let's embrace it in style. Here are a few of my cold-weather favorites:

H&M. Faux Fur Stole. I have one and LOVE it! Instant class.

H&M. Faux Fur Vest.

Moncler. Puffer Coat.

Nine West. Checkit.

Opted for a photo that had someone in it; it gives dimension to the 'chunkiness' of the sweater! fab!

iGloves are essential to the survival of all iUsers in the winter! :)

*sings* Oh the weather outside is frightful, but our style is so delightful...

Any looks you're loving this frightful winter season?

bisou,
Katelyn

Happy New Year!

2012-01-03T12:32:00.000-05:00

Tis' the year of 2012! Wowzers! Instead of making a yearly resolution to be broken by MLK (or February for you exceptions to the rule!), resolve to be a more amazing, fabulous version of yourself every.single.day.

We know we are! :)

xoxoxo,
TFD

Happy Holidays from TFD!

2011-12-24T08:52:00.000-05:00

Wishing you all happy holidays and a prosperous new year! Make 2012 a fab one!

~ TFD

How-To Fabulous: 25 Scarves in 4.5 minutes

2011-12-05T19:27:00.001-05:00

My sands posted this and I LOVED it! How fabulous and convenient. I am a lover of scarves and will certainly try out some new presentation techniques in the coming weeks.

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Happy Cyber Monday!

2011-11-28T10:34:00.001-05:00

Greetings!

I wasted no time logging on to grab at least one Cyber Monday deal. I'm in need of shoes so I went straight to Ninewest.com because I can pretty much count on them to have a good sale and to make shoes that fit my skinny foot.

Image via ninewest.com

Their sale boasts 60% off AND free shipping!! Don't mind if I do!

I bought the AroundTown pump in this style. Originally $99.00 and today I paid $39.60 + tax. Remember, FREE SHIPPING. I'm so happy. I am such a bargain (frugal?) shopper so this couldn't be passed up.

I've been wanting a snakeskin shoe, and the strap ensure it will stay on my foot. (I honestly cannot wear a pump without a sling back or a strap). I didn't want the strap to take away from anything but with a 5'' heel, it should still be pretty jazzy.

Images via ninewest.com

I'm thinking of wearing them to Katelyn's holiday party. But with what?? Time to start brainstorming and browsing the blogs for fabulous outfit ideas! I think I'll start with my girl NiNi on ninistyle.net. Looks like something she would wear, only hers would cost $10,000.

Love always,

~ Veronica

Black Friday Fabulousness

2011-11-27T13:14:00.001-05:00

I woke up around 8:54 on Black Friday morning, that should tell you how my shopping day was planned. Ha!

I did catch some good deals on Black Friday, the fact that 75% were for me is a minor, minor detail.

I know that it's winter, but these shoes are coral and coral is my fave! They were also only $24 at Nordstrom Rack. Original price: $69.95

I almost wore these Sam Edelman beauties right out the store. Original price: $129 (or 149?). I got these for under $50. I know that Jesus loves me and my love of shoes.

Nine West had a crazy sale. I almost bought these a few weeks back for their original $129+. Sale price? $69. Score!

The jury is still out on these Free Press grey suede beauties. They were $49...but I'm not sure how I feel about them just yet. I will need to play dress-up at home for a little more.

I also purchased a some purple silk pants from Macy's and solid long-sleeved tees and sweaters from the Gap.

Pretend like these are a beautiful shade of royal purple.

Since I did do a little Christmas shopping for some folks that may or may not check out this blog, I can't reveal my little deals there! But just know that I have officially started shopping! And if you can't love or shop for yourself, how can you love or shop for anyone else? Yes. That's my final answer. LOL.

Midnight is Cyber Monday! I may make another purchase for a good boy or girl! :)

Happy Shopping,

Katelyn

Beyonce "Live At Roseland"

2011-11-21T10:07:00.001-05:00

She sings as though her entire life and that of her family depends upon it. I love it!

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Jimmy Kimmel Halloween

2011-11-04T17:41:00.000-04:00

The kids at the end were hilarious! YOU SNEAKY MOM!

I'm still laughing.

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Tailor-Made

2011-10-27T08:31:00.000-04:00

I just purchased a pair of work pants from Express in my attempt to give pants a chance. (I rarely wear pants into the office - I adore the femininity of skirts!) Size 6. Fits my waist perfectly! No gap in the back. The issue? My thighs and rump look a little too scrumptious for my liking which I should confess is a great problem for me to have! LOL. I love all of my lovely lady lumps!

On the contrary, when I get a size 8 - especially in skirt, it swivels around like an office chair jacked up on caffeine. It doesn't touch my waist. Shoot, it barely hits my butt!

What do I need?

Alterations. Where's an inexpensive tailor?! Ill-fitting garments are absolutely, positively not fabulous. A tailor would make everything fab.

Anybody have one in Cincinnati that they recommend?

xoxoxo,

Katelyn

Versace for H&M

2011-10-26T13:58:00.003-04:00

Thankfully the day that this collection debuts - NovembEr 19th, I will be in Columbus where the H&M is far superior to Cincinnati's. :)

Take a peek and speak if your spirit is so moved. Personally, I am becoming a fast fan of the leather jacket and the leopard & greek print dress.

Love!

Fave!

Leatha!

I don't care what you menfolks think - I would LOVE a man in any piece of this fit. Although altogether it brings forth a certain je ne sais quoi. Peut-etre The Pink Panther? LOL.

Full Slideshow: Versace for H&M

Anybody want to spot me the $299 for the leatha? Leathaaaaa, leathaaaaaa.

bisou,
Katelyn

Sizzurp

2011-10-25T19:28:00.001-04:00

So contrary to my initial plans, I did not go thrifting this past weekend. I did however struggle to maintain reasonable sanity while battling upper respiratory issues and the works. I was contagious. Snotty. Icky. Coughy (I still have a terrible cough too). And all things pathetic. Time and rest is healing most of the issues Imagine that! Rest! What a novel idea for Katelyn! and for this horrendous cough I have?

Sizzurp.

Specifically, promethazine with codeine. I already slang Coke. Now I'm taking sizzurp. I'll drop a mix tape in a few weeks, I promise.

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Thrifting...

2011-10-20T10:35:00.001-04:00

I have been running like crazy the past few weeks and plan to dedicate this weekend to doing absolutely nothing. Nada. Nilch. Zilch.

Well, maybe not nothing...

I am excited to go thrifting! Our boo Shayla is the queen of thrifting. She showed up at a brunch a few weeks ago in a fab blouse that cost 45 cents.

That's one quarter, one dime, one nickel and five pennies.

It's also insane. In the midst of my absolute nothingness, I can surely do a bit of my favorite thing (shopping) at my favorite price (close to free!).

I'll be sure to share my findings - let's hope I find some good deals and steals!

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Betty Crocker Who?

2011-10-11T11:31:00.002-04:00

This past weekend, in honor of Rachi's departure to greener pastures (Illadelph take care of my heart!) I got my Betty Crocker on. I made some cupcakes and icing...from scratch.

YES!

Ask me if I took a picture though? Not a single one. I'll still paint a picture for you...

Cupcake #1: Brown Sugar & Cinnamon Cupcake (from scratch!) with a vanilla icing (not-so-much-so from scratch) topped with crushed Biscoff cookies. This cupcakes tasted like the epitome of an autumn dessert. It would have gone superb with coffee too!

Cupcake #2: Double Chocolate Cupcakes with a caramel Bailey's icing (from scratch! and yes with real Bailey's!) topped with crushed chocolate caramel candies. The icing itself was delicious. I really think I secured my place in the kitchen (the baker's kitchen at least) with this one.

I also mixed Nutella with store-bought cream cheese icing but never had a chance to whip it out. Literally.

I owe my #7 some cupcakes so I will definitely be sure to perfect these two recipes and if possible, enhance their deliciousness? I think if I can figure out a way to infuse whiskey into a caramel mousse I could add a filling to the double chocolate cupcakes and make them truly and utterly sinful. (And also only okay for those over the age of 21. No kiddie party cupcakes here!)

So there you have it. I think I will make cupcakes for Epsilon Charter Day (affectionately known as E*Day) so I have to have some twist on red velvet. Maybe perfect my Sands recommendation for chocoloate with red wine? Who knows... I do know that next time, I will snap a photo!

Cupcakin' & Baking,
Katelyn

Music Fabulousness: Christon Gray's 'Isle of You'

2011-10-03T21:22:00.002-04:00

An OSU homie who knows that I am a sucka' for a good, sweet love song sent this YouTube link. It's his boy Christon Gray and the song ... well it made me swirl around in my kitchen smiling.

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

CBC 2011

2011-09-26T15:46:00.001-04:00

This past weekend I traveled to DC to slang Coke at the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference. There were many highlights of the weekend: seeing the monuments (including MLK), mastering the metro (I'm a G), meeting Ashley's Karyn (destiny!), kicking it with my Spec Bridgette (S.Dot and 'em too), reuniting with my Chibundu (National Chair! Big ish popping!) and last but not least meeting DST 21st National President, Ohio Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge - EPSILON made!

Of course I snapped some photos...

You can SEE the burden of responsibility in these eyes. Quite a heavy burden...

At the Korean War Memorial. Isn't that the truth?

The stone of hope... MLK.

Spot at the Lincoln Memorial that marks where MLK delivered the I Have A Dream speech. Wowzers.

Visited the 'First Ladies' exhibit at the Smithsonian of American History! FLOTUS Obama's gorg gown!

I love my DST. I adore my Epsilon.

Seriously. We got in line at Park and stood right behind Ashley's Karyn. Destiny.

Can you call him Bowtie when he isn't wearing one? That is the question.

2004 Deltaman with his favorite 2005 Delta! *smile* Chi-Chi!

My most fabulous fashion highlight? THIS.

Werk it!

bisou,
Katelyn

Fascinating Lady in a Fascinator!

2011-09-24T17:37:00.002-04:00

What I rocked to the CBC Prayer Breakfast. A few photogs stopped me for a shot; the people LOVED the headgear (fascinator). And I got to rock my new fave pumps:

This combo surely will turn the tithe line into the red carpet, LOL. Jokes, jokes...

Where's my church fan?
Katelyn

P.S. I warned my work colleagues about my hat the night before. The ladies (esp. black ones) adored it! The guys? Not so much. LOL. My boss said: "Sister Jackson, my niece was wondering if you could help her get information on the Nurses Guild." LMBO.

OPERATION: I NEED More Space: Part 1.25

2011-09-21T17:56:00.001-04:00

I still need more space and still have not answered the question of "How does one create more space when you don't have enough space to create more?" Yeah, I confused myself with that one too! LOL.

I am nowhere NEAR finished - I still need:

A fabulous cushy ottoman that can fit those fabric cubes under and be a great spot to put on shoes
A small table or stand to hold my lamp
A mirror should I decide to make one of the corners a jewelry corner (which I doubt, it will probably go in my bedroom)
A new way to hang up my photos from my photo wall...
Another 350 sq.ft.

I won't hold my breath for the last one, but I certainly believe that in the coming months I can accomplish the rest. Provided I can stay in town long enough! Geesh!

But for the sake of transparency and progress, I want to share with you my first attempts...

Disregard all of the stuff on top of the shelf. Also, my photo wall was a foot or so above the shelf.

Nothing was here before but this is where the cushy ottoman will be. Those fabric cubes will be concealed! Oh and my luggage put away...one day...

I will need a small table of sorts to hold this lamp and also to hold a glass or something.

This is actually my bedroom behind the door. I think that this will be turned into the jewelry corner. Especially since there is already jewelry there... lol.

A million apologies for the horrid, terrible lighting. When your ceiling lamp on your vaulted ceiling goes out, you're in the dark for a while, LOL. Also, I should've been a bit more forward thinking and done before shots because there was definitely a lot of furniture moving in this piece!

Anyways, this is just the beginning... Stay tuned for more!

xoxoxo,

Katelyn

Silent Disco

2011-09-21T11:09:00.000-04:00

Please, if anyone knows of a Silent Disco happening near me... please invite me. I would certainly rock out with my cock out to say the least.

Think they have Beats by Dre headphones??

Katelyn

ZARA.COM

2011-09-08T21:35:00.000-04:00

Grab your change purses, pocketbooks, wallets, billfolds... Grab it all! Zara, multi-national Euro-based clothing retailer has gone online #nopledge.

If you're not familiar with Zara, its best to think of it as an upscale H&M (which is actually its top competitor I know this for a fact because I did a case study on Zara in B*School! Always fab even in class! HA!). Get hip. And feel free to pick me up something too!

Happy Shopping!

Katelyn

OPERATION: I NEED More Space: Part One

2011-09-03T13:59:00.000-04:00

A month or so ago I was in search of a fabulous 3bedroom condo, but stopped searching because I realized we have not yet added an additional day of the week to give me time to move. Seriously.

I also finally acknowledged the absurdity of a 3 bedroom anything for ONE person with the sole purpose of having adequate space for clothes & shoes.

*sigh* Judge me not, sweet readers. I am addicted to retail, but still pay all of my bills on time with money to spare! LOL.

Anyways, in lieu of finding a bigger space I decided to learn how to maximize my current space. Although I do not have much (approx. 650sqft), tackling any DIY project in multiple rooms simultaneously will drive one mad. So I started in my bedroom.

Issue? My first real purchase as a young professional was a beautiful cherry wood queen-sized sleigh bedroom set. In my first apartment, it fit wonderfully - in this petite condo, not so much so. It totally overpowered the room and made it feel crowded and cluttered. I always tell friends that beds are for sleeping and sex only, but that was LITERALLY all that I had space for in that room. Can I at least have a bit of room to do anything else? Ha!

Solution? I sold my beautiful bedroom suite. (It's amazing the space you save from taking off the head/foot board of a sleigh bed! Those inches add up.) I also decided to leverage my excess resource -- height. What I lack in room space, I make up for in height. I purchased a thin but extremely tall wardrobe from Ikea. I haven't added any accents to walls or anything. I'm really just soaking in the space and simplicity of it all. (photo to come soon)

Next project? The other room. I saw this on my Soror Gigi's blog and it inspired me in such a way...

I'm so excited!

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Hi September! Where'd August Go?!

2011-09-01T12:50:00.000-04:00

Just the other day it was mid-August I promise!

Sorry for the lack of posts. Hate to think you sat here staring at my Chicken Caprese drooling for something. Pasta. Posts. Anything! Never fear, I've got a quick catch-up for you all with pictures too.

So.. what's been going on? Well...

I hosted a fantastic Coke program that included dignitaries from Cinci to DC, earned over 700,000 media impressions and landed in 14 media outlets. I was something like a Coke gangsta that day. *drops mic*

Next, my best friend got married in a fabulously intimate ceremony on a beautiful, sunny August day. (A full post to come from the blushing bride herself, I'm certain!)

MAX. There's never a good reason to not include him. He's too adorable for words. (In shot 2, Max was jumping on b*Rad's legs. It was hilarious!)

I turned 27 (and b*Rad turned 28!) and we celebrated at the Carnegie Science Museum. F-U-N! I think the Birthday Boy was simulating cataract surgery at the point of the photo. :)

I got my beach babe on & bronzed on the beach of Key West, dined overlooking the sunset and road in ruff ryders fashion with my posse on scooters all over the town.

Absolutely delicious homemade dinner & dessert by my Sands...

My celebrity BFF Beyonce is preggers! I'm going to be a God-Mommy! Wait.. what? LOL.

That pretty much wraps it up for August. Good Morning, September! You have quite big shoes to fill. August was a-ma-zing!

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Happy Birthday, Veronica!

2011-08-14T17:11:00.000-04:00

If I followed Maxy's subtle hint (circa: Christmas 2010 with the cupcake book!) I could've made something like this for his Mom. Unfortunately, a google image is about as good as I can get! :)

Happy Birthday to my most fabulous other half, Veronica! I love you to pieces!

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Create a Personal Lookbook

2011-08-12T22:12:00.001-04:00

More often than not, I am running late to work. It doesn't matter whether I wake up at 4:30am or 7:53am, I stay running around in the morning in a complete and utter frenzy. I know the responsible thing to do, even if you're right on time, is to pick your clothes out the night before - but I find that I dress myself better if I've thought everything over while dozing off to sleep. Some folks count sheep, I count clean clothes. Ha!

Anyways, I find myself getting stuck in a rut at times. On a whim, I will create an ultimate fabulous outfit. The issue? Weeks later I struggle trying to recreate the fashion masterpiece or to even do a one-off because I can't recall the outfit.

Insert a personal lookbook.

Typically lookbooks feature a designers line or images grabbed from the world to support a theme. As glam as these lookbooks are they have several advantages that I personally do not have at 8:23am (I keep getting later, lol) a team of designers, make-up artists, lighting professionals etc. So while I am suggesting that you create the same, I suggest that you do so ... with images of your most fabulous self.

StyleDiary gives you an online home for your uploaded fashion looks AND a means to share them with friends! It also features the lookbooks of thousand others across the globe, giving you a chance to take a look in someone else's mirror!

I'm super excited. I'll let you all know when I've created some looks that are infamouslyfab. *wink*

Camera-Ready,
Katelyn

Torture In The Name of Fitness: Turkish Get Ups

2011-07-28T10:39:00.001-04:00

New Orleans, Baby! said in my L'isiana voice

2011-07-27T22:38:00.000-04:00

I know, I know. I'm late. But it's been a crazy world! Anyways, a picture is worth a thousand words. I have many, many pictures. Therefore I don't need as many words. New Orleans for Essence? Absolutely nothing short of fun & fabulousness. Oh and FOOD!

CHAKA KHAN!

My church member, CP3...

This catastrophe...

How it looked pre-catastrophe. SMH.

Street performer in gold boots!

Seafood Pistolettes from...uh? Ionknow.

What everyone else had while I ate pistolettes...

Fabulous Moi!

Turtle Soup. As in... real turtle. (It was good!)

Seafood Crepes...

The Beyonce booth at the EMF Exhibition!

Totally inappropriate, totally Bourbon St.

Beignets a la Cafe du Monde! Tres delicieux!

They're pronounced "prahh-leens" according to the candymakers. Oh and they're $19.95/lb. Yikes!

This heiffa' really pulled this fan out of her purse!

The ladies! Fabulous!

Slick Rick sans the eye-patch...

Ya' girl with the curls..

Our hotel right on Bourbon St. The Royal Senesta

I have a few more photos of celebs like our Soror Keisha Pulliam --> Rudy Huxtable! Lance Gross! Terrence J! Oh and my turntabling beau... DJ Kiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiid Capri. (We were talking over the crowd, making eye contact AND he gave me kiss(es) for our picture!) I'll save all that for the party recap story coming tomorrow..and by tomorrow I mean whenever I find the cord to my camera and can upload those photos!

xoxoxo,
Katelyn 'Capri' Love *wink*

UPDATE: Katelyn's Chicken Caprese

2011-07-17T21:08:00.002-04:00

In Food Fabulous: Olive Garden Shrimp Caprese I shared with you the absolute amazingness of this meal and my happiness to find it re-created step-by-step online for my home use.

Well, I made it. And was it good?

Lord have mercy, it was amazing! If there is a chicken & pasta dish served in heaven - I believe that this could be it!

I was so proud of how it looked as I was making it, I called my Sands and b*Rad bragging on my new meal. (This now makes a good 15 meals, I've got. LOL.)

Check it out.

The cream, wine & cheese mixture on the stove...oh and the chicken too!

Tomatoes marinating in EVOO, basil & garlic. It smelled SO good!

Stir it all together...

Add a glass of Riesling and some delicious fresh-baked bread and you have yourself a MEAL!

xoxoxoxo,

Chef Boyar-Kate!

Food Fabulousness: Olive Garden Shrimp Caprese

2011-07-08T11:55:00.001-04:00

There is an entree at Olive Garden entitled 'Shrimp Caprese'. To say that it is absolute deliciousness is an understatement (note: I've never actually had it with shrimp, only with grilled chicken). With the traditional OG salad and breadsticks? Heaven help me!

Anyways, I made mention of this delicious meal to b*Rad and shortly after, he sends me to http://www.copykat.com/. A website created by Stephanie Manley with hundreds of recipes from restaurants available so that you can make it at home!

Are you kidding me?

Tonight, dear readers, we shall have Katelyn Caprese! Yes!

*kisses fingers* Magnifioso!,
Katelyn

Olive Garden Shrimp Caprese

Music Fabulousness: Beyonce's 4

2011-07-06T12:51:00.000-04:00

In the midst of event planning times 3 & living, how did I forget to post about my music-BFF Beyonce and her latest musical creation 4?!
Granted, I STAN for my girl Bey but I genuinely enjoy her album. MUCH more so than I Am...Sasha Fierce. (Which besides Diva, Halo and Brokenhearted Girl... I felt left much to be desired.) My favorite tracks on the album?

1+1
I Miss You
Party feat. Andre 3000
Countdown
Love On Top
Rather Die Young
Run The World (Girls)

Shoot, half the gosh darn album is my fave with the other songs coming in at a close second. Who run the world? Girls! Who run the charts?

Bey.

5-inch-pumps & bedazzled leotard,
Katelyn

New Find: Nicole Gibbons & SoHauteStyle.com Decor Blog

2011-07-05T12:51:00.000-04:00

I'm slowly becoming quite the homemaker. I love watching HGTV...currently have about five favorite shows in rotation; I am constantly on the lookout for good deals on home furnishings and decor; I'm obsessed with fresh flowers and plants for my home; I steal my mother's home magzines whenever I have the opportunity; I even just subscribed to not Harper's Bazaar, nor Essence...but House Beautfiul Magazine.

So, while watching one of my favoirte new shows "My Favorite Place" on HGTV, imagine my delight when they featured the NYC apartment of a cute, talented successful PR maven and design blogger named Nicole Gibbons. She runs the popular style blog SoHauteStyle.com and I absolutely love it!

A communications professional who blogs about home style and design on the side?! I think I've found my new favorite person!

photo via HGTV.com

photo via sohautestyle.com

What I loved about Nicole's feature on the show, and her all around style aesthetic is that it's real...she is a renter, so she admitted that she had limited budget and freedom to do certain things to her Harlem apartment but you sure can't tell it from the pictures of her place. Her place reminds me of my up and coming decorating style. Certain pieces in her place were contemporary, such as her couch, but she had many classic pieces that are timeless. Very feminine, yet cool feel to her home.

Love hearing about black female entrepreneurs that I can benefit from! Check out SoHauteStyle.com for design inspiration!

~ Veronica

Where For Art Thou, Shoe?

2011-06-29T12:21:00.001-04:00

Check their foot-work...

I can't tell if you can *really* see it, but I saw this ad (below) in Harper's Bazaar many, many months ago and have longed for every piece displayed ever since. Most wanted? The shoes.

By now the shoes should be on super duper clearance, right? Pretty please?

EDITED: To include the fabulousness that is the shoe. $280 for a pair of $785 shoes? Hmm... That IS a savings, but we'll see!

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Essence Music Festival 2011

2011-06-26T17:07:00.000-04:00

And more...

Laissez les bon temps roulez!

bisou,
Katelyn

Fabulousness: Versace for H&M

2011-06-21T21:31:00.000-04:00

Versace is the latest couture designer to join fashion forces with H&M. I missed Lanvin & Jimmy Choo for H&M but hopefully I can snag one of Versace's iconic pieces through H&M.

Autumn 2011-- hurry up!

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Challenge! Brunch & Bottomless Mimosas...

2011-06-20T19:26:00.000-04:00

Breakfast is my most favorite meal of the day. There is no other time that delights my stomach much like breakfast (brunch) time.

Today I was challenged via twitter by a simple request of a place in Cincinnati that serves bottomless mimosas with their brunch.

I was stumped. I can name places in Chicago and Austin, but I could not name a place in my hometown. Why?!

Consider the question a challenge and my task (should I choose to accept it) to find multiple places of high fabulousness to both eat brunch AND down mimosas by the glass!

I'll share my findings soon enough!

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Summery Chic

2011-06-16T19:51:00.002-04:00

I don't have on anything fancy or expensive or even ultra-couture...but for some reason, I felt incredibly 'summery chic' in my outfit today! Perhaps it was the light colors? Who knows!

I realize the pic is incredibly dark, but it will have to do for now. Just envision a tan, pink and white J. Crew pencil skirt, tan Steve Madden Luxe sandals and a gray cotton/linen tulip blouse. See it? Got it? Good. *smile*

More examples of summery chic?

Something about each of these photos just moves me. Moves me to my closet to get dressed and ready for the carpet of life! :)

Happy Summer!

Bisou!

Katelyn

Procrastination At Its Finest...

2011-06-13T02:21:00.000-04:00

Instead of finishing my Statistics homework I have decided - at this very moment of 2:18 AM June 13, 2011 - to perfect my Cat Daddy.

*sigh* #iCant with myself. But please, don't judge me. You don't know my struggle.

Wheel-chair stuntin' in fabulous fashion,
Katelyn

"Life In The QC"

2011-06-07T17:00:00.000-04:00

After national success of "Taking The Stage", Cincinnati will be home of yet another reality show - this one more locally produced and focused. "Life In The QC" features the lives of four young professional women and their journey within their careers, through their homes, the community and beyond.

According to cincinnati.com, the show will promote OTR and downtown Cincinnati - areas in need of attention and more development. It will also support local education in a fun way, the production crew for the show will be from local colleges & universities with corporate support from FOX19. How's that for a college internship?!

Their bios from the book of faces have them profiled as such:

Tracey Conrad “is a thirty something who lives in a penthouse loft in downtown. Her life revolves around her 10 year old daughter, Morio her husband, and her new charity venture The Young Philanthropist Society of Cincinnati. Tracey is at the social center of Cincinnati.”

Katie Cassidy “comes from a very high profile family in the Cincinnati area. Both of her parents are active in local charities and the arts. Katie is trying to get out from under the shadow of her very powerful father by making her own name in Cincinnati. She is very active in raising money for The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and other local charities. Katie is bubbly, has great wit and warm charm but never underestimate her as a ‘dumb blonde.’ ”

Adhrucia Apana “is Tracey’s best friend. She is a very media savvy woman in her mid 20’s. She lived in LA working at an ad agency, runs her own marketing company and moonlights as the wine rep to the stars in Cincinnati. Adhrucia, along with Tracey, is a FOX network VIP. She uses her social media contacts to help promote FOX programming. She is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati where she was homecoming queen. While she certainly looks up to Tracey she is extremely independent and is searching for that one thing to call her own.”

Lauren Brown “is a fun loving Executive Chef downtown Cincinnati. While she is Katie’s best gal pal, she also is the daughter of a very influential person in the restaurant industry. Her dad, Richard Brown, was at onetime the maitre’d of the only 5-star restaurant in Cincinnati, the former Maisonette.

Of course, my first question was whether I felt there was enough obvious, surface-level, ethnic diversity in this cast. 25%. Also, I would have preferred if they depicted a few YPs that may not have it as together as the four ladies listed above. Perhaps someone working full-time for an amazing company, while also studying at night for their graduate degree. One who is involved in several orgs, but also maintains time for family & friends. Perhaps she's in her fabulous mid-upper 20s? With a slight obsession/addiction to shopping?

Maybe her name rhymes with Jatelyn?

*wink*

Ready For My Close-Up,
Katelyn

Accessories Fabulousness: Rose Gold Watches

2011-06-06T16:36:00.000-04:00

I have not worn a watch since my junior/senior year of high school. It was a Fossil watch. It was a gift. That was the end. I just really am NOT a watch person.

Until now...

The sheer elegance of a rose gold watch is slowly, yet surely, making me a watch-person.

I think that Michael Kors Rose Gold watch is in my near, if not immediate, future! Thanks InStyle & Spec Chuck *wink* for the fashion foresight..

Rozay!

:::Katelyn

We Love The Vest!

2011-06-06T16:24:00.000-04:00

Students Support The Vest

How firm thy friendship...

--TFD

The Best Beauty Product in the World: Petroleum Jelly

2011-06-02T16:29:00.001-04:00

The world, Craig. The world.

Petroleum Jelly. Discovered in the mid1800s on oil rigs, although it stalled production, it was found that the strange substance was amazing for healing cuts and burns. A few years, lab coats and experiments later - Vaseline Company emerged as the provider of this marketable petroleum jelly.

I didn't come here to give you a history lesson in slimy goo. Au contraire mon frere! This post was inspired by a conversation I had with one of my co-workers who didn't understand why I had a small, personal container of petroleum jelly in my purse. Allow me to explain in brief:

Petroleum Jelly (PJ) is hands down the best beauty product in the world, second only to Mother Nature's classic favorite - water.

PJ has many amazing uses including but not limited to:

Moisturize Those Lips: I swear by this every morning and every night. I believe that the consistent use of PJ has given me thee most kissable of lips. *wink* I like to put a little water on a toothbrush and "exfoliate" my lips first prior to PJ
Soften Skin: Lather your feetsies and hands in petroleum jelly (and cover with satin gloves & cotton socks) before a long night of rest and see if you don't wake up with the silkiest epidermis this side of the Mississippi.
Combat Ash: Dry skin is terrible. Dry skin on brown skin is a travesty. Consistent use of petroleum jelly, with emphasis on the joints, will take away that dry skin and leave you with soft, moisturized skin! You will feel the difference!
Strengthen Eyelashes: Do NOT get it in your eyes, ladies! LOL. But do put a small dab on your eyelashes before sleeping. It is said to strengthen and lengthen your lashes.
Remove Makeup: I put a dab of PJ on a q-tip or cotton round and swipe gently around my eyes and the makeup comes right off. I use it often when applying and I make a small mistake. Very helpful and leaves no film!
FIGHT: This use is dedicated to bestie Rachael who said that she used PJ on her face during a fight. *blankstare* LOL.
Sweeten Smiles: The application of PJ on your teeth can make it easier to smile and can prevent lipstick from adhering to your pearly whites!
Avoid Painting Outside-The-Lines: By applying PJ to your cuticles and surrounding nail area, any stray polish sways come right off!
Neutralize/DeColorize(?) the Scalp: PJ can be used around your edges to prevent any color-stained skin during a hair dye situation. It can also be helpful as a 'base' during the application of thee creamy crack (read: relaxer). No scabs. No burns. No worries! *whips hair back and forth*
SHINE: PJ can be used as instant shine for shoes, purse, hair, even nails after they have lost their luster!

Those are the ways that I use PJ, but I am sure there are many, many more! How do you use petroleum jelly for health & beauty purposes?

besitos,
Katelyn

14 to L.I.F.E. & Chicago...

2011-05-27T10:59:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, I celebrated my 6th Deltaversary with my beautiful Sands in Chicago! We shopped on the Magnificent Mile, dined at Gino's East (and wrote on the wall!), munched on Garrett's popcorn, walked on Navy Pier - we even took an architecture tour through Chicago.

Rockin' a navy peplum dress as Veronica was blogging! :)

We had some DELICIOUS food experiences too. I didn't capture them but my Sands Brandy over at Cakes & Dogs did. Be sure to check it out!

But the best part of all?

Waking up in the morning with so many of my Sands near. I haven't had that experience since 2006.

And I miss it.

Love Always,
Katelyn dka Infamous 12-E-05
14 to L.I.F.E.

Style: The Peplum Dress

2011-05-19T09:39:00.000-04:00

I WILL wear a Peplum style dress this spring/summer. I think this design is just darling, and looks good on nearly every type of figure. This simple-chic style screams "Veronica!"

June Ambrose

It's ladylike, cute, and can still be worn casually with tops and tees. Alice + Olivia have a lot of pieces in this silhouette (above). My favorite from the line is the Gita Peplum T-Shirt dress.

Michael Kors Pre-Fall 2010

My love affair with peplum started with Jil Sander's collection (clearly Alice and Olivia were inspired too.)

Yes! Arelenis Sosa in Jil Sander

Surprisingly, I don't think I have anything in this silhouette. But, alas, that shall change!

~ Veronica

The Question(s)...

2011-05-16T23:33:00.001-04:00

50 years ago this month, the infamous Freedom Rides journeyed into the segregated South with hopes of the validation of laws. After watching PBS' The American Experience: Freedom Riders tonight, with what seemed to half of my TL, I'm left with a few questions...

Is there anything affecting our community today that warrants. No, that DEMANDS a response as great as the Freedom Rides and overall entire Civil Rights Movement?

And if there is something - ONE thing - what is it and how can we, either individually or collectively, change it for the better?

And my most haunting question:

What cause would you die for today?

I have no answers. All I can say right now is that I am grateful that so many young, old, black and white felt so compelled, so convicted in this cause that they risked their lives.

To take a line from the airline promo I always hear, the Freedom Riders peacefully risked their lives so that we could literally 'move freely across the country'.

Wow.

:::Katelyn

Political Respect

2011-05-15T15:48:00.000-04:00

The government relations component of my public affairs job brings me front-and-center with lawmakers on a local, state and federal level. After a few years of exposure to these elected officials, a bit of the magic has worn away. (Maybe more than a bit!) Contrary to the thoughts of the naive college student I was some 5+ years ago, I now know to be true that these persons that we trust to create laws that protect, lead, educate and support... well, honey, they are no different than you and me. No smarter. And sure enough no more sensible. LOL.

On behalf of my industry and company, I share with these lawmakers the issues that are affecting us, our challenges and our successes. As you can imagine, sometimes - as such is life - those that may support my corporate ideals may not always support my Katelyn ideals. If that makes sense at all. I feel a bit of two-facedness .. a bit of hypocrisy, as I may praise or scold (figuratively) these lawmakers in their offices or in the meeting room, but yet respond in a polar opposite manner in the voter's booth.

Regardless of their views and their alignment with my corporate or Katelyn ideals, they still hold a public office. A position of power. A position of respect. Which brings me to my next point and show-and-tell moment.

Speaker Boehner demonstrates bi-partisan leadership by bringing Coca-Cola (left) & Pepsi (right) for one photo. *smile* *laugh*

I had the pleasure of meeting US Speaker of the House John Boehner. I had met Speaker Boehner before some two years ago, but at that time he was a Congressman... not THE Speaker. While I may not agree with all of his views in my heart of hearts, and while the magic of public office has faded... there is still magic in a position that is 3rd in Command in our great United States of America. D or R or I, all indifferent, the position of Speaker is one of great responsibility and burden. He or she in that position, given its history and clout, deserves nothing less than every ounce of respect. If for nothing more than merely for the title of the position itself.

The recent acts of Donald Trump (and his foolish tea-bagging friends) and his questioning of citizenship of United States President Barack Obama shows blatant disrespect of not only the Office of the President but of our voting processes, vetting procedures, Congress and all those all the world who answer to the call-to-action of the Commander-in-Chief, fully believing and trusting that he is eligible to serve in that office. Our entire nation should have stood up against The Combover and his Teabaggers for such insubordination.

But they didn't.

Well not enough of us did. God to bless America and heaven send a huge helping of political respect.

Made In The U.S.A.,
Katelyn

Cinco de Mayo Fabulousness!

2011-05-05T11:03:00.000-04:00

Margarita Cupcakes courtesy of GimmeSomeOven

besitos,

Katelyn

I Am Not Ashamed...

2011-05-04T22:38:00.000-04:00

..to admit that not only have I re-enacted the moves in this video, but I have tried to do so in heels. #judgemenot #youdontknowmystruggle There's another video that is more like a workout video vs. music video, so you know what moves to do without killing yourself as a wannabe Beyonce...like me. *side-eye*

I am a firm believer that Beyonce videos could double as workout videos. Thankfully that is the intention with this song.

Let's Move!

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Video/Music Fabulousness: @KarminMusic

2011-05-03T22:23:00.002-04:00

I played around YouTube on my phone a couple weeks ago and saw one of Karmin's many,many covers (36 to be exact, I believe). Then, while perusing my Soror Shelby's blog, I got hip to a few others. Honey, they will leave you with your jaw dropped in awe! Take a look for yourself...

All you can say is WOW. Karmin, honey you are amazing!

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Hilariousness: DC Correspondent Dinner

2011-05-02T07:03:00.002-04:00

If you didn't see the DC Correspondents Dinner on Saturday night - you missed OUT! It was definitely not as stuffy or pretentious as I thought it was going to be. It began with scholarships (yay for scholarships) and then ran into somewhat of a cap session (old school slang!) on Trump.

I don't know about you, but the way the President was delivering these zingers honey. You knew he had been WAITING for this!

And to think, during all of this... he was cracking these jokes, knowing what lay ahead in the next 24 hours?

Gangsta.

I love my President.

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

An Ode to Nigel

2011-04-26T15:18:00.000-04:00

I haven't worn it in a while but honey I have met a sew-in that has transformed my lifespace.

Entire lifespace.

All of it.

Can I give you background? Allow me.

Once upon a time I was at a wine party and there was a woman. A woman named Jill. Her hair was fantabulous. Nothing short of gorgeous. There was sheen. Bounce. Flow. Just all kinds of beautiful on top of her head. I had to wait until I tried a few glasses of wine before I could work up the nerve to ask about her hair. And her response in short was the following:

"Nigel."

Nigel has hands that can turn your (hair) crown upside down! His sew-in skills are amazing. The only thing more amazing is the price, in a recession-friendly environment all discounts are welcome.

Anyways, I solicited the assistance of my Specs who are well versed in the different types of hair shoutouts to Anywho & Lauren! I love you girls! And so with my Indian Remi hair in-tow, I patiently/anxiously awaited Nigel's arrival for my hair transformation.

And transform he DID! Nigel appeared with a duffel bag that contained a full-fledged SALON. In a split second, my dining room had been transformed into a chic downtown salon for the fabulous fashionistas. Seriously. There was a thermal oven in my dining room. A THERMAL OVEN. Smh.

In a little more than two hours flat, Nigel - while sharing with us his story (He's been licensed since high school!) moistured my scalp, braided me up, sewed in the weave and bestowed upon me the softest curls. I went from Diana Ross Mahogany (I had a blow-out) to ol' girl from Set It Off to...

A picture is worth a thousand words.

I don't know if it's the type of hair or the fact that the length is pretty close to my real length but I reckon' (judge me not) that it is just that Nigel is THAT good.

This picture is worth 10 digits... area code included. Let me know if you need to call Nigel, honey!

He. Is. Amazing.

Nigel's Newest Stan,

Katelyn

Seconds of Serenity

2011-04-21T19:15:00.000-04:00

It.
Has.
Been.
Crazy.

I'll let Veronica tell you the craziest that is her life that includes but is not limited to: working full-time, Mommy to Max, fiance to Celus while planning a wedding for *looks at calendar* less than 6 months away.

But as for my life?

Honey... Coca-Cola is getting ALL of their money's worth. Every single PENNY! I have literally driven close to 1,000 miles in just a couple of days. Go straight from the road to the classroom (and do a presentation, at that!) Send emails at God knows when. Check emails from a non-work phone. I have been dreadfully hot. Deathfully cold. Oh and try to be a girlfriend/bestfriend/sisterfriend/sister/daughter and everything in between.

Just know that it has been crazy.

All that to say that when I need just ONE moment of peace. I do the following:

Pray
Breathe
Cleanse

The first two are self-explanatory, but the last isn't cleanse as in clean my house. It is cleanse my body. As in take a shower or bathe in relaxing lavender body wash/bubble bath.

Lavendered,
Katelyn

BBM Me? LP Me?!

2011-03-28T15:06:00.000-04:00

In this world of sin, you can be one of three things: an iPhone, a Droid or a Blackberry.

All phones hold their own and have a serious fanbase that will ride or die for their phone through dropped-calls and dead-zones everywhere. iPhones are by far the trendiest with Droid phones offering similar features to the iPhone (think apps, etc). Blackberry users are a group of people who enjoy that mix of business & pleasure. FWIW, Blackberries (appropriate plural? probably not.) for the most part are not nearly as aestethically pleasing nor even as *fun* as iPhones & Droids. (Perhaps I haven't been intimate enough with my BB? #pause Who knows...)

But there is one thing that my friends at RIM (Blackberry) have that is KILLING the competition.

Blackberry Messenger, affectionately known as BBM.

The option of group chats, PING! and ease of message sending makes BBM the apple of BB users eye. For quite some time there were no true alternatives. PingChat tried. Then there was that Kik thing that I thought was a racial slur gone technical not a message platform. But now...there is Live Profile.

Could this be the extra ummph I needed to leave the Blackberry world, rent a condo in Droid and yet still be connected to my BB, Droid AND iPhone friends?

Ladies and gentlemen, do we have world (cellular messaging) peace? *choir of geeksquad angels sing*

How will we affectionately know Live Profile? LP?

LP Me,
Katelyn

New Hair Product!

2011-03-26T20:54:00.000-04:00

...Water!

I've been bummed about my unfortunate hair deal. The hair deal where my hair was 2.5 inches shorter on one side.

*blankstare*

Operation #longhairdontcare was stunted. All because somebody decided to use clippers versus cutting shears. Let's not go into this.

Anyways, I've literally been measuring my hair every other day. Trying to see if it is even growing. (It is...but slowly). I'm impatient so I've also been researching super-duper fast hair pills.

I need my hair to go stronger & healthier than before in addition to getting those desired added inches.

In lieu of pills or sprays or supplements - I've decided to go the natural route. (No! NOT kinky roots natural. #teamrelaxernolye) Natural as in Mother Nature's finest... water.

Coincidentally, one of the things I've given up during Lenten is carbonated soft drinks and I've been replacing them with water. Good ol' fashioned water.

I hear it's good for the body and soul. Let's hope that goodness reached the roots & tips of my hair!

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

SHATTERed!

2011-03-24T10:44:00.000-04:00

After absolutely NO luck with purchasing the bottle for myself, I went to Ambiance for a manicure and opted for the Shatter experience.

I started with OPI's Lone Star Collection: I Vant To Be A-Lone Star

After two coats of polish, you could see the slight hint of ice blue. I loved it! Once it dried, it was time to SHATTER...

And the end result?

I loved it. I thought it was uber cool that it literally 'shattered' as it was being applied. It was kind of weird to see, like a nail science project of sorts.

I'm a fan! With the black of the Shatter, the ice blue looks a little silver like. Awesome.

Shattered,
Katelyn

Hello! I am a Mac.

2011-03-16T14:17:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, during the craziness of the business day... I became a Mac. :)

Let me just say that based on the pure welcome that I received immediately upon turning the unit on... I. Am. A. Fan.

My name is Katelyn and I am a Mac.

Actually, I am currently bi-computeral as I have a Macbook AND a Dell laptop. I was going to start off this post by saying I was bi-computeral, but was told by many that that was a lame joke. Is it still lame? I hope not. If so, at least I put this in small print so hopefully you missed this. LOL.

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Bought. Sam Edelman "Novato" Sling-Back Shoe

2011-03-10T15:27:00.001-05:00

Don't you just love when this happens? I've been perusing the Web and the stores for a sale on my beloved Sam Edelman "Novato" Sling Backs all week and then they pop up on a post on Theybf.com.

Sam Edelman "Novato" in blush patent

Further affirming that they need to be and will be BOUGHT.

I just love these. They are the perfect nude shoe and they'll be fab with jeans and a cute top on the weekends or, as pictured below they will be a perfect party shoe.

Novato, consider yourself BOUGHT.

~ Veronica

Fab Style Blog Finds

2011-03-10T09:10:00.000-05:00

I might have discovered late on these, but I've recently taken a liking to these fab nationally-recognized style blogs:

ShopNowSaveLater http://shopnowsavelater.blogspot.com/
This blogger is a super stylish wife and mother. No wonder I like her!

Karla's Closet http://karlascloset.blogspot.com/
This girl is sharp! Love her hair cut, too.

Bleed for Fashion http://www.bleedforfashion.com/
This blogger was the winner of Fashion Bombshell of the Year from "The Fashion Bomb" She has great style, expensive taste, and mixes high-and-low (though not many pieces are low) priced pieces almost perfectly.

All The Pretty Birds http://alltheprettybirds.blogspot.com/
It's great to see a brown girl getting international recognition in the fashion world! This blogger is usually baased out of Milan (I think) but she's on all the fashion scenes.

Nini's Style http://ninistyle.net/
Another chic pixie haircut! I discovered this one most recently. This girl can dress her butt off.

Style by Queens http://stylebyqueens.co.uk/
These two cute brown Brits have adorable style.

As always, don't forget to scroll through out blogroll down the side.

~Veronica

Did I Just Fall for Flats?

2011-03-09T15:33:00.002-05:00

Dare I say it aloud? *looks around* After working out for the past two days for the first time in *cough, cough SIX cough* months, my body is HURTING. My daily dose of heel height has been reduced to nilch.

nilch.
zilch.
nada.
eh ehn.

The thought of putting on just one heel...while laying on my bed...perhaps even half-wined out...even that thought renders my legs & feet totally useless.

However, my corporate saving grace (because Huaraches paired with a shift dress does not a corporate appropriate outfit make!) were these delightful flatsies that I purchased with @rhardydesign just the other week.

Picture looks funny because I refuse to struggle to stand; lifting my legs out while seated is the best I can do!

So anyways, back to my secret question...

...did I just fall for flats?

previously-happily-heeled, now-confusedly-flat,
Katelyn

Music Fabulousness

2011-03-09T15:14:00.000-05:00

The music that has been going through my iPod lately is ... well, take a looksy, you will want a listen...

Perfect listen by candle light; no skips - let the entire album play through

Faves? 'Love Guns'. b*Rad loves 'Please'

Just downloaded, but I hear from great ears that it is a musical treat

I've heard at least 3 singles and ALL were at 100thousand, trillion

I've also been bopping to a Marsha Ambrosius mixtape, a Young Jeezy mixtape in addition to some new hood classics such as 'Racks'.

#judgemenot

Oh! And last thing, Pandora gives me life during the workday. The Ryan Leslie Pandora station as recommended by Veronica has given me oxygen when I couldn't breathe. It is JUST that good.

What have you been listening to non-stop? Any tracks or albums that we shouldn't miss?

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

#iCant

2011-03-03T13:36:00.000-05:00

There are a few things going on to which I can only respond with #iCant.

Gwyneth Paltrow is a singer c) The Academy Awards. *insert blankstare here* #iCant
The Ohio 'Heartbeat Bill' had two testimonies the other day, both of them were from the womb. *blankstare* #iCant
Clippers owner Sterling and his Black History Month celebration in March for underprivileged kids. *insert jaw-dropping blankstare here* #iCant
A Republican Senator spoke out against the controversial Ohio SB5, he was replaced with another Republican Senator on committee with 23 hours. Democracy, much? #iCant

I just... *sigh* #iCant.

Confused beyond belief,

Katelyn

14 Days...

2011-03-01T23:47:00.000-05:00

...that is how long my gel manicure lasted without a single chip.

*sadface*

I really wanted it to last for 3 weeks. The chip isn't bad, but it is going to drive me up the wall. Ambiance Nail Salon, here I come...

xoxoxo,

Katelyn

Currently Testing: OPI Axxium Gel...

2011-02-24T00:08:00.001-05:00

...also known as the "Gel Manicure" or the "manicure-that-lasts-for-a-month"...

As of Tuesday 2-22, I have had my gel manicure for a full week. I have extremely minimal chips (basically at the end of the nail if looking under the nail bed..) and am so far pleased. Had this been a regular manicure, I would've taken off the polish four days ago due to chips.

I'll keep you posted!

xoxoxo,

Katelyn

Fabulous Fashion DO: Skirts in the Winter!

2011-02-23T22:07:00.000-05:00

Last week, when Mother Nature decided to bless (or tease) us with unseasonably warmer temperatures, my twitter time-line was jumping with ladies boasting about wearing skirts for the first time in weeks!

Insert my confusion >here<.

I have been rocking skirts all year long. That's right, when it was 84 degrees and when it was 48 degrees, this chick right 'chea was rocking a skirt. Somewhere in the midst of those 40+ degree difference appeared thick tights, booties & the warmth of a long puff or winter wool coat. But apparently, my poor timeline let the bite of the winter frost take away their ability (their fashion RIGHT!) to rock skirts during the winter. Why?!

Now, granted, I'm not prancing through -15 degree weather in fishnets & a mini BUT tights with skirts during the chillier times is one of my favorite ways to jazz up an outfit!

So please, ladies, I beg of you. Let not old man frost take away your fashion prerogative. I know I don't!

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

Yee-haw! Vintage Cowgirl...

2011-02-15T14:02:00.000-05:00

While in the ATX this past weekend, b*Rad and I took a stroll down SoCo (South Congress). There were a ton of vintage & modern boutiques, art galleries, costume shops and a candy store where one can find gigantic gummy bears on a stick (My V*Day treat for @rhardydesign) We went into a legitimate Texas boot shop to play around with the idea of me getting cowboy boots.

Did you guys know that brand new Fryes or Tony Llamas or Lucchese boots cost in the upwards of $4-500?! You've got to wrestle up a lot of cattle to buy those boot-scooting kicks! Geesh.

Anyways, our next stop was a vintage boutique by the name of Bohemia and whaddya know? We see a pair of vintage Frye cowboy boots at a fraction of their original price!

After some coaxing and a LOT of guilting, I am now the owner of cognac colored vintage Frye cowboy boots. "You're going to go home and regret this!" - he says.

Unfortunately, they are still in Texas so they can be properly cleaned and potentially resoled, but I'm prepared to rock the following looks for my Longhorn...

To be honest, I think he's far more excited than I am! Sidenote: His long-time girlfriend is Reese Witherspoon, lol.

Ah well. Another pair of shoes to add to my closet. :)

Hook 'Em,
Katelyn

It's Still Valentine's Day...

2011-02-14T23:08:00.004-05:00

And we love you. Hope you shared this day with those that you love (or at least strongly like!)

xoxoxo,
TFD

Favorite Accessory: Gucci Knit Hat

2011-02-08T10:19:00.000-05:00

The Gucci Knit Hat is one of my favorite designer accessories for men. It is SO sexy and male-chic. It's a staple (at least in the hip-hop world LOL). I just love it!

And look what we have here, they make it for little boys.

Guess I'll be getting these for my boys next Christmas. (Clinching my wallet tightly).
~ Veronica

Delivery for Ms. Jackson...

2011-02-01T09:48:00.000-05:00

I absolutely love receiving flowers at the office and thanks to my Daddy & b*Rad - I have a garden of lilies & roses in my office. :) (I had to take the lilies home - my office became a botanical garden, quickly!)

If only I had some wall decor... Where's @rhardydesign?! LOL.

Oh, the pure joy of the unexpected can be a source of wonder to me...

xoxoxo,

Katelyn

Nail Fabulousness: OPI's Shatter!

2011-01-31T23:28:00.001-05:00

The Katy Perry for OPI Collection features hard and soft- core hues but the piece de resistance...

A similar nail effect was released a few years ago by Covergirl, I believe, but without the hype and fever. Timing is everything though... OPI's Shatter has been sold out in my Ulta thrice. I guess the world is now ready to be ...

SHATTERED.

xoxoxo,

Katelyn

P.S. Since Shatter was sold out, I went ahead and purchased a couple of Sally Hansen Salon Effects - the minx-like things I blogged about a few weeks ago. I guess it will tide me over until Shatter is mine.

Whitewashed...

2011-01-27T22:52:00.002-05:00

That's what Gov. Kasich's cabinet is.

It is the job of the gubernatorial cabinet to not only protect the assets & interests of residents across the state, but actually resemble the constituency for whom they serve!

Do you see yourself in this cabinet?

Lose me with that 'diversity of thought' frame of mind. That is what people say when they want you to ignore their blatant racism? discrimination?

And the worst part of it all?

Gov. Kasich has made it crystal-clear that he could care less about what anyone else thinks. He has absolutely no intention of changing his cabinet members and what I fear is that IF, IF the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus (and other like org.) succeeds in getting a minority member on his cabinet that poor individual will be so downtrodden, so defeated, prosecuted persecuted and riled as everything but a child of God. They will not win. We will not win. Nobody wins.

God Bless Ohio,
Katelyn

POW! The Gift of Savings...

2011-01-27T09:25:00.000-05:00

Groupon Cincinnati has a steal of a deal with Bath & Body Works Online Store today!

Piperlime boasts an extra 30% off on already-reduced goodies for one day with the use of code: WARMUP.

I know it's early. Probably too early in the morning to shop. But uh,

Jesus paid it all.

Hit Cancel for Credit or Input Pin for Debit,

Katelyn

Finger Lickin' Good...

2011-01-25T17:19:00.000-05:00

You may not want to lick your fingers after you polish your nails (Scratch that: Do NOT lick your fingers post-polish!)... but these nails colors are tasty. And by tasty, I mean gorgeous.

My new faves:

Top to bottom: OPI's "We'll Always Have Paris" "You Don't Know Jacques" & for a little bit of sparkle on these wintry, dreary days... "Rising Star".

Absolutely LOVE them all.

*chucks fabulously manicured deuces*,
Katelyn

Vino Fabulousness: Apothic Red

2011-01-23T21:38:00.001-05:00

My beloved work-wife Nadia got me hip to Apothic Red before she left me for sunshine in the West.

This red is actually a blend of three: merlot, syrah & zinfandel. After a disappointing encounter with Menage A Trois' red blend, I was pleasantly surprised with how smooth Apothic Red was!

I am no sommelier, but I could taste a hint of the vanilla notes. It was sweet but not moscato sweet...more like, not bitter-not sour-sort of sweet. If that makes any sense at all.

I took a sip after a bite of a delicious Lindor Truffle and was nervous that I'd have that nasty beverage-food mix. Nope. It all joined together like a pair of deliciousness, dancing on my tongue!

Try it! I plan to try a glass with a slice of Granny Smith apple. I think the tart of the apple could have fun with the not-so-sweet sweetness of the wine. Maybe add a slice of brie?! I'm having too much fun here.

Do you have any inexpensive wine recommendations? Fun wine pairings? Share!

Cheers!,
Katelyn

P.S. I forgot to mention that I purchased this bottle of Apothic Red for $7.47 down in Tennessee. Nadia purchased hers on sale in Cincinnati for $14-16 per bottle. I got the better bargain, but we both got great taste!

Katelyn's Closet

2011-01-21T19:47:00.001-05:00

As a treat to myself for completing my first semester of grad school AND for scoring a promotion, Katelyn's Closet has expanded to include...

Louis Vuitton Damier Speedy 30 & Michael Kors Hamilton Weekender in Mocha

I was trying to show my new work bag to b*Rad. This decent photo took MANY attempts.

I am too geeked to use my work bag for... work! I absolutely love it. I really feel like an adult. (I wasn't toting a backpack to work or something, but I did use random totes from college. *shrug*)

I love to be treated & spoiled (what girl doesn't?!), but there is nothing like being able to do a little treat for yourself ever so often.

Oh and I'd be re-missed if I didn't shout-out the dramatic (even to me!) sales associate at Saks who made me want to hold a full-fledged funeral for my 1st Speedy. Apparently, it is beyond repair so as not to "compromise the sake of the leathaaaaa'".

*blank stare*

Yes, it was necessary to say leathaaaa just as she said it. I WISH you all could have seen her in action. Anyways...

bisou,
Katelyn

p.s. - If you see me shopping again for myself before March, remind me of this blog post! I must set boundaries, lol.
p.p.s. - Thank you to precious nEo Emerald, she came through with the employee discount for amazing savings! :)

LIGHTBULB Eye-Candy Connection!

2011-01-20T23:04:00.000-05:00

Oh em gee... I just made a tv eye-candy connection and HAD to share!

Grey's Anatomy is one of my most favorite shows. Ever since the Grey-drowning saga, I have been hooked. line. sinker! One of my most recent fun fave parts has been watching Bailey evolve from a hard-core 'Nazi' resident with no feelings, to the softer, feminine chief resident of today.

The chief resident who is play dating a cutie-patootie of a nurse!

In looking at this nurse week-after-week...after week...after week, LOL, I have *finally* figured out where I have seen him before.

Remember in my Does SATC Hate Brown/Black People article, where I mention that the only Black male that I actually enjoyed in SATC was the Sailor that Carrie met during the infamous *wink* Fleet Week episode...

Yup. Old Sailor, New Nurse. What's remained the same? His ability to be eaaassssssssy on the eyes.

*insert school-girl giggle >here<*,
Katelyn

"I'ma Let you Finish, But...."

2011-01-19T14:11:00.000-05:00

I know all of the blogs have already done their Best of 2010 countdowns and everything, but before we get too deep into 2011 I just wanted to say that this was hands down my favorite men's look of 2010. Kanye was spotted in this camel Prada suit back in September. And it's just superb. He could've came a little better with the shoes, but other than that, I love it.

That is all. On to 2011.

~Veronica

Make Me Blush

2011-01-19T11:52:00.000-05:00

So the Golden Globes kicked off award- and more importantly, red-carpet season, showcasing the most stylish colors, silhouettes and fabulousness of the upcoming season(s). My personal trend on the carpet was the BEAUTIFUL blush-pink-nudeish shades that graced the carpet.

Some of the dresses had a hint of pink...

Some sparkled and shimmered...

Some were nude...

And this peach Calvin Klein number worn by Emma Stone, was my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE.

Just so refreshing, minimal and all-around pretty.

The carpet reminded me that some of my favorite outfits of the past year were of the blush-pink-nudeish color palette. Brought to you by...

All around "yes". Can't wait for spring!

~Veronica

Parlez-vous francais?

2011-01-15T22:19:00.000-05:00

One of my Santas gave me a gift that had me counting down the days until 2011...

To that question, my response is: un peu. *wink*

bisou,
Katelyn

98 Years of Sisterhood, Scholarship & Service

2011-01-13T15:48:00.000-05:00

On January 13, 1913 on the campus of Howard University, 22 dynamic collegiate women sought to make a real difference. They sought to foster sisterhood, inspire scholarship and provide service to all.

With these principles, they founded Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

The world hasn't been the same since...

Thank you to my illustrious Founders for their vision.

OO-OOP my Sorors! Shoutouts to my Sorors in the blogosphere: Walker, Brittany, Miss G Chic, A. Yancey & Shelby.

Divastatingly,
Katelyn
12-E-05

2011-01-12T10:22:00.000-05:00

While my absence from my beloved blog is inexcusable, here, at least is what I've been up to...

Working, moving (new apartment) and MOTHERING!

Boy oh boy, is being a mom a full time job! I've known that since the day that Max was born, and it does not slow down. But I sure do LOVE it!

Here is what Max has been up to.

He started walking the day before Halloween, before he was even 11 months old!

He has reached all the milestones of a 15 month old according to his fabulous pediatrician. His interests and developments are a joy to witness!

Eating solid foods. It's true what they say about boys! Man can they eat.

His wardrobe has remained the freshest

He turned 1!

And he's remained the apple of our entire family's eye and the love of our lives.

~ Veronica

Another MINX-perience?!

2011-01-11T12:38:00.000-05:00

I blogged about my first and only MINXperience back in 2009, but with these acrylics growing old & my nails STILL unable to keep color past one day - I'm inspired to test out Minx again...

At a much cheaper cost!

Sally Hansen recently debuted a line entitled Salon Effects Real Nail Polish Strips - the Minx look-a-like for only a fraction of the Minx cost ($8/box?!).

As soon as I dig myself out of this snow (oh and soak off my overlay) I will definitely try these out!

bisou,
Katelyn

P.S. Shout-outs to my Soror ElleMarie who gave me the heads up!

Creme of Nature's Argan Oil Intensive Conditioning Treatment...

2011-01-09T16:05:00.001-05:00

... made my hair go from straw to silk.

I read about Morrocan Oil/Argan Oil around this time last year and was so amped about it's potential that I was >this close< to purchasing a $30 bottle.

I'm a little skeptical about how my hair will react so I haven't bought it just yet. But the amazingness of my hair after this treatment may inspire me.

We'll see.

besitos,
Katelyn

How To Address The "You Don't Have Enough Experience" Response...

2011-01-04T16:07:00.000-05:00

I happened to see this article a few weeks ago through a HAPPO tweet. I have been giving this advice to my friends for the past year - so happy to see an "expert" *smile* put it in print!

You Don’t Have Enough Experience For The Job – Now What? Written on December 22, 2010 by Katie Schutrop in The Young Professional

So you’re a college senior about to graduate with two internships under your belt and ready to dive into the job market. You go on a handful of interviews, make it through a couple rounds, and are told by the employers that they decided to go with someone who had a tad more experience than you.

Maybe you’re not a college senior. Maybe you have been in the job market for a couple years and are looking for change. You know what you want to do and you know you’d be great at it, but you have never worked in the field before.

So how are you supposed to get the experience you need to land that job? It’s simple, really. Instead of getting down on yourself for not having the right credentials for a position, go out and do something about it. Who says you have to be employed to gain experience? I certainly don’t think so. And neither does that potential employer.

For example, let’s say you are interested in event planning but have only planned a party for your grandmother’s 90th birthday. While it may have been a total hit, there are ways to harness that interest and make it work for you in the professional world. Try to find an organization that holds events that appeal to you and volunteer to help. Maybe it’s soliciting sponsors for a benefit or coordinating catering for a conference. Any way you can have a hand in making the event a success is going to help you score that event planning position you’ve always wanted.

Or maybe you love to write but don’t have professional samples to show your skills. Volunteer to write some press releases for a local business and work at getting them some media coverage. Or better yet, start your own blog. Having a place to quickly send employers to show off your writing style is a great way to give you an edge over other applicants.

Perhaps you love social media and dream of working as a community manager. I guarantee there is a non-profit somewhere near you that would love your guidance and help getting set up on different social sites. See what you can do to help spread their message in the online world.

The idea here is to create the experience you don’t have. Even though the position you’re vying for doesn’t directly relate to your work history, having relevant outside experience is just as impressive. And on top of that, it shows employers your initiative and drive to succeed.

Don’t let lack of experience stop you from going after what you want. Instead, figure out what interests you and find a way to show what you’re made of. You are bound to stand out amongst a heap of resumes and be that much closer to landing the job.

All those volunteer hours & extracurriculars on the evenings/weekends can be doubly rewarding if they give you that much needed experience. Oh and another random-bit-of-info, if this experience better aligns with the job you're seeking -- do not hide it at the bottom of your resume under volunteer/service! A functional or skills-based format resume may be a better way to showcase your newfound, polished experience. Words of wisdom, for sure!

Feel free to give me 1% as a career advisor fee! *big cheese* besitos,
Katelyn

Relaxed Hair =/= Educated Woman

2011-01-03T15:08:00.006-05:00

Does the elimination of chemical-processing make one more profound & insightful?

Does it unlock the mysteries of society and reveal the secrets of the world?

Does it make you an expert of all things concerning the welfare of Blacks across the nation?

Will hair free from chemical-straightening inspire the cure for cancer or AIDS?

Does it give you the upper hand in politico dialogue?

Does it create world peace?

Does it get you into Heaven in the VIP line with free flowing drinks from the river of milk & honey and a choir of angels singing your every move?

Okay, okay. #iquit.

But seriously, I recently had a conversation with my girlie LynnLuxe about the notion that women who do not chemically-straighten their hair (read: natural) are somehow brighter, more informed, more well-rounded citizens of the world than those of us who still slather sodium hydroxide on our roots at an attempt to reach the European (read: white) standard of beauty.

Wait, that's not what we're doing? Oh. My bad. *sends memo to natural-extremists*

LynnLuxe recently moved to Chicago and was telling me about her adventures settling down in the Chi. In telling me about the latest on her gig, she said that she gets the feeling that the black women there may feel some kind of way about her. Contrary to popular belief (HA! Jokes!), she's super sweet, spontaneous...and all-around good gal. So what's the issue? The women there embrace a natural-hairstyle and LynnLuxe subscribes to the creamy crack on a regular basis.

Feel free to insert your blankstare *here*.

Now, let's be clear - I have said on countless occassions that some of the styles rocked naturally are to.die.for! I am also a fan of those who use flat irons, hot combs, etc to straigthen their hair without the use of harsh chemicals. However, I am a believer that everything is not for everyone at every time #truth. I am not natural today yet reserve the right to be natural, chemical, bald or medusa should the spirit move me and vice versa tomorrow. If a friend who is natural, decides to put in a relaxer - I will support them with a recommendation on a neutralizer. If a relaxed friend decides to go natural, I will support them with a recommendation on a leave-in conditioner -- a must for all hair, I believe! I mean, really - it's not that deep (figuratively & literally) - it's hair. Hair!

However, it has been all the rave lately for those who suggest the natural hair life to look down upon those who are not natural. Snide remarks saying that relaxed hair is conforming to an old standard of beauty and those folks are insecure with themselves. Even going as far as to assert superior blackness due to their natural state.

There is more than enough in this round world of ours to divide us black women already. Namely money, morals, melanin, men, boys and dogs #noOmega. To let yet another divisor as silly as hair come between us? Absurd.

Where is India.Arie and her acoustic guitar to sing I Am Not My Hair for these fools?

It's not this new wave of nonsense that has brought me to this post of irritation #nobasealllye, but more so a remark directed at me recently.

I was asked why I wasn't natural. Innocent question, no issues. I'm just not. I have no interest in being natural, just like I have no interest in living in Colorado. Does my interest or disinterest hurt anyone? Nope, so let's move on. Oh honey, but his response...

"You're an educated woman. Educated women are going natural."

All this said in front of his natural-hair styled girlfriend, who was either visibly uncomfortable with the conversation or ashamedly proud of her beau. I could care less though. *shrug*

I'm sure my response was light-hearted with a splash (or dousing!) of sarcasm, so as not to create too much of a stir in somebody's mama's home! But in response to such sentiments & similar belief I have only this to say:

Please take a nice, healthy sip of STFU.

*turns up I Am Not My Hair while scheduling a relaxer appointment...hair swinging in the wind*
Relaxed-Hair:::Don't Care,
Katelyn

P.S. - I asked my Spec Bridgette a few of the opening questions, since she's natural. She answered NO. *drops mic* Just thought you should know. LOL.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-02T14:46:00.000-05:00

Our girl Shayla sent an awesome email in wake of the New Year...

As we go into this New Year, I know many of us make New Years resolutions so I challenge you to tweak your New Year's resolution and instead think about this: Resolutions fail because they don’t emerge from true breakthroughs—they’re calendar-driven obligations; and they often address the symptoms, not the cause of our unhappiness.
Whatever your New Year's Resolution is, think about 'why' this is your resolution and instead of trying to change a habit, change the reason why you have this habit. If it's excessive drinking, think about how u feel when you' think' you need a drink on a Tuesday afternoon. If it's boredom or depression, find an activity to occupy your mind or do something that makes you happy. Whatever your resolution is, make it a lifelong commitment towards a better you, not just a calendar driven goal you might potentially renig on.

With that said, I hope everyone is as excited about 2011 as I! I love you guys. Hope to see you soon:-)
-- PeaCe

---Shayla Dean

I didn't know whether to be thoughtful on the advice or giddy because my circle of friends is *that* awesomely wise.

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

A Feel-Good Story...

2010-12-24T12:21:00.000-05:00

I saw this story via a colleague on twitter... Honey, if this story doesn't make you warm and fuzzy on the inside - I don't know what will.

A simple act elevates all
YVONNE ABRAHAM - THE BOSTON GLOBE

MELROSE — Everybody was waiting for Rudy.

Tuesday night, Patty and Rick Parker were in their cramped kitchen with their 8-year-old son Ben. Dinner was over. Bedtime was near.

Ben’s twin brother, Sammy, lay on a cot in the narrow hallway just outside the kitchen. Unable to see or speak or control his limbs, he coughed or let out a little moan every now and then. Rick and Patty took turns feeding Sammy, who has cerebral palsy, through a stomach tube. He cooed when they kissed his face or stroked his cheek, and when they cooed back, he opened his mouth into a wide, joyful O.

A few feet away was the narrow, winding stairway that is the family’s biggest burden lately.

Which is where 17-year-old Rudy’s simple, life-changing act of kindness comes in.

Until recently, Rick carried Sammy up those 14 stairs to his bedroom each night. But a few months ago, Rick had major surgery for a life-threatening heart condition, and now he can’t lift much at all, let alone a 75-pound child.

“We thought Rick was going to die, and we were terrified,’’ Patty recalled. “We knew right away he had to stop carrying Sam.’’

Patty couldn’t carry him, either. Desperate, she called her pediatrician, who put her in touch with Elizabeth Paquette, the nurse at Malden Catholic High School. Paquette said she’d take care of it. The boys at Malden Catholic are taught to embrace service: She’d find plenty of students to help.

Rudy Favard was the first kid Paquette came across after that call. At Malden Catholic on a partial scholarship from the Catholic Schools Foundation, this son of Haitian immigrants was one of Paquette’s treasures. The linebacker, cocaptain of the football team and honor roll student was always willing to lend a hand.

The nurse had barely begun telling Rudy about the Parkers before he said he’d help. Another boy would fill in for Rudy on game nights. And a third boy was on standby in case neither of the others could make it.

When Paquette brought the boys to meet the family for the first time, the Parkers cried.

“Just to see this outpouring of people,’’ Rick Parker began, his eyes welling at the memory. “To see that these people were willing to put their hands and feet to what they believed. . .’’

It is profoundly isolating to have a child as severely disabled as Sammy. It’s hard even for well-meaning friends to understand the immense strain of his all-consuming needs. Patty and Rick — who tried for 8 years to get pregnant before Ben and Sam were born — grieve for one son’s lost potential every day, even as they struggle to give the other as normal a life as possible.

“You plan for your child’s future, but it’s hard to do that for Sam,’’ Rick said. “You have this pathway he should have taken, and the pathway he did take, and you don’t want to look at either one.’’

And over it all hangs the certainty that Sammy’s condition will never improve — even as he gets bigger and heavier.

Into this world of love and hurt comes Rudy. Four nights a week, he leaves his homework and makes the 10-minute drive to the Parker house. Around 8 p.m., he carries Sammy upstairs, chats a bit, hugs everybody, and heads home to finish his work. After considerable effort, the Parkers convinced Rudy to take enough money to cover gas, with a little left over.

In the few months the Parkers have known him, Rudy has become not just a help with Sammy, but a salve for their pain. He and Rick talk about football. Patty quizzes him on girls. Ben usually parks himself as close to Rudy as possible, looking up at him adoringly. And most nights, Sam will tremble with excitement as Rudy picks him up.

“It’s like family,’’ said the shy senior. It goes both ways: The Parkers were on the field with Rudy’s mother the night Malden Catholic honored its senior football players.

And so Rudy had barely knocked on the door Tuesday night before Ben was at it, jumping up and down, yelling, “Rudy is here! Rudy is here!’’

He greeted the Parkers, and went over to Sammy, gently lifting the boy’s left arm and sliding his hands under his back, the way Rudy’s father, a professional caregiver, had shown him. He lifted Sammy and held him close to his chest, and as the boy made his joyful O, Rudy carefully maneuvered him around the corners on the narrow stairway.

You couldn’t help but be struck by the painful contrast between the two boys: The robust athlete cradling the pale, helpless child; the young man preparing to go out into the world carrying someone who never will.

It’s a comparison lost on nobody, least of all Rudy himself.

“Can I ask you something?’’ he said, sitting in the Parkers’ living room after Sammy was asleep. “Is it OK if this article is more about Sam than me?’’

Why?

“He’s done more for me than I’ve done for him,’’ Rudy said. “There are times when I don’t want to go to practice, and then I look at Sam. By God’s grace, I can do what I’m doing, so I should keep it up. I’ve never been one to complain a lot, but just seeing Sam reaffirms everything, you know?’’

The Parkers won’t have Rudy for long. He’s already been accepted at four colleges, and others are courting him. Where he goes depends on financial aid and football.

The Parkers hope to be out of this cramped house and into a bigger one — with no stairs — before Rudy leaves town in search of his degree.

Until then, Rudy will bound up to the modest, pale green house on Fairmount Street. He’ll carry Sammy up to his cozy room. Then, for a little while, he’ll carry the Parkers somewhere better, too.

Yvonne Abraham is a Globe columnist. She can be reached at abraham@globe.com

Didn't that make you feel good? Happy Holidays.

xoxoxo,
Katelyn

The Head for Hats...

2010-12-22T11:55:00.000-05:00

As I watched last night's repeat of the Glee Holiday episode, I was smitten with whatsherface and her many hats. Berets to be exact.

I have never been one to don hats. Outside of my junior year at OSU, where the hat I wore was an honor *wink*, I haven't much thought of wearing hats regularly. I've toyed with the idea of wearing a church hat...one more suited for the Derby, let my inner southern-belle breathe. But I still haven't.

The wintertime brings along new inspiration for hats. By inspiration I mean frigid, single-digit temperatures. It's as cold as a witches tit outside and I think my head would appreciate some covering! A winter beret would be nice. Perhaps a red one? Or will I look too much like a child?

I finally think my hair is nearing the appropriate length for a hat. I am a firm believer that you either have short hair or med-to-long hair for hat use. Generally, if you have the head for short hair you have the head for a hat. If you have med-to-long hair...the hat works too.

But that takes me to my true dilemma.

I have a big head and hats that say ONE SIZE FITS ALL are boldface lying. My head does not fit in hats. Nor does it fit into those adorable headbands...maybe I need more hair?

*sigh*

I am hat-shopping. See?

Hats by Mossimo
Hats at Revolve Clothing

I envision myself looking like the lady with the hat, scarf & arm warmer deal... Yes? Can I do that this season?

We'll see...

Head Over Hats,
Katelyn

P.S. I think I'd like to do headbands as well... but we'll conquer that mountain at a later date. LOL.

The Awaited: Christmas Show

2010-12-21T10:28:00.000-05:00

As I jam to the soundtrack, I'm reminded that I need to take my mother to see this.

The Illuminati pay tithes to the Lord through Crossroads. Am I allowed to say that? LOL.

Blessed,
Katelyn

Viva La Dance Fever!

2010-12-18T10:21:00.001-05:00

Remember when we asked you to vote for our girl, Macy A. as a new member of Georgia Force?

She is OFFICIALLY one of the newest members of the Georgia Force! *busts out in MC Hammer typewriter dance* Fun fact? The last few ladies added to the Atlanta Falcons Cheer/Dance Squad have come directly from the Georgia Force squad.

Macy A shall not be the exception! Get it, Mace!

*break-dances*

Katelyn

Busy Holiday, Huh?!

2010-12-17T11:25:00.042-05:00

Alright, so what's happened lately?

I decorated my home in true holiday spirit...but called it quits on holiday cards. Friends & family reading...consider this your card: Merry Christmas. LOL.

The Simply Sweet Soiree which was absolutely delicious! My Sands Brandy hooked UP some deliciousness in the shrimp & grits... My Soror KoKo made some "home-made" *wink* chocolate chip cookies. Rachi made spinach dip that makes me cry for joy... just... YUM! Oh and Dre's ladylove came with a cheese ball, crackers AND a bottle of wine. *Runs to store to find dress for their wedding! Yes!* Unfortunately, I didn't take any pictures so I'm on the hunt for photos from the night...so far, all I've found are the twitpics of me cradling a bottle of Hennessy #judgemenot and the photo I took of my ignant Sands and their inclusion on my wall of photos. See photo for clarity. *sigh* LOL.

I hung out with Santa! Yes Santa Claus! I worked in Pittsburgh recently to assist with the Coca-Cola Holiday Caravan and SANTA was there! I was sure to tell Santa what a good girl I've been all year... hopefully he brings all my special gifts for my special loves. *smile*
I FINISHED MY FIRST SEMESTER OF GRAD SCHOOL! My GPA will be greater than a 3.0 but lower than a 4.0 which to me equals success! LOL. Full-time employment (w/travel) + part-time grad school was a serious stressor, but even with the stress... I did it. Well, me & God did it. :)
I try to defer all things related to Max to his Mom, but he just turned 1 and as a proud TT *smile* I must tell you that his birthday party was the bomb! Oh and is anyone familiar with the hip & happening tune below?

... Get hip. It's hot in the baby streets these days. LOL.

That's it. Expect some more blog posts since things are winding down...

HOT DOG!
Katelyn

World AIDS Day

2010-12-01T12:21:00.000-05:00

Get tested.

Know your status.

Spread cheer, not fear, this holiday season.

Safely,
Katelyn

The Fabulous Duo Recommends: Vote for MACY A!

2010-11-29T23:37:00.000-05:00

The Fabulous Duo recommends that you STOP and VOTE for our girl Miss Macy Alexander (Macy A.) as the newest addition to the Georgia Force Cheerleading squad!

Hands down, there is not one single person, group or entity that TFD knows that lives, breathes and dies for dancing like Macy! Help Macy achieve her dream and VOTE for her spot on the Georgia Force Cheer Squad ---> http://www.georgiaforce.com/team/cheerleader/.

You can vote once a day until Friday, December 3rd... VOTE EVERYDAY and tell your folks to vote for her too! How can you not vote for that smile?! Woooooooooooooo!

*sings* She's a dancing, dancing, dancing... she's a dancing machiiiiiiine!

Cheerfully,
TFD

Marketing Fabulousness: AT&T Commercials

2010-11-28T22:22:00.001-05:00

AT&T and its "Rethink Possible" campaign promoting the fastest broadband network has been on a roll with its commercials! You've probably seen them but if you don't pay attention to the very first few seconds of action, the commercial's impact is lessened.

In the essence of full disclosure, I do not have AT&T - I've been painstakingly married to Sprint (Hold your judgment, please. LOL) for years. These commercials were not enough to make me convert to AT&T HOWEVER it does make me feel better about one day getting an iPhone and perhaps having excellent service. Or at the very least decent.

My latest fave - the football commercial where the NFL player goes back to where he first fell in love with the game - is not available. But it's on the tele, so keep your eyes peeled.

Do you have any favorite commercials? AT&T or not. My ultimate fave commercial is still the Super Bowl 44 Google commercial.

bisou,
Katelyn

I Am Still Obsessed With...

2010-11-24T12:32:00.000-05:00

Report Signature Bowery...

I was in a bidding war with some chick in Seattle over these shoes via Nordstrom back in September. (There was ONE pair left and she was on the phone ordering them as I was trying to do the same. Biatch.)

They were recently featured in an ideeli sale - but only had a size 6. Can I flip it over to make it a 9? I don't know what to do with a size 6 besides..nothing. *blankstare*

*sigh* Why can't I just stumble upon them somewhere...for the low?

Headed to the North Pole,
Katelyn

Vino Fabulousness: The Best Cheap Wines

2010-11-23T21:37:00.000-05:00

Over the past few months, I've noticed that Men's Health has a TON of goodies for people who are not men. (read: Ladies!) I have scored an awesome, low-maintenance, healthy pasta recipe and just stumbled upon a list of the best cheap wine. For. The. Win.

I plan to have a shopping trip at Whole Foods, Trader Joe's or Party Source to see if I can get a few of these to try for myself.

My surface-level faves?...

Cono Sur Pinot Noir 2009:::Chile:::$10:::Pair with grilled salmon, roasted tenderloin

d’Arenberg “The Custodian” Grenache 2007:::Australia:::$15:::Pair with lamb or soft cheeses

Kris Pinot Grigio 2008::: Italy::: $12::: Pair with seafood pasta & cream sauces

Las Rocas Garnacha 2007:::Spain:::$14::: Pair with pizza, grilled sausage & burgers

La Vieille Ferme Rouge 2007:::France:::$9:::Pair with grilled salmon, chicken or pork

Rudi Wiest Rhein River Riesling 2007::: Germany::: $10:::Pair with Asian food

Each bottle is under $15 - you cannot beat that! I plan to try out the Australian wine with some soft cheeses and my favorite little cheese-monster Rachi! Ooh or perhaps have the ladies each bring a bottle and we sample? The possibilities are endless!

Do you have a favorite inexpensive wine? Please share!

Cheers,
Katelyn

$25 for $50 at Nordstrom Rack

2010-11-22T14:40:00.000-05:00

Thank me later... But do it quickly - it expires in two days! Nordstrom Rack on Groupon!

Happy Shopping!

Katelyn

Wow...

2010-11-17T23:42:00.001-05:00

On this day - November 17th, 31 years ago, Veronica Ann Johnson & Jesse Jackson, Jr. were wed. 31 years later...they are still married.

Wow.

Congratulations Mommy & Daddy. I do NOT know how you did it...but you did! And I am forever thankful for you two for showing me love and the power of God!

graciously,
Jesse & Ann's daughter

The Fabulous Duo

45 Minutes...

Jason Wu for Target February 2012

Dual Purpose Fabulousness: Baby Bubble Bath

Cincinnati Shout-Out: The Style Sample

New Campaign Slogan??

Wait. Are we bougie?!

Hello, Winter!

Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays from TFD!

How-To Fabulous: 25 Scarves in 4.5 minutes

Happy Cyber Monday!

Black Friday Fabulousness

Beyonce "Live At Roseland"

Jimmy Kimmel Halloween

Tailor-Made

Versace for H&M

Sizzurp

Thrifting...

Betty Crocker Who?

Music Fabulousness: Christon Gray's 'Isle of You'

CBC 2011

Fascinating Lady in a Fascinator!

OPERATION: I NEED More Space: Part 1.25

Silent Disco

ZARA.COM

OPERATION: I NEED More Space: Part One

Hi September! Where'd August Go?!

Happy Birthday, Veronica!

Create a Personal Lookbook

Torture In The Name of Fitness: Turkish Get Ups

New Orleans, Baby! *said in my L'isiana voice*

UPDATE: Katelyn's Chicken Caprese

Food Fabulousness: Olive Garden Shrimp Caprese

Music Fabulousness: Beyonce's 4

New Find: Nicole Gibbons & SoHauteStyle.com Decor Blog

Where For Art Thou, Shoe?

Essence Music Festival 2011

Fabulousness: Versace for H&M

Challenge! Brunch & Bottomless Mimosas...

Summery Chic

Procrastination At Its Finest...

"Life In The QC"

Accessories Fabulousness: Rose Gold Watches

We Love The Vest!

The Best Beauty Product in the World: Petroleum Jelly

14 to L.I.F.E. & Chicago...

Style: The Peplum Dress

The Question(s)...

Political Respect

Cinco de Mayo Fabulousness!

I Am Not Ashamed...

Video/Music Fabulousness: @KarminMusic

Hilariousness: DC Correspondent Dinner

An Ode to Nigel

Seconds of Serenity

BBM Me? LP Me?!

New Hair Product!

SHATTERed!

Hello! I am a Mac.

Bought. Sam Edelman "Novato" Sling-Back Shoe

Fab Style Blog Finds

Did I Just Fall for Flats?

Music Fabulousness

#iCant

14 Days...

Currently Testing: OPI Axxium Gel...

Fabulous Fashion DO: Skirts in the Winter!

Yee-haw! Vintage Cowgirl...

It's Still Valentine's Day...

Favorite Accessory: Gucci Knit Hat

Delivery for Ms. Jackson...

Nail Fabulousness: OPI's Shatter!

Whitewashed...

*POW!* The Gift of Savings...

Finger Lickin' Good...

Vino Fabulousness: Apothic Red

Katelyn's Closet

*LIGHTBULB* Eye-Candy Connection!

"I'ma Let you Finish, But...."

New Orleans, Baby! said in my L'isiana voice

POW! The Gift of Savings...

LIGHTBULB Eye-Candy Connection!