The sisterhood of the traveling scarf

When my boo and bestie Raven told me she was shipping me the traveling purple scarf next, I said "Um, you are aware it's over 100 degrees in Texas? I'm not wearing a scarf."  Naturally, she sent it anyway. 

I was to style the scarf to my liking and send it off to the next lucky lady. 

It arrived in this fancy package with a treat included for my floating shelves photo wall.  I think you can imagine my delight when this sexy little diddy on the right fell out of the package.  Raven, you shouldn't have.

Y'all do know that this girl has had TWO babies and looks better in a bikini than I ever will?  OK, good ... so you hate her too.

In light of our 100+ temps here in Texas, I was not wrapping this scarf around my neck as I previously warned, however, I did decide to style it as a hair accessory.  Let's take a look at how one wears a scarf in smoldering summer temps:

Pretty sure I look like a gypsy.  Oh well, it's time for the next victim.  I have decided this scarf needs some South Carolina lovin, so up next is Beth from Sweet Bef's Blog.  Surprise! Treat her well Ginge. 

Follow the scarf: Meredith, Erica, Melissa, Raven, yours truly and now Beth. 

Until we meet again my purple friend ... keep it real.


[UPDATE] P.S. I got a comment that I looked like Lauren Conrad in the first pic (always flattered when people say I look like her. If only I had her body too. Sigh.), so I Google searched for a pic of her sporting a similar look.  Jackpot:

[via]

e.l.f. strikes again

I spent the better part of my Friday night perusing the aisles of Target with my Mom and neph. Yah, I'd be jealous too ... it's an exciting life I lead.

I figured it wouldn't hurt to get some new blog material, so I snuck a few e.l.f. items into our cart.  These 4 items to be exact.  Thanks Mom, 'preciate ya!

1 / 2 / 3 / 4

1. e.l.f. Studio Makeup Mist & Set - $3

Contains Aloe, Green Tea, Cucumber and Vitamins A, C & E to moisturize and sooth your skin

This makeup mist & set is to hold your makeup in place "like hairspray for your hair."  I'm not sure if y'all are aware, but it's hotter than Ryan Reynolds in Texas right now.  The second you step outside, your make-up is guaranteed to melt off your face immediately.  Not cute.

I used this Saturday around 4 p.m., went to dinner and a several hours later, my make-up still looked fresh, especially my eyeshadow.   I definitely will be using this every day.  Once you finish your entire face, pump a couple of sprays with your eyes shut and you're set.  Literally.

2. e.l.f. Studio Tone Correction Powder - $3

The colors are meant to be blended together as the Blue neutralizes orange, the Green neutralizes red, the Pink neutralizes grey and the Yellow brightens and neutralizes red.

I have really fair skin, a super pink undertone. and it is extremely oily.  I totally struck the skin jackpot ... not.

e.l.f.'s "complexion perfection" claims to even out your skin tone and absorb excess oil.   I did a little research and it was supposed to do well with pale skin.  I'd have to use it a few more times to really know what I think of it, but so far I like it.  I wouldn't say it's a miracle worker, but it definitely gives you a good sheer, matte finish.

3. e.l.f. essential foundation brush - $1

 AGH!  My favorite of all 4 items.  Love, love, love e.l.f. brushes.  I'd totally put them against any high end brush as they are so soft and durable.  This brush is as amaze as the e.l.f. eye contour brush I raved about here.  This brush gives a really pretty, flawless finish and is only $1. 

If I had to tell you to run out and buy one of these 4 items, it'd be this. You must own stat.

4. e.l.f. essential natural lash kit

I've already blogged all about these bomb $1 falsies, so if you missed it ... catch up here.

The only reason I'm re-blogging about them is because this kit had new glue.  In my original review my only complaint was i counldn't get any glue out of the tube.

The new kit has gel glue with an awesome, easy-to-use applicator.  Just a little FYI.

My only problem now is I don't know what e.l.f. product I'll try next.  If there is anything you'd think I need in my life, let this Bargain Blonde know!

Sizzilin' summer totes you totes need

You bargainistas headed to the pool or beach this weekend to cool off?  I have had the same Old Navy summer tote for the longest, and I've decided it is time for something new.  I seriously think I've had it since middle school.  Yes, that long. 

I mean, realistically I probably need another bag in my life like I need another inch around my thigh.  But for right now, let's just pretend I don't have 4 crates in my closet stuffed with bags.

I know you also need a sizzilin' summer tote to match your sizzilin' swim suit, so behold: The perfect bargain totes for all of your summer essentials:


Target - $17.49



Target - $8.99



Victoria's Secret - $48



ASOS - $21.55

Old Navy - $14.99

Alloy - $9.99

NY&Co - $27.96



Alloy - $34.90

Gap - $39.95



JcPenney - $19.99

 

So many to choose from!  Which one is your fave? 

$40 flight sale ends today. You best book now.

Southwest Airlines is have a may-jah sale right now on flights to celebrate their 40th Anniversary.  We're talking $40 one-way flights.  Uh, yes please.  But hurry up because today is your last day to book and get these ridiculously low priced flights.

Yesterday morning I got a text about this deal, so I immediately told my fave ginge, Sweet Bef,  that we were going somewhere.  Thirty mins later we were booked and guess where we're headed in October?

NOLA BABY!

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I love this city, particularly because of its vibrant energy and culture.  Oh, and deadly hand grenades on Bourbon Street.  I think we all know that NOLA knows how to throw a party, which is why NOLA and I get along so well. 

I could do without the public nudity, urination and vomit ... but you've got to take the bad with the good, right?   

[via]

The French Quarter, the oldest section of New Orleans, is also home to amaze Cajun retaurants, jazz music and great shopping.  All of which we will be partaking in.  

[via]

Are you ready to make a great escape yet?  I personally think you all deserve a nice little vacay away from your busy lives.  Some other cities we thought about: Chicago, NYC, LA & Nashville

What better time to book a spur of  the moment trip than now with this ridiculous deal?  Honestly, passing up a $40 flight* is just silly.  Let me know where you are headed! 


*Flights are $40, $80 or $120 depending on how many miles your destination is.  Click here for all the deets.

Home Tour Week 5: Kitchen & Dining Room

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Sorry for the delay, but I needed to get this kitchen of mine in order.  I know I joke around about Hoarders busting into my apartment, but they really could have up until about 30 minutes ago.  My kitchen looked like a crack den, and I'm not kidding.  I'm too embarrassed to show y'all the before, so just imagine disgust dishes everywhere.

Without further adieu, here is my kitchen and dining room:

My dining room, which I never ever use unless my family is over for dinner. 9 times out of 10 you can find my purse, keys, etc. on it.

Your turn!  Show us your kitchen and dining room by linking-up below.  I highly doubt yours could be any worse than mine. 

I long for the day I hit the lottery and actually have my own house with hardwood floors, granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances.  Until then, a girl can dream ...

What the Bargain Blonde did this weekend

It's Monday. Boooo.  I've said it before and I'll say it again, where do the weekends go? 

*Programming note: The "Home Tour: Kitchen edition" will be postponed until tomorrow because I'm afraid my kitchen is currently in no condition to be photographed.  Soooo, get your posts ready and link-up with me tomorrow! 

Friday night I had an eventful evening making the Skinny Taco Dip for a party of one (me, myself and I).  I ate probably half a cup of it and was full.  The rest I have to throw out because apparently it's something you can't save because the lettuce gets soggy.  Awesome.

The next time I make it, I think I'll nix the taco seasoning packet.  I added a layer of fat free refried beans to the bottom for some protein, which was def a good decision.

Saturday morning was my neph's final t-ball game of the season and then there was an end of season party at the coaches' house.  They had pizza, a pinata and trophies for the kids. 

It was so adorable until Reese had a meltdown over balloons right before the team picture.  He wanted to hold 20+ balloons for the picture and his Mom told him just one or two would be enough.  Look at how happy he looks:

That's my boy!

Saturday night we went out for my BFFs Liz and Stefanie's joint bday shin dig.  First we had dinner at this deelish little restaurant just the three of us + Liz's hubs (our personal photographer). 

My dress is from Francesca's, which is currently having a BOGO 50% off on all their full-priced dresses.

Then we met up with all of their closest friends at this new piano bar across the street from dinner.  I am not sure what kind of vodka that bar was serving, but all 3 of us were on our death beds yesterday.  Literally, I'm never drinking again.  It was a horrendous Sunday.

Yesterday, I woke up (from my 5th nap of the day) just in time for the Miss USA pageant.  Excuse me, but Miss Texas should have won.  And I'm not saying that because I'm from Texas.  OK, maybe I am.  But she definitely gave the best response during the interview portion. 

Cali was my second choice, so I'm not completely mad.  But had TN won, there would have been a riot.  First of all, she needs to chill with her hand on her hip.  Secondly, her answer was beyond dumb. 

Rocco DiSpirito - Question: "Recently, a controversial pastor in the United States burned the Quran. Should burning of any religious article be protected by the first amendment, the same way burning the flag is protected?"

Ashley Elizabeth Durham - Answer: "Absolutely not. I know that some people view it as a freedom of speech, however burning the American flag is not patriotic at all. No American citizens should do that and you should also respect other religion. I'm a Christian, I'm a fateful person, I would personally not appreciate someone burning the bible. And that's just a line you do not cross."

Jump to the 1:56 min mark to hear her answer. Really???


And that about sums up my weekend.  I hope y'all had a good one.  Only 4 more days until Friday!

Today is not my day.

I cannot say TGIF yet because today has proven to be a disaster thus far.  

A woman backed into my car in the Starbucks parking lot this morning. I NEVER go to Starbucks during the week. I think it was God's way of telling me I shouldn't be buying overpriced (but deelish) coffee when I have coffee at work for free.  Disgusting coffee, but free nonetheless.

Fortunately, the damage to my car is very minimal.  We mostly just exchanged paint, but still ... not how you want to start your Friday off.  

(Mom ... don't call me freaking out,  I will call you.)

I am, however, happy to report I learned a very valuable skill this week courtesy of my girl Miss Lou Lou herself.  A DIY French Mani!  She did laugh at me when I showed her what paint brush I purchased, but it was the cheapest one!  Hello, a girl has to save a penny when she can.  Plus, my nephew can totally use the water colors.  It's a win-win, DUH! 

The acetone (Target brand), clear & french white polish (NYC brand) were each under a dollar.  The paint set (ha!) was less than $1.50.

Lastly, I was shopping at a store to remain nameless this week when I came across this HEINOUS (Beth's fave word) jeans. LEG WARMERS SEWED ONTO THE JEANS! What in the dickens? Who in their right mind? Don't even get me started. The sad part is someone probably bought these.

All right ladies, that's all I got for today.  Random post, I know.

Except wait!  I want to say HELLO to all my new bargainistas!  I haven't had a chance to stalk all of your blogs yet, but I promise I will ASAP.  Your sweet comments mean so much to me, thank you so much for following along!

Have a wonderful Friday, hopefully yours has been better than mine so far!

"No heels allowed" Happy Hour

I don't know about you ladies, but in between the hussle and bussle of the "real world", it can be challenging to make time to see your girlfriends.  I miss college where we were always at the same places all the time, don't you?

The best way I've found to stay in touch is by meeting up for a quick happy hour after work to catch up on the latest gossip and share a few laughs. Unfortunately, those drinks and apps can put a dent in your checking account.  Mamma no likey.

My solution?  Switch off hosting a "No Heels Allowed" Happy Hour at your homes w/ your best ladies!  Tell them just to bring themselves after work and kick off their heels at your place.

ON THE MENU

BOOZE aka "The Sweet Nectar"

Serve your own Skinnygirl Margarita in a fun martini or margarita glass over ice garnished with fresh cut limes (salt the rim if you want):

• 2 ounce(s) clear Tequila (Sauza or clear premium tequila)
• A splash of fresh lime juice
• A splash of Cointreau, Grand Marnier or Triple Sec

or

Serve a girly spritzer with fresh fruit:

• two parts white wine,
• one part cranberry juice
• one part ginger ale
• fresh fruit of your choice

Since we're less than a week away from it OFFICIALLY being summer and a 2 piece and I are STILL not getting along, may I suggest these low cal apps to pair with the above cocktails:

MUNCHIES:

Skinny Taco Dip (w/ Skinnygirl Marg)

Click here for the recipe via Gia's Skinny Taste blog.  Seriously, go check her blog out if you are looking to cook healthy.  She has so many amazing, low-cal recipes that I don't even know what to make first.

or

Bruschetta with tomato and basil (w/ spritzer)

Click here for the recipe via Gia's Skinny Taste blog. 

The only other thing you need is some jams. My top 5 favorite summer songs right now:

• "The Lazy Song" by Bruno Mars (my life anthem)
• "Last Friday Night" by Katy Perry (= me every weekend)
• "On the Floor" Jennifer Lopez ft. Pitbull
• "Honey Bee" by my love, Blake Shelton
• "Rolling in the Deep" by Adele

There you have it ... the ingredients to host your very own "No Heels Happy Hour" with your besties. 

Send out an email on Monday, find a day that works for everyone and let the party begin.  Just make sure you are switching off so not one person is always footing the bill.

So what do you think?  Is this something you would do with your girls?

Liking on Facebook = freebies for ya

A while ago (back when I was a nobody), I blogged about an embroidered make-up bag that I was obsessing over.  I've picked up a few new bargainistas since then, so let me show you what bag I am talking about in case you're new to these parts:

I ordered it from the Web site Glitzy Glam, which has THE cutest girly stuff by the way and I have had the best experience with them so far.  Literally both items were delivered to me within a few days of ordering online.

Well, I "liked" them on Facebook recently, so I get all their updates on my Facebook newsfeed.  A few week ago, they had a no shipping promo for an entire weekend, which is when I ordered this little diddy for only $8.50 (you can customize the bag color to your preference):

Had I not liked them, I wouldn't have known about the free shipping. The same goes for most companies, so you best start "liking" away.   Just to get you started, I have a little somethin' somethin' to share with you ladies.

Click the logo below to like the "Think About Your Eyes" campaign on Facebook, upload a picture of yourself (or of your spawn) in sunglasses or glasses and you're entered in their contest to win a $400 GENERAL USE gift card (they are giving away 4 total).  Simple enough, right?  You are welcome.

P.S. If you win that $400, you know who to buy a bottle of gas station liter sized white wine for, right?  You're looking at her.

Home Tour Week 4: Secondary Bedroom(s) + Office

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This week I'm showing you my office and guest room, which are one in the same.  Honestly, I never use my desk because I have an ibook so I'm always on my couch or in bed using it.

This room is basically occupied by my mamma bear when she visits from NC or my neph, Reese.  The aftermath of babysitting on Saturday:

All cleaned up.

This bedding is my college bedding. I love the shabby chic look and pink and green are my favorite colors.  I need a headboard still and there are a ton of antiques I want to get for this room.   

So please be aware that this is still a work in progress.

Bedding from Bed Bath and Beyond.
Curtain made by my Mom. 
Hand painted mirror from Tuesday Mormings.
Lamp from Hobby Lobby.
Side table IKEA.

Desk and Chair from Ikea.
White desk storage from Wal-Mart on clearance.
Mason jar to hold my pens and pencils.

Framed print and painted the frame creme white.

Bottom shelf is Reese's books and animals.
The rest of the shelves are books, cooking books, picture albums & frames, etc.  
You can read more about the bookshelves here: My Bookshelf Re-do

So that pretty much covers my plain and boring guest room + office.  Nothing to write home to Mom about, I know.  I need to get to working on this room one of these days.

Now it's your turn to show off your guest room, your kids room, your office.  Just link up and show us one or the other or both!  There are no rules around here.

We'll call this the SECONDARY BEDROOM(s) and OFFICE POST.  k!?

Would love it if you ladies will let us peek into your homes too.  Link, Link, LINK-UP!

[Next week is Dining Room & Kitchen for week 5 and then to close off the series, 

we'll show Closets, Cabinets & Laundry Room in week 6.]