What’s wrong with America’s Next Top Model?

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America's Next Top Model, Fashion

I love Love LOVE America’s Next Top Model (ANTM). Having watched all 18 cycles, I am constantly amazed at how they are able to keep the photo shoots fresh and creative.

This cycle, with the addition of girls from England, had the potential to be the best yet. The British girls have been a breath of fresh air and have helped to keep the drama low. What is wrong with these entitled, bitchy American girls? I wish they understood that supporting each other would make them better models. And while the cattiness plays a huge part in decreasing the enjoyability of the show (I watch Bravo for that shit), it’s the revolving cast of experts that is killing one of my favorite shows.

The addition of fashion PR maven, Kelly Cutrone has drastically changed the dynamic of the panel and not for the better. I have tremendous respect for Ms Cutrone’s knowledge and experience; however, I question her delivery of critiques. Everything that comes out of her mouth is demoralizing and this is coming from someone who is no nonsense about everything.

Tyra works so hard to build the models up and guide them in how the industry works. It’s one of the fantastic parts about this show but the sewage coming out of Kelly Cutrone’s mouth works to do just the opposite. Her berating of Louise caused her to quit unnecessarily. I felt awful for her because Ms Cutrone was in the wrong of her assessment of Louise and I was disappointed that Tyra allowed it to happen. I’m not an 18 year girl but I think this chick would scare the shit out of me.

If ratings are declining, I wish the show would focus more on the fashion and creative side rather than the nasty.

Andre Leon Talley, editor-at-large for Vogue, added a touch of class and legitimacy that was lacking in the show prior to his addition to the panel. His critiques provided constructive criticism with an appropriate level of snark - entertaining not mean. No one stomped off because of an assessment that was mean spirited and unjustified. Oh how I miss Andre and dreckitude.

Now that word has come out that Tyra has cleaned house by firing Jay Alexander, Nigel Barker, and Miss Jay, I fear this may be the end of ANTM. These three talented men have been the heart and soul of this show for years and without them I fear it will fall apart even further. Dear Ms Banks… CHANGE YOUR MIND!

    

I just cannot imagine the photo shoots without Jay Alexander. He clearly runs a tight ship during what can only be described as herding cats. Nigel is sweet and supportive of the girls and incredibly easy on the eyes. DAYUM! And sweet Miss Jay… comic relief with the nohow to back up his guidance. Sigh…

In the meantime, I’m enjoying all the other aspects of the British Invasion. The Brit girls are gorgeous and fun and full of life while the American girls are too busy trying to prove how tough and bad ass they are which is not at all cute.

I am rooting for the adorable, funny, energetic Sophie. Fingers crossed for this gorgeous Brit!

Party planning {Snacks}

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Edibles, Friends, Pinterest

Earlier this week I decided we would host a family game night and invite several families that we are friendly. The idea is for the kids to play games in the living room and the adults occupy the kitchen for gaming. I’m a crazy fan of board games and wish we had the opportunity to play more often. If tonight goes well, I would love to see this become a monthly thing.

My original thought was that everyone would bring a game and a snack to share. My friends hijacked my party and have invited themselves for a cook out. I love this and everyone is supplying something to make dinner possible. I’m thinking my contribution will be potato salad and a veggie tray but I still want to make sure we have snacks. Playing Apples to Apples with these boys really is an event and sustenance will be necessary!

Here are a few ideas floating around in my head…

Source: the-girl-who-ate-everything.com via Beth on Pinterest

Source: thehungryhousewife.com via Beth on Pinterest

Source: browneyedbaker.com via Beth on Pinterest

 

I’m leaning toward the taco cupcakes because, well, just because YUM! Honestly, I don’t think I could go wrong with any of these choices but I’m looking for something that is quick and easy to make since there will be a massive cleaning effort to prepare for guests. I’ve tried really hard to temper my crazy-inner Martha Stewart while entertaining. It’s hard but the purpose isn’t a perfectly presented table but the quality time with friends. I’m learning. So quick and easy food is me letting go.

I’m super excited for games and fun. More to come!

What I wore tonight… {Vintage Japanese style top}

Tags

Fashion

Lil’ A and I were invited to a Matilda Jane trunk show this evening at Amy’s studio in the Short North. I just love being in the Short North so any reason to be downtown works for me but add two of my favorite girl friends and I’m there! The Matilda Jane clothing was a adorable and there were several things I wish I could have purchased for A but the price tags were a bit much for this out-of-work librarian. I did feel inspired to think more seriously about making a few dresses for her instead.

Even though we weren’t painting the town red, I decided to dress for going out.

Red & black Japanese style top ~ vintage, thrifted
Black cropped pants ~ Dockers from Kohl’s
Red sling back heels with buckle detail ~ thrifted
Black & rhinestone square ring ~ Target
Black beaded chandelier earrings ~ birthday gift from my mama

I’ve been dreaming about wearing this top for months but the weather warmed up making it uncomfortable. This evening was much cooler than it has been so I went for it! I even continued the bold look with a smoky gray eye and red lips.

I love the idea of pairing this top with a black pencil skirt for a more professional look or with dark jeans to make it more casual. So many wonderful options!

What I wore today… {Sparkly blue}

Tags

Fashion

Today I met a friend for lunch and needed to make a return trip to the pet store. We are having issues with the water in our new aquarium. 4 out of 10 fishies have bit the dust (Is that an appropriate euphemism for fish? Can’t really say they are sleeping with the fishes.). Learned a lot about aquariums and the process the water must go through to become habitable. Pro tip: Ask for the manager.

Robin’s egg blue cardigan with rhinestone buttons (pictured in the bottom right) ~ thrifted
Slate gray button down ~ thrifted
Iridescent drop earrings ~ Lia Sophia
Black & white houndstooth ballet flats ~ American Eagle

#FF Love for my librarians

Becoming friends with women has traditionally been difficult for me. The last few years I have realized more and more the importance of have strong women in my life. I simply adore the friends I have surrounding me – Cassie, Amy, Jac, Nikki – love you all so much!

Recently I have been so fortunate to build strong bonds with 5 amazing women. We share so much in common that I wonder if we just aren’t clones of each other – from our chosen profession to our taste in clothes and shoes – this group of women have made me feel supported in a time of chaos. We can vent and laugh and commiserate together. We have found the positive when being attacked and turned it into friendships that I know will last. Our email threads are crazy and fun and I just can’t wait for our librarian girls weekend!

In no particular order…

Renegade Librarian – Ren is far from boring even if she thinks otherwise. Sweet and snarky and super funny!

Kate Librarian – Don’t piss her off near the lions den. She will push your ass in! Kate has a wicked way with words and can slay you with a simple story about going to the zoo with a group of Kindergarteners. Plus I love her style.

Liz Schoettle – The only one of us brave enough to use her real name! Liz has a heart of gold and I believe balances our group of ranters (not that she can’t throwdown with the best of us because I wouldn’t piss her off!). And seriously… she has the best hat on twitter.

Inked Incognito – When I grow up I want Inked’s handbag collection. This chick has style pouring out of her ears. Don’t believe me? Librarian Wardrobe agrees!

Fucky – Where do I even start with my Fucky Bear? The one who just gets me. The weather girl hair, the shoes, the snark. It doesn’t get much better than Fucky.

Follow my schmoopies at your own risk! And know that all follow requests are throughly put through a vetting process.

Happy Friday all!

Preceded by chaos

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Me, Morning Wisdom

Source: andsoweramble.net via Beth on Pinterest

 

I’m ready for the change to take over. Chaos makes me twitchy.

What I wore today… {God Save the Queen}

Tags

Fashion, Shoes

I’m a bit of an anglophile. Lately, K has begun to ask when it is that I am moving to England. Not soon enough, I dare say. I so wish I had purchased that tee at Forever 21 that said, “I love British Boys.”

Union Jack tee ~ Marshall’s
Red tank ~ Meijer
Dark skinnies ~ Target
Gold hoop earrings ~ NY&Co
Union Jack ring trimmed in gold ~ PaperBiscuit on Etsy
Red ballet flats with white buckle ~ American Eagle

I debated and debated with myself about the shoes. I wanted to wear heels but just could settle on a pair especially since Mt VeSHOEvius has erupted out of my closet making it tres impossible to find anything. I need to remedy this soon or I might go insane!

Let her sleep

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Me, Morning Wisdom, Sleep

Source: etsy.com via Beth on Pinterest

 

I love bed. More than anyone person should. This has been a source of contention between K and I while I have been on work hiatus. It’s not that I am sleeping (there is a bit of that) but I just like to do everything from bed. It’s my happy place. Plus I feel safe here.

This graphic was made with me in mind. I can accomplish anything I set out to do but right now I just need to recharge. Maybe I should get this on a nightshirt.

What I wore today… {Kindergarten registration}

Tags

Fashion

Today was a big day for my little girlie. I took her to register for Kindergarten for this Fall. She is crazy excited. And I am too but I can’t help but have a touch of sadness that my baby is growing up so fast. I’m not one of those moms that want my kid to stay little forever but I’m also not in a huge hurry. Typing this I feel tears welling up. We try really hard to make each of these milestones memorable – we only get to do this once. Plus I want to make the prospect of school as enjoyable as possible to set the tone for the next 20 years (hoping she opts for college and grad school).

While Lil’ A was a pattern mixing master today (floral print dress, leopard print shoes), I went for solid colors.

Black tank ~ Target
Black button down blouse ~ thrifted
Black canvas wedges ~ NY&Co (I desperately want these in lavender too)
Wide black stretch belt ~ Target
Aqua & silver necklace ~ Charlotte Russe

To sleep, perchance to drop the f-bomb

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Dreams, Me, Sleep

Source: pinterest.com via David on Pinterest

 

I talk in my sleep. Since I was a little kid, I have talked out my dreams. The most memorable story comes from my childhood that I was directing a band, bossing everyone around (shocking, I know). I’ve called cats in my sleep and rambled about nothing at all.

When we were first married, K would be able to tell which kids were in trouble at school by who I yelled at in my sleep. As the years wore on, I would conduct storytime while sound asleep. Always when these instances were relayed to me they were amusing.

Last night I was apparently dropping the f-bomb. K was laughing as he recounted the incident and was unable to offer a frame of reference for my rant (most of you know I am not a stranger to colorful language) but he was highly amused. Honestly, I don’t remember the corresponding dream but I sure wish I could because it had to have been a doozy!