Rested, Relaxed and Refreshed

Hello Lovelies!

Awwww....I feel rested, relaxed and refreshed and it is only Tuesday.  The last few days have been blissful.  Stress free.  Self absorbed.  Indulgent.  I arrived in Little Rock last Thursday and my Momma was waiting on me with open arms.  Home Sweet Home.  Thursday evening we had dinner with my cousins and retreated to bed early.  Yes, I slept with my Momma.  We stayed up for awhile talking about life and reminiscing about sweet memories.

Friday morning we slept in a little late then headed out to pick up my sister Traci.  Traci flew in from Denver for a long weekend.  After we had Traci in our caravan of love we decided to go have mani's and a little power shopping was in our fashionable future. 



My Mani...Shellac



That evening we relaxed and had dinner.  We decided to watch the Twilight Series of movies to see what all the hype was about.  Movie marathon time!  I must say that Edward was pretty easy on the eye.

Saturday morning came around and the three of us decided to have a girls day with Kristine.  Kristine is married to our cousin Bob.  We literally shopped until we dropped.  Had a blast.  Stopped for a wonderful lunch and then we continued on our mission.  The mission was to help Kristine find six new outfits complete with accessories and shoes.  Three dressy outfits and three casual outfits.

After our day of shopping we came home and put on a mini fashion show for Bob's approval.  He gave two thumbs up to all of Kristine's outfits.  In all honesty we purchased enough items to mix and match and create at least 25 outfits.  Before our shopping trip we did an evaluation of her closet to see what her wardrobe was needing!  Here is a quick rundown of the items we purchased on Saturday:

1. A coral trench coat
2. Coral and Ivory Cardi
3. Ivory pair of pants
4. Ivory cami
5. Gray tweed military jacket
6. Black boucle military jacket
7. Black velvet jacket
8. White dressy blouse
9. Animal Print Skirt
10. Black Pencil Skirt
11. Black skinny denim pants
12. Red Tee
13. Hot Pink Tee
14. Fun going out on the town top
15. Khaki casual jacket
16. Trendy Tee
17. Sequin Tank
18. Black Tall Boots
19. Black Dress Shoes
20. Uggs

Saturday I was in my element....helping a beautiful woman.  Laughing, shopping, picking out, trying on...LOVED every minute of the day.  This is where I get my enjoyment.  Helping and inspiring other women look their best.

Sunday morning we went to Church and then to lunch.  Have you ever noticed that a sermon preached seems to be designed specifically for you in mind?  God has away of working in our lives.  The sermon Sunday morning is part of a series on Marriage referred to as "Til Death Do Us Part".  Brother Paul started on the role of a wife.  It was incredible for me. Attached is a link to the sermon.  If you feel so compelled please take a few minutes to listen to his message.  http://eastunionbaptist.org/media


After lunch we visited the afternoon away.  Sunday night we relaxed, talked, cried, laughed and bonded.  There is never enough time when you are visiting your loved ones.

Monday came around way too soon.  The afternoon was sadden by the departure of my sister.  Now here I am on Tuesday.  This morning I took my Momma's cat to the vet.  Pocket has been protecting his left paw and we were worried it may of been injured.  The vet told us Pocket has arthritis.  He gave us arthritis medicine and needless to say Pocket is not too fond of the flavor. 

Last night we made Cowboy Corn bread and White beans with Ham soup.  I baked a cake and dang I must say "Bon appetite"...Southern Cooking at it's best.  Several of you asked me about Chow Chow.   Girlfriends if you have never had Chow Chow you are missing out.  It pairs with all things southern.  Beans, fried tators, homemade soups, Fried Catfish (notice I capitalized Fried Catfish because in my neck of the woods Fried Catfish is considered a proper noun), and heck, I have known folks to eat it with the eggs sunny side up!  So what is Chow Chow?  The short answer is “good”.   Chow-Chow (or Chow-Chow Relish) is made from chopped green tomatoes (and sometimes red tomatoes), cabbage, mustard seed or powder, onions, hot peppers, sweet peppers, and vinegar.

Southern "GOURMET"  Cowboy Cornbread with White Beans and Ham, Sam I am!

No Southern Meal is Complete without a Dessert....part of the main food groups

My days in Little Rock have been totally blissful and I am so thankful for the time away from work.  We can always make more money but you can not make enough time to spend with your family and friends.  Justin is still in the hospital and I have called him each day (numerous times) to check on his progress.  It breaks my heart when he is not doing well.  Please say a special prayer for my son and a speedy recovery.  Even though he is in the hospital I knew I must take time away from the daily grind and renew my spirit.  In order for me to be a caregiver I must take care of myself too.  There have been many prayers from this Momma.  Moms in prayer, stick together!

The rest of my visit her in Little Rock is filled with lots of fun.  Stay tuned as I roll around in my hometown...Little Rock!

Much need Sabbatical

Fashionistas......I am taking a Mental Health Break from my life.  Serious!  For the first time in all my life I am going to allow myself ten nights and eleven days of absolute selfishness and no stress. 

Since the passing of my beloved Father I have realized that I have carried a tremendous amount of stress on my shoulders for many years.  Starting at the young age of 21 I became a mother.  The stress has compounded into many layers due to various contributing factors.  Life in general brings on stress.  Hectic careers, busy schedules, raising children and sometimes it takes a tragic event in your life to realize you must be true to your authentic self.

My happiness is very important.  Without my happiness and inner peace I can not be the best wife, mother, daughter, friend, colleague or person.  For the next ten nights and eleven days I have decided to do exactly what I want to do. 

This evening I am in Little Rock my hometown.  The first thing I did was have dinner with my cousins and after dinner I enjoyed a slice of chocolate triple decadent pie.  This pie was very dense but yet smooth at the same time.  Thick and rich.  Layered with whipped topping.  I enjoyed every bite too. 

After dinner I went to Books A Million looking for a great new style book.  Nothing jumped out at me. So I left empty handed. Then I headed over to the local Mall, Park Plaza.  I hit the jackpot at Dillard's in their shoe salon. 


The shoe fairy was on my shoulder and I scored three pairs of new pretties.  Two are animals and one is a fabulous black suede pump.  Tomorrow I will take pictures and post them on Shop Your Closet. 

While in Little Rock I have plans to meet up with several friends for lunch, dinner, coffee and drinks.  Depending on the mood of each day will determine exactly where and what I do.  Little Rock offers a few of my favorite dining establishments and I  plan to visit each one while in town.

Trios at Pavilion in the Park on Cantrell.  I love Trios for lunch.  Their spinach dip and pita chips are incredible.   http://www.triosrestaurant.com/about_us 

Next on my dining agenda will be Dizzy's Gypsy Bistro located in the heart of downtown Little Rock next to the historic River Market District and the Presidential Clinton Museum.  Dizzy's is a caravan of wickedly good food and guilty pleasures.  http://dizzysgypsybistro.net/

Another hot spot in Little Rock is Loca Luna which is one of Arkansas' most celebrated restaurants.  No home visit shall pass without my hearts content with a night at Loca Luna.  http://www.localuna.com/

Finally I plan on dining at Ya Ya's Euro Bistro and walking around the Chenal Promenade one afternoon.  http://www.yayasar.com/dinner_menu.php 

These are just a few of the best dining establishments in my hometown.  The list for great meals are endless.  If you are ever in my neck of the woods give me a ring a ding ding and I will give you recommendations based on your culinary palette.

There are so many things I plan on doing this week.  Lots of R & R, good food, shopping, visiting with friends, a day at Oaklawn for Horse Racing, going to see the movie the "Vow"....oh, and did I say shopping?

Oaklawn Racing in Hot Springs, Arkansas since 1904

Speaking of shopping I have already made out like a bandit.  Not only did I score three pairs of shoes I purchased a beautiful necklace and bracelet from Banana Republic.

These two pieces will be great accessories to use as building blocks for a Color Block ensemble.  Yes, this week one Southern GAW (Grown Arse Woman) is taking a much needed sabbatical. 

Awwwwww.....tomorrow I get to sleep in late.  Speaking of sleep, Momma just came to bed and said "It's time for us to go night night."  I am a 43 year old woman sleeping aside her Momma in a king size bed.  Stay tuned for more of my ten nights and eleven days of rolling around in the Rock, Little Rock!

Hello Fashionistas and Welcome to my new and improved blog.  Thanks to Kelly's Avenue Blog Designs, I now have a brand new look and I am loving it. 

Last night I contacted Kelly and told her what I was trying to achieve.  She took my ideas and designed "40 and Madly Fabulous in Heels" to reflect my personality.  A little over the top, a little bling to showcase my diva characteristics, a touch of animal print to bring out my inner wild side and finally a pair of Christian Louboutin black stilettos with encrusted jewels to remind me to Keep a Smile on My Face and a Strut in my walk. 

Kelly was able to capture the essence of my personality with her magic blogger wand.

Hopefully my blog will continue to grow with many followers that share the same love of style in our wardrobes, homes and everything that reflects the true beauty of a woman.  Thank you ladies for being a part of my blog and Shop Your Closet Facebook page.  Stay tuned.....there is so much up my fashionable sleeve.  Much Love!

Things I am Loving....

Paillette Tank in Black from Talbots

I am in love with this pretty blouse and think it will be stunning with a pair of white pants and black strappy sandals for dinner on my Cruise.  Yes, this top is calling my name.....

Talbots Jackie Fit Tweed Notch-Collar Jacket

A Reminiscent of the boyfriend blazer is a must have for my Spring Wardrobe.  Pair this with a black pencil skirt, a simple silk black blouse and layer on pearls. Add a sexy black high heel shoe or if you dare a pair of seductive red pumps.   Pretty and fresh...daring and bold.  This jacket will find it's way to my closet soon.

                                                   Talbots Kate Fit Leopard Print Jacket
My love for animal prints is greater than my love for chocolate.  When I wear an animal print I feel sexy, classic, refined and polished.  Animal prints have the power to bring out my inner wild side....I DIE for a great animal print.  This little number will be my go to piece this Spring/Summer.  Imagine wearing this with a pop of color such as Hot Pink.  Team this with a black pencil skirt.  If I dare I may wear it with the matching skirt (which is already in my wardrobe) for an over the top show stopping look that is sure to turn many heads of admirers.  Yes, Animal prints will be a part of my life as the days turn into years.  Worn tastefully and with my classic approach.

Fashionistas these are the three things that I am bringing home to my wardrobe. Each item will be worn with my unique stylish flair as I incorporate so many different ensembles.  My rule of thumb is the 80/20 rule.  My budget is not disclosed but these are the three items I plan on incorporating into my stylish life.  I am in love.  The red doors have yet to disappoint me....

Keep a Smile on Your Face and a Strut in Your Walk,
Tonya Denise

It's My Party, and I'll cry if I want to.....

It's my party, and I'll cry if I want to
Cry if I want to, cry if I want to
You would cry too if it happened to you

It's my birthday...a day that has always been filled with love, laughter and celebration.  Today I turn 43 years of age.  As I sit here at my parents home drinking my morning coffee I reflect over the last 43 years of my life.

As a little girl my parents would always bake me a "homemade" birthday cake.  Momma makes an incredible "Scratch" Chocolate cake that is sinfully too die for good!  After the cake was baked and cooled down my Dad would begin his masterpiece.  He would ice and decorate my birthday cake to perfection. 

Over the years he designed a clown cake, an Elvis cake, a Valentines heart shaped cake, cake with roses, a rainbow...so many handmade decorated cakes.  His hands symbolized love in whatever he would do for me.  I will always cherish the memories of my birthday cakes that my Dad made me.  Those are the precious memories that will never fade.


Much Love,
Tonya Denise

Things I am Loving....

Now that I have enlightened you with my 80/20 rule it is time for me to share with you some of my most sought after Spring Accessories I am loving at the moment.

Every woman realizes the importance of accessories.  The perfect high heeled pump is guaranteed to turn a grown man's head.  I love high heels and hardly ever wear flats.  This was the first Fall/Winter season that I actually purchased a pair of flat boots.  The flat boots are comfy but there is just something about a high heel that empowers my femininity. 

Ladies, I think I have a problem.  A severe problem.  I love shoes....feminine shoes.  A shoe with a heel.  Add freshly manicured toes and I feel like a Sex Goddess regardless of how big my boojay may be at the given moment.  One thing about my love affair with shoes, I fall in love easily and my shoes are well taken care of.....once in love my heart does not stray.




Vicki Vachetta Leather Peep-Toe Pump

I am really loving this peeptoe pump.   It has a rare combination of masculinity and femininity.  Love the Neutral color which will go with any color in your wardrobe.  The tassels and the back zipper add just enough attention to detail to give it a dose of style. 
I am afraid these babies may be coming home with Momma in the near future.

.

Now it is time for some Bling Bling....There is something about Bling that brings a sparkle to my eye!

The Kate Spade Cobblestone Bib Statement Necklace....I DIE...Enough Said.  From the first time I laid eyes on this pretty I was in love.  A grand bauble that would be perfect with a little black sheath or a simple black tee, denim and heels for a night out with Mr. Someone Handsome.  SIGH....

The Flower Brooch Cuff from Banana Republic.  There is just something about Turquoise that screams Spring and Summer.  This cuff would make a lovely addition to my armoire and add instant flair to my Spring and Summer frocks.  Very inexpensive but with lots of WOW....every GAW deserves a little bit of WOW factor in her life!

These are just a few things I am loving at the moment....tomorrow is a new day and I am sure there will be something that will make my heart skip a beat and I DIE FOR!

Keep a Smile on Your Face and a Strut in Your Walk,
Tonya Denise

80/20 Rule = Great Accessories and a Well Dressed Woman

Accessories are the quickest way to update your look.  Many moons ago I read the 80/20 rule when it comes to updating your wardrobe and appearance each season.  Eighty percent of your clothing budget should be spent towards accessories while the remaining twenty percent should be used to purchase classic garments that will never go out of style.

Let's do a quick elementary math towards a shopping budget for Spring/Summer.  Pretend (every woman knows how to pretend) that you have allocated $500 for your Spring/Summer shopping spree.  Apply the 80/20 rule and your budget should be itemized as follows:

•  $400 for Accessories and $100 for Clothing

 

Are you shocked?  Okay, Okay...there is one exception to this rule. 

Pretend as if you already have your core classic wardrobe in place.  Therefore the 80/20 rule really does sound realistic.  Right?

Pretend Core Wardrobe (Looks Good, Huh?)

Accessories are made up of shoes, purses, jewelry, scarves, hats, sunglasses, hosiery...these are the areas where you may incorporate trends into your fashionable life.  If you invest in classic timeless clothing and spend most of your money on accessories, you will always look CURRENT and never forget your signature style.

Spend eighty percent of  your budget on accessories to keep your look CURRENT

Invest in Classic Timeless Pieces and You will Never be out of Style

The $100 of your $500 budget may be spent on a great new jacket to create many outfits with your current core wardrobe.  Or you may want two new skirts.  A pair of great new pants and blouse.  Perhaps you need a wonderful trench?   This is when you really need to shop your closet and see what is missing from your wardrobe.  The remaining $400 may be used towards trendy shoes, jewelry and a summer handbag. 

Maybe Mr. Someone Handsome will give you a few more dollars to add to your clothing portion of your budget! 

Every Woman Deserves a Mr. Someone Handsome

Disclaimer:  This budget is not designed for the weak....when your knees buckle and you almost fall to the ground over this season's Hot new designer; well you may have to rob Peter to pay Paul.  I feel confident in our abilities to help out today's economy.  But work with me ladies...I do offer valid tips.

 I love costume jewelry.  Especially Brighton.  The offerings of Brighton are truly beautiful and never disappoints.    My love affair for costume jewelry does not discriminate.  Talbots, Banana Republic, Chicos, Ann Taylor, Dillards and private boutiques offers an abundance of great baubles and beads to add to your collection.

Brighton Boutique is the Grown Arse Woman's Candy Store

Shoes, Shoes and More Shoes.  Nothing changes an outfit faster than a fabulous new pair of shoes.  Take last years' dress with this years' new shoes and you are magically transformed into a sensational woman.

In the next few days I plan on perusing many fashion magazines, catalogs, online shopping sites and style blogs to determine my Spring and Summer wishes and desires.  Please stay tuned as I showcase my most wanted to infuse a fresh new look into my existing wardrobe.

Keep a Smile on Your Face and a Strut in Your Walk,
Tonya Denise

It's a Wrap

My love affair with trench coats began with the movie "Breakfast at Tiffany's"  and I hate to admit how many I own.  Too many.  A dear High School friend sent me an email last week asking about trench coats.  Her question about trench coats inspired me for today's blog entry.

Every woman needs a trench coat in their wardrobe for instant style. 

A trench coat will give you that extra layer of WOW and will

always remain a classic in your wardrobe for years to come. 

Tim Gunn has an essential list of ten items that every woman should own.

A trench coat is among the list. 

Here are some of my favorites that I am loving at the moment.

Madison Trench From Talbots Available in Grenadine, Urban Khaki and Black
All the classic trench details you love . . . it doesn't get more iconic than this trench!

I love love love this whimsical trench from Ann Taylor Loft.  So stinking cute!  What a fun way to add a pop of color with the classic design of a trench.  Have fun with your choice of a trench.
Don't worry about being safe.  Experiment with color and pattern. 
Wear this trench and get ready for attention.

An alluring leopard print updates a classic trench styled with button-down epaulets and an inverted pleat below the back waist.  London Fog Trench from Nordstroms and on Sale....Whooooooo Hoooooooo

You can't go wrong with RED!



Throw a trench over a sheath dress for instant style.  I am wearing a black and white graphic trench by Nine West paired with the ponte knit sheath from Talbots.

By the way; my High School friend emailed me again and she found not one but two wonderful trench coats.  One in the traditional khaki color and a beautiful Kelly Green.



Keep a Smile on Your Face and a Strut in Your Walk
Tonya Denise

Wall of Crosses in Honor of my Dad

Happy Sunday to each of you....


I just wanted to post a quick entry and share with each of you my wall of crosses in honor of my Dad.   This morning after coffee, me and Momma built my wall of crosses.  I think my Dad would love it.  He loved whatever me and Momma did no matter what it entailed.

This is the wall that comes off the Laundry Room

We purchased these crosses yesterday at Hobby Lobby and each one was 50% off

The color of my walls are a soft gold but the photo does not do the coloring any justice

Each Christmas my parents would always buy me a piece of jewelry.  This is the last piece my Dad helped pick out.  It is a cocktail ring of black diamonds.

My Momma's hand with my hand

Today has been sort of an emotional day for the two of us.  We have decided to get Firehouse Subs and watch the Superbowl.  I am looking forward to the commercials and the Madonna halftime show.  After all, I am just a materialistic girl from the 80's

Madonna:  The original Material Girl

Keep a Smile on Your Face and a Strut in Your Walk

Much Love, Tonya Denise



Female Bonding but Missing My Dad

Hello Fashionistas! 

Today was a wonderful day in Fort Smith and I can honestly say today was the first day since the passing of my beloved father that I truly enjoyed my day.  Why?  Well because I shared the entire day with my Momma and the finale of my day was with my husband and son!

My Momma and Dad (and of course me)

We started the day off with our favorite drinks of choice from Starbucks.  Mmmm Mmmm so good! 

Momma's drink of choice is the White Chocolate Mocha and I love the Chi Spiced Tea with Soy Milk

Then we headed to Hobby Lobby.  I am going to build a wall of crosses in honor of my beloved Dad.  Today I purchased six crosses at 50% and tomorrow I plan on hanging my crosses with the help of my Momma.  After Hobby Lobby we had girl time with Mani/Pedi's.   We spoke about my Dad and what he would be doing on this beautiful Saturday.  We both agreed he would be with us shopping!  Yes, shopping.  My Dad loved shopping as much as me and my Momma.  I can almost guarantee you that while we were having our mani/pedi he would of been at A to Z.

A to Z is a warehouse (actually about three city blocks of warehouses) made up of six stores in Fort Smith.  My Dad loved going to A to Z whenever he was visiting me.  I love and sure do miss him.
http://atozwarehouse.com/  My Dad NEVER missed an opportunity to visit A to Z.


Momma chose Cajun Shrimp by OPI for her toes and nails.  I opted for a Hot Pink on my toes and a french mani.  My momma influenced me to do something different with my nails.  LOL  Today I added a Hot Pink line under the white tip.  I was afraid it may be to much for my profession but I think it will be okay. 

Ya'll this is pushing the envelope for me!  I wonder if my clients will think they are too hoochie Momma looking?

Momma's classis signature color is Cajun Shrimp

After our pampering we went to the local mall and just browsed.  Momma scored a few items for herself.  A pair of black velvet pants, color block cardi and some new pearls from Dillard's.   I was on a mission of finding a pair of funky but cute shoes to wear with my new ivory pencil skirt from Talbots.

 I did not find any I liked but fortunately when I got home I found a pair by BCBG and ordered them!  They are so cute plus they were on sale!  Major Whooooo Hoooo.  When I receive  my new shoes I will do a style video and feature how I plan on wearing my new ivory pencil skirt.  This will be my unique way of incorporating the color block trend into my wardrobe.  I plan on wearing my new color block BCBG pumps with the ivory pencil skirt, black jacket, black turtleneck and lots of silver jewelry.

My New Color Block Pretties

Finally around 6pm we had Shopped Until We both Dropped.  For dinner we had takeout Chinese from a restaurant that is too die for good!  Chef Lee is a great restaurant that makes fresh Chinese entrees as you order your meal.  NO BUFFET! 

Momma, Joe, Justin and myself had dinner while watching the movie "Courageous".   If you have not seen this movie I highly recommend it!  What a great family movie that embodies the meaning of a role of the father as the head of his family.  It was not a mistake that we chose this movie at all.

Honor Begins at Home with Your Father

I hope you and yours had a wonderful Saturday too.

Keep a Smile on Your Face and a Strut in Your Walk

Much Love
Tonya Denise