What's On My Kindle? - February 2013

What's Been on my Kindle? - February 2013

What's On My Kindle? by preppy-lizzy on Polyvore

Elimination Night: A Novel by Anonymous
Honestly I was skeptical of this one but I took interest in it after I read a review in People Magazine. Still I filed it under a trashy read book. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. Written as an expose of an assistant producer's life on the television hit "Project Icon" (think "American Idol"), the book is really entertaining and I was quickly surprised at how invested I became in the characters. Ultimately this may be because I hate "American Idol" and that the characters of this book are written in a veiled attempt to mask who they are inspired by that I found so much enjoyment, but I dare anyone not to get sucked into this book.

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
This book was amazeballs. I know I am late to the party, but wow. I honestly feel like I can barely right anything about this book without giving too much away. It is the story of Nick and his wife Amy, who disappears from their home on their 5th wedding anniversary and the criminal investigation that follows. You follow Amy via diary entries, while Nick tells his story real time. It is a gripping read that makes you question how well you can ever know another person.

Sex on the Moon: The Amazing Story Behind the Most Audacious Heist in History by Ben Mezrich
What an interesting story that almost none of us ever heard about. Ben Mezrich makes real life come alive in his writing and his work is so suspenseful that it is almost impossible to believe that what you are reading is actually a true story. The best story you may never know unless you read this book. (I may be biased by my Aerospace background) but still, so cool!

State of Wonder by Ann Patchett
Another great book by Ann Patchett, State of Wonder forces you to think hard about the advancement of science when compared to the limits of our own evolution. The plot is centered around Dr. Marina Singh and her former mentor Dr. Annick Swenson. Marina is sent into the jungle to locate Dr. Swenson after her co-worker dies working with her in the Amazon. Dr. Swenson is working on a new drug that will stop the effects of menopause and biological aging when it comes to women's ability to reproduce and their biological clock. The drug's research is based around a tribe in the Amazon where women into their 70's continue to give birth to healthy children. It is to be the end of in vitro fertilization and hormone therapies in the modern world, but at what cost? A great read which forces its readers to reflect on how far they would push science and their bodies to get what they want.

Tik-Tok of Oz by L. Frank Baum
A story that brings back some favorite characters from earlier books, like Shaggy Man, Polychrome and Tik-Tok as well as a previous enemy, Ruggedo, the Nome King, Tik-Tok of Oz is a great story that explores some of the lesser known corners of Oz and its boarding Kingdoms. You learn of the Kingdom of Oogaboo and the Metal Kingdom, as well as magical worlds on the opposite side of the globe. A dragon plays an integral part of the story, and a new Dorothy like character, Betsy Bobbins, is introduced as a new heroine. But Dorothy fans do not fear, Dorothy and Ozma make late appearances in the story. I really enjoyed the departure from what we already knew about Oz to meet some new characters and story lines. The story helps to refresh the series.

A Tall Girl's Quality Dream

Boden is a company I discovered about a year ago.It is fantastic because it's clothes are made of quality materials while remaining on trend for the season. But perhaps the best part of the company is their attention to all women's bodies. They not only carry long lengths in pants but also in skirts and dresses, which is very uncommon but makes a huge difference for us tall girls. Personally, I have a very ample booty, which I love, but need longer dresses and skirts to sufficiently cover. I may love my butt, but I have no desire for my skirts to be riding up to high during ever, especially during the work day.

About a year ago I purchased a pencil skirt in pique fabric from Boden in long lengths and fell in love with it. I was then able to get it tailored so that it falls a little longer in the back than the front and the tailor commented that they had more than enough fabric to accomplish the task (which almost is never the case).

Right now Boden is offering a spring sale; a lot of their items are anywhere from 10% to 40% off. If you want to give the company a try, this is a great opportunity to try it out. Below are just a few of my favorites from the Boden Spring line.

Can't Live Without.. Boden Spring Favorites by preppy-lizzy featuring a polka dot shirt

1. I love the floral pattern of this button down shirt. The delicate pattern paired with the gingham pattern on the interior of the color and the cuffs is a nice detail. The floral pattern also reminds me of the Liberty collaboration with J.Crew, but at a much more reasonable price tag.

2. I adore this skirt. I love the mustard color and that its a nice a-line without being overly flowy or tight fitting.

3. These pointy slingbacks are different because they are flats and not kitten heels. They are really a nice alternative for those that prefer to wear flats or are on their feet all day. They also come in a ton of colors which means you can easily find a pair to work into your wardrobe.

4. This shell is just such a great staple piece and with it being on sale it's even nicer. It comes in a few other colors if you wanted to branch away from white, but I think this is one of those staples every girl needs in her closet.

Visit BodenUSA.com today! I promise you won't be disappointed with the clothes. And they have a fantastic return policy. They remind me of Zappos in that arena.

What's in My Bag? Whistler Edition

This evening Dan and I are off to Whistler to meet my parents and sister for a weekend ski trip. Immediately when packing for a ski trip you realize how many more bags you have if you are traveling with your own equipment. At the same time, nothing can beat hitting the slopes with gear you know well.

So what's in my bags for this trip? Well lots of Lululemon for one thing. They make amazing base layers and still look great when you peel off ski pants or a jacket in the lodge. I've also got my ski gear including my helmet and new googles. I've skiied with a helmet since I was 3 and I can't hit the slopes without it. I also packed my mini sorel boots in houndstooth and a great J.Crew sweater and flannel for nights out. It's a ski town, so I am going for a more relaxed, snowy look.  Of course, I'll also have my kindle, laptop and iPhone (gotta be able to find one another on the slopes). I hope I didn't forget anything! What would you take on a ski trip?

What's in my Bag? Whistler Edition by preppy-lizzy featuring skinny fit jeans

Goodbye iPhone 4, Hello 5 - DIY Monogrammed Case

Yesterday was a sad day. I officially had to retire my iPhone 4. It had some corrupted software that could not be restored, but at least I was upgrade eligible. Also turns out that Apple has a pretty great recycling program where you can get an Apple Gift Card for your old products. I filled out the paperwork online last night and got quoted $170 for my 4. Pretty decent deal all in all.

I really liked my 4 and I have to say I am most upset about having to buy all these stupid adapters and losing my awesome cases for my 4. I had a great monogrammed case that is no longer, as well as a super cute Kate Spade iPhone wristlet and neoprene Kate Spade case. Both are headed for eBay, as I can't use them anymore. Boo.

The Apple Store did at least have some cute case options available, and since I am leaving for Vancouver tomorrow for a weekend ski trip, I knew I didn't want to risk no case on the new phone while I waited for a new monogram case. Instead I decided to make my own!

I got this super cute blue and white stripped Kate Spade hard shell case and then went on Etsy and ordered an adorable vinyl monogram sticker that is iPhone sized.

Source: Apple Store

The stickers come compliments of MEEsDesigns on Etsy and are super affordable ($3.00 each). You also get to customize your choice of style and color, which make sit super personal to you. I got a Circle Monogram in hot pink. I am looking forward to seeing it with the turquoise.

Source: MEEsDesigns

She also makes really cute monogrammed stickers for your iPhone chargers so you always know which one is yours. I could see this being super handy as chargers are always getting mixed up. And at $2.50 each, they are totally a bargain. I got one in turquoise, like the photo, to match my case.

Source: MEEsDesigns

I am so looking forward to my stickers arriving, I can't wait to personalize my case a little bit more! I particularly like monogramming tech stuff since it's too easy to get stuff mixed up. I have a monogram case for my MacBook already, but I am thinking about getting some stickers for my notebooks, iPad and MacBook as well. Who doesn't love a good monogram?

Downton Abbey: Already Anxious for Season 4 (Spoilers)

Wow what a season finale last night. I really enjoyed the change of scenery with most of the family visiting Donegal castle in the Highlands of Scotland. The landscape shots were spectacular and it was exciting to see how the staff interacted on the road as well as back home with the family out of town. Not sure how you could love Anna or Carson anymore before this episode but Anna's reeling in honor of Mr. Bates and Carson caring for Baby Sybil stole my heart.

Source: Jane Austen's World

Source: Tumblr

I found it an intriguing decision to flash forward a year and half from the previous season, but since the second to last episode had its own season finale feeling, it didn't seem like they had left anything unresolved in the year plus lapse. I do wonder that since Dan Stevens, who plays Matthew Crawley, had announced his departure from the show a few months ago, the writers pushed the timeline up for the season finale on purpose.

SPOLIERS: So let's get to the big elephant in the room. Mary and Matthew successfully produced a male heir at the end of the episode and they left us with the image of a perfect family. Matthew, the doting father and husband, reminded us all why we adore him. But in true Downton fashion, happiness is only temporary. Just like Bates was unjustly imprisoned right after he and Anna wed, like Sybil died of birthing complications after giving birth to her and Tom's daughter and first child, Matthew was ripped from Mary, dying in a horrific car accident on his way to Downton from the hospital to fill the family in on his and Mary's wonderful news. While it was a definitive end to the Matthew storyline, it leaves me concerned about how Lady Mary will react to the news. Also did anyone notice that Baby Boy Crawley was not named in the episode? My money is on him being named Matthew after his father, just as Sybil was named for her mother.

Source: Daily Mail UK

Source: Mirror TV

Now all there is to do is wait for season 4. 2014 is so far away!

Nautical and Preppy Perfection at Old Navy

Friday night I headed to the benefit brow bar to get my eyebrows waxed (I'll post on how amazing the brow bar is another time) and on a whim I decided to stop in Old Navy on my way to the car. Seriously I am so glad that I did. I have always liked the fit of Old Navy shorts and their price point is awesome (under 20 bucks a pair), but the last few times I had been in the store I had been disappointed with their selection and their fits.

I am glad to report that Old Navy is back to being a great option for some low cost options. I will also say that their shorts this season are fantastic and remind me of J.Crew's, especially the embroidered ones.

I was able to get some great deals Friday, especially with their card member sale of 20% off. I also had a $10 rewards card on my Banana Card. So for around $120 I got a ton of great stuff for spring and summer in LA and was able to refresh my shorts collection (I had a few old pairs that were ready for retirement).

Love Love Loving... Old Navy by preppy-lizzy featuring twill shorts

1. Printed Chambray Shirt: This shirt is so great. Light denim with mini navy anchors printed all over it. Love it! Thanks Nautical by Nature for cluing me in to this shirt!
2. Everyday Printed Khaki Shorts (5"): These are so perfect for both the nautical fans and preppy fans. They are embroidered with mini blue anchors. So fun!
3. Perfect Khaki Shorts (5"): I love the mint color and the polka dots. Both are so on trend and fun for the spring and summer months.
4. Everyday Khaki Shorts (3.5"): This color is even better in person. The blue is so fresh and easy to pair with almost any color.
5. Everyday Printed Khaki Shorts (3.5): These shorts are great. They are embroidered with tiny seahorses. What's even better is they are less than half the price of the same J.Crew style.
6. Everyday Khaki Shorts (5"): Love the hot pink color. I was able to get the same shorts in the 3.5" inseam in store, but online only the 5" inseam is available.

Tasty Treats: Valentine's Quiche Lorraine

Valentine's Day was a great success at our house this year. Because we celebrate our dating anniversary only two days before Valentine's Day, I have decided to cook a special dinner for Valentine's Day the last two years.

Last year I made Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Popper Mac and Cheese (I'll share the recipe for that one another time) which ended up being a huge success. It is delicious and totally decadent, perfect for Valentine's day or a Thanksgiving side.

So in an effort to find a way to top myself this year, I decided to try and make one of Dan's favorite dishes, Quiche Lorraine. A quiche is basically an egg and cheese frittata in a pie crust in which you can add your favorite fillings. Quiche Lorraine specifically is filled with either bacon or ham. Personally, in our house we use bacon because bacon is better in everything.

Recipe:
1 pie crust (I use the prepared Pillsbury pie crusts you can find in the refrigerated section)
8oz Swiss Cheese, shredded
2 Tbsp Flour
3 Large Eggs
1 1/2 Cups Half and Half
1/4 Cup Yellow Onion, Chopped
8 slices of bacon

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Place 8 slices of bacon on baking sheet covered in parchment paper
Let bacon cook for approximately 20 minutes (or until your preferred crispiness)
Chop into small pieces.

Prep pie crust following instructions on box.
Using either a tart or pie pan, unroll pie crust and mold around edges of the pan.

While bacon is cooking, shred 8oz block of Swiss cheese. (I use my food processor, but a grater works as well)
In medium bowl, mix shredded cheese and flour.

In separate large bowl, beat eggs, half and half, chopped onions and chopped bacon.
Add cheese mixture to large bowl and mix.

Pour mixture into pie crust.

Bake quiche at 350 degrees for 40 minutes.
Make sure filling is set and the top is lightly browned.

Enjoy! We paired our quiche with cheese and baguette and individual flourless chocolate cakes from Whole Foods. We also christened our Wedding China and silverware. So exciting :)

Oh and I should note that Dan was successful at finding me peonies again this year. He said he couldn't let me down after my Valentine's Day Gift Guide post (here).

Margaret Elizabeth Flash Sale

Margaret Elizabeth is retiring their one of kind brooch style necklaces and having a huge flash sale through February 18th at midnight. The great thing about these pieces is that each one is exclusive and the brooches are some beautiful vintage pieces. A few of my favorites are still available. Snag one up before they are gone forever! Every girl needs a great statement necklace or two.

Source: Margaret Elizabeth

Annelise 

The Lisbeth

Beach Wanderlust

With temperatures looking like they are going to spike into the 80s this weekend, I am starting to feel like I have a huge case of beach wanderlust. Living in Southern California, almost any weekend can be bikini season and it an be intimidating for sure. But, I am starting to feel really great with my workout routines and as I start to see some weight come off, I am getting excited about the new swimsuits I could be rocking come June.

I have found that I am loyal to a particular few brands of swimsuit, particularly J.Crew over the years. But in the last year I have started to branch out and I have discovered that Victoria's Secret has some great options for us busty girls. I love that their bandeau tops run through DD and are true to your bra size rather than S, M and L; they are one of the only brands that run that large.

My perfect beach day includes my Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair, my kindle, a big bottle of water, a monogrammed beach towel and the perfect swimsuit and nautical cover up. What does your beach day look like?

Beach Wanderlust by preppy-lizzy featuring rainbow shoes

Trina Turk Spreading Some Love - Compliments of Sarah

Today's content comes by way of my friend, sorority sister and bridesmaid, Sarah.

Trina Turk is having a great sale with items up to 60% off. Trina is known for her great prints and figure flattering pieces! Thanks so Sarah to pointing out such great options!!
1.This dress is a perfect LBD but also comes in Red. The great news is there are TONS of sizes in both colors still available and the dress is upwards of 50% off!
2. This blouse is super flattering and comes in TONS of colors and sizes (something available for everyone). Besides red, there are great options in teal and cobalt. Throw on some skinny jeans, flats and statement earrings and you are ready for a night out.
3. Love this print from Trina Turk. Also this shape is super flattering on tons of body shapes.
4. This is a great deal on a super gorgeous coat and it comes in both bright red and camel. A classic shape in either color, both options make this coat versatile for almost any style.
5. Love this sequin dress. The color is beautiful (very 2013) and it's casual yet fun at the same time.
6. This dress is so pretty in person and besides the great red color, has a nice pattern to the fabric. Great for Valentine's Day or a spring/summer wedding.

Love Love Loving... Trina Turk Sale by preppy-lizzy featuring trina turk

Happy Valentine's Day

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Today is a day to celebrate loving yourself as well as those in your life. Like Tom Haverford would say, "Treat Yourself!" Enjoy the day and celebrate anyway you want.
I am looking forward to cooking my husband dinner and having a picnic in our living room, our own little Valentine's Day tradition. How will you celebrate? A bottle of bubbly? A new pair of shoes? Spread the love around today!

Happy Valentine's Day by preppy-lizzy featuring deborah lippmann nail polish