Left Turn Yield on Green

Cozy and Warm

2011-11-17T20:54:00.000-08:00

It was a dark and stormy morning.... Actually, it was a cold, damp, and raining morning when my very cooperative friend, Amy, and I ventured to Old Navy* to check out their winter coats. It was definitely one of those St. Louis days that reminds you that a warm coat is needed but it was also gray enough that you also want it to be fun!

I was in desperate need of a new coat. My last peacoat is beginning to show that it's over 5 years old. (Is there such a thing as coat years?!) And it's definitely showing that it's been to several countries, states, and cities and shoved in one too many suitcases. So off to start our search!

For over an hour, Amy and I criss crossed across the unusally quiet Ladue location of Old Navy and tried on just about every coat in the store! We found tons of great ones and much was debated. Fun or function? Style or flexibility? Eventually we took two different paths.

I decided I need a basic coat that will keep my tush warm and look good with both pants and dresses. This is the sassy one I ended up with and I got a fun scarf to dress it up! Amy ultimately decided to go for a bold and fun option and scored this fun peacoat.

We both left happy, warm, and a little more stylish!!

*These coats were provided to us by Old Navy through Crowdtap. The only compensation we received were the coats themselves and the fun we had. And the warm tushies to follow!

This blog will resume very shortly.....

2011-11-17T13:26:00.001-08:00

Hiatus would be an understatement but I will be back with tales of yielding to green and more very soon. If anybody is even still here!

You've Got to Be Kidding Me

2010-01-04T00:31:00.000-08:00

It never ceases to amaze me how some people do not realize appropriate attire for certain situations. My parents, especially my father, raised my siblings and me to dress for where we were going and who we were going to be around. He believed that no matter how much money you have you can always present yourself in a clean, well kept manner. You know, the whole Sunday best mentality of generations past. I am thankful for this lesson and hope to pass it on to my children one day.

Well, tonight I was watching the episode of Iron Chef America where the compete at the White House. The opening scene is Emeril Lagasse, Bobby Flay, and Mario Batali walking across the White House lawn. Reminiscint of the great flip flop scandal of 2005, Chef Batali wearing those ridiculous orange crocs he apparently never takes off. I mean really? Were you raised a barn? This the White House and the First Lady is going to be meeting with you, show some respect.

Fail...

2010-01-04T00:21:00.000-08:00

Remember this post? Well, my goal didn't really happen. I hate to say fail because in the grand scheme of things, it is not that big of a deal. It has taught me to try to make small steps in some of the goals I have for the New Year. Recently, I have realized a lot of things need to change in my life. I've been thinking about how my life has unfolded in the past few years and where I want to be in the next few years. All of this thinking has made me realize one thing, I'm the only one that can affect the outcome. Not my husband, not my family, and not my friends, although they are all more than supportive. The next three or four months are going to be tough and raw at times but I need and more importantly, want, to change.

There you go, I put it out there. Now I need to follow through. Here's to a good year.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T21:19:00.000-08:00

Okay, so blogging has not been what I had hoped it would be. Changing this is on my "list" for this year. Here's a great picture to start your New Year. (Taken and duly inspired from Newlywedisms by Bryn.)

I May Be the Only One But....

2009-12-10T19:41:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Michael Voltaggio! He is the new Top Chef! Just about everyone I know wanted Kevin to win and while I think he is very talented and competent, he just didn't bring it to the finale. This is one of the few times in these competition type shows that I truly felt that all of the finalists deserved to be there. I'm sure the phone is ringing off the hook at both Brian and Kevin's restaurants this weekend.

My 8 Books in 30 Days

2009-12-10T18:49:00.001-08:00

Ok, I've combed my bookshelves and picked out the 8 books that I plan on reading. I think having them picked out will help me roll from one book to the next one with less down time. I'm excited to start tonight and hopefully this feeling will continue!

Here it is:

1. Holidays on Ice, David Sedaris: I've been wanting to read this book for years and just haven't gotten around to buying it. I picked it up last week and look forward to a few good laughs that will be much needed in the coming weeks.

2. Cooked, Jeff Henderson: I've read many good reviews of this memoir and I love books written by chefs. Cooking is such an interesting way of expressing oneself and the restaurant industry is a very unique way of life.

3. Annie Dunne, Sebastian Barry: This is one of about 15 books I got in the big summer clearance at Borders. I like historical fiction and I love reading about places that are familiar to me. It's a shorter book so it should be easy to get into.

4. The Middle Place, Kelly Corrigan: I bought this book right before a good friend was diagnosed with breast cancer. Honestly, I've put off reading it because I'm afraid of facing this issue.

5. All Names Have Been Changed, Claire Kilroy: I picked this up on my notorious visits to Eason's in Dublin.

6. The Last Lecture, Randy Pausch: I might be the last person on Earth to read this book. I'm bringing the tissues.

7. The Death of Conservatism, Sam Tanenhaus: I find political parties and how they evolve in modern society fascinating.

8. Brooklyn, Colm Toibin: This came highly recommended from a producer at RTE during a late night talk about reading this summer. I immediatley went to Eason's the next day to pick it up. I'm surprised my bags weren't overweight on the way home!

Well, there you go. Now I'm accountable to myself for this goal. I'll update on how I'm doing and with reviews as I go.

Trying to Get Back into Reading as a Habit

2009-12-08T23:42:00.000-08:00

I used to be a voracious reader, especially as a child. Since I got married I don't read as much because I prefer to read at night, in bed. My husband does not like the light on and so we have to compromise a bit. I've tried to use a small book light but it's just not the same. One of my problems is I also love TV. A lot. I'm trying to break myself of the habit of going to TV instead of reading. So in light of some other goals I'm trying to set for myself, I'm starting with a reading goal. Eight books in 30 days, that's attainable right?

Let me also say that this month includes my sister's birthday, my mom's birthday, Christmas, and New Year's. Oh, and my husband is coming home from being away for almost 2 1/2 months.

This 30 days will start on Thursday Dec. 10. I'm going to work on compiling my 8 books. I want to vary the titles with some good and meaningful titles and a couple sheer entertainment. Comments welcome!

Christmas Cake Virgin...

2009-12-08T23:35:00.000-08:00

This is our third Christmas in a row in the US. In the beginning of our relationship, we had been going back to Ireland every other year. In more recents years it just hasn't been feasible for us. My husband is fine with that because it's such a tough time of year to try to see everyone we want to visit.

That being said, I know he misses many of the Christmas traditions from his family and from Ireland. One of the things he loves most is Christmas Cake and Christmas Pudding. Honestly, I find it revolting. But it's not just about me, is it? So this year I'm going to try to make a Christmas Cake for him. I've emailed some of his aunts and got a recipe and I guess this weekend, I'm going to dive head first into what can only be called an experiment. I really hope it works out!

Things that make you smile...

2009-10-18T21:17:00.001-07:00

I love when you have one of those moments in life that every time you think about it, a smile creeps across your face. I'm having kind of blah day today until I thought about this occurance.

Last year when visiting my in laws in Ireland, my husband and I were taking a walk around Swords Castle. We were staying with his sister in Swords and we just went out for rare (in Ireland) sunny afternoon walk. Swords Castle is situated in a park in the town centre. My husband was curious about the restoration work, so we explored and climbed to the top. It was a great afternoon.

As we were leaving, we saw a young mother pushing a stroller with a toddler following her. The young girl strayed from her mother and pushed open one of the large gates into the castle. She leaned in and shouted, "Shrek? Princess Fiona?" I burst out laughing. It was so sweet and innocent. It just made me smile. And it made me smile even more that this little girl was able to encounter castles on her afternoon walk.

Here's to being single again, at least for a bit!

2009-10-05T00:12:00.000-07:00

I dropped my husband off at the airport today and won't see him for seven weeks. Yep, that's right, seven weeks. It sounds awful but it's child's play compared to the five months he was gone earlier this year. The twist is he comes home for three days only to leave again for three weeks. So, I'm trying to be a bit more positive and productive with my "single" life this time around.

And, the thing is part of me kind of doesn't mind. I mean there are some benefits: I get the whole bed to myself, I don't have to look before sitting on the toilet seat, I can read in bed with light on for as long as I want, I don't have to suffer through History channel military marathons....

Hey, I'm trying to be glass half full about this! What do you look forward to when you have time by yourself at home? Any ideas to keep me busy?

Must Read

2009-10-03T22:35:00.000-07:00

We've all dealt with self-image issues from time to time. I working on trying to get back to taking better care of myself in many areas. I've been inspired by Sarah over at Sarah Gone Wild. She's worked through a lot of tough stuff and accomplished so much. She rocks! And I get at least one good laugh per post, so I love reading her blog.

This recent post on health and weight is a must read. I whole heartedly agree with everything she said. I won't even try to say it better, just go over there and read this post.

Caution, this blog will resume soon...

2009-10-03T22:34:00.000-07:00

I've been totally slacking on this blog. I've decided to rededicate myself. I know, you're waiting with baited breath.

3 years ago.....

2009-04-26T18:45:00.000-07:00

So, I'm at home tonight fighting a sinus migraine and allergies and lounging watching House Hunters International on HGTV. The couple featured is looking for a house on Grand Cayman. Aaah!! Three years ago, my husband and I were honeymooning on that very island. What I wouldn't give to be back there right now. Oh, I'd love to have my husband home with me as well. Oh, well duty calls!

I promise tomorrow, it is coming...

2009-03-05T21:26:00.000-08:00

Jamie sent me my question for the 5 questions quiz that's been going around. I've been fighting a cold this week so I'll post my answers tomorrow.

Go 'Cane Go!

2009-01-07T00:39:00.000-08:00

This is going to have to be quick if I'm going to make sense because I've already taken my ambien. I was just really trying to post within 24 hours of Jamie posting!

Well, here it it, the Tulsa Golden Hurrican won its second straight GMAC Bowl against #22 Ball State!

Go 'Cane Go! T who? TU!!!

IHO of President Bush

2008-12-15T20:56:00.000-08:00

Hi my name is...

2008-12-14T23:15:00.000-08:00

Hello, my name is Leftturnyielder and I'm addicted to Google Reader. Yep, third night this week that I have spent multiple hours reading numerous blogs. I've crossed over to the dark side. Good thing my husband has been out of town so he hasn't discovered my addiction. Yet.

Seriously?!

2008-12-14T22:59:00.000-08:00

Is this really what we have come to in our world? Today, President Bush made a surprise trip to Iraq and during a news conference with the Iraqi media, he was pelted with a pair of shoes. The reporter was threw the shoes in protest of what the war in Iraq has done to the country and the people. I am by no means passing judgement of anyone involved in the incident. I just find it disturbing and yet amusing that this is what a news conference with, supposedly, one of the most powerful world leaders has come to.

Am I the Only One?

2008-12-11T09:57:00.000-08:00

Well, I tried to post this three times last night but Blogger did not agree it was time. I'll give a go one more time.

Am I the only one who has not read the Twilight series? Or even worse, has absolutely no interest in them? None at all. I feel somewhat left out of all the talk but I could care less. I love to read as well so this is somewhat unusual for me.

I am, however, reading an absolutely hilarious book right now, Such a Pretty Fat. This is Jen Lancaster's third memoir and I find myself laughing out loud when reading any of her books. She's freaking hilarious. I definitely identify with her, although I'm not sure I should admit that in public! Seriously put her books on your Christmas list, you won't be disappointed, unless you have no sense of humor. And then I just don't want to know you anyways.

'Tis the season...

2008-12-10T23:14:00.000-08:00

For my skin, especially on my hands, to turn dry and cracked. It painful and wretched looking. It's better than last year, when I was on IV steriods through my PICC line. Yeah, that was fun. Anyway, tonight I had to resort to desperate measures. I first used one of my favorite products, OPI Jojoba scrub, then I slathered my hands in Aquaphor and am now sporting latex gloves. Too bad my husband isn't in town to appreciate the look. If I was a really good blogger like Kristal, I would have an embarassing picture to accompany this post. I'm not so I'll reserve that for another day!

Oh, and guess what's going on outside my window right now. The neighbor's dogs are barking. Really, insanity!

The Dogs are Barking...

2008-12-09T23:18:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I love dogs. Really, I do. We've always had dogs growing up and I would love to have one now but my husband don't keep regular hours. I don't think it's fair to a dog to be gone like we are on a regular basis.

That being said, I feel like I'm being driven insane by the dogs next door. We live in a great two family building in South City. We love our neighborhood, we choose to live in an urban setting. We're used to the sirens that race up and down Grand going towards the nearby hospital. However, the dogs that are next door are too much. For over three hours tonight all I've heard is the ridiculous creature next door howling. It's so loud that all the other dogs in the neighborhood like to join in his song. This isn't the first time either. This has been going on for over a year now. The animal has waken up at all hours of the night no less than six times, and kept me from actually sleeping way more times than I can count. Seriously, if you know me, you know you don't mess with me when I'm sleeping. My husband doesn't even dare do that!

I came home tonight all ready to read my new book and I couldn't even concentrate. I had to go from the bedroom into the living room and I still had to turn the TV up to hear over the barking. We've tried talking to the owner, no joy there, and the police don't seem to be much help. I don't know what to do but I might be driven to extreme measures. I'm not sure I'll be able to be held responsible for my actions. I can use insanity as a defense right?

Victory for America!!

2008-11-04T23:20:00.000-08:00

Well, finally before I go to bed on this historic night I can breath a sigh of relief. One, that's it's over and we finally just have an answer. Second, that so many Americans were energized enough to get out and really start a grassroots movement. And third, that a record number of people got out to have their voices heard. The finally felt that they too are a part of this process and joined in with seasoned voters. Young, old, black, white, latino, gay, straight.......we are all Americans and now we must move forward with this momentum to actually make the change we desire. We need to continue to speak up and make our voices heard. It's the only way. Take part in the process......

Notice the Clocks...

2008-11-03T00:45:00.000-08:00

If you scroll down to the bottom of my blog (it shouldn't take long), you'll see four clocks. I love looking at all of them, it's like seeing what's going on in my loved ones lives all at once. You see, you may or may not know that I have family spreading from San Francisco all the way to Dublin and beyond. The four clocks represent the cities were my closest family members make their homes, San Francisco, St. Louis, New York, and Dublin. The span is over five thousand miles, but somehow glancing at those clocks let me know when Riley is going to school, when PJ is taking a bath, when Michael is getting up for a run or ride, or when Kevin is leaving for work or coming home to the nearest bar.

You see, right now I know that Katie and Jack are getting off to school and Katie is excited because it was her 10th birthday this weekend. She's bursting at the seams to tell everyone at school that her dad took her to Manchester, England to see a Man United game. This is a way to keep us all connected amidst the time, the distance, and everyone's busy schedules.

It may not seem like much to others but it's a simple way for me to feel connected to my family. And these days it that or Facebook!

A Work in Progress...

2008-10-21T02:56:00.000-07:00

This blog just like myself are both a work in progress. It's going to take me some time to figure it all out. Hopefully less time than it's taking me to figure myself out! Comments, questions, concerns, all are welcome.

Hopefully I'll have the swing of things soon and regular posting will begin.

This is a test...This is only a test...

2008-06-20T22:13:00.000-07:00

Now, if you live in the city of St. Louis this would be followed by sirens and a very Orwellian announcement through the city's weather public address system. Creepiest. Thing. Ever.

I digress. This is a test of this blogging system. Please keep you hands and arms in the train at all times for your safety. Soon, we will resume never scheduled blogging. (If I can figure this all out.)