Weekly Wrap Up: Waffle House and Psychopaths

I'm starting a new thing here on the ol' blog where I recap the highs and lows of the week every friday.

I love being able to look back at particular moments in my life because life happens so fast. I also wanted to post about more than just my weekend, (like I've done before) so I decided I will recap the entire week!

I know it sounds like it's more for me than you

but I mean.... It is my blog after all! ;)

(in case you're wondering, I got the idea to do this here, )

(my eldest brother and I)

1. This past monday was my sweet sister-in-laws birthday! We celebrated by eating one of her favorite meals, fresh caught salmon and halibut. It was divine. We finished the evening off with Sprinkles cupcakes (yum) and a major discussion about the VMAs. It was nice. 

Happy 22nd Birthday Holly!

2.

Ummmm... Yeah.

You know that time in everyone's life where you run out of gas on the highway and pull over asap and end up at Waffle House?

Oh you don't? 

Well that happened. 

Yeah. My wonderful, beautiful mother had a rental car (long story) didn't realize that not every car reminds you with a loud noise when you're running low on fuel.

*palm hits forehead*

3. 

Like I've said, I started school this week. 

I'm taking 16 hours (5 classes) plus a lab for my biology course and observation hours for student teaching.

I have to admit, I'm a little overwhelmed. 

but I know I am a good student and I will make it through successfully! 

So far I'm loving my creative writing class and my growth and development class. 

In writing, we get to actually send our final 'papers' in to a publisher! How cool is that?!?!

Right now I'm thinking I will finish up my story and submit that.

I'll keep you posted. 

and as far as the G&D class, I get to have my own virtual child. Yep. I get to raise my very own child from conception to 20+ yrs and get graded on it.

and if I screw up royally and totally ruin this poor computer child's virtual life, I fail.

I'm pretty scared about that. 

(I should mention I kill every plant I try to keep)

4.

Oh. My. Goodness. 

This book. You guys, for real.

It is so good! Just when you think you have it figured out, you're wrong. waayyyyy wrong. and just when you think you start tp figure it out again, you're wrong once again!

It is brilliant and I couldn't put it down. 

I'd recommend it to someone who doesn't mind cursing, blood & guts and looking into the brain of a psychopath. 

Have a good weekend guys !

(minus the psychopaths)

What I Wore Wednesday

WHAT!?!? 

Yep. you read that right. 

I, as in me, am doing What I Wore Wednesday again. 

I know. There was a very long pause since I last did this. 

I could bore you with an excuse, but basically I went through this stage of thinking that by posting pictures of me everyday kinda makes me feel like a shallow narcissist, who begs for attention. I certainly don't want to seem that way, 'cause I'm not. 

but, I've gotten over it, and I figured I needed a post and I kinda dressed up this past weekend, so I thought I'd share. 

(whew, that paragraph felt like I didn't stop to take a breath...)

*Please excuse the crappy wonderful quality of my cell phone pictures*

I've only got two outfits today, but I promise I do get dressed on the other 5 days. 

Sunday:

We had a baby shower at this swanky hotel downtown, so here's what I wore:

It was hotter than hades that day, but then again, that's old news seeing that I live in Texas. 

Top and Skirt are new from LOFT (Couldn't miss out on the 40% off sale!)

shoes- goodwill

earrings-forever 21

purse-gift

This is how I feel...

....after my first day of class:

Cause you know, that'd be really nice. 

Back To Class

Soooooo....

I officially start class today. BOO!

Yeah, I'm so not ready for it, but it's here. 

This happens to be my last semester before I graduate with my associates degree!

I have to say that I am definitely ready to move on, but I am completely and utterly clueless as to what I do beyond that. I know I am going to school to get my bachelors, but I don't know where! There are way too many choices. 

Do you ever feel like you just wish there was a bright flashing neon arrow that tells you exactly where your next step is?

Yeah. I'm lost. 

Anyways, this year I am taking 16 hours (!!!!) which is 5 classes. 

I am excited about three of them. 

( Intro to teaching, Pediatric Growth and Development, Creative Writing)

and deathly afraid of the other two.

(College Algebra, Biology)

I am the worst at math, and I haven't taken a formal math class in 4 years. 

{In fact, I'm so bad at math, I had to use a calculator to add that up!}

^ Pretty much describes everything ^

But, I will get through it. 

and as far as the first day? Well as long as my professors don't make us do this:

then, I'm good. 

*Introvert problems*

Oh, I forgot to mention the worst thing about my schedule this semester. 

I broke the cardinal rule of college students.

I actually signed up for an 8am class, 

which just so happens to be Algebra.

Yeah it sucks.

but it seemed like a good idea at the time....

I have a feeling I am going to regret my choice about three days in. 

But in my defense, it was the only option I had that would fit with my work schedule!

but hey! On the bright side, I get to use all of my new pens and pencils! 

I know I'm a nerd, but that's seriously the best feeling ever (especially on the first day).

I can't be the only one who feels this way!?!?!

In fact, as a kid, the school supplies aisle was always my favorite. 

{which is how I kinda knew I was destined to be a teacher.}

But just the thought of that makes me think of this ecard:

Yeah. Story of my life. 

The Lake

The other day, while I was rummaging through an old scrapbook, I found a poem taped to a page.
I had completely forgotten that this poem was my favorite thing ever about three years ago! I swear to you, I remember feeling like it spoke directly to my heart, and I'd read it over and over and over again. I just loved it so much! Not only that, but it was one of the most beautiful things I've ever heard in french and I think hearing it in french really made me fall in love with the language itself.
Anyways, when I found it again, I read it and instantly fell back in love. It really is beautiful and is definitely my favorite poem ever. (and I really really like poetry so that's saying a lot!)

But I'll let you be the judge :
{and I'll spare you the french version and just put english ;) }

{Translation found here}

The Lake

So then, forever pushed toward new shores like this,
swept away into eternal night without return
on the ocean of the ages-- can we never
cast anchor for a single day?

O lake! the year is scarcely over,
and near the beloved waters that she should have seen again,
look! I've come alone to sit on this stone
where you saw her sitting!

You groaned the same way then under these deep rocks;
you broke the same way on their torn flanks;
the wind threw the foam from your waves the same way
on her adored feet.

One evening, do you remember? We were floating in silence;
on the waves, beneath the sky, there was nothing to hear but
the distant sound of oarsmen beating in rhythm
against your harmonious waves.

Suddenly unearthly accents
came echoing from the enchanted shore:
the water listened, and the voice that I love
let fall these words:

"O time, suspend your flight! and you, happy hours,
suspend your race:
let us savor the fleet delights
of our fairest days!

"Enough unhappy people here beg you--
rush, rush for them;
take their days and the cares that devour them--
forget the happy people.

"But I ask in vain for a few more moments,
time escapes me and flees;
I say to this night: Be slower; and dawn
comes to melt the night.

"Let us love then, let us love! let us revel in
the flying hour-- hurry!
Man has no harbor, Time has no shore;
it flows, and we pass!"

Envious Time, can it be that these euphoric moments,
when love pours out long surges of happiness for us,
fly away from us at the same speed
as the unhappy days?

What! Can't we at least hold on to the traces?
What! gone forever? What! completely lost?
The same Time that gave them, the same Time that erased them,
will never give them back to us?

Eternity, nothingness, Past, dark chasms,
what do you do with the days you engulf?
Speak: will you give us back that sublime ecstasy
that you snatch from us?

O lake! silent rocks! caves! dark forest!
you whom Time spares or can make young again,
beautiful Nature-- keep, keep from that night
at least the memory!

May it be in your rest, may it be in your storms,
beautiful lake, and in the look of your smiling shoreline,
and in these black pines, and in these wild rocks
leaning over your waters.

May it be in the soft wind that shivers and passes,
in the sounds of the lake water lapping your banks,
in the silver-browed star that whitens your surface
with its soft clearness.

May the wind that groans, the reed that sighs,
may the soft scent of your fragrant air,
may everything that is heard, seen or breathed
all say: They loved!

      --Alphonse de Lamartine (1790-1869) fell in love with Julie Charles, a married woman, after rescuing her from drowning in the Lake of Bourget, in the foothills of the Alps. He fell in love with her, but she died soon afterwards. Returning to the lake in 1817, he wrote this poem, his most famous.

Ok, I lied. I have to at least put my favorite stanza in french. 

"Aimons donc, aimons donc ! de l’heure fugitive,
hâtons-nous, jouissons!
L’homme n’a point de port, le temps n’a point de rive ;
il coule, et nous passons!"

 I'll let you try and figure out which one that is :)

{unless you speak french, which would be awkward because then you would, in fact, know. }

Whats your favorite poem?

August's Ipsy Bag

Whew, so after the drama with July's Ipsy bag, I was so relieved to get this month's on time.

I feel like I always say that this was the best one yet, but it really is!

I am so impressed with this bag :)

{sign up for Ipsy here}

1. Pacifica Alight Multi-Mineral BB Cream

What they say: The Alight Multi-Mineral BB Cream hydrates, primes, illuminates, and perfects leaving a sheer bare skin finish. Specialized mineral pigments instantly adjusts to your skin shade allows one color to work for many and can be built up for just the right amount of coverage. Your skin will look natural, dewy, youthful and radiant without looking like you are wearing heavy make-up. 

What I say:

Unfortunately for me, the 'shade matching technology' didn't work and this ended up being way to dark for my skin (even with a tan!), so I gave it to my mom. 

I did try it on my arm and was amazed at how smooth it was. I was really bummed I couldn't use it because it'd be perfect for my days on campus.

2. Michael Todd Jojoba Charcoal Gentle Exfoliating Facial Scrub

What they say:The Jojoba Charcoal Gentle Exfoliating Facial Scrub is formulated using the powers of Jojoba Wax Beads and Activated Charcoal. This mask effectively removes dead skin, impurities and toxins, but is gentle enough for sensitive and acne prone skin types. Jojoba Wax Beads provide gentle exfoliation without leaving microlacerations on delicate skin. Highly absorbent Activated Charcoal penetrates deeply into pores to draw out impurities and toxins. Also refines texture and encourages skin renewal, leaving skin smooth and refreshed. 

What I say: I was most excited to see this product in my bag. Michael Todd has become so popular, so I was really excited to be able to sample some. I love charcoal products for my skin because it really helps get rid of my black heads. I haven't tried this yet, but I plan on using it tonight!

3. Pixi Lash Booster Mascara in Blackest Black

What they say: This unique mascara truly boosts your lashes, giving them a "push-up" effect that lasts all day. The dense, rich formula coats lashes with maximum pigment, for long-lasting full color and the cone-shaped brush coats each lash evenly. Long lasting, smudge-free and waterproof. 

What I say: To be honest, I haven't tried this yet because I literally have several other mascaras I need to use up before they go bad. I like the brush on this, though, and it appears to be a more dry formula, which I like. We will see :)

4. Mica Beauty Eyeshadow Shimmer Powder in Bronze

What they say: MicaBeauty Mineral Eyeshadows are extremely gentle, free of preservatives, chemicals, dyes, talc, oils, and other fillers. With this unique formula, the eyeshadows will look ultra smooth and stay put for hours without creasing or pulling the delicate eye area. Can be mixed with clear lip-gloss, clear mascara, and clear nail polish to add pigment to lips, eyelashes and nails! 

What I say: I'm not a fan of 'loose' products because they are so messy! I really wish this was a pressed eyeshadow because it really is gorgeous. It's almost a metallic bronze color that would look great swiped all over the lid. 

5. Urban Decay Revolution Lipstick in "Anarchy"

What they say:Urban Decay's Pigment Infusion System™ delivers insane color payoff with creamy shine, Maxi-Lip™ plumps and nourishing oils leave lips cushiony soft. Get the color you crave. Addictive to apply (and even more addictive to wear), this creamy formula glides on without dragging or skipping, hugs every curve and gives you a BIG laydown of color. There's a wide range of colors - from gorgeous nudes to bold brights, there’s something for everyone. Our luxe, custom-designed gunmetal tube (lined in dark purple) features organically shaped facets that practically beg to be touched. You’ll want to keep pulling it out of your bag—whether it’s time to reapply or not. 

What I say: OK, so I may have lied earlier because I was super excited when I saw this! I am a big Urban Decay fan, and this lipstick certainly did not disappoint. They don't lie when they say the pigmentation is insane, it really is! The color is pretty and bright, and it feels so good on the lips (like chapstick!) I'm adding these onto my birthday list!

Here are the swatches of the products:

Ipsy, you did it again! It was an awesome bag and I really think I will get good use out of all the products (except the BB cream, but my mom will!)

{You can sign up for Ipsy here}

July's Ipsy Bag

So, as I'm sure you're aware, it's August. 

I never got to post July's Ipsy bag because I just now received it in the mail. {Long story, but it was lost in the mail}

As always, you can sign up for Ipsy here.

Even though it's a couple weeks late, here was July's Glam Bag:

 Overall, it was a really exciting bag! I saw lots of high-end products and a good mix of different products. I didn't like the bag this month, but like always, I could do without the bag anyways and replace that with more products. 

1. BH Cosmetics California Collection Eyeshadows

What they say:This BH Cosmetics makeup palette includes a shade from each of the California Collection palettes: Hollywood, San Francisco, and Malibu. 

What I say:

Initially, I was kind of turned off. I didn't like the shades because I'm more of a natural shadow kind of girl. The pigmentation is not good (see swatches below). I wouldn't recommend these at all. 

2. Benefit's BeneTint

What they say: Benefit's original rose-tinted stain is kiss-proof, see-through color for lips & cheeks that lasts for hours. Naturally sheer & sexy on all complexions...it’s innocent yet provocative. It's loved by celebs, makeup artists and gals around the world. It's the sexiest flush you can get from a bottle! 

What I say:

I have several other samples of Benefits liquid stains, and I rarely ever use them just because I'm not a liquid makeup person (if that even makes sense). I just prefer to be able to quickly apply makeup and I think liquid products take more time than a powder product. 

That being said, I like the color of this one the best, and although it doesn't really show up on my cheeks, it works great as a lip stain. I'm glad to now have this color in my collection!

3. COOLA Mineral Face SPF 20 Unscented Moisturizer

What they say: Keep the sun and environment at bay with this SPF 20 broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen; a clear, Titanium Dioxide based formula (for those who are Zinc sensitive) made with 98% natural ingredients. Organic Acai Oil - high in Omegas-3/6/9, Vitamins B1/2/3, plus antioxidant Vitamins C and E - delivers a powerful defense against aging. Organic Sunflower Seed Extract promotes elasticity while organic Linseed Oil, containing Alpha-Linolenic Acids, reduces redness and irritation. The phyto-protector Plankton Extract rejuvenates, as organic Cucumber Extract calms skin.

This sunscreen is hypoallergenic, paraben-free, ultra sheer, anti-aging, and water resistant for 40 minutes. 
What I say: I so wish I had gotten this sooner because I so could've used it at the beach!

I loooooove that this doesn't have that distinct 'sunscreen' smell, so I feel like I can wear this every day.

I might just have to purchase the full size!

4. Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Renewal Beach Spray Conditioning and Texturizing Spray

(Say that 5x fast)

What they say:

Creates beachy undone texture that looks and feels like you’ve spent a day at the beach. Contains argan oil which helps nourish, protect and heal hair damage. 

What I say: I've yet to actually try this, so I can't really review that aspect, but the smell is amazing. 

I've tried the Not Your Mothers beach spray and hated it and I've tried the Lush Spray and loved it. So it should be interesting to see how this one performs!

5. POP Beauty Pouty Pop Crayon in "Fuchsia Flirt"

What they say:POP's Pouty Pop Crayon nourishes, treats, and adds that perfectly-plumped pop to lips. These extra-nourishing balms gently bounce onto lips creating a plumped & pillowy pout leaving them with luscious, long-lasting colour with a super-smooth texture. Available in six shades.

What I say: I love the concept of lipstick crayons. In fact, everyone I try, I love! 

This one is no exception. The color is good (I wish I got the coral shade!) and pretty pigmented. I love the smell of this the most, it's minty! This is the perfect product to throw in your purse!

and the last thing I received was a bonus... How cool right!

I got this Selena Gomez Nicole by OPI nail polish because a few of my AWESOME readers subscribed to ipsy because of my posts! Thank you, thank you, thank you guys!

Below are the swatches of the products:

(The shadows were swatched several times to reach this color.)

Overall, I really liked this bag! It might've been late, but it was worth it!

Sign up for Ipsy Here

Clothing Styles I Can't Pull Off

Otherwise known as "Busty/Short/Fat-Girl Problems"

Basically this list came about this weekend when I was shopping at LOFT during their 40% off sale. As I was trying on clothes and realized that there are certain styles of clothing that just don't look good on me. 

I'm short, curvy and big chested. It's quite the trifecta, right?

So, I thought I'd share today a few styles that I just can't pull off.

1. Ruffled Tops

via

I would describe my clothing style as eclectic feminine, so this one really kills me. There is nothing more feminine than ruffles! But for me, ruffled tops make my chest like 50X bigger....think Dolly Parton. Ok, Ok, not that big, but you get the idea. 

2. Drop Waist/Cinched Waist at the Hip

Via

When tops or dresses have a cinched waist at the hip, I instantly look heavier. Something about where the waist is cut and (again) my bust that just looks awful on me! I think it's because there is no definition from my bust down so it gives the illusion of a bigger belly.... and who would want that?

3. Oversized Anything

via

This has been a really big trend, especially for fall. Oversized clothing or the 'California Bohemian' look is a trend that I'd love to wear, but I just can't. Being that I am petite, oversized clothes just swallow me. They, once again, make me look way shorter and fatter than I really am. 

4. Boyfriend Jeans

via

Surprise!

Again, oversized clothing doesn't work for me. (See #3) 

Didn't see that coming, did ya ;)

Jeans are no different. I love the idea of throwing on a pair of baggy boyfriend jeans and a baseball tee but it just doesn't work. 

5.  Capris or Ankle Pants

(and Tea-Length Dresses)

via

My height just doesn't work well with anything that cuts at my calves or below. 

They just end up looking like high-waters.

Bummer.

and I'm sure I can think of more, but I'll end with that. 

What are some clothing styles that just don't work for you?

Wearing Your Confidence: Guest Post from Denise @ Deaf Girl Musings

 I'm so excited to share today's guest post with you!

Denise over at Deaf Girl Musings is not only one of my best friends, she also happens to be my Aunt!

We are pretty much 'blogging buddies' so I invited her here to fill in for me while I try to settle back in after my trip!

She's an amazing writer that can make me both laugh and cry at the same time. 

Enjoy! 

* I am so stoked to be a guest blogger on "The Butterfly Effect" as this is hands down, my absolute FAVORITE blog!!! I always look forward to each post as I know I'm going to be learning something whether it be about beauty, fashion, crafting or just plain simple facts of life! One major tip I picked up from "The Butterfly Effect" is that you can look good and not spend a fortune. Seriously, this blog has taught me to try harder at looking my best! I also had the influence of another fashion-minded person! Read on!

One of my very best friends 

in this whole wide world, 

is Emogene. 

I'm in my 40s and she is in her 80s.

Despite the age difference,

we love to hang out together!

Emogene had a career in fashion

and to this day,

she is always "dressed to the nines!"

Even when she puts on a pair of blue jeans

and a t-shirt with tennis shoes

so we can go walking,

she looks like she belongs 

in a magazine.

Emogene & my son, Simon, at an event.

I, on the other hand, was happy 

just to be dressed

on most days. "I'm a Mom!"

I reasoned and used as an excuse

to not try very hard.

However, over the years, Emogene

has taught me a thing or two

about fashion, style and confidence.

I remember picking her up one 

crisp, fall day. We were going to a nursing home

to visit a friend and serve communion. 

I should explain first that

I"m overweight... I've been carrying these extra pounds

ever since I had my first child 17 years ago!

That day, I thought I looked nice. I wore basic black dress pants

with an oversize beige sweater and black flats.

"Oh my," Emogene sighed as she looked me over,

"You are already plump, dear, why would you dress

to make yourself look bigger? I also don't mean

to criticize... but you are not a boring 

person. Why are you wearing boring colors?"

Most people would have felt insulted.

I can assure you that I did not. 

Emogene always speaks in a soft, soothing manner.

She really is super sweet!

I grinned and replied that I simply 

did not have time to fuss over myself.

To which, she put her hand on my arm and said,

"You must make time."

I looked at her quizzically and she explained.

"I think we all owe it to ourselves, to God, 

and really just to everyone, to put forth

our very best appearance when we leave the house."

And that was style lesson number one!

She has since then, taught me other lessons

and has given me tips and advice

for the duration of our friendship.

For example:

"If you define your own individual style

instead of copying someone else,

people will "see" the real you."

Rachel Zoe agrees with Emogene!

And:

"Be confident in your style choices and

be respectful to others about their style choices.

We older gals need to inspire the younger 

chickadees to be the same way."

Along with:

"Just feel good about yourself today. You will glow!

Others will see you shine and they will smile 

which can be your good deed for the day!"

Another good one:

"If you don't like the color of your hair, change it.

That's the fun part of being a lady. We get to change our

hair color, hair styles and play with makeup 

to accentuate our features 

or cover up our less desirable ones. 

We are just like movie stars!"

And the most recent lesson:

Be good to your body.

 Don't be harsh and starve it.

Don't push it to the point of aches and pain 

so that you cannot get up out of bed in the morning.

Eat good food, get some exercise everyday,

dress well so you feel good and pretty,

 then go out to do the Lord's work!"

Needless to say, 

no more basic black dress pants

or oversize beige sweaters for me.

I cannot tell you my exact clothing size

because I really just buy what fits

my body and makes me feel confident

regardless of what number is printed

on that tag. I am risky in color choices

and bold with my accessories.

I'm even known to don 

one of my son's (Simon) fedoras

or even wear a cowboy hat

while gardening or walking the dog.

I still have days where I'm just happy 

to be dressed... but not too many.

Emogene's guidance & The Butterfly Effect's inspiration

 has brought out the "Supermodel" in me.

Peace be with you!

(And many thanks for the invite!)

Whatcha waitin' for and go over and follow Deaf Girl Musings!

and thanks so much Denise for guest posting for me!