Queenies Little Kingdom

My face while riding in the car during a white-out blizzard!

It's really me.  I'm still alive.  It's been a long journey of coughing, aching and nose blowing that I hope and pray is finally getting behind me.  I'm almost embarrassed to admit how tired I am from being sick.  Like, exhausted tired!  Being sick is harsh on the body and sucks every bit of energy out of you.  For the last few weeks, I've probably gotten dressed a handful of times and that's it.  The world probably thanks me for staying in my hole…..

But, I am ready to live again!  I want to join the world and do normal things.  Not that life didn't continue to plug along while I was deep in the trenches of Flumaggedon 2015, just I want to be a normal and active participant in real living like everyone else.  Minus the constant coughing!

While I was down, lots happened:

I traveled with hubby to Grand Rapids, Michigan.  So what that I hung out in the hotel in my pj's!  I was there, we were together and of course, Michigan hit record temps of freezing and the snow was blizzardly dangerous!  Being sick through the adventure was just icing on the cake.  My life is so glamorous!  No, you can't be me!

I think my HOA is out to get me!  No, I'm not being dramatic!  Well, maybe a little.  What else could I think is happening when I receive 2  "courtesy" letters and a visit from a police officer explaining that my HOA lady called him to tow one of our LICENSED and INSURED cars?  Sounds a bit like harrassment, huh?  I'm trying to play it cool, honestly.  But my mama bear is really wanting to fight back!

You can't win when you're fighting THE MAN!  Everybody knows that, right?

Snow.  Lots of snow.  Oh and it was accompanied by lots of very cold temps.

The long awaited flooring finally came in from Home Depot.  Hubby spent most of last night cutting the boxes open to get to the actual boxes of flooring.  Who in the world wraps a box with cardboard and tapes up every inch of it?  It was comical!  I almost thought the man trying to break into the boxes was going to lose his cool!  Okay, he did…..a little!

My fancy pants ring finally came in from being repaired after weeks of living without it.  While I was in Washington, I noticed a loose diamond and it had to be sent away forever to be made new again!  Sadly, they DID NOT call me when it came back in like the clerk assured me when I dropped it off.  I'm just grateful that it was there yesterday when I went in (by chance to check).  No hard feelings lady!  Thank you for my ring!

I purchased the world's scratchiest sheets and even slept on them one night before ripping them off and declaring in my best Scarlett O'Hara voice, "AS GOD AS MY WITNESS……."  I will be taking those evil white straw imposters back!  Sheets are supposed to be a place to dream on not feel like you're being tortured all night!

I cried my eyes out over the most incredible (it's rated R) movie!  By chance, I was lying miserably on the couch when it came on.  I decided to watch a few minutes just to see what it was all about and before 15 minutes went by….I knew that I had just discovered something incredible.  It is now one of my favorite movies.  I loved it that much!  PS- my hubby was no stronger than I was, big tears!  The movie?  About Time

I caught my oven on fire baking a lasagna.  Okay, it wasn't my fault that the element decided to flame up and burn out.  However, it was a little scary for a second.  All is well, Superhubby ordered a new part and it will be working again soon.  Rats!  I was a little excited thinking about going out for a great Japanese dinner! 

My other favorite favorite show came back on!  THE VOICE!!!  I missed the first part on Monday but while watching it on Tuesday night, I realized the whole time I watch this show — I SMILE!!   Like, huge cheek hurting smile!  I love every single detail!

I've been reading the book The Women of Duck Commander and I love it!  These women are amazing!  They each have incredible testimonies and in the book talk very openly about their lives as Robertson women.  Love it!  Don't want it to end!

That's enough to assure you I've been living while I thought I was dying, right?  All is well.  If I don't get moving and hit the grocery store with some gusto in the next few minutes….I may miss my chance as MORE SNOW is on its way and I hate driving in scary weather.

See the roads?  Yea, me either.  This is why I'm making the face up top!  I've been on 3 CAN'T SEE THE ROAD trips in the last 10 days!

Hope you've had a great week and thanks for not writing me off forever while I was out sick!

Well, I really believed that I would "feel better tomorrow" for this entire week.  Every single day, this death illness has progressed into something a little more unbearable.  I am convinced that I have crossed over into the world of pneumonia at this point.  The congestion and the coughing (yea, that came back with an evil vengeance) have jumped to a whole new level of misery.  And yes, if you are wondering….I am a barrel of fun to be around right now.  So, leave.  Or stay.  There are no spreading of germs through blog reading but the whining and complaining might bring you down. 

However, I do have some ideas for taking it easy and relaxing that go very well with Fashion Friday.  I'm a professional, so you can trust me when I say…..every outfit a person wears can be cute.  Even the stuff we lounge around in, ok?  Let's get on it, shall we?

First off, the one thing that I always have in my hang around the house arsenal is a sweater.  This long and stretchy sucker is perfect to throw over a favorite t-shirt.  It's on sale at Kohl's right now for $25

Juicy Courture Lurex French Terry Sweater

I'm probably the last person you'll see at Walmart wearing yoga pants or pj's but when I'm at home….that rule goes out the window.  I love being free from the tight binding pinch of REAL CLOTHES and anything stretchy works as clothes to me when I'm in the privacy of my own pad.  Plus, you never know when you're going to need to do some high kicks or stretches!  Right?

For the Sally O'Malley in me, these will work just fine.  Again, Kohl's and they are on sale too for $30.80  –  Kohl's is also having a $10 off of $30 deal right now.  So, basically these babies are about $20.

Tek Gear Core Essentials Shapewear

Perhaps you are someone who can get away with wearing whatever and tights are your thing.  I'm a bit more self-conscience because of having the babies and all (what?  yes they're all young adults….but my body still thinks I just had them!)  These are really cool and a very trendy item to have when you want to look like you are a work-out machine.  A little pricey at $54 but they are Adidas and you pay when a quality company has their name on it.

Adidas Ultimate ClimaLite Print tights

In case I have lead you astray with all that work-out wear let me reign you back in with the reality that most of the time I am wearing pj's when I am home.  The work-out clothes are just another option.  My first choice….is pj's!

These Sonoma printed pajamas are the ultimate in comfy.  Plus, they are on sale!!  $16

Maybe you're super fancy and sweatpants are your thing.  I don't know.  These have a lot going for them; cute cut, stylish color and a bit trendy.  I don't like paying $79 for sweats but I could make an exception here.  Afterall, I'm looking for the most comfortable pant, right?

Bench Utizize Sweatpant

There's one thing for certain, when I get home SLIPPERS are my #1 item to wear.  My family just feels weird walking around with bare naked feet.  Slippers are warm, comfortable and versatile.  If I need to walk outside with my dog, I can wear my slippers and still feel all gussied up.  Oh, come on!  You know slippers can act as shoes too!

This is the FitFlop Cuddler slipper.  It costs a pretty penny but if you're like me and wear slips (that's what we call them in our fam) they're worth a little investment.  I can usually get a lot of life out of my slips.  So paying a little more works for me.  This pair is around $100 dollhairs.  NOTE:  I only buy them on sale!

SOCKS!!  I love socks!  I can't wear slips without them!  I usually wear fuzzy socks when I'm at home but not all the time.  I have discovered a great trick for wearing tight boots, shortie socks.  They keep your legs from feeling squeezed in all day and my boots never eat them either.  I buy mine from TJ Maxx of course.  But these are a great find at Amazon.

Asics Cushion LowCuts at $7.99 for three pairs.

There, you get the idea.  I consider lounging around an art and all art is beautiful, right?  So, why not make your lounging attire look spiffy?!  I bet you have your own idea of what is comfy and you certainly don't need me meddling in your happy place.  Plus, I know not all loungewear looks pulled together and fancy.  I have my own mismatched favorites that I wear most of the time when I'm bumming around at home.  The idea is, be YOU!

Here's to a great weekend spent in comfy clothes!  CIAO, FASHIONISTAS!

Since I am a plethora of information on all things no things in my own twisted mind…..it's only fair that I share some of my KNOWLEDGE.  Don't you agree?

Did you know….

WOMEN, you should wash your bra after 3 wears?  That's right.  Wash that sucker after you've sweated in it 3 good times.  The other news in bra care?  Don't put them in the dryer.  Hang them up and they will last much longer.  Take care of your double-barrel slingshots ladies!!

Did you know…

There is a RIGHT way and a WRONG way to take a shower?  I didn't!  Here's the simple steps:

1. Brush your hair before getting in the shower.  Detangling your hair is very important because wet hair is weak hair and it causes breakage.

2. Rinse your hair & body well before lathering up.  It opens up cuticles, loosens dirt & oil which paves the way for a clean wash.

3. Don't plop shampoo on top of your head.  Lather your hands first and go straight for the roots.  A thorough hair-washing should take about 30-60 seconds.  Focus mostly on your oily roots & avoid your delicate ends.  Pay extra attention to the nape of your neck and rinse rinse rinse!

4. Condition quickly and only focus on the ends of your hair.  Again, rinse very well.  Bacne is often caused by product that's leftover in your hair.  Eww!

5. Wash your body NOW….after you've shampooed and conditioned.  Use a good creamy body wash and get every nook & cranny.  Cleanliness is next to Godliness, ya know?

6. Shave.  Use a sharp razor and remember leaving it in the shower only shortens its lifespan (guilty). 

7. Now, wash your face.  All that shower steam has done wonders to open up your pores.  Use it to your advantage.

8. Dry off without scrubbing yourself dry.  Pat your skin with the towel and don't forget to lotion up right away.

Who knew showering correctly even existed?  Not me.

Did you know…

3 great ways to fight off THE FRIZZ with winter hair?

1.  Rinse with COLD water.  Uhh, yea…no thanks!

2.  Rub your hair with a dryer sheet.  It works, really!

3.  A tiny bit of lotion.  Rub lotion on your hands and tap it onto your hair.  Careful not to use too much.

Did you know…

Rubbing a small amount of COCONUT OIL under your eyes and on your sunspots or brown age spots will lessen wrinkles and lighten the pigment coloring?  It's true.  Just a few more amazing ways coconut oil is rocking our world, people.

Did you know…

Did you know…

A couple tablespoons of baking soda to cold water will remove residue and pesticides from your fruits and veggies.  Wash & enjoy!

Did you know…

Apples taste much better…..fresh in Washington?  Oh, they do.  Look at these juicy fellas!

Did you know…

KISSING boosts immunity, keeps facial muscles strong and releases endorphins that make you feel good?  YES, IT DOES!!  Go kiss up your hubby ladies!

Did you know…

Owning a dog can help fight depression?  It's true!  Some of the best breeds are: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Poodle, Pug, Golden Retriever & Labs.  These seem to be the most lovable and trainable.

Did you know…

You can make over $1000 cash in a month just by selling stuff you have laying around your house?  You can.  Stop holding onto stuff that you're not using and post it online now.  Check your local area for a Facebook group that hosts garage sale type items, post on Craigslist, ebay, Amazon (think: books) and more.  I've sold stuff just by posting on my personal Facebook page.  Seriously?  $1000.00 is a good way to save for a fun vacay!

Did you know…

Drinking warm lemon water aids in digestion, helps you lose weight and helps to purify and stimulate your liver?  Plus, lots more good things.  Choke it down!

Did you know…

Making a list and working from it helps you reduce STRESS?  Since I love lists……I'm up and at it with paper and pen, right now!

Did you know…

Yes!  Teachers are so danged smart!

Did you know…

Reading FICTION can make you sharper & kinder?  What?  NO WAY!  Really?  I read recently that fiction improves social perception and emotional intelligence.  I am blown away!  Guess I better up my fiction reading!  🙁

Did you know….

Which is a perfect way of describing me today since I'm still in my robe and have everything I need to color my gray roots!  Enough of this sharing my wisdom thing!  You're smart!  Get out there and be pro-active in making life better, would ya?

Happy half-way through the week, friends.  I have to work Thursday & Friday…..so, I am WILLING this wicked sickness to the curb.  Nobody likes a snotty-nosed substitute teacher, now, do they?

The only good thing I have going for me right now is that I don't have to call in to a job and whine about being sick…again!  The perks of being a stay-at-home layday!  No boss, no rules…..no cares!

The Washington trip a few weeks ago was probably the sickest I've been in a loooooooong time.  I felt so horrible, every single day of the trip and managed to leave every morsel of germ I could in order to share it with my family.  (Sorry, family)  I knew on Friday that I was in for it with another round of whatever this is and after 4 days…..I'm certain, my days are NUMBERED!

Head cold, sinus infection, pounding head-ache, aching body, glands swollen both sides of my neck and burning death sore throat.  Other than that, I'm good.  I'm hoping the cough that nearly broke all my ribs from round #1 doesn't rear its ugly head again.  So far, only little bits of coughing.

WHO IS TRYING TO KILL ME?

For those of you who care (and honestly, I don't blame you if you don't) I haven't washed my hair since last Thursday.  That would absolutely be a record for me, as I've never gone more than 3 days….ever!  Not only does my hair need washing, but my gray roots are about an inch long now and I can't even put on clothes to get to Sally's for hair coloring to touch-up the proof that I'm not 30-something!

JUST LET ME GO!!

The long weekend wasn't a total waste due to my constant moaning and groaning.  What?  You know you're awesome when you're feeling sick like death.  I managed to brush my teeth and put on a Christmas shirt over some leggings and ride shotgun to Costco with my hubby where we found the gift that keeps on giving……a WAFFLE MAKER!!!  And, it was on SALE!  Thank you, Costco!

Life is worth living again!

For years, I have searched and wished for my very own waffle maker.  I know, my dreams are so lame.  I've not pulled the trigger on buying one because…..I am a snob in every way and I wanted the Cadillac of waffle makers or none at all.  Hence, why I haven't had one until now.  Amazon even has a little pop-up that constantly reminds me of my "shopping" high and low for the perfect waffle maker on a weekly basis.  Here's the deal with me, I like sales.  I like the best items at the lowest price even on my countertop clutter items.  Get it?

Don't hate me because I use fattening food makers to fuel my happiness, I'm sick!  Just look at it though….it makes 2 waffles at the same dang time!  Talk about JACKPOT!?!  I'm ready for a big family breakfast, well….when I can get dressed out of my germ riddled robe again.

Anyway…..I've tried to bounce back and I suppose all I can do is ride the waves of misery a little longer until my body decides whether it will survive or go on to glory.  So, on this freezing cold February day with gray roots galore and my right eye watering….I'll just stay inside warm and pathetic.

Enjoy your freedom, world.  Enjoy your good healthy bodies, people.  Enjoy feeling like tying your own shoes, jerks.  Okay, I'm sure you get the picture.  I need some GET WELL QUICK love!   Happy Fat Tuesday!

I suppose since our President believes that what ISIS does to Christians is equivalent to what happened over 1000 years ago during the Crusades and the Inquisition, this latest news of the 21 Coptic Christian beheadings is another NO BIG DEAL!

I mean, anyone who foolishly admits to the world that WE ARE ON SOME SORT OF HIGH HORSE if we think this wicked violence is exclusive to Islam is a man to be feared.  His blatant disregard for the severity of these crimes is beyond embarrassing and even more infuriating!  I'm sickened by his ignorance and appalled at the many who continue to blindly follow such a misguided human.

While I will agree, people do horrible acts and often throw out the name of Christ.  A true person of the Christian faith will emulate Jesus and by doing so will NOT murder in His name, as the Muslim jihadist's do.  These Islamic terrorists must be stopped!

These men were loved by someone, they remained true to the faith of Jesus Christ even in the midst of serious persecution.  Today, my heart is broken by the atrocities of a world gone mad.  For many of us, this event seems so far away.

But, is it?

Lord Jesus,

You are Jehoveh-Jireh, the God who sees.  In YOUR HOLY NAME, we pray for the families of these martyred men.  Your love is never-ending, your grace is ever-flowing and your POWER is UNSTOPPABLE!  Reign down, Lord and move our country & President to do everything it takes to fight this evil.

Amen

It's no secret.  I'm a sick pup when it comes to loving boots.  Tall ones, skinny ones…..dark ones, light.  I have a crazy love affair going on with all things boots.

Don't hate me.  I'm the opposite of the flip-flop loving world.  I'd rather wear boots than an Old Navy rubber flop.  It's just who I am.  Deal, people!

So, it shouldn't be a big surprise that I'm dedicating this week's fashion choices to BOOTS!  You're welcome!  I'm pushing the Frye's today because every day is a good day to love on Frye boots, right?

Frye Deborah Studded Tall

For the girl who loves a blingy cowboy boot and has $698 big ones to spare.  Here's your fancy cow kickers!

Frye Melissa Tab Tall

This is the perfect color.  I love the camel looking caramel sheen.  I can almost smell these leather beauties.  The only thing wrong?  They are NOT on sale right now.  But as always, you get what you pay for and with FRYE'S you are getting a forever shoe!   $428

Frye Carson Chelsea

For those of us who love a good booty (and no, I don't mean bootay) these Chelsea's are adorable.  This past weekend my youngest punk and I found a pair and she's now sleeping in them.  She is in boot love, trueloveforeverfrye!  $298

Frye Melissa Harness

A little bit tough with a whole lotta classy.  This soft camel colored bad girl is tall and gorgeous.  Somebody needs it!  I think I need it, don't you?  $428

Frye Jackie Zip Tall

This is what I'd call a black beauty.  These tall Jackie boots are so stylish and big girl all at the same time.  I love that they are zip up (a real gift in the FRYE world).  I hope to someday find the perfect black boot!  $418

That's it for today.  I have to run and actually get back on that work horse again.  These half-days are going to break me in, right?  Oh, and since it's below 20 degrees here in Indy….I WILL BE WEARING BOOTS!  Represent y'all!