Trees, Window Shopping, and Outdoorsy Chic
*I do not know why this post made my sidebar go all the way down to the bottom of the page? I may have to remove it eventually, so if you’re interested in any of the links, do your thing right away! =D lol*
I’ve been under the weather, so I’ve been window shopping on the internet! I found a lot of things that struck me as outdoorsy, (I’ve been cooped up) so I chose a neutral base outfit and lots of great accessories and things to mix and match with it. It was fun looking for things that I thought could work together/that complement each other, and that could be swapped around a bit, all with an ‘outdoorsy chic’ feel =-)
These would be the base top and skinnies.. I’ve included links under each collage to the items pictured, just in case anything really catches your eye *wink*
TOPSHOP Raglan Slubby Sweater
MOTO Indigo supersoft skinny leigh jean
I feel like this collection is rather tree inspired, so I’ve included some lovely trees for your viewing pleasure *smile* (I love trees, and especially enjoy looking at twiggy winter trees against a turbulent sky..so cool looking)
Aren’t all these accessories lovely? They are neutral-ish, natural colors, but they have their own pop and understated class, I think..
Merona Mustard solid Pashmina Scarf
Studio Barse Bronze Rectangular Ring
The “pack mule” design on the field bag is an original drawing by me. The mule pictured is one that my dad actually used to own (the drawing is available on several different types of items in my shop) – he used to use real, wooden pack saddles and old fashioned (and often truly old – the real deal!) equipment on his animals when I was growing up. I grew up around many mules, donkeys, and horses and had a lot of fun. I’ve even been on a bona fide packin’ in on a mule or horse mountain trip or two, and used to ride horses all of the time. My dad is a true original, so I had a very unique childhood!
Miss Sixty Double Breasted Jacket
I like this handbag because it looks really sturdy, would go with virtually anything, and I like the idea of the large extra pocket in front (my current purse is basically a pit and it’s hard to find things in! lol)
Metal Ista Jewelry for Urban Renewal Vintage Globe Locket Necklace – Bronze
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P.S. I don’t know why this post makes my sidebar go all the way down to the bottom of the page?
Liebster Award!
I’m so incredibly honored that Toni from The Love Hanger nominated me for this blogger award! It’s so amazing to become friends with people from all over the world via the blogosphere by sharing our clothing! lol (of course, we end up sharing so much more in the process.) Once I started blogging again, (this was fairly recently, as I had to take about a year off last year) I quickly found Toni and she became a friend in a very short amount of time. She’s just so sweet! Thank you for this Toni, and for just being you! 
So, ‘Liebster’ is apparently German for ‘dearest, beloved, or favourite,’ and it’s for bloggers with under 200 followers. The rules are:
Thank your Liebster Blog Award presenter on your blog.
Link back to the blogger who awarded you.
Copy & paste the blog award on your blog
Reveal your 5 blog picks.
Let them know you chose them by leaving a comment on their blog.
My 5 nominations are:
Sarah at Sophiasa
Lisa at The Sentimentalist
Alecto at Circle Meets Square
Louise at Fifth Sparrow
Sylvia at 40+ Style
You ladies have all made me feel welcome in the blogging community, and you offer fabulous style inspiration! Thank you all for being so great =D
Everyone should check out their blogs!
xo
Tracy
Feelin’ a bit Ballerina-esque
I got a pair of shoes from Wanted Shoes the other day for a really amazing deal, and they finally came, so I had to take some pics with them! They seem a little ballerina inspired in their styling, and I love that, so I pulled out a little of my inner (wannabe) ballerina – it was fun =-)
aren’t these shoes cute? I just love the strap around the ankle, and they have a bit of a wedged heel, so they give me a tiny bit of height, while the cute strap helps to keep them securely on my feet. I really like these electric blue tights too; I got them on my excursion with my daughter Idelle that I posted about a couple of posts back. I am so enjoying colored tights and the fun and pop they can bring to an otherwise not so exciting outfit.
skirts like this are made for twirling in!
ballet fingers too, lol
I took some minor ballet lessons as a little girl, and I’ve always remembered “ballet fingers,” meaning: put your two middle fingers together, separate from your pointer fingers and pinkies, gracefully bend them in, and let the other fingers bend naturally (they will tend to bend a little bit less than you’re bending the two middle fingers.) I always do it when I play ballerina – it’s like bringing back a little piece of my childhood, and it does look more graceful to hold one’s hands that way – try it! *wink*
I promise I’m not mad here! - - just experimenting with looking at a camera head on with no real expression, kinda like the runway models do, hehe (and playing with effects of course, can’t resist *smile*)
and the woodland ballerina (or dryad) walks away..
Narnia? The Wardrobe Wanderer – that’s me, get it???????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? (you need to have read ‘The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis to understand) -or I suppose you could have seen the movie, but you really SHOULD read the book regardless (wink, wink)
xo
Trasey (being creative with my name spelling – I like it this way!)
top: Old Navy (get a similar look HERE)
skirt: gift from a friend (get a similar look HERE)
tights: Forever 21 (get the LOOK)
shoes: Wanted Shoes (or get a really ballerina-like flat here)
necklace: American Eagle Outfitters
Rebels in the Back Alley!
So, there were a couple of jaunts to a certain back alley yesterday, lol. I took Doran and Amelia the first time, as there was a little down time after picking them up from school until I had to get Idelle (who stayed after school for field hockey stuff.)
Then, Doran and I went back later because I loaded my pics and found that they were almost all whited out – the white background in the alley and not using the natural light correctly, I suppose (I REALLY need to read the manual that came with my camera, or take a photography class!) I so enjoy taking pictures, but I’m an amateur with no patience when it comes to reading instructions. I think a class would be best for me, as it would force me to listen, read, and learn, lol.
So anyway, here are a few pics..the one where I’m wearing the flare jeans, the ones of Amelia, and the one of Doran with the skateboard were taken the first time around, so I did some editing to trip out the whited out ones a bit, and to take away from the fact that they were so white. The rest were taken when Doran and I went back later, and I wore skinny jeans that time (I think they look better with the heels anyhow.)
I wore my thick knit grey tights under my jeans, as I have been so chilled!
The tunic thingy is something my sister gave me for photo shoots, because she thought it was different and interesting. I agree, so here it is!
This Aeropostale top is SO cozy! I would never normally go into the Aeropostale store, as it seems like a store full of basics that are way over priced because this brand name is splashed over them. But, I went in because Idelle wanted to on our shopping trip shenanigan the other day, and there were $5 bins full of shirts. Idelle got a couple of tees, (as they are very in for middle schoolers right now) and I got this thermal purple long sleeved number. I got it in XS because I wanted a very close fit, as I’ll mostly use it under things, and it really helps with keeping me warm – I love that!
This little pendant was sent to me by the lovely Michelle, when she and I participated in a craft swap. She got a wool felt flower pin from me, and I got this cute little number from her – it’s a bee on a flower, and it matched this color palette nicely. It’s very cute – I love wearing custom, hand made jewelry.
My little Amelia, always full of giggles, grins, and whimsical ideas galore and yes, she has a horse on her shirt..this is the shirt Idelle bought her as a gift the other day. One of these days I’ll need to get a clearer pic of it. I love that Amelia loves horses like I did as a kid.
and here’s Doran with his skateboard! The next time, when he came back with me, he brought his bike and did some cool tricks on that too. He’s quite the acrobatic little guy – he takes after his uncle, my brother Troy, because he surely did NOT get it from me. 
and this is why I titled the post ‘Rebels in the Back Alley;’ I parked right next to this sign. Oh yeah, livin’ on the edge!
I think I’m going to head out now and find a place to relax, pray, and take a few pics for fun – you’ll see them soon enough I’m sure *wink*
xo
Tracy
my top: Aeropostale
jeans: both pairs were gifts
platform sandals: Target (get a similar look HERE )
tunic: gift (get a similar look HERE)
pendant: gift
Amelia’s outfit
horse tee: The Children’s Place {get a (long sleeved) horse tee HERE}
tulle skirt: The Children’s Place (get a similar look HERE)
shoes: Payless Shoes
Doran’s outfit:
Wally World!
Mustard Yellow Tights, and a Marigold Flower to Match! and some goals, hopes, and dreams for 2012
My wonderful new blog friend, Toni, (at The Love Hanger) held a lovely giveaway recently, and I won! I won this darling marigold headband that she made; it is so pretty! Thank you Toni!!
As you can see, I finally got some mustard yellow tights from Free People. They go so well with my sweet new headpiece!
I tried for a close-up of the flower, but it got a little blurry..still pretty though. My friend here is my kitty Marcus; he likes to tag along when I go out into the field.
This new capelet is from J.C. Penney, and I just couldn’t resist it. It’s SO my taste, and was marked down to $13 something from $46. I left the store once, after hiding it, *smirk* but ended up going back to it pretty quickly, much to my daughter Idelle’s dismay, lol. (see my previous post for more on the story )
The shorts came to today via eBay, but they are Anthropologie wool winter shorts (get a similar look here). I just love cozy wool shorts like these, worn with tights (if you haven’t yet noticed my shorts/tights obsession!)
Okay, my beautiful blogging friend Sarah at Sophiasa put up a gorgeous and most inspiring post, and I just read it tonight. I practically left a novel in her comments, so decided I’d share what I wrote here. Her post was on her New Year’s resolves for 2012. I’m not nearly so good at list making, but I jotted down a few ideas myself, inspired by dear Sarah. So, here they are:
*My goal for this year is to come closer to Jesus, to really know Him intimately like some people that I admire do. I watch Joni Eareckson Tada’s shows on the Joni and Friends website sometimes and they are so inspiring. This woman can barely move her body, and yet the glow and peace she carries about with her make me envy her. I know I could have it too, if I would just go to Him..lots more than I do, and consistently seek Him with all of my heart.. I want to work on becoming spiritually healthier this year..and in all the years I have to come.
I also want to get physically healthy this year. Unfortunately, it looks like I’m going to have to have a hysterectomy, as my pain just won’t stop and it’s tearing my life apart. I want to be the mom I’d always hoped to be. I had hoped to have another baby, but if I can’t, maybe I can pursue making adoption possible if I can become a really functional person again. At least I can help get the finanical situation under control, by working more, getting an outside job again, or going back to school so that I can get a better job.
As Sarah touched on, kids grow up so quickly. I find myself so bummed at how lacking I am in the dept. of being the kind of mom I want to be sometimes. But, I have to get to feeling better, or learn how to manage pain better anyway, so that I can more easily resist the temptation to take out my frustrations on family members. I’m angry at myself for barking at the precious ones that God has entrusted me to keep and to parent here on this earth for a time; I want them to feel secure, cherished, and respected at all times.
Of course, all of these things are ultimately up to God, but His Word says that “He who seeks me (diligently) will find me.” So, I must become more proactive at seeking. However, He’s the One who does the drawing in the first place, and I’m blessed to be granted the opportunity to feel that draw. I know that I royally screw things up time and again, but I’m so thankful that He’s always so ready and willing to forgive me.
Thank you for the graphic and the inspiration Sarah - I love it.
Hugs and Blessings,
Tracy
tank top undershirt: Forever 21
long sleeved top: I honestly can’t remember!
capelet: J.C. Penney
shorts: Anthropologie via eBay (get the LOOK)
tights: Free People
oxfords: 9 & Co. (thrifted)
Dressing Room Shenanigans After Ditching the Party
This was fun! I’m going to have to go on more dressing room shenanigans and bring my camera! My daughter Idelle and I had quite the day – she *thought* there was a birthday party at 1 pm today in a semi-nearby town (Chico.) I was planning to take her, but I woke up feeling QUITE sick, and really hoped that she could get ahold of a friend and catch a ride. Well, she tried and tried, but people just do not EVER answer or return calls on their cell phones *sigh*. So, as it got closer and closer to the time, I started trying to get ready, even while my body kept telling me, “NO WAY!”
What happened was as follows: I took way too long getting ready, continuing to hope that someone might come through and pick Idelle up. Plus, I just didn’t feel well at all and was in no mood to hustle. We left pretty late, and unfortunately we still had to make a stop to grab a gift. Then, on the way over to Chico, Idelle informed me that she’d only heard about this party through a mutual friend of the girl who was having a birthday. She’d never received an invitation, or any clear cut information about this *party*. Argh! Anyhow, we continued on, the clock ticking away relentlessly and reminding us of our lateness. When Chico was reached, I took a wrong turn, thinking it would be a quick way to get to the party location (Cal Skate – a roller rink.) It turns out I messed up, and made a huge loop that was unnecessary, which of course ate up many more minutes.
When we FINALLY arrived at the skating rink, no one was to be seen, and I’d become very skeptical about there even being a party. I mean, why wouldn’t this child’s mom verify it with me if she really wanted us to come? I am getting a little bit tired of parents letting their kids take care of all the inviting/planning when it comes to hanging out, parties, etc. It seems to be the trend lately. Idelle heard from a friend of a friend, and was instructed to tell another friend. But, neither of them actually heard from the birthday girl herself?
So, Idelle and I went into the building, and there was a large group ahead of us dilly-dallying away. Idelle and I were both flustered and frustrated, and unsure if any of her friends were really in there. It looked like we’d have to pay to go in, just to look and see if we could find them. Then, because of our late arrival, there’d only be about an hour and a half to skate. Needless to say, when Idelle said, “Let’s just skip it,” I gladly complied. We decided to have a little fun, just the two of us, instead. Since we’d already made the monumental effort and got ourselves over to the land of Chico, we decided that we might as well make the best of it. We considered checking to see if any good movies were playing, but ended up at the mall (we both agreed on this, as we each had a little cash on hand, and the mall was close by. What else would you expect from a couple of gals loose on the town? *wink*)
I brought my camera in, in my purse, hoping to take some fun shots in the dressing rooms, since I knew we couldn’t afford to buy much. Idelle took the ones of me, and I took the one of her (she’s wearing that jacket very reluctantly, as she didn’t like it – I picked it out and coaxed her to try it on, lol..gone are the days when I can dress her in my taste!) We didn’t take very many shots, as Idelle was not as into it as I was, and she has no patience for Forever 21, where these were taken. She wanted to leave pretty much the whole time we were there, ha ha.
Anyhow, I’m a sucker for medieval inspired stuff, and this navy top struck me as such. It was very floaty and comfortable on me, and if money were no object, I’d have brought it home. But, alas, it ended up back on the rack. (I still kinda want to go back and get it, shhhhhhhhhh!) It’d be great for occasions that are not overly dressy, (with jeans) but where you still want to look a bit nice, and it could easily be dressed up to be more formal as well.
aren’t the sleeves cute?
Idelle, ever so reluctantly, wearing the darling plaid jacket I picked out..
This little capelet; however, was another story.
Once I saw it, I immediately liked it so much! I’ve admired capelets for quite awhile, and this one seemed to have everything I wanted in a versatile capelet, right down to the cute buttons. I tried to resist it – and Idelle tried hard to help me resist it! I actually hid it in another section behind a bunch of different shirts. (Has anyone ever done that? Come on, ‘fess up!) Idelle and I left the store (J C Penney) and started heading back through the mall, but I kept coming up with all these reasons why I should get it *blushes*. It really was a good deal, marked down to $13 something from like $46. So, much to Idelle’s chagrin, we turned around and I purchased it. It now hangs in my closet, and I’m sure you’ll be seeing plenty of it here!
–just a candid by Idelle in the Forever 21 dressing room – for some reason she’s just not as into the picture stuff as I am, and would get annoyed when I wanted her to wear something for a pic. But, she did take some pics for me, and we did have a lot of fun, even though the whole trip began as a complete fiasco / wild goose chase, lol.
Now I just hope the hubby doesn’t blow a gasket when he sees the bill, but I have plans on how to replenish the bank acct.. just gotta get on it. I’m going to try selling some things on ebay, and I have some money coming soon from my cafepress shop. I really didn’t spend THAT much..practically nothing compared to what many other American women spend, and I don’t ever do things like get my nails/hair done, (other than a VERY occasional haircut) so I’m actually pretty darn low maintenance..but things have been tight, so I do need to be careful. I think my spending sprees are over for awhile.
Idelle found some great deals on some Aeropostale shirts – apparently it’s totally the middle school trend to wear these tees with this brand name splashed across them somewhere pretty much every day. I’d NEVER pay full price for them, and neither would she, but these were in bins for $5 each. I even got a long sleeved thermal one for layering, as I’m always so cold these days.
All in all, the trip started out with pure insanity, but ended up being a fun mother/daugher time. I am so impressed with my Idelle – she has more control than I do when it comes to spending money, and she even used some of her money to buy her little sis Amelia a darling horse t-shirt at ‘The Children’s Place.’ I think I need to take lessons from this gal =-)
Well, it’s late and I suppose I should get to bed. I ended up getting a cozy, soft grey scarf, (as my ears and throat were hurting so much and it felt terrible to have them exposed to the cold wind) a pair of warm knit tights, an undershirt for layering, a pair of bright regular tights, (I’m on a tights kick) an Aero thermal top, and the capelet. It’ll be fun to share them here – I was feeling a bit low on inspiration.
I’d like to go back sometime and try on a bunch of outlandish stuff, stuff I would never actually buy, lol. I’ll probably need to secure the services of a more willing photographer, though! Idelle is a blast, but she’s just not into the whole picture taking thing like I am. She’s definitely developing her own strong sense of style though, but she’s smart, realistic, not easily swayed, and has a soft and generous heart. I’m so proud of her. Oh, and yes, I felt somewhat better once we entered the mall – funny how that happens!
Goodnight all!
Hugs,
Tracy
As the Light Dwindles, Woodland Fae Are Likely to Emerge
I had a green theme going on here, and it made me think of a fairy a bit, so I brought my daughter Amelia’s woodland fairy crown out when I took pictures this evening. She wore it as the flower girl in my little sister’s recent wedding – she looked SO cute in it! 
My hubby gave me the forest green tights for Christmas – I am so into tights lately =-) They can make shorts and sandals cool weather wear – I love that. Oh, and I have a pair of Anthropologie wool trouser shorts coming; I can’t wait to wear them!
Lady of the Wood – a dryad in distress, perhaps? I’m a bit sad about so many trees being cut down behind my house lately – I suppose the field is going to be developed. *sigh*
I got the crown/head wreath on Etsy, via the fabulous ivyiris - it was handmade to order out of natural materials..very cool
Wow, I actually got a post up! I find taking pics and editing them to be therapeutic and fun, which is a big reason why I do a fashion-y blog. It’s also just a great creative outlet.
Have a great night, or morning, or whatever time of day brings you popping by!
xo
Tracy Ann
faerie wreath: Etsy here
long sleeved tee: Old Navy
green tunic top: Gottschalks
shorts: Ann Taylor (from ebay)
tights: Merona (from Target)
sweater: gift from my friend, Jessica
“Hope” pendant necklace: gift from Kelly at www.jewelryinbraille.com
T-strap sandals: Famous Footwear
Trying for curls, and being silly over shoes
I got an ionic hot roller set for Christmas, from my sweet mom. I’ve been pretty out of it today, but this evening finally mustered up the energy to give it a try. I used to have a Caruso curler set in the early 90s, and I was hoping it would work as well as that – the problem with the Caruso curler was sometimes that my hair would get TOO curly, lol. The curls could last for days though, and I loved it. This setup doesn’t seem to be working quite so well, but I’ll keep experimenting with it. I got some waves, but they fell out pretty quickly. Does anyone have one of these sets? It’s by Remington. If you have any tips, I’d love to hear
A shot taken in my mirror:
Oh, and I’ve been stuck on this pair of shoes from Blowfish shoes that I first saw on JennifHsieh ‘s blog. She insists that they are very comfortable, and they’re just so darn cute! At 5’5″, I enjoy feeling a little tall once in awhile too, and these would certainly do it. I love them in the black herringbone, but luckily (I guess *sigh*) they’re not available in my size (8) in this pattern. I can’t afford them anyhow, so I should be thankful, lol.
The shoes are HERE at Blowfish Shoes, if you want to see the shoes that I have on the brain
Silly to be so hooked on a thing..I know, and I’ll get over it. There are much better things that that money could go for.
How’s everyone handling the days after Christmas? I’ll admit, I’ve had a bit of the post-Christmas blues, and it doesn’t help that I haven’t been feeling well. New Year’s will be spent in Sacramento, though, and there will be a hotel stay involved, so that will be fun. Also, my husband and I have our 18th anniversary coming up on January 8th! I want to go to San Francisco to celebrate, as we’ve done a few times before, but I’ll settle for a nice dinner out – hoping that can happen.
Hugs to all!
xx
Tracy
top: American Eagle Outfitters
Hats on for the Train
I’ve been looking at trains and train cars for a long time and have been wanting to use them in pictures, so yesterday I finally found a good place and just did it! If anyone was watching, they’d have surely thought me a complete loon, but I had a lot of fun. I’ve always been intrigued by trains, but they can be scary too. This one, luckily, was in no shape to be moving anytime soon, so I felt safe.
^^I don’t normally ever bare my midriff AT ALL, but it happened unintentionally in this shot, and I don’t think it’s too much..what do you think? lol
I forgot to get a close up – maybe I will today and add it later, but these great hand beaded earrings were sent to me by Sarah of Sophiasa when I won a giveaway some time ago. Thank you Sarah!
I call this one of my ‘Spin Doctors’ hats – I liked The Spin Doctors a little bit in the early 90s; anyone remember them? The lead singer was always wearing one of these hats with the strings hanging down. I remember being chastized for liking ‘Two Princes,’ by them..lol, I couldn’t help it, it was such a fun, happy song!
and this hat was given to me by my friend Jerry, along with some hats that would have been fit to wear to the Royal Wedding – thank you Jerry (Jessie )!
Should I hitch a ride? Take up the hobo life for awhile? I think not..
grainy photo effect – I’ve been into old movies lately!
The cute lace up blouse was given to me by my friend Jessica, and so were the jeans..I wouldn’t have any blogging outfits if it weren’t for you Jess
Okay, I’ve really been wanting to put up a post, but I have to get going, so I can’t spend a lot of time thinking of things to write. I need to get ready to do a bit of last minute Christmas shopping! It may be crazy, but I shall persevere! Have a great day everyone!
xx
Merry almost Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tracy Ann
jeans: LEI
grey top: Calvin Klein
blouse: Guess
hats: Raley’s (Spin Doctor’s hat) and gift
earrings: made by Sarah at Sophiasa!
cuff bracelet: Next
neclace: my ‘Twiggy Tree,’ made by me
Creative Jewelry Gifts, and a pretty blouse
Hi there friends!
These pix were actually taken the same day that I took the ‘Tin and Leopard’ shots. I had this blouse on under my turtleneck, so I just took that off, changed my shoes, and put my hair in an impromptu bun. Two looks in one, pretty much!
oh, and I brought my little cream shrug and wore it for this shot:
These earrings are a wonderful gift from my mom’s cousin’s wife, Stephanie. She made them herself; I think they’re just gorgeous! Thank you SO much Stephanie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
and this amazing pendant was given to me as a gift last Christmas by Kelly of www.jewelryinbraille.com . She makes all kinds of braille jewelry and jewelry inspired by nature. It’s incredible and she’s seen incredible success, which does not surprise me at all. It’s just wonderful, and she’s SUCH a sweetie-pie. Thank you so very much Kelly! This one and my faith pendant that you gifted me with as well are my absolute faves.
This shot is sorta funny, as it was taken when my timer went off while a car was driving by, and I felt like a dork, so I looked down and pretended I was looking at something else, lol. I kinda like how it turned out though, so it’s making it into my post.
Have a fabulous day all! Thank you to each and every one of you that stops by, and a special thank you to anyone that comments. I really look for community in blogland, and I make it a point to return the favor if you have a blog. I love it when friendships strike up through this venue.
xx
Tracy Ann
top and cream shrug: gifted to my by my friend Jessica
jeans: 2 BW U jeans Co. (also from Jess – t/y Jess! I’d have practically nothing to wear for my blog if it weren’t for you )
oxfords: thrifted via The Salvation Army (9 & Co. brand)
necklace: www.jewelryinbraille.com
earrings: gift from Stephanie!
Almost everything here was given to me – what a blessing!
Beauty of Tweeds, Children, and Nostalgia
I really like tweeds, wools, and greys. Everyone dressed so much classier in the old days! (well, the hats could get a little outlandish on the ladies, lol, but some were cute, and I just love the wools and tweeds)
some more modern looks using tweeds.. classy! I’d totally wear the outfit on the left..I like the one on the right on her, but not sure I could pull it off.
now THESE outfits are just adorable – I’d SO wear this dress or this ensemble. I’m a total prep at heart
oh SO cute on kids! I’m losing control when it comes to getting kids to wear what I like – Idelle is VERY particular, especially..but she IS in middle school, practically a grown up *wink wink*. I might be able to coax Amelia into something like this though.
and oh! the newsboy caps – CUTENESS overload on these little dolls! I want that hat for Amelia.
and this jacket, oh my!
Here’s my daughter Amelia wearing this wonderful old fashioned style grey dress, and talking to Santa while wearing the dress with an adorable authentic vintage wool coat on (I got them both on ebay.) It has a lace collar and everything – I just love it and am saving both these pieces. This was a few years ago. Idelle, Doran, and Amelia all talked to this very same Santa tonight though at our local Ave. of Lights. He’s the REAL Santa, I believe it..oh yes, I do.
MERRY CHRISTMAS and don’t forget to break out those tweeds, wools, and lovely greys! I wore my tweed coat to the Ave. tonight, even though it’s not as warm as my puffy coat – simply nothing else would do.
xx
Tracy Ann
Tin and Leopard
What did I do? I snagged Idelle’s leopard scarf out of her closet (poor Idelle – but I promise I returned it)
Leopard prints are not something I wear much, if at at all, until today; but, I needed something with a little drama. I do like scarfs and would like to get a few more – they make great accessories and can stand in the place of jewelry.
cool platforms from Target, with socks underneath (it was cold! seems to be a trend anyhow )
This wasn’t easy, as part of the stump was rotten and disintegrated under me!
triumph! lol
I like the fresco effect – adds an interesting touch I think! (and you can see the cool wooden platforms and heels, too – just don’t mind the butt shot; I hesitated about posting this for that reason, but hey, if I’d wear this in public, why not in a pic? I’m covered and decent, right? or am I wrong??
I got some things from my shop today, and I’m really pleased with them! They did a nice job with my illustrations and photos.
Christmas Vacation started today – all the school kids, teachers, and aides are partying – I was in a 1st grade classroom last year at this time with a one-on-one special needs student that I got really attached to. I brought him reindeer antlers and put lipstick on his nose to make him, well, you know who! It was fun – I miss that lil guy. Unfortunately, he moved, and I was re-assigned to a less happy position, and after that point my health got worse and worse. So, that’s part of the reason why I’m back here.
For those that know about it, how does one go about getting sponsors? I’d LOVE to make at least a little side income from this, and I see lots of gals doing it. I really like the online companies like Ruche and Lulu’s, and I’m sure there are plenty more. I realize that I need to boost my traffic, but I’d love to host sponsors’ ads someday soon. It would REALLY help, as I’m just not able to hold an outside job at this point in my life. I really enjoy doing this; so, it’d be an ideal situation for me – guess I’ll keep at for awhile and see what happens. My contact info is in my ‘About Me’ section, and since I’m starting out, my rates would not be very expensive.
Happy Christmas Season!
xx
Tracy Ann
turtlneck: Jeanne Pierre
scarf: Forever 21
pants: BWU (Be with you jeans co.)
platform sandals: Target
Rushing out at Dusk
Just a few shots as the sun was going down. I was hoping that this denim skirt would fit, but I’m afraid it’s a little big. Ah well. I snagged this shirt out of my daughter Idelle’s closet – I thought it had a little retro-ish flair going on.
It’s been chilly! When Idelle and I were going through bags of clothes that were brought to me, she pulled out the blue sweater pictured and said, “This’ll be your go-to sweater.” LOL , I guess she’s right! It’s very cozy
The necklace at the end is one I just put together today – my mom bought it from me as a gift for a little student she works with. I thought the lines of color sort of mimicked the stripes on the shirt, so I thought I throw the pic in!
Good Thursday evening to all
xo
Tracy Ann
The Schoolgirl and The Skater
I finally got an item that I designed from my own shop! I got my ‘The Schoolgirl’ Tote, and I am really pleased with how it turned out. She’s actually going to be a Christmas gift for my daughter, Amelia, but I HAD to pull it out for a few pictures.
The bookish little schoolgirl is printed on both sides, and the tote is roomy and sturdy – I really like it.
If you like my little miss, she’s available here, and she comes on other items as well. She was drawn with colored pencils.
I have lots of items available with other designs by me in my shop too, take a look if you happen to feel so inclined.
I got this vest at either a thrift store or a yard sale, can’t remember! I think it’s a small men’s..but I pinned up the back a little to keep it from looking too boxy on me.
The necklace was hand drawn and assembled by me. It’s wintry, twiggy tree – I just love looking at twiggy winter trees against a winter sky. You can get it HERE in my Etsy shop!
and here’s the skater! This is my son Doran, and he rocks at skateboarding and biking. He wanted to come with me to take pics, so I told him to bring his skateboard and helmet so I could get some shots of him too – got some pretty cool action shots, huh?!
and this is the back of the old building I was shooting against – I like dilapidated old buildings with history. I wonder what sort of business the Hoffman Brothers did in their day?
Hope all had a good Monday! It was mostly sunny here again today; I am waiting and waiting for clouds and a wintry atmosphere – seems like it’s never gonna get here this year. The forecast for Thursday calls for clouds and possible sprinkles, so I am a hopin’ it comes.
Take care and I hope your Christmas season is going splendidly!
xo
Tracy Ann
turtleneck: Merona
pants: Faded Glory
(sweater and pants came from my dear friend, Jessica, who saved me when nothing fit anymore!)
shoes: thrifted (9 & Co.)
vest: thrifted or yard saled
necklace: made by me
tote: designed by me, available here under ‘Totes and Bags’
I’ve thought of using this for ages..
This weathered mural is something I’ve thought of using as a back drop for a long time. Today, since I was running late to pick kids up from school, and it happens to be near the school, I set up my tripod in front of it.
So, here I’m doing my Vanna White impression
I’m wearing a purplish/maroon tee that my dear friend Joy sent to me, layered over a lacy long sleeved undershirt (as it was too chilly for short sleeves.) Thank you sweet Joy!
The shorts were in the bunch of clothing that my friend Jessica brought by for me – these clothes have been such a blessing, as I had practically no bottoms that fit at all anymore. Thank you Jessica! and yes, I broke out my grey knit tights again – I just want to live in them; I really need to get a few more pairs in some different colors. Maybe for Christmas? If Santa happens to be listening, I bought these in size large, even though I’m at a size 3-4. I don’t like anything binding around my waist, and I can always pull them up. I’ve been continually wishing for some cozy tights in mustard yellow.
This is a dragonfly scrabble tile necklace that I made.
I know it’s hard to see in this pic, so here’s a pic I took for Etsy. The dragonfly is now available for sale, by the way – it comes with the gift box, and the art is all original by me. From a recent customer who bought this necklace (it’s in my feedback): “The picture cannot do justice to how beautiful the art on this necklace is..I love the vibrant colors and the artistic detail”
I went out with the purple sweater, as it really was a little nippy. The oxfords seemed like a good match – these were a score for me at a thrift store some time ago. Shoes are nice, because they always fit, no matter whether my weight goes up or down
Hugs to all!
Tracy Ann
If the grey won’t come to me….
then I will just don myself in it! Goodness, there’s been a high pressure system that lasted all of last week and is supposed to go all through this week. At least the wind has chilled out; it was incessantly windy for days on end – dried everything out. Ugh. I crave clouds, and rain. I wish to move to Portland, OR. (have for quite some time now)
I used to have a nice knit pair of grey tights, but they developed a hole in them, and then of course got misplaced – so, finally, I just had to purchase a new pair. I LOVE wearing shorts and cozy knit tights when it’s chilly out. Sooooooooooooooooooooooooooo comfortable.
I am staring off at a field and a grove of trees – this place is so peaceful for me.
The shorts were a splurge on ebay, but since losing 30+ lbs., none of my old stuff fit any more. These were previously owned, and the seller accepted an offer a couple bucks below the asking price, so I went for it. They are size 4, and almost a little on the big side, but they are comfy, and a little looseness is WAY better than too tight.
and to top off my grey theme – my grey Forever 21 bag!
I looked at ankle boots for a long time, and just couldn’t justify buying any, but when I had some $ (a gift card I believe) for Forever 21 and saw these for just $30, I decided to go for it. I like them, but they aren’t great for walking in for very long, I must admit. When I worked for the school district last year, I wore them one day (the job required quite a bit of walking around) and decided NEVER again. They’re great for looks though!
This is another location – couldn’t resist the ‘No Outlet’ sign!
The necklace matches the grey ensemble perfectly, and it’s a special gift from my dear (and recently married!) sister. What a gem she is!
I add things daily to my shop – lots of unique ideas for Christmas! All images are by me
‘Night all! I’ve wanted to get this up all day, but couldn’t get to it. Now it’s time to hit the sack Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
xx
Tracy
oh! Outfit deets! (I know you’re on the edge of your seat wanting to know how I put together such a glorious ensemble, lol)
poncho/sweater top: eBay – it was one of those obscure, no name shops, I think it came from Hong Kong. I love it!
shorts: purchase on ebay
tights: Isadora, from ebay
booties: Forever 21
bag: Forever 21
glasses: The Dollar Tree, lol
Close Enough to a Turret
I stopped by this house today, as it’s long intrigued me. It’s quirky and unique, and right now it’s for sale!
Look at this! It’s not round, but otherwise it looks like a turret to me! Could it be ‘Tracy’s Turret’? I would love to have it as my studio.
the whole house from the front – it’s kinda run down, but it looks very roomy, and sq. footage is what I’m looking for! I also like it’s uniqueness. I think it’s rather eccentric, kinda like me
As you may have noticed, I kind of have a thing for unique houses. Since this one could use some work, I can’t help but wonder if there’s a chance I could live in it someday? It can’t be overly expensive – it does need work. If I stay in this area, I wouldn’t mind.
Happy Friday night and weekend all!
Oh, and feel free to check out my shop, if you feel so inclined. All the items feature work by me, and they make great, unique Christmas gifts
xx
Tracy
skirt: UNITI casuals (from my dear friend Jessica – thank you Jess!)
cowl neck top: probably Target
knitted shrug: “It’s Our Time” (from Jess =)
glasses: Dollar Tree
boots: ebay
The Fab Forties
This one makes me think of Thornfield Manor, from Jane Eyre.
I think this one’s my favorite, but to make it perfect for me, I’d have to change the roofing to a bluish-grey.
had to take a shot of the branches – the trees are so cool!
Some of the amazing homes in the “Fab Forties” area of Sacramento, CA. So many dream houses in one place – wow! I really enjoyed walking the neighborhood and just looking at them.
My favorites are the cottagey styled ones. I hear that these homes were mainly custom built, in the 1920′s, when European architecture still heavily influenced building. I love European architecture, and wish it was still used in building U.S. homes today!
Hope you enjoyed the shots! I may share some more from a different cool neighborhood in a later post. I really like houses, yes, I do.
xx
TracyAnn (the wannabe European)
RR Crossing Inside a Ray of Sunshine
oh so talented..haha NOT! I’m glad the camera caught the split second I was up there
nope, no train’s a comin’
pop o’ cool tights, yep
See, I really am in a ray of sunshine!
A wonderful friend of mine dropped a bunch of clothes by for me the other day, and I’m wearing a couple of pieces here. Thank you Jessica!
These skinny jeans, or should I say “jeggings”? are my favorite jeans right now. They fit perfectly and the material is very lightweight and stretchy. It’s almost like wearing comfy tights that pass for jeans.
The top is in a color that I always tend toward, and I really like the fit. Call me crazy, but the way the top part of it is sort of reminds me of Juliet’s dresses in Romeo and Juliet. Anything with that kind of flair that fits me well is right up my alley! It also matches my amazing tights quite well, so I thought it would rock to let them peep out by wearing my platform sandals. 
I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Mine was really great – it actually turned out to be like a mini vacation, which has been something much needed. My wonderful aunt and mom-in-law got our little household a nice hotel room for 3 nights, so we stayed in Sacramento in style. Idelle, Doran, and Amelia had SO much fun just exploring the hotel, lol. We went for some nice walks around the older neighborhoods in Sac, got to see a fish hatchery and spawning salmon, (very interesting, really! lol) and spent lots of fabulous quality time with some of Cary’s family. Cary’s mom whipped up a gloriously delicious feast, and I really enjoyed seeing everyone that I don’t get to see often. I felt very blessed by them all.
Happy Holiday Season!
xx
Tracy
turquoise top and jeans: gifted to me from my friend Jessica
long sleeved top: I do not remember, but I wear it A LOT under other tops
tights: ebay
shoes: Target
necklace: Next
bag: Forever 21
Sunny Yellow on a Brisk, Grey Day
I loved the atmosphere of the weather today, but I must admit that I was cold, brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!
I wore this bright yellow shrug/cardi in my little sister’s recent wedding. My dress was very short, strapless, and very bare on top, so it REALLY helped! I really like the saturated, super sunny yellow my sis chose
I am still in trouble when it comes to bottoms that fit – today I ended up borrowing my daughter, Idelle’s, jeans!
love all the brushy texture and interest out here – I took these out at my dad’s place in the country. He lives on about 6 1/2 acres of very undeveloped land, so it has that wild feel to it.
These are, hands down, my favorite shoes (boots) to wear with skinny jeans. They are so very comfy and cozy!
There’s such a menagerie of interesting items to take pictures on or around at my dad’s, which makes it one of my fave locales for taking pictures!
Yep, if you haven’t guessed already, it’s half of a vintage truck. How some of this stuff winds up out there is beyond me! It’s interesting, though!
It was hard to whip my coat off for shots – believe me, I was bundled back up in it (with gloves too) right away once I finished. But, I love the atmosphere and cozy fires this time of year. I spent a bit of my time at my dad’s today sitting by his fire, listening to one of his good ol’ buddies chat away about an incident that happened some 100+ years ago, how a trunk chock full of pure gold was dropped and most likely left during said incident, and how he’s planning to take his cadillac of a metal detector to go and look for it. I found him to be a very interesting character, and loved watching my dad and his buddy interact. It was quite entertaining! Hey, I wouldn’t mind joining in on a treasure hunt like that! I just may get my hubby to go – he’s always been interested in looking for stuff with metal detectors. I could really use a treasure find about now, without a doubt.
xo and a happy Monday and Thanksgiving week to ye!
Tracy
BTW, here’s the pendant I was wearing today – it’s available now in my Etsy shop, and was hand made by me. It would make a great, unique gift for any actors, actresses, thespians, and theatre enthusiasts out there My aunt Vicki, who is an actress, got one of these as a Christmas gift and she seemed to like it!
and another by the way:
The wonderful Jen of JennifHsieh is hosting a banner for my cafepress shop for me – I’m so honored, as I love her blog!
Thank you sweet Jen; you rock !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (and to anyone reading, I do hope you might give my new shop a gander
Until next time! -T
lacy-like long sleeved type: ? (showed up in a box of giveaway stuff, most likely)
shrug/cardigan: Macy’s
jeans: Mossimo by Target (borrowed from Idelle)
necklace: made by me
headband: Dollar Tree
boots: Fit Flop
