I'm a nail artist!!!

In all the free time that I don't have, I've mastered the art of picking up new hobbies: sewing, canning, and most recently, nail artist (un)extraordinaire!! In an attempt to liven up my typically neutral-painted (yet classic) nails, I've started using designs and bold colors when giving myself homemade manis and pedis. My dear friend Emily, and partner in crime, has been a wonderful support system for my new past time (thank you, Em!!) Check out my first two creations...

Bottom coat: Sephora by OPI, Beauty Junkie
Top coat (lines design): Mary Kay, Gold Leaf

Bottom coat: Maybelline, Bronze Luster
Top coat: Sephora by OPI, Only Gold for Me

Obviously I should stick to my day job, but it sure is a good time and I'm bound to get better...right!?

30 x 30 Challenge: 10 of 30

My dad was recently in town for Father's Day (that's how far behind I am in posting these photos!!) and helped me with my 30 x 30 photo shoots. As a retired photographer, he was such a good sport and was wonderful at giving me directions for poses, etc! Here, we're on location in Old Town (which is the site of one of our favorite New Mexican restaurants, Church Street Cafe!).

Happy Birthday, Big Brother!!

Ale, on your birthday, I want you to know what a great role model and friend you have been to me, your little sister. And even though one state and 11 years separate us, we'll always be close. Here are just a few reasons why you're the best...

Because of you, I joined my middle school band and played the drums (the best girl drummer Mr. Dyke had ever seen!), I know how to juggle my spit, I was a tomboy wearing your old Hang Ten shirts, I was an eloquent songwriter at 5 years old, I took Kung fu classes (and kicked ass!), I got an A in my high school art class (he drew all the pictures in my sketchbook), and ramen and canned mushrooms used to be my favorite meal (do you remember that!?).

You've left an everlasting impression on me and for that I thank you. Happy birthday to the best big brother a little sister could ever ask for. I love you!

Love,
Vennie (aka Steak!)                   

30 x 30 Challenge: 9 of 30

This exquisite skirt is one of my favorite pieces in my closet (and shamefully, I don't wear it enough). I snagged it at H&M (one of my favorite stores except that the Land of Enchantment doesn't have one...grr). I wasn't quite sure how this blouse would look with this skirt but I was pleasantly surprised (what do you think?).

Is it just me or does my arm look strange in that last picture!?

30 x 30 Challenge: 8 of 30

I love white clothes. I think it's because white represents the epitome of summer...and weddings!!

Btw, we took these pictures at the loading dock of our neighborhood Albertson's and an old, dilapidated strip mall where my favorite Joann's used to be.

30 x 30 Challenge: 7 of 30

I didn't realize I would be a walking ad for Old Navy when I put this outfit together (Oh well, what can you do?).

30 x 30 Challenge: 6 of 30

I recently bought these shoes during a trip to West Lafayette, IN (random, yes). It was my first time in a Stein Mart and I must say, it was love at first sight (I mean, look at these shoes. They are fabulous!).

30 x 30 Challenge: 5 of 30

Two things. 1) I love this orange dress (duh). 2) The side of the house is a fun place for photo shoots (especially when you're in a hurry!).

30 x 30 Challenge: 4 of 30

(Not quite sure what I'm doing here, but strangely, I like this picture)

(Can't forget the giraffe!)

This is one of my favorite dresses of ALL TIME (Thank you to Diane, my mother-in-law!), and now that maxis are all the rage, it's even more perfect.

A Evening with Michael Tolcher

Just a brief 30 for 30 interruption. This past Thursday, we hosted one of our favorite musicians, Michael Tolcher, to play a show at our home! We've been big fans of Michael's for about 8 years and have never been able to see him live (he's from Atlanta and why would he come to Albuquerque!?). So when he sent an email to his mailing list telling his fans that for his summer tour he's going to be playing in people's living rooms, I freaked out and emailed him back telling him he HAD to come to New Mexico and play at our house!! He responded, said OK and then the planning commenced (fyi, this all happened unbeknownst to Husband!). When I told Andrew that Michael Tolcher was coming to play a show in Albuquerque, in our house, he freaked out (naturally) and then we freaked out together as if we were two teenie-boppers going to see Bieber (I know exactly what you're imagining, and it happened it just like that)! We invited a bunch of friends, had some drinks and enjoyed an incredible night listening to Michael play his original songs. It was such a surreal experience and totally priceless...the best live music show ever (have a listen).

30 x 30 Challenge: 3 of 30

Should I confess that I've had these white linen pants FOREVER (I think it's obvious given I bought them at Wet Seal. Does that store still exist!?). As long as they are still white and they still fit, I will keep wearing them (between Memorial Day and Labor Day of course!).