All Things EARTH... part 2

[awhfy]

Margaret, I love the sunglasses!  Good choice

 

Soma bras, don’t fit me, at all & I've tried them all. I do love the vanishing edge undies tho. Melody

[Anita Latte]

7 Days.

 

We've done a bit of shopping.

 

Here's what I learned about Uniqlo. If you purchase in the store...they will alter the hem of your garment for you for free...if said item is above $20. Otherwise, a $5 fee. This is outstanding. I had thought about having my new jeggings hemmed but decided it wasn't so bad...but we had two pairs of cords hemmed for DS...they did a great job. Now I'm kind of wishing that I had gotten my jeggings hemmed...but I think I like a small roll with them better anyway.

 

btw...I think Athleta will do the same thing with a hem. IIRC.

 

Meanwhile...IDK if anyone remembers how I ordered the Sante Fe dress from Soft Surroundings. A sleeveless true wrap dress in chambray fabric (a denim look but should be a soft weave fabric)...yeah...I ordered it back in April...and it FINALLY shipped today. OMG. I may or may not get it by the time we leave...it's scheduled to be delivered in...wait for it...7 days.

 

So Margaret may be getting my package! LOL.

[MJC]

It's a good thing you're a lot taller than me or that dress might have ended up in my suitcase. You know how I like blue. 🙂

 

A week from today I'll be in Orlando! Tomorrow is packing day because Thursday I have appointments all day and Friday we go to the lake for the long weekend. I want to have everything ready to go before Friday.

 

I don't want to take too many clothes since I hope to hit one of the outlet malls and perhaps I will have things to bring home. So far I've put aside:

 

two tanks

two Ts

Skort

shorts

two sundresses

zumba clothes

2 bathing suits

nightgown

flip flops

comfy sandals

workout shoes

small lightweight backpack (for AK)

sun hat

 

I'm wearing a pretty tank and ankle pants on the plane with Skechers and a very lightweight sweater.

 

It's going to be hot!!!!!

 

Edited August 27, 2019 by MJC

[laurspag]

I'm back tracking a little here, but we always have such good conversations.  

 

Margaret, I love the glasses.  I know that budget always play a role with our purchases, but I think those are a great choice.  I can see you in the blue as well.  Sometimes with glasses, I look for them to blend in more than stand out as a fashion accessory, so I think brownish shades are my first choice because the go with my hair.  

 

I don't love my glasses, but what is interesting is that a few years ago, I had a plastic frame that was sort of rectangular.  I had trouble getting used to them and didn't think they looked good.  Lately, I think about them a lot and wonder if I can just get the lenses updated to my current prescription.  I don't think I have ever liked any of my glasses though!

 

Melody, you make a good point about hanging those pants I don't wear much outside my closet.  I did that with two pair that I have.  I almost grabbed one pair this morning.  The reason I stopped is because they are a pull on style, and I always like tops to go down just a bit farther with that style.  They are a gold color, in a straight style.  Not skinny, but straight.  Very pretty, but I don't have a lot of tops that look good with them in the longer style.  So I think I know what the issue is now.

 

Fall and winter are coming, and I ordered a few things from Chadwicks.  If they are good, I will have at least one option for the pants so I think I will hold on to them, and see how they work with the different seasons for me.  I try not to scream autumn leaves, so I think I was just struggling with what to wear with them for summer.

 

The other pair is more of a bootleg styling in a teal color.  These too are also a pull on style.  I knew when I set both of them out that they had that common denominator, so it was likely part of the reason I wasn't wearing them.  I have no other work pants in a pull on style.  I passed up some pants at Chicos that were similar earlier in the year, and I wish I had grabbed them because that cocoa brown color is one I can work with all year.  

 

I've had to get used to thinking that these are okay for the office.  We were always so strict about attire and we are really a fish out of the water these days.

 

We are relaxing our dress code a bit, and I think it is a great opportunity to show some of the newer people how to adapt to current styles and still look professional.  We had someone in the office who recently retired, and she was a constant critic to people for their choices of clothing.  Ironically, her own choices were less that stellar.  I'm digressing a bit, but she had a bit of a bully effect on the other employees.  They seem so much more relaxed now that she has retired, so I am happy to see they are more at ease.

 

Anita, I can't believe it took that long for the dress to come in!  I hope you like it.  One of the things I ordered from Chadwicks is back ordered until October, and that seems like such a long wait.  But it was a scarf, so I can deal with that as it will arrive right around the time I would be starting to wear scarves.

 

Melody, I've never really had great fitting bras.  One thing for sure though, after a few years, even if the bra looks like it is in good shape, it tends not to fit as well any more.  Fabric stretches and what not.  I get a small gap sometimes, but the style makes a difference for me.  A while back, I posted a link to an unlined style that they had, and it was the best fitting bra I've ever had.  I just had two issues: I needed a pinch of lining, and the fabric wasn't as smooth as I would like in the back.  I have touchy skin.   You can't beat them for shape and fit though.

 

One reason I shop Victoria's Secret as well is that they have one style that is a good fit.  Not as good as that one particular Soma bra, but close and it has a light lining.   Most of their bras have really thick linings or push up pads and the like.  At 36 DD, I don't need that, lol.

 

I am having trouble finding an ideal cruise for next year.  The newer ships are sailing out of Florida and Anthem and Adventure out of Bayonne.  Anthem is a bigger ship.  Adventure I love, and I just got off of it.  But, I wanted a bit more variety in the itinerary.

 

Radiance, Freedom and Explorer classes are all sailing outside the US.  I am going to expand a bit though, as we are talking about spending more time in Boston this year so maybe I need to look more towards the fall for the cruise, and that may open up some new options.  Hurricane season, any one?

[Anita Latte]

I was looking at a Boston cruise. I think it was the repositioning cruise from Boston to Tampa. Oct 2020. 11 days? They call it Bean town and Beaches. It on Brilliance and I’ve never sailed that class...

[Anita Latte]

It is hot but it isn’t oppressive. The afternoon storms are actually nice. Shade is key though...definitely remember your new sunglasses!

[Anita Latte]

I ordered several power related items today. I’ve learned a bit about the whole plug in situation. The vast majority of DS’s items would be fine with a simple converter at the plug in. However, in addition to a 3 pack converter, I ordered two power cords...the kind the go from the brick thing for a laptop for instance to the wall. And I ordered a 4 port usb thing that has adapters for UK and the EU. I think there are 4-5 different types of plugs used in the EU?

 

The one thing that can’t work over there is the beard / hair trimmer. But I saw the same one on the UK amazon site...so plan to order it once we are there.

 

So I think I’ve covered all the boring stuff. We should be good to go for a bit of fun shopping...like for a bedside lamp..and anything else for the dorm.

 

Did anyone else live in dorms in college? I remember my college living clearly. So many memories.

[laurspag]

Our first day was a sea day.  It's funny how we are walking all over the place barely sitting still, but I can't actually say we did certain things.  We were just moving around all the time.  We had nice weather, so I opted for my print shorts and the knit top.  We found it fun to go to the Diamond Lounge when it was open.  While the drinks are nice, my focus for this cruise needed to be lots and lots of water.  It still is, for that matter!  

 

My favorite night is always formal night.  I was disappointed there was only going to be one.  I realize that I brought three dresses because I was having trouble choosing, but I didn't bring an extra dress as a casual option in case there was only one formal night.  You guys would be so proud of me... re-wore a dress on the last night!

 

I went right for the red full length dress.  I'm not thrilled with how I looked, because jersey shows everything and I would have preferred a shaper underneath.  But it is what it is, and I am who I am.  It is a good reminder though that losing another 20 pounds would be a good idea.

 

Bar Harbor was our first port.  I was so excited to be going to Bar Harbor...Maine has been a bucket list place for me for a while now.  We had planned to explore on our own.  The weather was expected to be beautiful.  The air wasn't hot or muggy like New Jersey or back home, so I was thinking I would need to think a bit about my attire.  What I did was,  I chose a short sleeved knit top, a favorite pair of cropped jeans, and my jeans jacket and sandals.  As it turns out, right after I got off the ship, I took the jeans jacket off so I really didn't need to bring it.  I rolled it and it fit into my tote bag just fine, so it didn't bother me to carry it around.

 

I was very content to stop and get a cup of coffee while we planned our adventures for the day.  We decided we would hop on the free bus, and head over to Acadia National Park, since my sandals I had on were my good walking sandals.  I have to say, it was so beautiful, and I got a lot of exercise too.  

 

We also found a nice place for a late lunch when we got back, so  made sure to get a lobster roll.  We were floored when we saw the line for the tender to go back to the ship, but it moved so quickly that I can't complain.  

 

Here are some pictures from both our sea day, dinner, Bar Harbor, and dinner that evening.  I still can't figure out how to put the pictures in between paragraphs with this new setup.

 

 

[laurspag]

I'm still combining my photos and my husband's, so there will be a lot more to share.  It's just that I don't have them where I can post them yet.  One thing about some of my photos is that we had some movement here and there, but nothing big.  It always seemed to be at photo time though so some pictures are a little crooked.  The last one I posted our feet our a little funny as we were attempting to stay balanced.  You can't even tell that those sandals are a 3 inch wedge, lol.  The stance makes my foot look bigger than it is but the overall picture is a good one.

 

Anita, it must be so tricky trying to think of everything your son needs when he is going to school overseas.  

 

Brilliance is one of my favorite ships.  An 11 night cruise won't work for us right now.  We currently have a 5 or 6 day cruise on Brilliance out of Tampa in March, but I realized shortly after booking it that it wouldn't work.  It is too soon for me after this cruise.  Financially, it would be super tight because I need to get the airfare soon.  If it wasn't for that, it would work.

[pacruise804]

Laurie - you look amazing in the red dress - no shaper needed 🙂 

 

Margaret - the glasses look nice, brown was a good choice.

 

I've always struggled finding bras that fit and a couple years ago found a semi-local (1 hour drive) bra fitting specialist.  She sells European sizing and I was surprised by what size I was (already knowing US sizing generally has too large band/too small cup).  The brand I usually get is Elomi and they have some really pretty colors.  I wear a UK 34GG (US 34J), and it is amazing the difference in having a proper fit.  Before if I was to buy in store I had to go with 38 and was still small in the cup.  They recommend replacing bras every 6 months to a year - although at the price I definitely keep mine longer.  I can tell a difference though between the older and newer, and plan to get more next month and replace the old. 

 

Daughter is checked in and enjoying an orientation week before classes start next Tuesday.  I'm very at peace with her being there, although it will be weird to not see her on her birthday Sunday.

[Sailor_Sally]

Cute pictures Laurie ! You looked like you had a great time .

 

Anita , I lived in a dorm . What fun times !

 

Margaret , I really like those sunglasses ! I love a classic shape !

We have been playing trivia on Wednesdays at our local pub . We are having a great time .

[awhfy]

12 hours ago, Anita Latte said:

I was looking at a Boston cruise. I think it was the repositioning cruise from Boston to Tampa. Oct 2020. 11 days? They call it Bean town and Beaches. It on Brilliance and I’ve never sailed that class...

Anita, that’s a really popular cruise, sells out quickly  I know 10 people from Boston that take it to avoid driving to FL for the winter (they leave cars at their FL homes)

[awhfy]

Laurie, you look fabulous in that red dress. 

 

I know what what you mean about bras. I wear a 38DD (occasionally a 38DDD). I’ve tried the European sizing which puts me in a 38J (that’s just a scary thought). I used to love Victoria Secret bras until they stopped making my size. Right now I’m in a Vanity Fair front closure & it’s ok but I’m still looking. Wacol is good, but my favorite Olga has been discontinued 😢. 

 

Anita...I hope the dress is still in style when you get it!  Hope the school move goes well, so exciting for your son. 

 

We did our prepack yesterday. Where Les can’t lift over 20 lbs we decided to take more suitcases. We normally do one 24-25” & a carryon 20-21” each. We’re going to do two 25” each & no carryon, each bag weighed out between 20-25 lbs with everything loaded in. I look like I’m bringing a ton of stuff, but I’m really not, just lighter bags. I’ll have my tote for cameras, jewelry, water bottle etc. Les will carry his book & water bottle on board the plane.

 

We’ve finalized our shore excursions (much less active ones than we anticipated when we booked this cruise); land of Frozen Fire (volcanos, black sand beaches) in Hilo; island tour in Kona with lunch at a coffee plantation; Road to Hana in Maui. Oahu we will climb Diamond Head, do a luau, tour Pearl Harbor & Punchbowl; Kailua Ranch (where Magnum PI, Jurassic Park & many other movies are filmed. We’re taking our snorkel masks (even tho Les is pretty sure he won’t be up to much snorkeling), no fins tho (too big & heavy). Melody

Edited August 28, 2019 by awhfy

[Sailor_Sally]

Anita , I hope Dorian does not mess with your plans .

[MJC]

I'm watching the weather closely too, not just to see if it messes with Orlando, but also in case it comes to NY on Tuesday -- the airport could have problems or delays.

 

Laurie, love love love the red dress. You look amazing in all your photos. As for your comment about your sandals, the easy fix is to always have your front foot facing flat on to the camera, as in this photo (the girl on the right):

 

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-3589971/Zoe-Marshall-Kara-Ryan-ooze-Hollywood-glamour-glittering-gowns-Shine-Dine-gala.html

 

It also has the advantage of making one's legs look longer. 🙂 I basically have the same pose in all my formal photos, which is an adaption of basic ballet position called "croise," which means crossed.  It was designed over centuries to be both flattering to the body and to create diagonals which are naturally more energetic looking to the eye (you see this in choreography where dancing on a diagonal forward is used for the most "exciting" parts of a dance).

 

The lean in this lovely man's upper body is obviously too stylized for a natural photo. What I do, basically, is hips and legs at an angle to DH,  rotate my torso to the camera a bit and point my front leg and foot at the camera (not quite as far in front of my body as this), put the outside arm on my hip and inside arm behind DH, smile my best smile, relax.

 

I don't like the poses where we hold hands as much because they close the body in more, and I don't like to see the flat part of my upper arm either. I found that we almost never purchased those. I think an open and relaxed chest makes for a friendlier, more relaxed-looking photo. I do a deep exhale before the picture so I don't look stiff.

 

Ok that was a big digression from where I was originally headed!

 

This is a fun, extremely stylized fashion spread in the latest NY Magazine:

 

https://www.thecut.com/2019/08/lucy-boynton-the-politician.html

 

And I went to the eye doctor and ordered new glasses (which I won't have for two weeks). I can't find them online. They look a bit like this, but maybe a tiny bit more of a cat eye (without actually being one). The brown is darker with more bronzy accents, and the top has dark teal blue instead of purple. I love them!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited August 28, 2019 by MJC

[Sailor_Sally]

Laurie, That red dress looks fabulous . You are too hard on your self .We are supposed to be going on the Brillance transatlantic in may but I still can't find reasonable one way air fare . I am maybe being too picky .

[MJC]

Our weather has been in the 70s, so it's time to think about fall clothes and shoes.  These got me thinking about Anita's metallic oxfords. This would be similarly fun and versatile, I think:

 

https://www.jjill.com/product/clarks-un-maui-lace-up-sneaker?color=2SF

 

[Anita Latte]

My Soma order came today...the bra is what I've been looking for. I didn't get the right size though. I was hoping I would hit the jackpot and be able to take it with me London. I think I'll deal with the exchange after we get back.

 

I think that one of the challenges that I have with clothing, and especially bras, is that maybe my over the shoulder measurement is shorter than average? Straps are often way too long...dresses, camis, tanks, bras. Ah well.

 

I'm intrigued by the whole European/UK sizing. Maybe I'll go bra shopping in London? Hmm.

 

Laurie...the red dress is stunning. I don't see what you see...we are all so hard on ourselves. You look stunning.

 

Funny about the posing Margaret. I was recently watching some videos about that. I was feeling like I needed to focus on my head/neck placement. My guilty pleasure that isn't on anymore (but I streamed the whole series recently on Prime)...ANTM...Tyra was always talking about the model's neck. Don't lose your neck! I started looking at photos more and realizing that the photos I liked more had good neck. LOL.

 

Very good info on posing Margaret. Laurie, I admire how you take the time to get the photos on your cruises. I have 3 photos that I actually have framed that are from our Enchantment cruise. So they aren't too recent...but DH and DS both look current. My hair is very different...so I don't look current...but they are still recent enough to feel not old. I've been thinking about making photos a priority on our Feb 2020 cruise. And that's why I've been thinking about posing. And photo packages. I'm not a big fan of personal pictures...I shy away from them...but I've come to realize how much I enjoy having photos and want to make more of an effort to get good ones of DH and I.

 

Good to know regarding the Brilliance Relo cruise Melody. I don't really believe that DH and I could do that cruise. But I do like to find cruises that I may want to watch out for. That would be one to watch for while we are in Florida. Of course, Oct 2020 is a ways away and who knows what could happen between now and then...the lease only runs through August 2020. LOL.

[pacruise804]

Margaret, those glasses are really cute.  I like the idea of a little pop of color in an otherwise brown pair of glasses - I'll try to find that in my next pair 🙂 

[awhfy]

Ladies, you’re going to love the JJill fall catalog. Lots of browns, camels, burgundy (yellow undertone) & corals. Melody

 

safe journeys to those in Dorian’s path

[laurspag]

Thank you for the kind words.  The truth is, how I was standing made a difference in how the dress looked.  This was a very good picture of it, while most others were not.  While we are tired of the same old poses, you will see as I post more pictures, they did allow for more individuality and fun than they used to.  Still, I love the dress and would wear it again.  There is something about wearing red that I love.  I did not care in the least if anyone was as dressed up as I was.  I just put on that dress and went out and had a good time!  Don't you love it when your outfit makes you feel good?

 

My order from Chadwicks came in.  First, the quality was great.  I haven't ordered from them in a while, and I loved the items that I received.  

 

First, they are very autumn like, but I can see how I can work these into other seasons.  The have a cardigan that they call a boyfriend cardigan.  It is a nicer version than many I have seen.  It seems like the sweater knit is just the right weight to hold it shape.  They had dyed to match tanks with these as well.  Please check them out if you are looking for good colors for us - they had a good selection.  I chose matching tanks and cardigans in chocolate brown, and this wonderful color called elmwood.  elmwood is a gold/caramel type color.   I also  purchased a blazer in the Elmwood color. Then there was a twinset in spiced sangria.  That is a rusty red.

 

I'm really happy with these.  I'm going to check out JJill next!

 

Anita, I have issues with straps too!  They fall down on me.  I have to look a lot for bras where the straps stay in place without me having to adjust them so that they are tight.  The Soma  Enticing Lift balconet has these straps that once I adjust them, they don't fall down and they don't cut in.  This is an unlined bra though, so I can't wear it under everything.  I have a feeling they are discontinuing this bra.  While I would normally never buy a balconet (I bounce all over the place, lol) this one fits differently.

 

Melody, you may wish to check back with Victoria's Secret.  They have many more bras in the bigger cup sizes now.  While most people associate their bras with the whole image thing, they offer a lot of what I call everyday bras and undies that are good choices.  

 

Margaret, I really have to work on my posing.  Especially because my husband and I are so used to the photographers posing us that we go right to work, just like models.  Hand clasp, hand on hip, turn to the side, etc.  I need to re-read what you have stated, and practice a bit.

 

I should be able to post more photos this weekend.

 

I have started to dream about the repositioning cruise from Boston to Tampa.  I can handle the cost. The problem is that my husband doesn't feel we can do the 11 day.  😞

 

 

 

[Anita Latte]

So my dress came yesterday! Surprise surprise! It fits pretty well...the arm holes are too big. BUT I think this is something that I can easily alter. I did kind of order a size that I thought I could alter...that is...I ordered a little on the big side so that I would have some fabric to work with. I will say this...there is nothing like a true wrap dress to get the criss cross across the bust to be in the right spot and not gaping. No need for some additional pinning at the middle bust area to maintain modesty. So mission accomplished there. The blue is a bit more air...a bit cooler than I would like. Definitely muted. But because it is SO blue...very little white showing through...I think I might be able to do a bit of a tea stain to warm it up...and kudos on the wrap...I have room to do a test run that won't show should the tea stain experiment go downhill.

 

IDK how on top of Dorian everyone is... I understand from having lived outside the immediately area how people don't necessarily pay attention to such things...but Dorian is getting ready to knock on my door so to speak...and while I would be a bit more go with the flow in almost every other circumstance...trying to leave the country to take DS to college with a hurricane just biding it's time to hit home is really really annoying to say the least. I said to Margaret earlier today...I HATE limbo.

 

MCO took matters into their own hands...and for the sake of the workers to have time to tend to their own households...they are shutting down the airport on Monday at 2AM. 

 

A brief look at the options show that leaving early on a FLIGHT from MCO is a no go. Sold out. Our flight plans have a connection in ATL so we have opted to make ATL our origination and keep our flight plans otherwise. We will be driving north to catch our flight.

 

Sadly, Margaret's Florida vacation is being postponed. There is a chance that she will still come down to stay with her sister after Dorian clears the area...and that she will be here still when we return from London...and what was going to be a solo getaway for Margaret will instead turn into Girls on the Town...two young (yes YOUNG) ladies on the verge of new beginnings in seasons of life having a ball in Animal Kingdom and Disney Springs and Zumba and whatever other trouble we can scrounge up.

 

Time will tell on the timing of it all though as our return to ATL will complicate our return to Orlando. Not only will our vehicle be up north...but our sweet Grace will be up north too. We'll be taking her with us...staying with family for a couple nights...leaving Grace with family while we head to London and then doing the reverse upon return...with a probable one night stay with family upon return...and possible couple nights since our return is a Wednesday. We may push the drive back south to the weekend. DH could work remote for Thursday and Friday...we'll see.

 

Meanwhile...suddenly Saturday...TOMORROW... is a major packing and prep day. We anticipate leaving at o'dark thirty Sunday morning.

 

Our biggest concern for prep is flooding I think. Our newer construction apartment complex has hurricane windows and everything else to the latest and greatest, but we are on the ground floor. And while I look around and see how we are well and above the street level...we are still on the ground floor. We'll be raising things up...nothing precious will be on the floor. And funny enough...in the situation...I realize how little of what I own is actually precious to me. It's a rough question but those that advocate a more minimalist lifestyle...and help with how to declutter and let go...advise asking yourself what things would you buy again in all the things that you own? That helps for thinning the load so to speak but in the case of my situation...the next question is whether or not I COULD buy it again. For sure I would buy another latte machine...and it would be easy to do. But photos? No chance.

 

Funny enough...I think the whole family is a bit excited about the idea of a road trip. I love a good road trip. And also...we're excited to see family that we haven't seen in almost 2 years. DS is actually excited for that too...he has a cousin that is now in first grade...big changes in 2 years.

 

I admit that I am slightly addicted to CC...I like coming on and reading...but I have to bow out for a bit here on posting.

 

Laurie...I am so looking forward to seeing your photos and reading more about your cruise.

 

Melody...I don't recall when you leave officially but BON VOYAGE!! And Happy Anniversary! Yes?

 

I'll be taking lots of photos of our trip...and will be in touch on the flip side!

[Sailor_Sally]

Anita , I hate hurricanes and never relax until they are past us . It now looks like it will skirt Florida and hit the Carolinas but you never know . I have seen too many make wild turns . I hope you safely get to London and get your son set up in school . September is the worst month in Florida for hurricanes .

[awhfy]

Anita, safe travels up to Atlanta & oversea & back!  Some folks would be in an absolute tizzy over this, your comment, roadtrip!  I love it!  

 

When we lived-in Cocoa Beach we were up in Boston for a weekend wedding & our kids were staying with our next door neighbor. Yup, a hurricane came thru & we couldn’t get back. We lived on a spit of land between the Atlantic Ocean & the Banana River. Our kids, 13, 8 & 6 ran thru the house & moved all the pictures onto the top of the bunk beds (smart kiddos). 6 year old filled sandbags from his sandbox (his idea), he used plastic grocery bags. They had great stories. I don’t think our neighbors ever had kids...I was pretty stressed at not being able to get back. They thought it was great fun. Of course we lived thru several really nasty typhoons when we lived in Okinawa, so it wasn’t new stuff to them

 

We leave for Vancouver on the 21st of September & sail on 22 September back on 9 October. Our actual anniversary isn’t until 29 November (but no Hawaii cruises then). Melody

Edited August 31, 2019 by awhfy

[purduemom1]

Wow Melody, that must have been quite an experience and I can imagine how stressful it was for you. 

 

Anita,  you really have it together! I wondered what you were going to do with Dorian on his way. Your decision to go to Atlanta and take your kitty with you seems to be a good solution. I wish you safe, uncomplicated travels and happy memories of all you are about to experience. 

 

Margaret, it sounds as if you and Anita are planning some fun experiences. Maybe a bit different than your original plans but still pretty exciting

Sharon