the life of lilmissfina

Pluots, Fruit & The Blahs

2011-11-06T14:29:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been eating alot of fruit, I've been eating alot of EVERYTHING,but thats beside the point.

I've been going to the farmer's market and trying new things.
I recently had a pluot..... have you ever heard of a pluot??? (i hadn't)
It's part plum, part apricot; it was simply delicious.
A kiwi was eaten, skin & all!!
I'm looking foward to trying all kinds of different fruits, even ones with strange sounding names.

*On the topic of fruit, I am having a problem with cantaloupes. I don't know how to choose a good one. Every time i buy one i cut it open and it has no flavor. I end up buying it pre-cut because than i know it will be good,buuuttt that is super expensive. Do you have any cantoloupe buying tips?

Also, what kinds of fruit are your favorites?

I know this is not a very exciting post, but im going through one of my stages. The not so good stages. The one where i feel totally blah & start eating way too much. I'm sure it's obvious because i haven't blogged in about two months.

Sooo, i'm writing about fruit, It's what i came up with.....

please help fina cook!

2011-08-31T12:48:00.000-07:00

pretty, pretty, pretty please

I am in desperate need of recipe suggestions.

I'd really like to start cooking dinner more often but i have trouble getting ideas.

I often look through the gazillion recipes on allrecipes.com but still come up empty handed.

I would LOVE it if any of you would be sweet enough to let me in on some of YOUR favorite recipes.

There is a shiny new slow cooker sitting in my kitchen that has yet to be used, any recipes for that would be greatly appreciated as well!

eagerly anticipating some kind responses

Lovies,

Fina

wishes

2011-08-25T11:50:00.000-07:00

Do you wish on a fallen eyelash?

I do, every single time.

Sometimes it's a silly wish and sometimes it's something bigger.

I wonder where this little tradition started?

The Mrs.

2011-08-19T13:16:00.000-07:00

I am officially a "MRS".

It's been almost two weeks and i don't feel any bit different, i guess i allready felt like we were married. We've been living together for a few years & we knew we were in it for keeps.

If you're married, did you feel different at all after the wedding?

I'm very ready to relax and focus on things other than wedding planning.

Ready for baking and possibly even cooking dinner once in a while.

Ready to settle into our new official family.

Squirrell has a real daddy now!!

My initials are GG, don't make fun! hehe

"pershpective"

2011-07-30T10:55:00.000-07:00

curiosity never killed the cat

2011-07-24T18:20:00.000-07:00

We keep moving forward, opening new doors,
and doing new things, because we're curious
and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.
- Walt Disney

choose wisely

2011-06-29T21:36:00.000-07:00

"The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another."
- William James

*Arm yourself with good thoughts*

Tilt

2011-06-16T07:07:00.000-07:00

This Thursaday Fina is GRATEFUL for.....

My sore throat is all gone!

The sweet ladies i work with

Digiourno pizza and wine on Tuesday nights

Getting a little farther along in the wedding planning (it's in less then two months!)

The pretty gray color on my nails (i painted em myself!)

Waking up calm

Lattes from PEETS

What are you thankful for today???

Im thinking

2011-06-13T10:01:00.000-07:00

This dress is quite gorgeous.

What do you think?

It's way out of my budget at the moment, but it's nice to dream :)

friends

2011-06-12T15:29:00.000-07:00

The language of friendship is not words but meanings.
- Henry David Thoreau

Actions speak louder than words.

Be true to your word.

Be there for your friends.

The title of a "Best Friend" takes years and years to earn, it takes alot of love and alot of good deeds.

Distance can make things a little tougher but true friendships persevere.

Im sending all the lovies in my heart to my bestie Jen.

happeeeeeee food

2011-06-11T19:58:00.000-07:00

Haggen Daz

Chocolate Chocolate Chip ice cream makes me very happy.

It is especially good eaten in bed feeling sorry for yourself because you have a sore throat and LOTS of aches and painies!!

What is your favorite comfort food when you're feeling under the weather?

everything

2011-06-09T13:51:00.001-07:00

will be ok.

have it, give it

2011-05-27T09:01:00.000-07:00

"Love is an act of faith,
and whoever is of little faith is also of little love. "
- Erich Fromm

have faith

have trust

have LOVE

silly kitty

2011-05-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

picky and choosey

2011-05-24T08:32:00.000-07:00

Every minute of every day we make choices, insignificant and more important choices. Each choice you make reveals a bit of who you are.

Make good choices and be true to yourself.

Don't fret if you've made poor ones in the past, each new choice can correct a less than good one.

lovies,

Fina

self sufficiency

2011-05-19T15:21:00.000-07:00

I put air in my tire this afternoon.... all by myself. :)

adopt, nap, be happy

2011-05-19T08:32:00.000-07:00

saturday thoughts

2011-05-14T18:41:00.000-07:00

"One of the BEST actions we can take, with courage, is to relax."

-insight from the tag on my yogi green tea

Lately it seems like there is ALWAYS something that needs to be done. Ok it doesn't just seem that way, there really IS always something that needs doing.

I've got TONS of exciting stuff going on in the next few months.

Trips home, my bridal shower, my best friends wedding and then MY WEDDING!!!

Oh my.

Along with the excitement inevitably come some stress, and lets be honest, I'm prone to getting a teeeeny bit on the anxious side.

This quote stopped me in my morning routine and made me think.

Even though there are tons of things to do, i don't ALWAYS have to be DOING something. If i give myself permission to relax more often I'll be better able to more effectively get things done.

So girlies, I have a question.

What is your favorite way to relax?

And while I'm asking for advice.... You could always throw some of your "time management" tips my way.

any words of WISDOM (or silliness) will be greatly appreciated!

Gina

mom

2011-05-08T20:28:00.000-07:00

A mother is not a person to lean on,
but a person to make leaning unnecessary.
-Dorothy Canfield Fisher

I like this quote.

I don't agree with it COMPLETELY, i think you should always be able to lean on your mother when you need to.

My mama is always there when i need her.

What she did exceptionally well, was to raise her daughter to be strong and independent.

Which makes the need to lean happen less often.

Thank you Mom, for teaching me to be me.

Love,

Gina

2011-05-04T15:35:00.000-07:00

"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched.They must be felt with the heart."
-Helen Kellar

* quote taken from a card my friendly Jennifer sent me. I love her!

P.S

On Saturday i was in NY, for the above mentioned friend's SURPRISE bridal shower. It was FABULESS!

How is everyones Wednesday going?

Saturday

2011-04-30T02:18:00.000-07:00

Ohhhhh Happpiiiiieeeeee day!!!!

Love, Fina

p.s What are YOUR plans for the weekend?
I'll tell ya about mine later... if your interested!

i see lace........

2011-04-23T18:23:00.000-07:00

Fina purchased a WEDDING DRESS today!

carry on

;)

wisdom

2011-04-06T21:02:00.000-07:00

As we let our light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence actually liberates others.

- Marianne Williamson

link for this etsy treat*

Confidence and smiles are contagious.

Love Never Fails.

Help others while helping yourself.

Share your knowledge and opinions.

If you've got it, flaunt it. (hehe)

Don't hold back.

SHINE.

Care to give some advice of your own?

*Fina

Old & New

2011-03-24T11:03:00.000-07:00

"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born."
- Anaïs Nin

spring brings hope

2011-03-20T20:50:00.000-07:00

"Legends say that hummingbirds float free of time, carrying our hopes for love, joy and celebration. The hummingbird's delicate grace reminds us that life is rich, beauty is everywhere, every personal connection has meaning and that laughter is life's sweetest creation."

* sweet words gleaned from the back of a papyrus greeting card. Aren't they (papyrus cards) the best? The priciest, but still... the best!

I had a beautiful weekend, it was productive and fun.

I applied for a job, shopped, volunteered(!), shopped, made appointments, had a luxurious manicure, dropped in on a last minute dinner and movie date w/ my cali "family" and best of all...

I had wonderful phone conversations with loved ones, i received a beautiful card in the mail.

Life is good, there is ALWAYS a reason to c-e-l-e-b-r-a-t-e.

How was YOUR weekend?

Please tell me what made you happiest...

where do you "live"?

2011-03-14T12:36:00.000-07:00

"What we speak becomes the house we live in."
- Hafiz

Do you speak kind words?

If you do, i bet you live in a happy home.

What you give is often what you get.

Give kindness and love.

love,

Fina

photo

lovey dovie table love

2011-03-11T08:53:00.000-08:00

I find this lil table.....

absolutely, positively, ADORABLE!

What do you think, do you like it?

I wish i had a spot for it.....

If you likey & have a spot for it, you can nab it here.

How About Today?

2011-03-09T13:36:00.000-08:00

one day i will... get a better (paying) job.

one day i will... deal with "things".

one day i'll... make all of the appointments i need to make.

one day i'll... stay home doing fun housewifey stuff & BAKING instead of wandering mindlessly through random stores.

one day i will..... start working out (there is a FREE gym in my apartment community!)

one day i'll.... take a walk all by myself around the beautiful new town i live in.

one day... i'll get serious about reading the books stacked neatly under my (lovely ikea) night stand.

one day i will.... do yoga regularly.

Are You Interesting?

2011-03-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

"What is interesting after all is the making of a self, an act of creation, like any other, That does imply a certain amount of conscious work"

-May Sarton

Tell me.......

Who are you?

Who do you wish you were?

Do you feel like you are your "true self"?

I don't think it's easy to "create" yourself, it takes work every day. What is easy, is sitting around, wondering about who you "could" be. Wondering will not get you very far. The only way to find or create yourself is to try new things, spend more time doing the things you love and especially the things you are most scared of .

Photo

wedding fun

2011-03-03T05:00:00.000-08:00

We are off to wedding & a mini vacay.

V. excited

It's gonna be a fab 4 day weekend, and I'm soooo looking forward to dressing up for all of the festivities.

Annnd also to meet one of Rob's good childhood friends.

Not to mention, I'm gonna see my MAMA. My Auntie & Cousin will also make an appearance.

Woooooooooooooohooooooo.

I hope you all have a truly beautiful weekend.

Have fun, relax, read, shop or parteeeee, what ever floats your boat.

love,

fina

p.s don't forget naps, weekends were made for napping.

stained glass

2011-02-26T19:30:00.000-08:00

People are like stained-glass windows.
They sparkle and shine when the sun is out,
but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed
only if there is a light from within.
- Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

Do you shine when it "matters"?

Does any particular person in your life *sparkle* beyond your expectations?

I feel lucky to have quite a few kind friends (old & new) who continually astonish me with their love and generosity.

Stained glass has always captured my eye.

Wooooo, i feel like a womaaaaaaaaaan

2011-02-25T05:00:00.000-08:00

“A turned on woman turns on the world.”

-Dr. Christiane Northrup

*quote via

The Way Of The Happy Woman

Enjoy your weekend ladies!

The world is your's for the "taking".

Check out the link, hope you don't "mind" this post.

She's a very honest woman, i respect that immensely.

i like to give presents

2011-02-24T05:00:00.000-08:00

Currently pondering my next giveaway....

Suggestions welcome!

food for thought

2011-02-23T12:40:00.000-08:00

Could we see when and where we are to meet again, we would be more tender when we bid our friends goodbye.
- Ouida

try not to do things you will regret, think before speaking (or writing, or typing).

advice to myself & to all those close to me.

Sheeps Can Knit????

2011-02-23T08:47:00.000-08:00

Happy Wednesday!!

HI!

Do the MUTTS comics make you smile?

I heart them. Obviously.

i like words

2011-02-22T09:54:00.000-08:00

"curate"

fun word.

Do you enjoy this word?

it's kinda like cute and create all in one!

How's Tuesday treating ya?

I've allready made the bed, dusted and done laundry.

andddddddd made a list of things to do today.

this list does not include going to the California State DMV.

I'll go when i'm good and ready.

Gina

"naive-ness"

2011-02-18T09:29:00.000-08:00

Appreciate again and again, freshly and naively, the basic goods of life, with awe, pleasure, wonder and even ecstasy, however stale these experiences may have become to others.
- Abraham Maslow

Dreamthisday.com

What are you still in awe of, even though you see it/feel it everyday?

i'm an open book

2011-02-16T08:26:00.000-08:00

"The trouble with talking too fast is you may say something you haven't thought of yet."

-Ann Landers

i talk too fast & too much.

i miss all of my friendly's back in NY, they always let me blab on and on.

i kind of feel bad for my new co-workers and random people working at stores, they have unwittingly become my "best friends", which means they get the pleasure of listening to me babble..... Lucky, lucky them.

How are all of my bloggy friends doing on this lovely Wednesday?

p.s I miss all of the kitties back home too, they would listen to me talk ALLLLL DAY LONG! ;)

perhaps i should spend less time talking & more time thinking & doing.

There's this pesky thing called a "day job" i need to get.

skip your way to HAPPIES

2011-02-12T17:29:00.000-08:00

Happiness walks on busy feet.

- Kitte Turmell

*skip, skip, skip to the loo my darling

** are those the right words to that little song we sang as kids??

*** Is this a song teachers sang when they thought their students had to pee really bad?

dear love

2011-02-03T08:49:00.000-08:00

there's asparagus in it too!!!

2011-02-01T14:51:00.000-08:00

Healthy Choice rocks my socks

or my cozy, cozy slipper moccasins i've been wearing everywhere, oh California, how i love thee!

p.s I'm sorry lean cuisine, you're just not up to snuff anymore.

pumpkin squash ravioli... YUMYUMYUMYUM

never fear; fina is here!!

2011-01-27T14:26:00.001-08:00

"Life is a succession of lessons which must be lived to be understood."

- Helen Keller

I prefer to make mistakes.

I'd rather try something than be told it's "wrong", "hard" or "not likely".

Don't be afraid of the "new".

Don't lets others past mistakes cloud your goals.

Do it yourself.

P.S like that title?? hehehehehe

wish others well

2011-01-22T17:03:00.003-08:00

"You get what you get and you don't get upset."

Who first said these words?

Perhaps a lovely kindergarden teacher?

I'm not sure, but, I heard them from my wise friend Melissa.

The phrase has been popping up in my head alot over the last few days.

I'm not quite sure why.

Regardless, it's good advice.

Do you agree?

lovies,

gina fina

don't use sad words

2011-01-16T19:45:00.000-08:00

For all sad words of tongue and pen, The saddest are these, "It might have been".
- John Greenleaf Whittier

it might have been.........

what if, i wish i woulda, coulda, shoulda

no second guessing, no "maybe if", no "i wish i could go back"

"if i knew then what i knew now"

If you knew, you wouldn't have learned.

photo

What I Learned in Girl Scouts

2011-01-05T19:42:00.000-08:00

Make new friends, but keep the old; one is silver and the other gold.

This is the best piece of advice i received during my years as a girl scout.

Yes, lil fina was a girl scout, all the way through sixth grade :)

What is the best/most useful piece of advice YOU received as a child?

p.s Where can i get me some girls scout cookies??

destiny

2011-01-01T19:39:00.004-08:00

i see beauty all around me

snow capped mountains

smiling faces

"welcome" and " nice to meet yous" galore

i am home

-gina

FOCUS ON THE NOW

2010-12-23T11:00:00.000-08:00

It is our choices ... that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.

- J. K. Rowling

dream foward

2010-12-16T07:09:00.006-08:00

Those who live in the past limit their future.

- words of wisdom via yogi tea

hello there lovelies!

How's Thursday treating ya?

What are you looking foward to?

I don't think i have to tell you what i'm looking foward to!

don't look away

2010-12-13T05:13:00.005-08:00

Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goals.

- Henry Ford

have no fear, excitement is near

2010-12-06T06:53:00.007-08:00

"Don't be afraid to give up the good to go for the great."

- John D. Rockefeller

Hi girls!

I miss you!

How are you?

-Fina

p.s How's Christmas/Holiday shopping going?????

humility

2010-11-30T12:10:00.007-08:00

Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less.
- Rick Warren (author of The Purpose Driven® Life)

love this

Who can you be a little kinder to today?

Positive Regression

2010-11-16T07:33:00.000-08:00

This was my lunch yesterday. I LOVED it.

I am not ashamed.

It cost $3 @ Stop n Shop.

I may or may not have purchased three boxes.

It has everything!!!

Turkey, cheese, ASPPLESAUCE (yum) a lil water bottle && mini nilla wafers (i gave those away bc i'm not a big fan).

Try it.

Sometimes regressing can be sO0 FUN.

What Are You Thankful For?

2010-11-15T05:49:00.005-08:00

If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, Thank you, that would suffice.

- Meister Eckhart

Pretty please, tell me what your're thankful for.

Lets start Monday with HAPPIES!

Today i'm thankful for my Fiance, Friends and Family.

*Friends of all kinds, bloggie friends INCLUDED!

What's Up Your Sleeve?

2010-11-11T07:10:00.000-08:00

"You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream."

- C. S. Lewis

Quote via Dreamthisday.com

Is there something you really, really wanna do but you're kinda scared?

How bout you just do it; seriously, get up right now and do it!

If it's a very BIG dream or goal, why not take one teeny tiny step in that direction?

Make a list, put notes on your mirrors or on your fridge.

Do it.

You will feel FABULESS.

;)

fina

hehehehehe

2010-11-09T04:39:00.000-08:00

These lil mutts are always the perfect pick me up.

School, work and party planning are taking over my week.

I've got my eye on the prize...... ;)

How have you girls been?

What did you do this weekend?

I went to Balteee -more & it was lovely.

I love being an army (soon to be) wife!

TILT 11/04/10

2010-11-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

love on a Thursday

No more midterms

Cuddly cats

Making plans

Miranda Lambert

Friendly folks

Meeting the girls for dinner & drinks (pumpkin beer, YUM) on a Friday night night!! wooot woot

Sneaking in quick blog reads when i have a free second :)

Dierks Bentley - LOOOOVE. Saw him in Brooklyn @ A bar called Southpaw. I was entralled all night. (I wore blue jeans & a white tank top, you will only get this is you are a Dierks fan!)

Leaves

Cardigans (I think Becca's got more than me though!) haha

When headaches finally go away!

My friends

Pancakes ( goooopy, gooopy in the middle)

My mom

My dad

Plain white t-shirts

Deep breaths

& deep, slow stretches!

Morning snuggles w/ kitties

Sales @ LOFT!

Getting a SUPER sweet & thoughtful package in the mail, with GLITTER!!!

What do you LOVE today????

feelings

2010-11-01T07:05:00.000-07:00

Have you ever experienced two conflicting feelings at the same time? Pity and victory?

So happy for what you have but at the same time feel a true sorrow for what someone else has lost?

Ever took satisfaction in someone else's loss because it became your gain?
But seconds later want to cry for that person?

Is it possible to feel smug and pity/compassion at the same exact time?

I think it is.

Does it make you a bad person?

NO.

I think it makes you honest.

We are all wired to want to "win", to get what we truly believe we deserve.

Of course it feels amazing to have something you want/deserve/need.

I think that a "good" person can admit to these conflicting feelings.
A good person can thoroughly experience these feelings knowing it doesn't make them bad, just REAL.

Well Wishes

2010-10-25T21:54:00.000-07:00

May a rainbow run beside you in a sky that's always blue.And may happiness fill your heart each day your whole life through.- Irish Blessing

I'm not Irish.

Well, actually my great grandmother was 1/2 Irish, i guess that makes me ... 1/16th?

Anyway, I really like this quote.

Something about it gives me the HAPPIES!

Believe It, Do It

2010-10-24T19:28:00.000-07:00

No one can give you better advice than yourself.
- Cicero

Don't ask, you allready know.

This dress, I've Got A Hankering For It...

2010-10-20T22:55:00.000-07:00

I don't think i can keep track of how many different kinds of wonderful this dress is.

Black lace... Pretty flowy fabric... Gorgeous girl with a very cool braid going on

& THE SHOES!

But, back to the dress, i love it, i want it, i am pretty sure i can't have it!

Perhaps Ellie Sabb would like to donate this dress to me so i can wear it for my engagement party?

I'll even take Blake's hand me down, it will probably be to tight/to long, but that's ok, i think i can make it work!

Hi Ellie Sabb!!!!

I'm not a famous movie star, but i would TOTALLY act like one if you sent me this dress :)

(fingers crossed!)

lots & lots of lovies,

Fee Fee

2010-10-20T03:00:00.000-07:00

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.

- Mark Twain

I'm going for it.

It's scary, there are many unknowns, a lot of adjusting will need to happen & it's quite far away from the place I've called home and the friends and family i've relied on for the past 26 years.

It's also exciting, adventurous, a brand spanking new fresh start, exhilarating &

best of all, it's US.

Us, making plans, new memories & building a life together.

* Quote via Dream This Day

Cute Bridesmaid Gift Alert!

2010-10-19T03:00:00.001-07:00

My lovely friend Melissa got married on October 1st.

Her wedding was beautiful & the food was fantabulous, like really, really good.

I've always thought the Bloomingdales "little brown" bags are adorable.

Of course i was super duper excited to receive one as a bridesmaid gift. :)

Here is a picture of the lovely, fun and VERY happy couple.

Come On Get Happpppppy!

2010-10-18T05:00:00.003-07:00

Whoever is happy will make others happy, too.

- Anne Frank

These are some of my bestest girlfriends.

They make me VERY, VERY happy.

OK, so it's midterms week :(.

I'll be back soon lovies!!

I miss you!

Lovies, you know wh0 you are! ;)

Pretty please don't forget about me!!

hi!

2010-10-12T18:51:00.002-07:00

Sorry i haven't been around the past few days, school has been a bit crazy & I'm trying to be a studious little student. ;)

Hopefully i'll have a bit of time to catch up on all of your fabulous blogs tomorrow, if not, then DEFINITELY Thursday.

I can't stay away that long; I'm pretty sure you know the feeling!

Lovies,

Fina

my invisible love

2010-10-07T22:01:00.000-07:00

ok here goes.

Alot of you answered love; I'm not surprised. I agree it is the most wonderful of the "invisibles".

The love i have for Rob is stronger then anything i ever thought possible.
I trust him more than i trust myself.
He is my BEST FRIEND.
How could i not be ecstatic about marrying my best friend?
I look foward to coming home at night to a boy all cuddled up in bed, watching family guy or the Yankee game.
He acts like an excited 3 year old, when i walk in the bedroom, my heart bursts with "happies" every.single.time.
We've been friends for years.
We were "part time" best friends at work.
I wished deep down inside that one day he would be mine, this perfect,giving, sweet, caring, loving, understanding, funny,sillly boy.
I thought of how wonderful it would feel to be his girlfriend.
I "witnessed" (or overheard) him being treated terribly in his past relationship.
He was taken for granted; he was yelled at & ridiculous demands were placed upon him.
It hurt my heart to hear the frustration, hurt & anger in his voice during the many phone calls i overheard.
I knew i would never take him for granted.
His love is unconditional and stronger than ANYTHING i have ever know.
I knew that i would appreciate every second of time we would spend together "if" we ever got together.
He accepts every part of me (even the not so great parts).
I truly believe that we have taught each other how strong love can be.
I look foward to every tiny step and big leap we will take together into the future.
EVERTHING.
I even look foward to "fighting" over duvet covers & couches ;)
I used to think i did not want to marry a very "handsome" man, i thought i would be worried that other women would be "after him".
I laugh at this old thought now.
I know he would never hurt me, hurting me would hurt him to much.
The mean, scary monster that is jealousy has never stepped foot into our relationship.
We scoff at this monsters exsistence in way to many relationships.
That monster does not belong in ANY relationship, romantic or friendship.
Jealousy is not love.
Jealously kills love.

Our love is and always will be my favorite invisible.

Rob, I know you'll be reading this later (bc i'll tell you too! hehe).

Know that i mean every word i have written here.

I feel so much more than i have the writing abilities to express.

I know that i will never ever NEED another thing in my entire life.

I am so lucky.

funny on a friday

2010-10-07T21:02:00.000-07:00

Shtill!

It really gets me EVERY time.

I'm SHTILL waiting for my cats to start "talking" like these guys, hehe!

Are you ready for fall?

I am!

I've been in such a good mood lately bc of the cooler weather.

I didn't even mind the rain the past few days, I got to wear my RAIN BOOTS! ;)

Fina wore a scarf today, Yippee for Fall. wooot, woot!

TILT 10-7-10

2010-10-07T05:56:00.000-07:00

Listening to Sheryl Crow - Really, really listening. Her lyrics are beautiful, honest and inspiring.
My Theories of Personalities Class- i love it, i'm the annoying girl who can't shut up in class ( i can't help it, i enjoy "actively" participating)
The return of .... DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES!! ;)
PB & Jelly sammies. Have you guys tried those lil premade round ones? yummmmm. i just wish they came in a whole wheat variety!
Blog Friends- Is it weird that i feel so connected with alot of you girls and wish we could be friends "in real life"? I know this is real life, but, i mean like in person, lets go shopping and have lunch, kind of friends :).
Almost every night when i come home from work, Rob has my pj's waiting for me, folded on the bed :).
Painting my own nails & toes- I used to waste sO MUCH money at the nails salon, i have recently rediscovered the joy ( and $ saving) of doing it myself.
My friend Melissa's wedding- It was absolutely beautiful, i felt much happier and more emotional than i expected, standing up there as one of her bridesmaids.We've been friends since the sixth grade..... I'm proud to say i have amazing friends from my childhood. I NEVER want to let them go.

Tell me, tell me, what do you love today???

Remember TILT= Things I Love Thursday.

TILT idea from Ms.GalaDarling

what do you need? (like really, really need)

2010-10-05T22:25:00.000-07:00

"What is essential, is invisible to the eye."

- Antoine De Saint-Exupery

photo

What is the most important "thing" in your life that can't be seen?

sweet like cherry pie

2010-10-05T03:00:00.000-07:00

I am truly honored to accept this bloggie award from Nicole @ Noodles and Waffles. :) . Go check out her blog, she's genuine, cute, fun & she and her husband are so active (swimming, biking, hiking...) that i kinda feel like a lazy bones. Thats ok, i am & i accept it! hehe

Here's the deal:

1. Thank the person that gave you the award.
Thank you very much Nicole!!

2. Copy the award and put it on your blog.
okie dokie

3. List 3 things you love about yourself.
1. I am caring.
2. I am loving
3. I am SILLY (oh & i have long lashes like nicole!!hehe)

4. Post a picture you love.

hehe!! Just kidding Rob!!

I love this picture, it captures the love & happies from our little moment.

and come on.... how handsome is my cowboy???? ;)

5. Tag 5 people & pass on the award.

Krystal @ Village
Becca @ Adorable Optimism
Suz @ Day by Day with Suz
Ashlae @ Ladycakes
Lenore @ Lather.Write.Repeat

quick

2010-10-03T13:09:00.000-07:00

Do you want to know who you are? Don't ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you.

-Thomas Jefferson

Act fast or you'll never know....

Tell Me What Ya Want, What Ya Really, Really Want

2010-09-28T12:25:00.007-07:00

So, have you been wondering which lucky lady won my blog giveaway?

I bet you've been on the edge of your seats!!

drum roll PLEASE!!!!

Tamara of The Amateur Nutritionist

You are the lucky, lucky lady :)

Email me dollgirl86@aol.com & let me know what you want from esty.

Anything you want!!!!

Anything at all $25 and under. :)

I'm excited, i like giving presents.

Pick something out & i'll order it for you right away!

Hi Rob!!!!!

2010-09-27T05:00:00.001-07:00

So, I really like these earrings.

I like them a whole bunch.

I like em a few whole bunchs.

They are only $25.

Halloween is coming up, I think they would be a very lovely halloween present.

P.S i Like the white and gold ones, the puple is cute too but the white ones will go with more.

See how practical and responsible i'm being?

so um if you are bored and thinking about what to do with $25,

you can get them here.

No pressure.

I heart this

2010-09-25T15:59:00.003-07:00

Found this at Poppy Place on ..... come on where else?

ETSY.

I really like it.

It would probably look really cute framed in a bathroom.

(hint hint Rob) ;)

You're Looking Fabulous Today!

2010-09-25T08:41:00.005-07:00

Lately, I've been thinking about how there are so many different types of pretty.
If you look, you can find something beautiful in everyone.
I'm a big people watcher, it is one of my favorite things to do.
I also LOVE to compliment, i never feel stupid approaching a stranger and telling them i like their dress/ they have gorgeous hair or i just LOVE those shoes!
I was at Yankee stadium a few weeks ago and the girl in front of me was wearing a gorgeous lacy dress. Might sound fancy but it was casual enough for daytime.
I didn't think twice before asking where she bought it and telling her she looked great in it.
She smiled, I'm sure it made her day (or at least her hour).
I smiled, because i love seeing the joy that even a little, if superficial, compliment can give.

Men prefer brief praise, pitched high; women are satisfied with praise in a lower key, just so it goes on and on. ~Mignon McLaughlin, The Neurotic's Notebook

I'm going to make it my goal to give at least 3 genuine compliments a day.

Who's with me? ;)

you don't need a thing

2010-09-23T05:18:00.003-07:00

Lately I have been deleting certain emails as soon as they arrive in my inbox.
I don't even open them.
I don't want to do this, but i must.
It is for my own good.

Gilt.... DELETE

Banana Republic.... Delete

Urban Outfitters... delete

Anthropologie.......... delete while closing my eyes and using the utmost self control!

Zappo's deleeeeeete (i have plenty of shoes)

The list goes on.

Maybe i should unsubscribe from them, then i won't even be tempted to take a peek.

Buuuuut, what if i miss a REALLY good sale?

I've decided that it's not a real good sale if it's an item that i don't need.

And let's face it....... i don't need a thing.

hey there lovely lady

2010-09-22T15:14:00.002-07:00

Hi!
So ummmmmm.
I'm doing a GIVEAWAY!
Have you noticed?
I've only tweeted and facebooked (facebooked?) about it a few hundred times ;)
Don't you wanna choose your own little etsy treat??!?
You've got till Friday at midnight to comment & take part.
Come on, make me smile, i LOVE giving presents.

CLICKEEEE !!

Can you REALLY see?

2010-09-21T22:50:00.004-07:00

“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new lands but seeing with new eyes.”

- Marcel Proust

Quote via thinksimplenow

Sometime's i think its really great to reevalute your beliefs, ideas & goals.

You can't want the same exact things forever as you age.

you age & grow and should defintely make it a habit

Have you "checked in" with yourself lately?

breath, do, be

2010-09-21T03:29:00.002-07:00

I am a girl who struggled w/ social anxiety and depression all throughout high school. & even into her early 20's. I am the girl who desperately tried to hide her anxiety,so others wouldn't think she was weird or weak.This is the girl who used to only feel comforabe when she was with her oldest and dearest friends, because she could be her REAL self with them (she still wanted to please them though). This is the girl that sometimes felt so incredibly down that she could not pull herself out of bed.But the next day she would wear a nice outfit and spend extra time on her makeup, that day she was "happy". I am the girl who needed to look and feel beautiful everyday, she needed a few compliments each day to get by, to feel validated. On days when she didn't look "beautiful" (or didn't feel beautiful) she was quiet and withdrawn, feeling she wasn't worthy of being liked that day, A girl who used to base so much of her "self" on her appearance. A girl who still struggles with this everyday, She feels happier when she looks "pretty"'(or feels pretty) this feeling is common, Whats less common, is the disgusting obsession she used to have with feeling "beautiful" This is the girl who used to hide all of her "imperfections" because she sometimes felt that she wasn't good enough to be liked for who SHE IS and NOT who she APPEARED to be. This is also the girl who stayed w/ her high school boyfriend for way to long.She did this even though his insecurities led him to be rude to some of her girlfriends, or at least the one's he felt he was competing with. What if she loved her best girlfriend more? This is the girl who felt sick to her stomach each morning at school because she didn't know how to deal with this. This is the girl who purposely "overslept" many many mornings so she wouldn't have to deal with these problems, She is the girl who stayed with him so long because she didn't know who she was without him. She used to blame him for how she felt. She finally realizes it was NOT HIS FAULT, she let him make her feel this way.She believes he was (and surely still is) a good, kind, and loving person. To this day she (even though it's been ten YEARS )regrets how she ended things; she regrets how much she must have hurt him, He had is own reasons for feeling and acting the way he did, we all do.This is the girl who's weight has gone drastically up and down over the last 8 years,ranging from 97 to 130lbs.(It is so hard to
admit she once weighed 130 lbs.) This happened because she would try to cover up her
feelings with food. This is the girl who just 7 months ago weighed 110lbs (now she is 97).
She was disgusted with herself, she couldn't fathom how her boyfriend could still love her
while she was "fat".Side note: 110 lbs is a perfectly healthy weight for her height. She was
confused about why her boyfriend treated her with the same love and respect he treated her
with when she was "skinny".She thinks this past year tested their relationship; it passed
with flying colors.This is the girl who is OVERWHELMED with joy that she found this loving
man and will have the pleasure of spending her enitire life with him.This is the girl who is
finally refusing to let her irrational fears hold her back any longer. She is willing to
pursue her dreams despite her fear of failure.

I am the girl who let out a huge sigh of relief when she finished writing this post.
I am the girl who hope's that this post will in some tiny way help someone else to escape
her ridiculous fears.
This is the girl who is greatful to "@madwomanmeg" for posting a link to this article on
twitter.

She is greatful; it is the only way to be.

She is grateful to have found this blog, Single Dad Laughing.She is greatful that he spent 12 hours on his post.He inspired her to spend almost 3 hours on her response.I am a girl who feels like a very heavy weight has been lifted off her chest.
She has decided she hates the idea of Pefection.
Perfection sucks.
Excuse my language but, FUCK PERFECTION!

She is grateful that you are reading this.

What would you do, if you knew you could not fail?
- Robert H. Schuller

I think i can, i think i can.

2010-09-20T15:00:00.003-07:00

It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves.

- Edmund Hillary

quote via

http://blog.dreamthisday.com/

This quote really got me thinking.

I've always been ambitious, but I've been scared of failure as well.

Fear has stopped me from doing and enjoying WAY to many things in my life.

I see all my friends and peers being more successful than I am.

I wonder why it's taken me so long to realize that i can do it too.

In December, I'll finally earn my Bachelors degree in Psychology.

I'm so excited and proud of myself.

It's taken me a bit longer than others, but i realize that IT'S OK.

There is no contest, we all go at our own pace.

I was telling Rob all of my fears a few nights ago. I told him how i am scared that i might not be smart enough to accomplish my goals, that my mood disorder will somehow hinder me in my dream of becoming a therapist.

But ya know what?

Maybe it will HELP.

I am understanding and empathetic.

I am optimistic and hopeful.

I truly care about others, i have my whole life, even to the point of making myself sick, upset or angry when a close friend is hurting in some way or not being treated the way they deserve to be.

Every therapist or psychiatrist I've ever seen has told me they thought i would make a good therapist.

I finally believe them.

I think i can do it.

I know i can do it.

After we get all settled in California i am going to apply to a few schools and get my MS in Psychology.

I know masters degree programs can be competitive.

I am a good student but i don't always push myself to my true potential.

I have A's in many classes but also a few B's.

That might not be good enough for some schools, but I'll keep trying.

If i have to, I'll take extra classes, I'll get A's in them. I can do it, i just have to put the effort in.

Thank you for listening. ;) I really appreciate any time you take from your day to read about little old me.

Kooky, silly, crazy cat lady, fashion obsessed, book loving

little old me.

love,

fina

Does Everybody Know What Time It Is?

2010-09-19T05:16:00.000-07:00

No, it's not tool time.

It's GIVEAWAY time. Woot Woot!

I promised a giveaway upon reaching 50 followers; you have no idea how excited i get about a new follower, Rob gets a text update every time a new lovely lady is sweet enough to read my little blog! (i can't help it, i want people to like me! hehe)

To show how much i appreciate the few moments you spend each day reading about lilmissfina's life, here is my present to you :

Any single thing you want from any etsy shop!! ($25 & under please!)

I figured letting you choose your own gift is much more fun than getting whatever random item i choose. This way if you win, you can get that lil item you've had your eye on but haven't treated yourself too, I'll treat ya. Ya know i love to be nice ;).

Okie dokie so here's the deal yo (hehe)

- Follow my bloggie. Leave a comment letting me know your following, i promise i'll jump up and down with joy for each and every new follower i get ;).

- Follow me on twitter, @lilmissfina. Leave a comment letting me know, another little hop for joy from me.

- Blog about this giveaway & leave a comment w/ the link. This will get you 5 entries. I know it's annoying, but you'll have to leave 5 separate comments for this one. Perhaps you can write something silly & make me laugh with each one?

This giveaway is open until midnight (EST) of September 30th.

What are you waiting for?

GET ON IT! :)

enjoy the good, learn from the bad

2010-09-18T15:29:00.000-07:00

The soul would have no rainbow, Had the eyes no tears.

- John Vance Cheney

tilt 9/16/10

2010-09-16T07:20:00.001-07:00

Today's Thursday Lovies

Honey Bunches of Oats w/ almonds, I'm currently on my second bowl ;)

Realizing how much "vanity sizing" is going on. Seriously, I measured my waist yesterday, it is 26 inches yet half of the jeans I own are size 24's. (I also own 26's and 27's, they all fit EXACTLY the same way)Do they think they need to lie to me to get me to buy the jeans? I think this just make girls obsess more about getting down to the tiniest size. (Which in most cases is unattainable & super unhealthy!)

My cats. Oh my, I'm going to miss them SO much. I told my mom the other day that it will be harder to leave the cats than it will be to leave my family & friends. Before you start thinking I'm completely nuts, wait for my reason.......I can talk to my family on the phone all the time and still feel connected, I can't exactly have phone convo's w/ my kitty siblings. Perhaps we can skype?

Thinking about new, fun ways to wear last years fall clothes (& the few items I may or may not have purchased recently). My shopping addiction is ending RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW. (at least for a little while) I promised Rob last night. I have to realize it's not just about me anymore. I have to think about us; we have a HUGE move coming up. I need to start being a tad bit more responsible (& perhaps less selfish) & saving. Ya know, so maybe i can contribute more than my cuteness to our new apartment. ;)

I can't wait to get the sweater and belt I ordered from Anthro yesterday. I'll post pics when they arrive. :)
(They were on sale, it was my last hurrah, sue me.)

What do YOU love today?

Chloe

2010-09-14T23:00:00.002-07:00

Have you seen this movie?

I watched it about two months ago with my good friend & neighbor, Jenn.

Um...

I liked it.

It was weird.

There was alot of sex going on for an afternoon movie with a girlfriend!

I love Amanda Seyfried in Big Love, it's one of my favorite shows.

I was a tad bit shocked at her performance in this film.

If you've seen it, what did you think?

Get Up, Stand Up

2010-09-14T05:16:00.000-07:00

Laziness may appear attractive, but work gives satisfaction.

- Anne Frank

I need to tell myself this quite often.

I can be SUCH a lazy bones.

Getting stuff done always makes me feel good.

Even if it's just crossing little things off my to do list.

Give Happy

2010-09-12T22:00:00.000-07:00

If I choose to bless another person, I will always end up feeling more blessed.

-Marianne Williamson

I've always thought that giving "happies" is the best way to get "happies".

Give: a random phone call to a girlfriend you haven't spoke to in a while

Get: get caught up and feel more connected to her

Give: a smile

Get: a smile (usually hehe)

Give: LOVE

Get: LOVE

Give: your best

Get: your best

Give: a penny

Take: a penny

( lol)

Give: help when it's needed

Get: help when you need it

Give: the benefit of the doubt

Get: the benefit of optimism

Give: the truth

Get: self respect

Give: elbow grease

Get: rewarded

What can YOU give to get a happy?

skidaddle

2010-09-11T06:45:00.000-07:00

winning is everything

2010-09-09T23:00:00.001-07:00

I got a wonderful little surprise in the mail yesterday...

This precious swan necklace was sent to me by Judith from A Box For My Treasure.

I was all giggly and excited when I saw that the package had arrived (all the waaaay from Ireland!). :) :)

I won it at a giveaway on From Skirts to Skillets.

Have you checked out Judith's shop?

She has some really gorgeous and unique jewelry.

Thank you so VERY, VERY much Judith & Lynzy!

tilt 9/9/10

2010-09-08T21:55:00.006-07:00

This weeks TILT was inspired by Becca & her little joys list.

i love

love
reading
writing
Rob
cats
reading
cuddling
happies
fashion
pretties
reading
cats (hehe)
kisses
bestest friends
my BESTEST BOY!
snuggling
haircuts
little surprises
love
getting packages in the mail
for that matter ANY mail in the mail that's not a bill
my squirrell
pictures
comments ;)
girl crushes on fellow bloggers
feeling inspired to try/do new things
feeling confident
knowing the world is what i make it (and how i see it is NOT always how it really is)
knowing i can choose to see things positively
optimism
cheese danishes
yogurt parfaits
being at my happy weight despite eating cheese danishs & other indulgent yummies
the cool breeze that's fighting it's way in
making lists
crossing things off said list
MY BOY
highlighting stuff in my day planner
folding laundry (especially if it's washed with GAIN)
magazines
thinking about future adventures
pausing to admire little things i might miss
driving home from work w/ the windows down
planning
hoping
wishing
dreaming
feeling
being (me)

Cats are an Excellent Source of Happiness

2010-09-07T07:57:00.004-07:00

The Benefits of Bonding
By CatAge Staff

Quality time with your cat is good for both pet and human alike.

Research shows that petting a cat evens out human brain waves associated with depression and increases human brain waves associated with anxiety relief and positive feelings. After a mere 5 minutes of affection, your cat will experience lower blood pressure and positive neurochemical changes, as well.

I completely agree w/ the folks @ cat age.

How could the sight of my little squirrel, soaking up the sun, not make you feel happy?

Feeling blue? Go pet a kitty :) haha

happiness exists wherever you wish to find it

2010-09-07T06:03:00.002-07:00

Money has never made man happy, nor will it, there is nothing in its nature to produce happiness. The more of it one has the more one wants.

- Benjamin Franklin

Sometimes, I feel like I can completely relate to this woman ;)

Having & spending money is fun; but it's so easy (for me) to go a little overboard.

The initial rush of a purchase only lasts a few minutes (or, maaaybee a few hours).

But....this weekend made me realize that time spent with family and good friends is worth so much more than any little item I think I "need".

What makes you (MUCH) happier than shopping??

tilt 9/2/10

2010-09-02T05:55:00.000-07:00

things i love thursday

1- (almost) every night i come home from work to a super yummy dinner made by Rob. (i don't get home from work till 9:30 or later so he's in charge of dinner) :)

2- Squirrel's (my cat) nightly ritual of circling around the bed w/ her seahorse toy, making very strange meows/yelps.This must be done every night prior to cuddling up with us.

3- That im in my last semeseter of school & im pretty excited about all of my classes. I can not wait to (finally) receive my diploma. :)

4-My engagement ring, it's yellow gold w/ a pear shaped diamond; exactly what i wanted. I can't believe i haven't posted a picture of it on here yet; i will have to work on that!

5-That i had the best time @ an all day wine tasting trip with all of my girlfriends last saturday, for my friendly Melissa's bachleorette party! (no skeevy strippers for us; we have class! haha)

6- I finally started reading My Dog Tulip. Krystal @ Village made me want to read it, after posting the most hysterical video about it!

7-My future mother -in -law (yess i actually like my future M-I-L, she's super fun) & her Boyfriend are coming to visit this weekend. We have tons of fun things planned; A Yankee game, picnic & wandering around the city. I need to see all of the "sights" i've never seen (even though i've lived on long island for 26 years) before our big move!

8- Thinking about our big move & all the exciting furniture we are going to buy. Yup i'm sooooooooo excited about furniture. I'm also pretty darn excited about buying gain laundry detergent; it smells sooooooooo good!! hehe. You can think i'm weird; i don't mind :).

What are some of your favorite things this thursday?

Have a lovely Day; I hope the sun is shining where ever you are!

funny mutts wednesday

2010-09-01T04:57:00.001-07:00

OOF!! hahaha

I just KNEW that it's totally normal to talk to my cats!

2010-08-31T15:38:00.002-07:00

I receive "Cat Age" tips from the folks at RealAge; this popped up in my inbox this morning:

Converse with Your Cat
By CatAge Staff

Talking to your cat can help show affection, control behavioral issues, and improve your relationship with your pet.
Even though you don't speak the same language, your cat can understand much of your tone of voice and body language. From single-word commands to animated speech, an upbeat intonation can help socialize, soothe, or sweet-talk your cat into becoming a better pet.

I am such a GOOD pet owner!

(try to) Let Go

2010-08-31T05:30:00.003-07:00

He who angers you conquers you.
- Elizabeth Kenny

Have you ever been SO ANGRY that you could not think about anything else?
Did you feel better after holding on to that anger for hours/days/months/ years?
I didn't think so.
I think many (or most) times anger stems from hurt.
If there is a situation that you absolutely can not change, try to accept it ( i know this is easier said than done); your only harming yourself by hanging on to it.
If you can make a change; why not get started right away?

Staying angry with someone, or something won't change anything.

Well, it might just make you more miserable & why would you choose that?

2nd BLOG GIVEAWAY!

2010-08-30T02:00:00.000-07:00

Hello there & happy Monday :)

I'm super excited to announce that soon i will be hosting my second blog giveaway!

It will be much bigger & better than the first one!

(i haven't exactly decided what it will be yet, but believe me, it will be fab)

So, as soon as my little blog reaches 50 followers; it's giveaway time!

What would you like to win? I'm open to suggestions :)

I promise the prize will not be a gift wrapped cat (even though i would love to win that prize!).

I just think this picture is really cute.

aspiration

2010-08-29T09:00:00.003-07:00

Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.
- Dale Carnegie

I think i'd like to have this quote framed and hung somewhere.Somewhere that i can see it daily; perhaps my new walk in closet ;)

happy sunday; i'm being super lazy today.

how bout you?

What You Make It

2010-08-27T06:03:00.000-07:00

The world is what you make it.

If you think positively, the world is a happy & beautiful place.

Think negatively & you will live in a very sad & scary world.

Just some thoughts for you on a Friday.

Finish up the summer cheerfully and leave yourself w/ fond memories; those are the only ones worth remembering, right?

save the date!

2010-08-26T07:12:00.003-07:00

How cute is this?

My friend Jen is getting married next July & she got these awesome save the date magnets here at Terrill's Tiles on etsy.

I can't wait to put it on my new fridge in my new apartment! hehe

Aren't these original?

I've never seen a save the date this cute.

practice makes perfect

2010-08-25T06:51:00.004-07:00

"If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion."
- Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama

This quote make's me think of another; "If you want to have a good friend, be a good friend."

Happy Wednesday everyone!

The weeks going by quickly for me; how bout you?

fun news

2010-08-24T10:16:00.004-07:00

I've just found out that Kate Hudson & Ginnifer Goodwin are filming a movie based on the book Something Borrowed!

I think they are absolutely perfect for these roles.

This may be old news but its new news to me!

I heart Ginnifer Goodwin & Something Borrowed is one of my favorite books.

Speaking of Ginnifer Goodwin, I CAN NOT WAIT for Big Love to start up again!!!

Did you like this book?

Are you as excited about the movie as I am?