10 Things About The Broke Socialite

The dear Erika (LOVE her!) over at BluLabel Bungalow has challenged me to tell 10 truths about myself; so I thought it'd be cool to indulge.

So here goes (and with my own twist)!

1. I am a type-A, over-achieving nerd. Geek, even.
2. I am not the best listener.
3. So..it should not surprise you that I have been blessed with the gift of gab. I LOVE to talk.
4. I once babysat Beyonce. She was, like, 10. Long story.
5. I am a shoe whore.
6. I detest numbers. Exception: lots of money is involved and it's in my bank account.
7. I am the older of two; I've one sister.
8. Some folks watch the markets; I watch my Tweetdeck.
9. I am obsessed with words and grammar.
10. I make a mean Texas margarita.

There.  It wasn't so bad!

It's Friday. Let's keep it light. What are THREE truths about you?

A Reminder From TBS: Time To Order Holiday Cards!

Notice a theme? Well...you'll thank me later. I'm just trying to ensure that everyone is thinking about/prepared for the holidays.

Don’t panic. Really, settle down. Yes, there’s still time. Yes, even for some fabulous personalized holiday cards. Come back.

Phew! I’m so glad that you’ve come back from the ledge of being overwhelmed by one more thing to do. Here’s a glass of wine (some good wine, too). Let’s chat.

You need to order your holiday cards right now. But in the midst of preparing for tailgates, Halloween, and Thanksgiving, who had time to think about them? Very few of us. I am always thrilled when I receive holiday cards in the mail and try to take the time to find cards which reflect the personality of my family. Hopefully, the tips meticulously outlined by TBS will help you firm up your order in a jiffy.

Holiday Card Etiquette 101

•  If uncertain if the recipient celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, or another religious faith or tradition, then send a neutral card with a greeting of Happy Holidays, Season’s Greetings, Warm Wishes for a Happy Holiday Season, or Peace on Earth.
• Write the recipient’s name inside the card.
• Write a short note wishing them well; a simple sentence is better than nothing.
• Even if your name is preprinted in the card, sign your first name after your short message.
• Including a photo of the family is always delightful.
• Send cards out in time for the recipient to receive before Christmas.
• Only send holiday newsletters to close friends and family who would be interested in the details.
• Remember to include your return address on the envelope.
• Send a card to everyone who sends you one.
• E-mail greeting cards are not a substitute for an actual holiday card.
• Buy stamps as soon as possible.

What will you do for holiday cards this year? Buy them? Make them? Photo? Not?

The Broke Socialite’s Thanksgiving Menu Planning Primer

Can you believe that we find ourselves in the throes of November and quickly approaching the holiday season?

 
It seems that only yesterday that nature ushered in the beautiful colors and vibrancy of Spring. Not to be outdone, fall has burst onto the landscape with its own personal bling varying hues of orange, yellow, brown, and green. Who doesn’t love it?
 
Alas, it’s time to begin the planning process for holiday dining and entertaining. I’ve begun to think a great deal about my Thanksgiving menu and this year I think I’d like to do things a little differently. History shows that I am a traditional southern Thanksgiving type of girl. You know, turkey, dressing, collard greens, ham, sweet potato soufflé. This year I am going to try holiday culinary sacrilege something a little different … no turkey!

The Broke Socialite’s Thanksgiving Menu

Corn Chowder
Mixed Baby Greens with Warm Bacon Dressing and Candied Walnuts
Herbed Lamb Chops
Lobster Tails
Potatoes Au Gratin
Oyster Dressing Muffins
Garlicky Green Beans
Coconut Cake
Pumpkin Cheesecake
Double Death by Dark Chocolate Brownies
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Peach Bellini Iced Tea, Wine, Champagne, Coffee

I’ve compiled some tips to help you create a memborable and cost-efficient Thanksgiving experience:

• Consider partnering with friends and/or family to share some of the costs. Even in our current economic climate, you can still have a grand celebration if you pool resources.  
• Start planning your menu … NOW! It will be here before you know it. If you share in meal preparation with others, jumpstart your communications. This is a great time to research new recipes and conduct a trial-run, if necessary.
• After you’ve planned your menu, develop your shopping list and calendar. Be sure to include specific action items, too. Example: if you’re ordering dessert from a bakery, you’ll want to put it on your calendar immediately.
• Now is also a wonderful time to clean your pantry and refrigerator; you’ll certainly need the extra real estate.
• Clip coupons and grab weekly grocery store circulars for items from your shopping list. Purchase those items that might be on sale already. Try to wrap up all food shopping by the Saturday before Thanksgiving, if possible.
• Take an inventory of all preparation dishes and cutlery, place settings, serving dishes, silverware, and stemware. If it’s in your budget, invest in the missing pieces. Ikea, TJ Maxx, Tuesday Morning and other discount stores are great for shopping. Do also consider borrowing from family and/or friends.
• Dependent upon how formal (or not) your table decor might be, look for centerpieces. Nature can be a phenomenal source. A few gourds, leaves and candles can be elegant.
• Should you decide to order from your local butcher, bakery or restaurant, do allow two weeks to avoid the holiday rush. Remember to record the name of the person who receives your order and ask if there are any special instructions necessary when you pick up.
• Think about your entertaining space and backdrop. If you need additional chairs or a kids table, check out your local party rental store. Chairs can usually be rented for under $1 per day or less and tables typically under $10 per day. An iTunes mix (it’s tried and true) is always fun; consider multi-generational selections if your guests’ ages vary.
• As you move closer to Thanksgiving Day, remember that it is a time for gratitude. Should you begin to feel overwhelmed by the tasks, reach out to friends and family and solicit their elbow grease.

Saving time and dollars are the fruit of deliberate planning and time management.  Enjoy the excitement of this looming holiday season!
 
Have you any time/cost saving Thanksgiving tips to share?

Modern Manners Monday: What Would YOU Do?

Two good friends have asked you out separately on the same evening.  The friends do not know each other. One friend has tickets to the theater...you've been dying to see the show. The other friend is riddled with tremendous problems, needs a shoulder to cry on and wants to meet up at your regular watering hold.

What do you do?

And The Winner Is.....

Congratulations to Sandra Hicks..the random number selector chose her as the winner of the Path To Peace 'O Bracelet'!

I am grateful to everyone for your participation, comments and kind words.  Do remember that you can purchase your own bracelet at Macy's. I hope you will tell someone about this campaign and consider the bracelets as holiday gifts this season.

Photo credit: Sandra Hicks

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A TBS Primer: A Halloween Soiree On A Budget for the Chic, Fabulous and Us Procrastinators

I usually do little more for Halloween than try to evade the candy-grubbing kids in our neighborhood—all six of them! Hey, why should I buy a monstrous bag of candy for only six kids? I’d rather pretend that I’m not home. Furthermore, since our son has no interest in costumes or socializing with us (teenagers!), the fun for me has almost been vacuumed out of Halloween.

Since Halloween 2009 is on a Saturday, I’ve been giving some thought to a potential soiree over the weekend. A few friends, a few cocktails, a few bites, and a few BWUAHAHAAHAHAS are the perfect potion for a swanky Halloween cocktail party! If you’re not sure what’s on your agenda, I’ve included tips for a budget-friendly partay!

Costumes? On such short notice, encourage everyone to simply wear black. Masks are optional. One of the most stressful elements of Halloween is trying to figure what you’re going to “be.” Make it easy for your friends. You might also have favors; they are plentiful in Dollar Tree-ish stores.

Your backdrop? Rent Carrie, Friday the Thirteenth, or any scream-inducing movie, pop it in, and put the TV on mute! Dim the lights, ignite a few candles, and pop in your iPod with a Halloween-inspired play list. I’ve included some suggested tunes below:

• “Ghostbusters,” Ray Parker, Jr.
• “Thriller,” Michael Jackson
• “The Monster Mash,” Boris Pickett
• "Jaws"theme
• "X-Files" theme
• "The Munsters" theme
• "The Adams Family theme
• “I Put A Spell On You,” Nina Simone
• “In the Midnight Hour,” Wilson Pickett
• "Twilight Zone" theme
• Also include various Halloween-esque sound bites.

Decor? If you’re inspired to carve a pumpkin or two into jack-o-lanterns, do so this weekend. As mentioned above, your lighting will be the saving grace, so pop a couple into the scarily-etched gourds. Not that ambitious? Well ... buy a few of those $1 plastic jack-o-lanterns and place them throughout your entertaining space. Fill them with treats! If you’re so inclined (and it’s in your budget), pick up festive cups and napkins.  My dear friend Eddie Ross whipped up a fiendish feather wreath for just a little cash. Here are his instructions.

Libations? Dependent on your audience, grab a case of beer and a few bottles of wine. It is critical that you whip up a signature drink! Try a Almond Joy or Milky Way Martini or Witches’ Brew.

Bites? Finally! Think tapas. An antipasti platter. Nuts. Popcorn. Skewers (veggie, shrimp, chicken satay, etc.). Reference The Minimalist’s small plate recommendations for ideas.


Entertainment? Should the natives grow restless, keep them entertained with: karaoke, Halloween MadLibs, or Halloween-inspired charades (using a stack of index cards write words related to Halloween, split in two teams and the guessing game begins).

Cheers to hoping you’ll do something fun on All Hallow’s Eve. All that’s missing from this concoction is you and a group of great friends!

What are YOUR plans this year?

Modern Manners Monday: What Would You Do?

It's been a little while since you and your girlfriends have been able to get together.

Instead of going out, you've decided to meet up at one home for cocktails and chat on a Friday night. Throughout the week, there are exciting email going back and forth in anticipation of th gathering. The wine will be flowing and there's lots to talk about.

On Friday afternoon, an email comes from one friend saying that her babysitter fell through, her husband is working and she can't come unless she can bring her toddler.

What do you do?

TBS The Ambassador: The Path To Peace Initiative & My First Giveaway!

AskWifey, The Chatterbox's Christie Crowder and I sporting our O Bracelets at Blogalicious.

No pomp and circumstance necessary (OK...maybe a little will do).

I'm not that kind of ambassador...yet (and only in my head).

If you hadn't noticed, TBS is sorta peculiar. I have a mind of own and simply do what I want. I say what I mean and I mean what I say. Whether it's a product review or tips and tricks, I very rarely hold my tounge. I rarely align myself with causes and make announcements about them. But recently, I was approached to become an ambassador for the Path To Peace Initiative. At first I couldn't believe that little old me was invited to participate but when I engaged in an informational chat about the campaign, I was more vested.

It's as simple as this: girl power.

One component of the Path To Peace campaign is the O Bracelet...(yes that O). Imagine this. A woman in Rwanda weaves a medallion for a bracelet and another brilliant, woman artisan in New Orleans creates the beading that secures the medallion which lends to a completed piece of wearable art. Isn't that awesome?! The initiative speaks to the power in economic development and partnership between women whether next door or around the world.

Recently featured in O Magazine, these bracelets are being sold in Macy's, the bracelets are the part of a project spearheaded by Willa Shalit nearly three years ago. Path to Peace developed an American market for Rwandan women’s crafts. It creates trade partnerships with artisans in recovering regions to bring the power of change to Rwanda and Indonesia. Shalit believes that women helping each other can change how Rwanda rebuilds its society, empowers women and sustains economic development beyond traditional development assistance.

Now ain't that grand?!

I was so pleased to receive my Path To Peace bracelet. Each bracelet has a handwritten note from the woman in Rwanda and the woman in New Orleans who pulled it together. There is something electrical and energizing that happens when I wear it.

Me sporting my O Bracelet!!! immediately after receipt

Photo credit: Lorraine Sanabria Robertson

I am truly humbled to be involved with this project and would like to offer one of you the same experience.
If you enter a comment for this post, you will automatically be entered in a drawing for your own bracelet.  All entries must be received by October 30, 2009 at 11:59 PM EST.

In the meantime, engage on Facebook and Flickr!

Hello, My Name Is TBS and I Am A Vicks A-Holic

Since I was a little girl, the aroma of Vick's Vapo-Rub has been one that is strangely my favorite.  I know, I know...loving the smell of menthol is a little strange!

I thought you'd get a kick out of this article that I found on Divine Caroline!  It's amazing. From stopping cats from scratching to speeding up the healing process for a paper cut, it's multi-useful and all for less than $4!

Simply amazing!

What is YOUR favorite aroma?

Oh, Did We Come Together: The Broke Socialite Helps Macy's Fight Hunger

Hi y'all!

How are you?

I've missed you, sure enough.  I've been busier than a one-legged woman in a butt kicking contest.  Not too busy for a cause, though.  The folks at Macy's asked The Broke Socialite to host a dinner party to bring awareness to and discuss the real issue of hunger and the 10 million people who are dealing with it each and every day.  For the majority of this month, Macy's 'Come Together' initiative has utilized an array of media to educate us all and raise money. Today is the last day you can go to Macy's and make a donation to Feed America. You can also use this link.

Instead of spending an exhorbitant amount of money on food (I just couldn't), I thought it might be a good idea to put a TBS spin on said soiree.  I opted to host a brunch and each attendee made a donation to the cause.  For less than $50, I created a simple menu for 6:

• Southern Fried Chicken
• Waffles (thank you to our short order chef, Christie Crowder)
• Scalloped Potatoes
• Three Berry Fruit Salad
• Juices
• Coffee

In addition to myself, Christie and The Boy (of course), Joan of All Trades, The Fabulous Do-Gooder and my friend, Denise enjoyed the fellowship.  "A Good Time Was Had By All" was an understatement. Brunch began at 1 PM and didn't wrap up until 6 PM.  TBS throws a great party.  I've included recipes for my menu.

TBS's "Macy's Come Together" Brunch Setting

What are your favorite brunch dishes?

Cloudy Stemware? TBS Helps!

The things that rumble around in this head of mine never cease to amaze me.  I got a query from my dear friend, Ask Wifey, a few days ago that made me realize that, of all things, cloudy stemware could be an epidemic.

Since the holidays are nearly upon us, now is the time to begin to prep your china, silver and glassware.

Read Ms Challenged Glassware's quandary here.

Any china/silver/glassware cleaning tips you'd like to share?

The Eat On $30 Challenge? Me? No Problem...

...Or at least I thought. Did you know that I'm the step-mother to a 17 year-old, 240lb, 6 feet tall linebacker who lives with us? Meet Gareth.

Gareth (#72) and his mentees at the Boys and Girls Club

This week, I 've been participating in the Eat On $30 challenge by my dear buddy, Tami. 
 
Tami is passionate about bringing awareness to how many families in our society are struggling and barely have $30. Here are some statistics from her post:

• At some point during the year, 1 in 5 Americans receives food assistance from 1 or more of the 15 programs providing help.
• In 2009, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will help feed 31 million people per month. The average monthly benefit? $101.
• Between March 2007 and March 2008, the global price of food rose 43%. 1 billion people - 1/6th of the world's population - live on $1 per day.

Wow! What a wake-up call.

So...the rule is as simple as this: for one week, I can only spend $30 per person in our home on food...that can be groceries, eating out or a combination of the two.  My kitty was $90 and I opted to plan our meals, buy groceries and cook at home.  This isn't that far outside of the norm for me...after all I am The Broke Socialite. Emphasis on Broke, please.

What has been challenging, however, is marrying my busy schedule this week (and especially having come off a busy weekend) with the time (read: desire) to slave over a stove.  Couple that with a linebacker of a teenaged son whose sole purpose in life is seemingly to eat me out of house and home.  As quickly as I can prepare food, he's gobbled it down.  This week's menus have been filled with meals that can stretch: red beans and rice, tacos, sandwiches and so far, so good.  As y'all saw yesterday, I even made a couple of loaves of banana bread. During the week.  That's an anomaly for me.

The problem?   Remember Gareth, the teenaged boy who eats like he has a hollow leg? It's him.  Normally, I allow him to eat to his heart's content.  He runs at least 6 miles a day and is, well, a growing boy.  This week, however, I've had to instruct him to not be so erra...greedy...because we need to make groceries stretch this week.  I might as well have had 10 heads but then I took the time to explain the Eat on 30 Challenge to him.  Surprisingly he thought it was so cool!  Though we are remarkably blessed, there have been times, years ago, that we've struggled due to job losses and I think he's sensitive to the reality of actually having to be on a budget out of necessity. What a teaching moment (until he went and grabbed two a handful of Little Debbies and retreated to the Man/Boy Cave)!

I've included a picture of the red beans and rice and my recipe (except I do not use tomatoes).

Could YOU eat on $30 for a week?

TBS Cooks Prep School 101's Banana Bread

One of my most recent obsessions is this delightfully fresh blog, Prep School 101. Penned by Jennifer, an arbiter of all things preppy with her own twist, I've had so much fun peeling back the layers.  One of her posts from the weekend struck a chord from me.  She talked about her Sunday rituals and how she's evolved over the past few years.  One of the things she likes to do with her daughter on Sundays is make banana bread. Oh! My mouth began to water.

I decided I'd give her recipe a try! It is sooooooo good.  I very rarely bake from scratch but this was simple and didn't take much time...even on a weeknight.  Next time, I think I'll throw in some walnuts for a bit more texture. 

My banana bread (it MAY look a little meatloaf-ish but it's divine!)

Since I'm participating in the Eat on $30 For A Week Challenge (more details about that tomorrow), this fit right into my budget.

You can find Jennifer's recipe here. Enjoy!

When was the last time you made a dessert from scratch?

So Blogalicious! So Refreshing....

Happy Monday, y'all!  I hope everyone had a great weekend.  There is very little that could bump TBS's regular programming but there is an exception to every rule.  Typically, I post a modern manners quandary on Mondays but that'll have to wait this week.

Though it's nearly taken me 24 hours to decompress and absorb the activities from the past couple of days, I think I'm finally getting back to normal.  As I mentioned Friday, I participated in Blogalicious Weekend in Atlanta.  Designed for women of color and those who engage with us in the blogosphere, MamaLaw and their team (Hi, Carla!...she is their fab event planner) created such the empowering environment for networking and education.  Though it was targeted toward women of color, the experience was diverse.

This conference literally took my breath away.  I've never been involved in a gathering that was charged with so much intellegensia and emotion.  Most everyone was passionate about whatever it was that they brought to the table...be it "I want to start a blog; so I'm here to absorb every piece of information possible" to "I'm a veteran blogger...how can I help someone else build her brand?"

What I loved most was the authenticity of the attendees and the organizers (these girls are the best, y'all...I just met them last Thursday and their passion, smarts and sincerity bring tears to my eyes right now)...everyone was so open.  It makes my heart sing.

I know this isn't my typical post so I'm grateful that you've humored me.  Yet I share because not only did Blogalicious challenge me to become a better blogger; it also makes me want to be a better person. As much as I learned about successful blogging, attracting marketers, et al; I also realized more about me and how important it is to continue to pursue my dreams.

Here are some pictures that I hope you enjoy!

Photo courtesy of Marian Anderson

(L-R Michelle, TBS, Yolanda, Marian)

TBS and Frugalista. LOVE her!

I was humbled to participate in the panel on Marketers and Women of Color. Such remarkable voices in that dialogue.

It's Blogalicious Weekend!

It's finally here! Blogalicious Weekend has happened upon Atlanta.

Packed with tons of education, networking and parTAYS. I'll be out of pocket for this weekend. I can't wait to share pictures and posts next week.

I am grateful to have been invoted to sit on a panel of phenomenal bloggers and marketers as we engage in (what I am sure will be) lively dialogue on "Marketing To Women of Color".

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Blogalicious or bust!!!

Oh, How I Love Preston Bailey!

I don't mean to make Mr TBS jealous but there is yet another man in my life (siiiiigggghhhh....it's tough but someone has to do it!).  I've been fascinated by this gentleman since seeing him on an episode of Oprah.  His eye is the best.  His style is impeccable. He can turn the most drab space into an interior pop!

Can you say "Preston Bailey"?

The New York Times ran a story last week about Mr Bailey and his latest book on opulent entertaining. Proving that the devil is certainly in the details, a collection of photos highlighted some of Mr Bailey's tips that lend to a dynamic entertaining experience for you and your guests.  Though there are a couple of exceptions, what I LOVED most is that the majority of the recommendations (LOVE those Thomas Paul napkins) are budget-friendly. Music to my ears.

Who are YOUR style icons?

Photo credit: brides.com

Eddie Ross Would Be SO Proud!

Last Friday was Mr TBS's birthday.  Because of our schedules, I did not have an opportunity to bake his birthday cupcakes (I know...bad, bad wife but my dear of a husband is tres, tres understanding).  I felt very badly about this and can't wait to get in the kitchen and chef up a batch.

Boy, will he be surprised when I do.

While I was at the Salvation Army Thrift Store last weekend, I came upon this set of cake plates for $9.99. Yep.  Doesn't this look like a gem that can only be unearthed by the likes of Eddie Ross?  Can't you see it on one of his delightful tablescapes?  And at this price, I couldn't snatch them up quickly enough.

In this month's issue of LonnyMag, Eddie and Jaithan highlight five entertaining tips. I've synopsized them for your consumption:

• Keep things simple.
• Know the measurements of your home and carry swatches when you are trying to match up items for it.
• Preparation is key. (MY FAVE!)
• Go to Bergdorf's to educate yourself on stylish pieces then high-tail it to flea markets and thrift stores to replicate the more expensive looks. (NO, this is MY FAVE)
• To achieve a WOW! factor, set the table just before guests arrive.

So how will I redeem myself and ascend to Good Wife status again? Just you wait for the tiers of cupcakes on these babies and I didn't break the bank!

Have you a signature serving piece? What is it?

TBS's Weekend Thrift Store Find: Part One

Somehow or another, I ended up in the Salvation Army Thrift Store on Saturday Morning. Though I was on my way to brunch, its flashing light was calling me (much like the "Hot Donughts" sign at Krispy Kreme).  I've since found out that this particular SA location is notorious for having a great furniture selection.  I got a fab etagere there last year, so I should have remembered.  I'd only made a semi circle in the entrance when I came across the diamond-in-the rough below.  Marked $70, it had been on the floor greater than 40 days (and waiting for me) which entitled me to a 50 percent discount.  Can you believe it? I couldn't.  I thought I would hyperventilate.  Yes...it's banana yellow.  Yes...it'll take a little elbow grease to turn it into the perfect piece.  I'm OK with that. 

I'm thinking that I should put it in my home office (since so many big deals are being brokered in there these days).  I've decided on this little sofa from Nate Berkus (and, y'all, don't discount HSN!)

Won't it be lovely painted an orange-ish red...maybe blood orange? I am OBSESSED with the blood orange/Tiffany blue combo these days.  I'm currently hunting the perfect pink/white fabric for drapes as I continue to outfit the room from which I shall build my empire! *rubbing hands together*

Do you shop at thrift stores?  Which ones in your area do you recommend?

The Broke Socialite's Guide Primer To The Perfect Social Networking Meet-Up/Conference Wardrobe

 LolaHaze featuring Cheap Monday jeans

One of the things that I love about being a social media maven(ha!) blogger is the opportunity to attend some absolutely fabulous meet-ups and conferences.  As social networkers, so much of our time is spent in front of a computer/on a smartphone that even the mere mention of looming events where you must engage with ACTUAL PEOPLE (*clutching my virtual pearls*) can throw you into a sartorial frenzy.  Before you know it, you're paralyzed by the horror that is: "What am I going to wear?!"  I contend there's no need for such drama.  I also believe that you shouldn't spend a small fortune trying to impress people who a) likely do not care OR b) have never seen a stitch of clothing that you already own. Helllllooooooo!!!

Some tips?

• In true TBS fashion and if you've never done it before, this is the perfect opportunity to shop your own closet. There is very little more satisfying than running across a piece that you've forgotten about or that would be great married with another recently purchased item. (Insert 'Happy Dance' here!).
• Unless you expect to run into The Queen of England, allow jeans or khakis to be your foundation.  I've not been to the event yet where jeans were inappropriate.  I do, however, recommend that you not wear your rattiest ones.  Remember, you're likely meeting someone for the first time and, though, there is a semi-mystique about us social networkers....there's no need to perpetuate the myth by being unkempt. Though most of our engagement is virtual, first impressions still count.
• Dependent on the season, layers are a great option.  In a full conference environment, there is usually a hotel involved. With icy meeting rooms.  A nicely tailored blazer or jacket is an essential. Whether covering a t-shirt or collared shirt, having a jacket allows a great deal of flexibility.  Sweaters also work.
• Sometimes a jacket isn't enough when the hotel has set the thermometer on "Alaska" degrees, so ladies might also consider tossing a pashmina into your bags.
• Comfortable shoes are a must. Since there will likely be a great deal of walking and standing involved, be mindful of this when choosing a pair.  A nice pair of loafers, ballet flats or your most tolerable heels should work.  Breaking in a new pair of shoes is the last thing you want to do (Remind me to tell you all about the time that I thought it'd be a great idea to prance around in my new Louboutins for two days at a conference...Can you spell O-U-C-H?)
• Consider a t-shirt that advertises your blog or Twitter address.  I recently sported my The Follow Me Tee to a Tweet-Up and it was instantly a hit! It's a minimal investment and an immediate icebreaker!
• If there is a dressier soiree on the agenda, you can never go wrong with a jersey dress (all of us ladies should have one in our closets).  My favorite one is wrap-style and black. I can dress it up with funky accessories from my jewelry collection, tights and boots for the evening having easily come from wearing it earlier in the day with a sweater and pearl earrings.
• Don't get trapped in the "multiple change" vortex. Unless you're going to the Emmys, there really isn't a need. With most airlines charging for multiple bags, you should really strive to bring everything in a carry-on should there be travel involved.
• A larger tote or messenger bag is essential, as well.

Next Saturday and Sunday, I'll be attending Blogalicious 09 and have settled on the weekend's wardrobe. Like a good blogger, I'm taking my own advice.  Versus obsessing about what I'll wear, I'd rather enjoy the excitement associated with FINALLY meeting some of my favorite bloggers.  After all, I'm their biggest fan.

What do you typically wear to social networking events?

OB.SESSED: Lonny Magazine

All of us lifestyle bloggers are in a tizzy because Lonny magazine launched yesterday. From some of the folks affiliated with the now-defunct Domino magazine, Lonny is a green publication...totally electronic. Filled with all things style, interiors and otherwise, I am OB.SESSED. If I were a magazine, I'd be this one. Oh, it's so light, fresh and NECESSARY. If you've not taken a pass, enjoy! They also have a Facebook fan page; so do join them for updates.

Have a great weekend!

TBS Cooks: Jerked Shrimp Rasta Pasta

I have no idea why I'm on such the foodie kick this week. Perhaps the cooler weather is causing me to crave comfort food.

A couple of weeks ago I read a post written by natural beauty blogger, Afrobella, which centered on a recipe for Jerked Shrimp Rasta Pasta...my mouth watered. Before long, I was cheffing up my own version. It was absolutely scrumpdillyicios and tres, tres budget friendly. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

1 lb shrimp (I used 2 lbs)
1 of each bell pepper: red, yellow, green
1 cup baby portabellos
1/4 tbsp olive oil
Dry jerk seasoning
1 pkg Knorr's Parma Rosa Sauce plus 1/2 cup fresh, shaved mozarella (but I supposed shredded from store will do)
Box of dry pasta of your choice (I used bow tie)

This is the easiest dish ever. The key is not to cook the bell peppers to death. You'll want a crunch.

1. Marinate the shrimp per the directions (or your liking) for a few hours in the jerk seasoning
2. Julienne each of the peppers.
3. Prepare pasta per instructions.
4. Sautee seasoned shrimp over medium heat until cooked through.
5. Add peppers and mushrooms and cook for approx 10 minutes and turn heat on low.
6. Prepare Knorr's Parma Rosa Sauce per instructions and add the mozarella when it's done. Allow sauce to thicken.
7. When sauce has thickened, pour it over the shrimp mixture and allow to simmer for 5 minutes. Then turn off.

Ta daaaaaaaaaa!!! That's it. Plate sauce over pasta, add freshly grated parm and freshly ground pepper. Serve.

I recommend a dry white wine, like a Chardonnay.

5 Things To Do With A Can Of Tuna

I'm not too high-falutin' to eat canned tuna and am always looking for a way to incorporate inexpensive items into my meal planning (read: meal scrambling).

Check out bon appetit's blog post that offers ideas for this pantry staple.

Have you any tuna recipe ideas to share?

Modern Manners Monday: What Would YOU Do?

What's more modern than the technology age in which we all live? Here's a doozy for you:

You repeatedly receive email messages from a friend. A good friend. You've socialized together and even traveled together on occasion. You'd venture to say that she's one of your best friend. When she sends an email, she NEVER uses a salutation and just jumps into the body of her email a la:

From: Me

To: You

A bunch of us are going for drinks on Thursday night. Why won't you join us?

See ya!

Me

OR

From: Me

To: You

The wrapping paper that you ordered from the PTA fundraiser has arrived. Would you like to pick it up or shall I drop it by your office.

Me

What would YOU do?

Free Entertainment Weekend: The Broke Socialite's Playlist

Happy Friday, Dahlings!!!!

This weekend will be fairly low-key for our household. Football on Saturday. Visiting family on Sunday. One of the things that I most enjoy on any given weekend is listening to music. I guess it's become an escape for me. Marry easy listening with a bottle of wine and a few bites and there you have a great evening at home. With a son nearly on his way to college (and all of the experiences associated with his senior year of high school), Mr TBS and I are nesting more these days.

I've begun to think about what I might want to hear this weekend and came up with this playlist:

"Holla Back Girl" - Gwen Stefani
"Just Fine" - Mary J Blige
"Roxanne" - The Police
"West End Girls" - The Pet Shop Boys
"Golden Time of Day"- Maze featuring Frankie Beverly
"My Prerogative" - Bobbbbaaaaayyyy Brown
"Forever, For Always, For Love - Luther Vandross

I'm sure there will be others.

What are YOU listening to these days?

Happy Friday! Have a Great Weekend!!!