I went and did a little shopping tonight. BY MYSELF.
Did you catch that?
I was ALONE.
Now mind you, sometimes I like shopping with the family or even friends but tonight? I NEEDED some “me time”. Like soVERYbad. The last couple of late afternoons/evenings with the kids have been INSANE and I just needed a break from it all.
Thankfully my husband knew this and sent me on my way.
I hit the local mall first and after being accosted by those pushy kiosk ladies who wanted to put some “miracle” lotion on my hands (I did not let them…), I found this awesome store called “Charming Charlie”. I was instantly charmed. It was a Mecca of ladies accessories and although a bit overwhelmed at first, I found myself quite happy just wandering through…
This was after I visited Bath & Body Works and actually bought a couple of Christmas gifts for other people.
Then I got a couple for myself at Charlie’s place. Trust me, I deserved them. (this is also known as “retail therapy”, right?)
Long story short (too late!) I then ended up at Target (as usual) where I tried something on and just DON’T understand why they put THE most unflattering lighting in those fitting rooms. I quickly put my own clothes back on and decided I need to lose even more weight. Ugh.
All this to say, we DID get outside today. The kids and I even took a little walk around the block. And then it rained on us a bit. But otherwise it was a very pleasant afternoon, while we were OUTSIDE. Once we got back inside it was kind of a different story. Guess we just need to stay OUTSIDE. Too bad we can’t live out there… Camping anyone??
Your “me” time souds wonderful! The pics are great, too.
her shirt? with the rosettes? I just died a little.
Since I’m a rosette-making-queen…I’m in love!
Love that door too! Beautiful!
And Miss K with the skinny jeans…gah the cuteness is too much this early in the morning!
Love the first and the last pictures the best! The picture of the ornament is very cool and the first one is just striking.
I am in desperate need of time to myself too! It is just hard to get my 9 month preggo butt off the couch these days. Love the pics! Merry Christmas1
The Charming Charlie’s here in DFW hosted a blogger event last year and I loved it! It was one of the first stores I went back to shop after I had my first baby, I love the way they organize their store by color! Isn’t it so fun?!
I have no idea when I’m going to get to do some Christmas shopping. I’m cutting it down to the wire this year. I hope we get some nice weather days in the next two weeks while I’m off.
I like the leaf in the grass photo – very unique!
green?!? hold on I’m confused…lucky. I really like the sky pic and the ordament in the tree!
Thanks for stopping by my blog (Life, Love, Green)
What a beautiful front stoop! And I really like your shot at the end of the ball.
“Me” time? What in the world is that?? That involves some sort of cleaning or something, right?
I love the berries shot!
There’s nothing like getting out alone is there? And I agree, you definitely needed to spoil yourself!
That first one is stunning. Frame it and hang it in your living room!
And the skinny jeans, OH MY WORD
Leafed behind…snicker….
Great shots! Love that reflection in the christmas ball!
I LOVE the look on your daughter’s face in the second photo, so much concern! Adorable!
Oh my. K? Running around? So fraking adorable.
A little alone time is awesome! I had some yesterday.
LOVE K’s skinny jeans.
LOL! K’s shot is like she’s say Wassup! to someone off screen!
Oh, me time. So necessary.
And, Target does have the worst dressing room lighting. Good for the wallet, though.
thanks for the sweet comment. I adore shots like your last one.
Things may be a little chaotic in your life right now but you’d never guess it by your peaceful, beautiful photos. They just warmed my heart – from the adorable kids to the bare tree against the vivid blue and white sky. I love the berries, the doorway, and most of all your reflection in the beautiful, holiday, OUTDOOR, ornament!
Really nice job this week, Elaine!
great shots! i have yet to take my camera outside. i blame crappy rainy seattle weather for that. boo.
Yay for some alone time shopping! It sounds lovely! I am in desperate need of some of that myself. Hopefully soon.

Gorgeous pictures! I love the blue sky.
Cute kids! I read that fresh air is invigorating for adults but kind of tiring (in a good way) for kids. My son is a terrible sleeper but took the best nap of his life after we went sledding on our first snow day up here in Rochester!
The color of the sky in the branches photo is phenomenal. Beautiful captures!
Ok, I cannot get over the fact that your kids are outside and aren’t bundled up in layers and hats, gloves, scarfs. Seriously, I need to move!
Thanks for the comment. I recongized your name and I realized that I know you from You Capture! I haven’t participated in forever- stinking morning sickness took over my life for awhile.
But I’m back now and feeling better. Great job!
Oh, the skinny jeans..the skinny jeans!
I’m dying over here…xo
Your kiddos are adorable!
I came by from your post over at the Mother Load. My sister is 6 1/2 years older than me so I get what you’re saying about feeling like an only child.