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The Sarcastic Blonde

fashion, food, fitness + a dose of sarcastic gossip

friday randoms

:: Sweater Weather + Friday Randoms + Link Love ::

November 10, 2017

:: Sweater Weather + Friday Randoms + Link Love ::

Cheers to Friday!! 

The cooler temps have finally come in, so it’s the perfect time to share this cozy sweater with you all! I love the pearl beading detailing, and it also has tiny little cz diamond studs scattered in there too. It’s under $50 and comes in three other styles as well.  I’m planning to wear it with my under $100 black faux leather skirt next! (skirt runs small, I wear a M)

// GREY BEADED H&M SWEATER //    // RAG & BONE JEANS // 
sweater runs short, I am wearing an XS  

I also found this extremely similar sweatshirt!

// EMBELLISHED SWEATSHIRT // 

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

I can’t believe that Thanksgiving is two weeks away!! Ah!
We are going to a Friendsgiving celebration this weekend and I have been searching two of my favorite food blogs for inspiration, How Sweet Eats and SkinnyTaste.  One is definitely filled with more decadent websites than the other, but I love both.
I love brussel sprouts, so on the healthier side dish list these caught my eye :

Brussel Sprouts Gratin 

and Roasted Brussel Sprouts and Shallots with Balsamic Glaze 

I was planning on bringing a baked brie as an app, but these Phyllo Cup Baked Brie Bites look even more adorable! I love serving things in the little phyllo cups (and you prep it, pop it in freezer, and bake off a tray as needed!)

:: FRIDAY FINDS ::

Everyone’s favorite dress in a sweater form.

Some statement making stilletos for under $90 – they scream party!

I have last year’s version of this sweater coat and live in it – under $50 and super flattering.

Perhaps my favorite Tory Burch purse yet; can’t decide if I like the ivory or the royal navy better?!

The caramel color of this open drape sweater coat is a great neutral for layering.

Amazing statement necklace for only $22.

I adore the neckline and the colors of this long dress – wishing I had seen this for a wedding guest dress!

This plaid poncho is a steal and has amazing reviews; others I have tried are super heavy and oversized but this one seems just right.

Fun + fashionable leggings to add to your workout wardrobe.

Quilted vests in every color + print, on super sale for under $25! (I especially love this version!)

This rose velvet dress is so romantic and looks so expensive but is perfectly priced.

Ah-mazing holiday dress option. 

Never met a jumpsuit I didn’t like (but really…. when will they figure out how to magically make using the restroom easier?)

This adorable purse is 33% off – love the shape and color. 

So many great holiday options this season! Love this in the Malbec color. 

:: NORDSTROM SALE : UP TO 40% OFF FAVORITES ::

Some of my favorites from the Nordstrom Sale!

BOOTIES : ONE // TWO // THREE // FOUR // FIVE

DRESSES : ONE // TWO // THREE // FOUR // FIVE

TOP : ONE // TWO // THREE // FOUR // FIVE

BOOTS : ONE // TWO // THREE // FOUR

:: LINK LOVE :: 

How to avoid waiting in line at brunch : The 11:47 Theory. 

As you probably know, Kelly Dodd’s divorcing her husband, and their $5 Million beach pad is up for sale.  And it’s listed by Team McGonigle from that new Real Estate Wars show on Bravo that seemed so awful that I am keeping it DVR’d for a ‘nothing to watch’ rainy day.
 And speaking of Housewives Homes, I am getting RULL antsy to see Heather DuBrow’s Chateau.  There have been lots of instagrams though – all of those sneak peeks are compiled here.

Want to squeeze in a workout this weekend, but short on time? Here is a 10 Minute HIIT and 20 Minute HIIT for a total body workout FAST.

Carrie Underwood’s ‘In Memoriam’ performance on the CMA’s was so incredibly moving.  If you missed it, it’s worth listening to her sing ‘Softly and Tenderly’.  Made me cry.

First we had the Jen + Reese TV Show news, now there may be a Big Little Lies 2.  I don’t really understand how? And the first was based off of a book? But I don’t care – it would be amazing.  I can hear the intro music playing already….. 

What the Heck are Nootropics? Everything you need to know, from the founder of Bulletproof line you’ve probably heard of Bulletproof Coffee…) 

I’m so excited for Thanksgiving Round One tomorrow!
time to start planning what elastic waist ensemble to wear……

Have a great weekend everyone!!! 

by TheSarcasticBlonde 
coffee talk

:: Coffee Talk :: 11.9.17 ::

November 9, 2017

:: Coffee Talk :: 11.9.17 ::


DISCUSS AMONGST YA-SELVES……

:: Dallas Reunion :: 

Can we have a moment of silence for Dallas ending?
(moment of silence)
Because until NY or Beverly Hills are back in my life,
my Housewives Tank is Empty.

The highlight of the whole night for me was LeeAnne and her delusional opinions about her behavior and what is acceptable and forgivable.  It takes her a million years to ever admit any fault to anything, if admitting it at all.  And when she does, she thinks that she can just say “alright, I own it, I shouldn’t have done that…” Ummmm not so sure that works with threats to kill people???

LeeAnne’s first move of pissing everyone off is saying that she did the “Two Face” Halloween costume because she suffers from PTSD.  Well, actually, first she says she did it to start an open conversation (I mean, does even she believe her own BS?) and then it led to a conversation about her PTSD.  Once again, the second it turns to her poor behavior, we have to hear the story about her crazy carnie childhood.

When Brandi reminds LeeAnne that she said Rich had PTSD and that she thinks she’s full of BS LeeAnne does her angry-quiet-country-deep-voice “Be Careful” under her breath.  I mean HONESTLY.  This woman cannot help herself!!! She doesn’t know how not to threaten people and retaliate.  But she says it’s not a threat, just that she cares about people with PTSD. (insert clip of her talking with women with AIDS and making it all about herself and her carnie childhood.)

Kameron doesn’t do much the entire reunion except that closed mouth pout and nod, but that’s enough for her to entertain me.  Also, why is she choosing the LeeAnne sofa to side with?!  Perhaps it is because she fears for her safety, which in that case, this may be the first time I actually  believe the “smarter than she looks” theory.  Also, it should be smarter than she sounds…..because she mostly just sounds like an idiot.
Kameron did give a few good lines, though.  When Brandi keeps making digs at her and getting mad about the Trash + Plano comments, Kameron says that it’s fine for Brandi to judge her, but God forbid she say anything back.  Which is very true.  If you’re going to dish it you need to take it.

The Dildo gets another full replay of scenes, and the ladies crack up at the end of the video montage.  I must confess I cracked up at them cracking up about it.  And then I laughed even harder at how it was a serious moment when Brandi confessed she respected Kameron’s boundaries by not bringing The Dildo to the reunion, and that it was, in fact, a Dildo Free Set.
Kameron is very thankful for the respect.
I mean…. can’t make it up.  It was the most heartfelt moment of the hour.

Am I the only one who doesn’t find D’Andra’s husband Jeremy remotely attractive in any way shape or form?
I mean, he’s big and strong, so he gets points for that, but that’s all I get???

The remainder of the show revolves around LeeAnne and her anger management slash therapy sessions.  She says that the police report involving the incident with her ex where she has a knife and uses sandpaper against him doesn’t exist.
I’m pretty sure you can google it? (because I have and I read it.)

LeeAnne tries to blame Brandi for the surgery day when she said the “I don’t have knives, but I have my hands” which is such a crock of lies that it’s hilarious.  You can really tell how freaked out Brandi is by her in the car when LeeAnne is getting all heated . Brandi is straight up scared, and I don’t blame her.  Oh, but that was just a xanax or some other pill that calms people down talking! Isn’t that how everyone responds to anxiety meds? Becoming a rage-filled-life-threatening-delight?
Stephanie points out that LeeAnne often threatens lives when she doesn’t know she is Mic’d, like the Marie situation Season 1 (OMG THAT NIGHT!) and then the doctors office visit this year.
Which makes it super terrifying, because I agree with her.
and for all of you that havent watched Season One, please at least watch the girls trip where she threatens to kill Marie in the middle of the night and Cary tries to record it on her iPhone.
You think you’re scared of LeeAnne? Just wait. It is straight up terrifying.

LeeAnne tries to “own” all of her threats, but acts like they are no big deal because her words never lead to actions.
Ummmmm police reports and shattering glass lead me to think otherwise?
Just because you haven’t actually stabbed something or strangled them (that we know of) doesn’t mean you’re an angel in control of her behavior.

LeeAnne remained calm cool and collected until she heard that MARK would be coming out to join the ladies.  LeeAnne is PISSED.  She thought this was a CLOSED SET.  She doesn’t even want to mumble her threats, she wants to storm out (and get more camera time and solidify her spot for season 3, because as she said – correctly – after season 1, there really isn’t a show without her).
I’m shocked she picked Mark to storm out over? Of course he is going to come on!  He does more gossiping than the ladies themselves and is dying for screen time!

to be continued…..

Oh, and who thinks LeeAnne’s therapy has worked?
(LeeAnne’s face.  I’m dying.)

:: New Jersey :: 
At readers request, I’ve tried to give it a chance, despite Danielle still being on my shite list.
But Atlanta is still off limits.  I abandoned ship years ago and refuse to go back.

I think I’m into Marge, pigtails and all? What do we think?

Siggy seems to be having a Shannon Beador moment this season
and is really just flying off the handle at everything.  MOVE. ON.
You used to be a voice of reason! Enough!

This Italian restaurant is a horrid idea.  It takes Teresa all of one second to go from loving to hating her sister in law.  These two do not need any additional reasons to go after each other. But sure, great idea, your father (who was a perv to Pigtail Marge, surprise surprise) will totally be over the passing of the mom when the family is stressed as hell over a restaurant they have no idea how to run!
but damn those bowls of pasta looked good at the soft opening……. 

Why is there always all of this underlying sexual tension with Teresa and her brother Joe?!
Teresa’s like pissed when you can’t see her brother Joe’s hot face in the photos.
(her words, not mine, Joe does not do it for me)

I still cannot stand Danielle more than any housewife on Bravo.  Which is surprising….. because she did give us some great moments Season One and some of my favorite gif’s.  But she makes my skin crawl.

Danielle is so desperate to stay relevant and stir the pot that she starts talking crap to Dolores about her living with her ex-husband and having a boyfriend.  Oooooo.  Scandalous.  I mean really? Who.  Cares.  It really takes no effort at all to get Dolores from zero to gonna-kill-someone so Danielle better watch out!

:: RH of Atlanta :: 
Speaking of Atlanta that I won’t watch……
When I was searching for some gifs I came across this.

WTF IS NENE’S NOSE!?!?
In that gif it looks truly insane!!!

:: OC Finale ::

Ugh…. I thought this week was the finale.
Will it ever end?! But we still have one more to go.

Peggy hasn’t been on anyones Most Loved Housewife list all season, and this week I think she officially sealed her fate. She is delusional.  Not in the same way Vicki…. well, and Tamra….. um, and Kelly…. and, of course, Shannon are……. but she is delusional nonetheless! She comes out of her room at 6:45 PM after hiding out all day and looks like she’s been drinking her brains out.
You had like 18 hours to wash your face and you literally look like a walk of shame?! HOW?!

Lydia is the only one to care to see her, and Pegs just starts going off about what happened the night before.  I’m not saying the ladies were normal, but she is also insinuating a lot of things that likely didn’t happen.  She even tried to tape the women on her iPhone and replay it back for Lydia.  Peggy says all of the ladies were laughing at her and Kelly was insulting her deceased father.  Oh, Pegs. Kelly is not intelligent enough to do such a thing.  Lydia tries to explain that it was an “expression” and lost in translation, but English isn’t Peggy’s forte as we have learned, so I’ll try to let this one pass.

The one I can’t let pass? Saying that Meghan left her baby alone in a hotel room and heard her crying for 10 minutes.  What?! Lydia tries her best to talk some sense into Peggy, but it falls on deaf ears
(Peggy: Deaf Ears? Ears are for hearing? What does this mean, this deaf ears?)

Meanwhile, the other ladies couldn’t care less that the host Lydia isn’t with them and head out to the final meal of the trip: A traditional Viking dinner. Oh what fun!

Vicki and Tamra are BFF’s throughout the meal, i.e. they are annoying as hell and flirting uncomfortably with the creepy (and I mean CREEPY) men dressed as Vikings.

Tamra has to make sure she brings Shannon in and stirs the Shannon + Vicki pot a little bit, by whispering to Vicki to “make it good- tell her that David doesn’t beat her, just say it”
WHAT? Bringing it up at dinner? Tamra is the freaking worst.  Vicki gives a half assed apology, and as always, adds in with her “apology” that Shannon said it and just that Vicki shouldn’t have repeated it or “misunderstood”.
I’m with Shannon, apologize but don’t bring up the freaking abuse at dinner in front of everyone.
AND THEN Tamra yells at Shannon not to eat the potatoes.  Ugh…. SHUT UP TAMRA.

But at least Shannon is enjoying her giant hunk of meat and lets the ladies know that the Viking food is legit and that the Vikings like the women with a bit more meat on their bones.
Poor Shannon…. not one episode this season doesn’t include her food commentary or weight commentary.

And poor Lydia.  She really is way too nice for this crew.
Is promoting Nobleman Magazine really worth all this crap?
This whole trip is her thing, and she stays back from dinner and is eating alone at the hotel restaurant when Peggy finally decides to get dressed and say they should join the Viking dinner.
Oh. Em. Gee.  Peggy’s outfit for this meal.
She’s in like a giant red off the shoulder gown thing with a huge toile wrap thing.

Speaking of outfits – what are ALL of them wearing? minus Shannon.
It is freezing cold and they are at a Viking dinner and they are wearing like skintight dresses and heels.  Vicki is bare legged in a skin tight dress (what else is new) that is way too short (what else is new) with heels she cant walk in (what else is new) like she would wear to dinner on a summer night in the OC.

I feel so bad for the family on vacation at the table behind these women.

Pegs learned nothing from her chat with Lydia and doesn’t take the bone the ladies are trying to throw her.  Peggy : Bone? Why are they throwing bones? Dogs like bones?
Kelly tries to apologize and they try to say they weren’t laughing at her, but Pegs won’t have it. Instead, she whips out her phone to show the ladies she was recording them and when they start to get upset she jumps right into saying she listened to Meghan’s baby cry for 10 minutes straight last night.
Annnnnnd it goes over about as well as you could ever expect.

Peggy is so wrong for this show that she makes Lydia seem like the perfect addition to the cast.

Peggy doesn’t even wait for the flight home the next day and leaves in the middle of the night.  I’m like, why didn’t you just leave during the 18 hour stand off in your hotel room then?? Kelly points out that even she stayed and flew home with everyone after the Ireland drama (Oh, Ireland! The trip when it went downhill for so many, and when the oh-so-perfect Heather Dubrow was horrendous on that iPhone footage!)

Lydia is sad that the trip has to end on a bad note. I am wondering where the high point was? The whole trip was something bad? From throwing menus at lunch to “heart attacks” and hospital transports? Every day was a hot mess?!

Back home in the OC, Vicki is telling Brianna about the trip, says she ended up in the hospital (reaction from Brianna : “whats new?”) and then says but the ladies were nice and brought her a casserole.
confession: I laughed, and laughed hard at “Oh wow that casserole you’ve been asking for all these years! ”

Shannon still doesn’t comprehend how horrible of a friend Tamra is, because she takes her to her doctor’s appointment with her where Tamra pretty much mocks her.  As Shannon discusses things like lack of sex and all of her hormone levels, her “friend” sits in the corner making faces instead of having some empathy or being supportive.
pleeeeeease my-boyfriend-andy-cohen,
CAN WE PLEASE BE DONE WITH TAMRA AND VICKI NEXT SEASON?

:: VANDERPUMP TRAILER :: 

Oh Lordy.  The “kids” we love to hate are back in a few short weeks.

:: Jen Aniston and Reese Witherspoon :: 
Jen and Reese have a two season deal for a TV show together!? Be still my beating heart! YES PLEASE!

:: More Harvey Weinstein Updates ::

If you haven’t yet, check out the latest article released by The New Yorker about Harvey Weinstein.  It is lengthy but worth a read  in its entirety.  It dives into the lengths that he went to to silence the women he abused.

:: Jackhole of the Week ::
Jonathan Cheban has officially changed his name to Foodgod.

What. A. Tool. 
sorry. not sorry. 

He someone managed to one-up the talentless Kardashian’s by pretending eating food at restaurants is a talent.  Before you jump down my throat – I recognize food blogging and food photography.  But he’s doing neither of those.  It’s just things like the weird picture above with his face and a piece of fried chicken.  Preeeeeeety sure anyone can do that all day long?
I literally had no idea he even did any of this food instagramm’ing until this week Kardashian’s episode, but he’s already changing his name over it?

:: MAZEL OF THE WEEK :: 
The CMA’s.
I love how classy + eloquent + loving the country community is.
I had entire paragraph written here but I’ll just leave it at that! 

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

:: Editors Note ::
As always, ignore my own blatant grammatical errors
whilst I make fun of others poor grammar during Coffee Talk on a weekly basis.

#HYPOCRITE   #SORRYIMNOTSORRY
I write these posts late at night while simultaneously watching Bravo, taking snaochats of my snoring husband, and making to do lists of everything I was supposed to do and didn’t do that day, and likely won’t do the next day either.  Or the day after that.

by TheSarcasticBlonde 
fashion

:: Wish List Wednesday ::

November 8, 2017

:: Wish List Wednesday ::


lusts for the week……. 

This jumpsuit arrived recently, and I haven’t had a chance to alter the length, but I had to share before I could get a pic in it because it is insanely amazing.  So flattering, so soft, and a great price but looks like a million bucks.

// BLACK JUMPSUIT //
  I got a size S, and other than being long it fits TTS 

// WRAP FRONT TOP // 

Love the color, sleeves, and fit on this sweater.
Also comes in black!
// SLOUCHY SWEATER // 

This twist front top comes in 4 colors, is under $100,
and would be a perfect top to carry you front day to night.
// VELVET TIE FRONT TOP //

I need to find an occasion for a Navy fur stole in Atlanta……
// NAVY FUR STOLE // 

I hate giving up dresses or having to wear tights when the colder weather hits, so sweater dresses are always my savior.  Add some OTK boots and you’re warm and good to go!
// SWEATER DRESS // 

These heels are only $34!!!
Perfect go-to to dress up jeans or wear with a dress for a holiday party.
// VELVET D’ORSAY HEELS // 

Susana Monaco fabric’s are one of my favorites – they are so, so soft – and this navy split dress with the overlay is adorable.
// NAVY PLEAT DRESS // 

I’m a sucker for black + white lace tops in the fall + winter.
// BLACK LACE TOP //

Two things that get me ready for holidays: Plaid + Bows.
// PLAID BOW TOP // 

A great transitional LBD.
// ONE SHOULDER DRESS //

Chambray + Tie Waist + Shirtdress!? Yes, please!
// CHAMBRAY TIE FRONT DRESS //

This jumpsuit is on sale for only $34
(clearly I have a thing for jumpsuits…. just like my-boyfriend-Andy-Cohen)
// VELVET JUMPSUIT //

Everyone needs an amazing chambray shirt in their closet.  This is one of my fav’s.
// CHAMBRAY SHIRT //

The lace detailing on this sweater dress is so pretty.
// SWEATER DRESS W LACE DETAIL //

Okay….. I’m ready for the holidays. These shoes are too cute.


// TARTAN FLATS // 

Still am not over florals + flutter sleeves.
// FLORAL PRINT DRESS //

A blouse to take you from work to the weekend or day to night.
// TIE SLEEVE BLOUSE //

I’ve had my eye on a lot of animal print lately! But more Preppy, less Roar animal print, if ya know what I mean.
// ANIMAL PRINT SWEATER // 

I love this LBD so much.
Anything with that side gathering gives such an incredible shape to every womans figure.
// SHIRRED WAIST DRESS //

Who wouldn’t want a set of gingham jammies?
They also have a gingham camisole that I am in love with. // GINGHAM JAMMIES // 

 

Happy Hump Day Shopping!!!!! 

by TheSarcasticBlonde 
International, Italy, Travel

:: Italy Recap : Wedding Weekend + Como ::

November 7, 2017

:: Italy Recap : Wedding Weekend + Como ::

Remember when I went to Lake Como? Oh ya know….. 3 months ago?
It’s about time for me to finish up the recaps!

Today I am recapping our time outside of Como, Italy for Kip’s family friends wedding and our day trip into Como.

Next up I will *finally* have the recap of our time in Tremezzo, which is the area on Lake Como where we stayed for a week.  Before traveling to this part of Italy I didn’t realize how large Lake Como was, and that the towns of Bellgio/Tremezzo/ Varenna/Menaggio were the places people stay and visit, and that the town of Como itself was far more commercialized and not the beatiful areas you see when you picture Lake Como. 
So check back next week for Tremezzo/Belaggio/Villa Carlotta/ Villa de Balbianello / Lunch at Locando dell’Isola Comacina and more which will be all of the amazing things to see and do when you stay in that area of Lake Como!

We flew to Amsterdam for a few days by ourselves, then headed to Milan, and then traveled by train to meet up with Kip’s family in a small town outside of Como.
(read our Amsterdam and Milan recaps here)
Kip’s family had an Italian foreign exchange student that they had stayed close with over all these years, so that was the purpose for the family trip.  We spent 3-4 days here before traveling to Tremezzo for the week.

The town that the bride + groom and their families live in was amazing.  No one spoke English really except for the couple so it was as authentic as I had ever experienced in all of Italy.  Trying to order a sandwich or a drink at the little restaurant down the street from our bed and breakfast was nearly impossible but such an experience since everywhere else you have the luxury of being able to speak English, even if only a little.

The groom found us an absolutely adorable Bed and Breakfast to stay in called La Pusianella during our time in Pusiano.
editors note : do not even get me started…. I had to bite my tongue the entire time because I am a child and wanted to laugh hysterically every time.

It overlooked a lake, and there actually was a regatta that weekend that we were able to watch from the patio and backyard.
The woman who owned the bed and breakfast prepared incredible breakfasts for us every morning that we got to eat out on the patio.  It was so peaceful!

Oh, and in case you forgot since my post recapping Milan, it was HOT. HOT. HOT.
It was July and there was no AC at the places that we stayed (I thought I was an AC snob before, now I KNOW I am an AC snob.)

While we were there, we were lucky to have a full meal at the groom’s families home that they had prepared for us which was one of the highlights of our time there.  We went to an amazing outdoor restaurant on the water the Thursday before the wedding, and got to sit on the covered patio and experience an in an insane summer storm that they said was quite normal. We were drenched running to the car but it was beautiful to watch the lightning and rain from the restaurant.


// NAVY WAFFLE KNIT DRESS // BAUBLE BAR EARRINGS // 



Friday during the day we went with the siblings + friends of the couple to the town of Como for the day.
It was lovely and we had a great time, but I realized the next week (and their friends had said) that Como was nothing special compared to what the other towns had in store.  To an American, it all is gorgeous and amazing, but Como is definitely more developed and not as quaint as the others.

We took the funincular to the top to get great views over Como and the lake which was fun.

In the States we always think of Friday night as being the night for a “rehearsal dinner” but they don’t have that tradition over there.  In fact apparently they don’t always see one another at all on Friday? Maybe that was what Thursday was, but it kind of seemed like that wasn’t a norm either, but just because so many out of towners were in town.  We all went back to the groom’s families home for a “BBQ” which was just a ton of amazing food and wine and hanging out before the wedding on Saturday.
// BB DAKOTA CHAMBRAY TOP – CURRENT VERSION // INITIAL NECKLACE, ONLY $16 // 

Saturday was finally the wedding!
The church was absolutely gorgeous and in this beautiful town square. (I may have tried to disceretely make my dress a short dress during the ceremony to prevent from melting in to a puddle).

I gave so much thought to what to wear to this wedding based solely on the no AC and hot as heck factor, because I knew I would need to be able to sweat in it without it showing, but when I found this dress I fell in love. It is so insanely comfortable and looked so Italian to me.

The reception after the church was in a gorgeous villa, Villa Calchi, overlooking a vineyard and all of the surrounding hillsides.

The food at cocktail hour alone was absolute perfection, and enough to have counted as the whole meal for the evening!
Then we had a seated dinner, and then a huge dessert spread later in the night.  It truly was incredible!


Nicole Miller Watercolor Maxi – I found one on ebay of this dress!








The next day we packed into the Fiat 9 person Van to head from Tremezzo.
For someone who is terrified in cars and the worst back seat driver on the face of the planet, the week of extreme car anxiety began for me.  These roads are so narrow and the hills were SO intense in Tremezzo getting to and from our house that I’m shocked I didn’t lose 10 pounds in sweat that week from stress more than the heat. (but, ya know…… Italian food…..so no pounds were lost).

So, I’m sure no one will end up in the cute little town we were in for the Wedding,
but feel free to skip the actual town of Como on your way to the other more beautiful towns along Lake Como.

To see more of my travel posts, click here, or check out the specific guides below.

Packing for 2 Weeks in a Carry On (Amsterdam and Lake Como)

Packing for 2 weeks in a Carry on (Venice, Siena, Florence, Rome, Positano, Amalfi Coast)

Venice Recap // Siena Recap // Florence Recap // Positano Recap I // Positano Recap II 

by TheSarcasticBlonde 
fashion, Holiday, holiday gifts

:: The Sarcastic Blonde’s Favorite Things of Oprah’s Favorite Things ::

November 6, 2017

:: The Sarcastic Blonde’s Favorite Things of Oprah’s Favorite Things ::


You know the debate?  The debate that starts every year around this time? Questionining if it’s time to start celebrating the holidays? If It’s too soon?
Well…. there is one woman that can put an end to that question.
And that woman is Oprah.
And Oprah has released her Oprah’s Favorite Things for 2017.

So, let the Holidays commence!!!!
Or at least the shopping aspect!

….. can we please get the Oprah Show back on? Because this episode was THE BEST!

editors note : One thing on her list that I was going to include but then didn’t but then am like “Why have I been thinking about this so much??” 23 & Me. The advertising is really getting to me with the 23 & me. Everywhere I turn, I see or hear a commercial and now I’m like “I DO need to know where I came from!!!” reality : do I care???? 
I figured out why it has me grabbed : The “Getting to Knoooooooow you” song in the commercial.  It’s a killer.  I realize that I will be signing it all day long.  Whoever did that deserves a serious pay raise.  Well done.  Hashtag slow clap. 

anyways….. let’s start with the edible gifts first!
…. obviously….. 

:: FOOD :: 

:: Caroline’s Cakes :: 

Oprah Says : According to Gayle, Caroline’s Cakes is famous for its caramel cake, but one bite of the seven-layer coconut cake takes me right back to Sunday afternoons in Mississippi, with my grandmother in the kitchen cracking eggs and shaving fresh coconut.
TSB Says : Does this not look so insanely amazing?!
Something about a million thin layers of cake just looks so perfectly delicious.

:: Cheese Knife :: 

Oprah Says : Goodbye, cluttered cheese platter: Here are three knives in one. The sharp edge cuts cleanly through firm cheese, the pointy tip breaks an aged cheese into shards, and the entire blade spreads soft cheeses. I’d give this with a ripe wedge of something delicious.
TSB Says: Who doesn’t need a good cheese knife? And you only need one that does it all!

:: Truffle Salt :: 

Oprah Says : I took the truffle and rosemary sea salt out of my bag at a restaurant, and the waiter asked, “You travel with that?” I said, “Do you have it here?” It wouldn’t be Favorite Things without truffles!
TSB Says : Truffles.  Enough Said.

:: Air Fryer and Toaster Oven :: 

Oprah Says : A toaster oven that bakes, broils, toasts, and has a built-in air fryer? What else can you ask for?
TSB Says : Everyone I know that has an air fryer absolutely LOVES it.  Such a great, easy way to make your favorite foods healthier.

:: Frozen Dessert Maker :: 

Oprah Says : We have a winner! In goes the frozen fruit, out comes silky sorbet. Did I mention that frozen berries and bananas equal zero Weight Watchers points, that the price is amazing, and that I make a soft-serve treat every night?
TSB Says : Now, if I’m honest, I don’t feel the need to make my own frozen desserts when Halo Top is down the street at Publix, but not everyone is as lazy as me…….

 

:: CLOTHING :: 

:: Tory Sport Track Pants :: 

Oprah Says : Reese Witherspoon turned me on to Tory Burch’s new sport line, and I owe her one. These track pants go with everything: a sweater and boots or heels and a blazer. I’m hooked.
TSB Says : Do I need another pair of pants to give the illusion I am heading to work out, even when that is absolutely not gonna happen? Obviously.

:: Barefoot Dreams Pajamas :: 

Oprah Says : I am a student of pajamas. In fact, the reason I started Favorite Things 21 years ago was that I had a great pair to share. The only drawback with my latest loves is that they’re so soft and stretchy, you won’t want to wear anything else.
TSB Says : My husband is so firmly against me having ANY more pajamas that cover everything except my neck it’s insane.  Same goes with Robes.  And socks.  It’s just pure temptation over here every night (insert gif).
So clearly I am in love with these.

:: Emijay Sweatshirt :: 

Oprah Says : Now, this is my travel gear. Chic sweatwear proves it’s possible to end a long plane or car ride without looking like a crumpled napkin.
TSB Says : Love this to throw on to head to a workout (or pretend I am en route to workout!)

:: Slipper Socks :: 

Oprah Says : put on these cozy sock slippers for the Favorite Things shoot, and I loved them! So will anyone you give them to, from toddlers to grandmas.
TSB Says : See above, under the PJ’s and my husband’s disappointment every night.

:: Emu Slide Slippers :: 

Oprah Says : My stepmother had furry pink slippers in 1968, and in 2017, chic women everywhere are wearing them out to lunch. Give a pair to a stylish friend and make her day.
TSB Says : These are obnoxious and I’m even more in love with them because of that.

:: HEALTH + FITNESS :: 

:: BeatSX Headphones :: 

Oprah Says : These lightweight wireless earphones really put a great-sounding song in my heart. They charge superfast (five minutes will give you up to two hours of tunes), and the magnetic buds cling together, making them easy to keep around your neck
TSB Says : I have yet to find a pair of comfortable headphones that stay put!
I’m honestly doubting they exist!

:: Spanx Active Leggings :: 

Oprah Says : Workout leggings that slim you? I’ll take two, please. The SLIM-X performance fabric of these Spanx with a double-layer waistband is lighter than air, but they still manage to smooth all over. Thank you, Sara Blakely!
TSB Says : No such thing as too many pairs of leggings, especially when they have a high waist and suck it all in.

:: Commuter Bicycle :: 

Oprah Says : This bike is a monochromatic masterpiece, a work of art that truly moves you—its two gears shift automatically. It’s light and made to last, with a basket built into the frame. You can choose from eight shades, but I can’t wait to ride my brand-new white one around Santa Barbara.
TSB Says : In Atlanta, I think you have a death sentence if you choose to ride a bike.  But for everyone else, how cute are these!

:: Phillips Sonicare :: 

Oprah Says : The first Sonicare made the list 20 years ago, and it’s only gotten better—literally one of my favorite things that I use twice a day. This year’s version is a smart toothbrush with an app that gives feedback on brushing habits, supereffective brush heads for different cleaning modes, and sensors to adjust intensity or tell you if you missed a spot. Trust me, you’ll look for excuses to brush.
TSB Says : If you do not own a Sonicare yet, you really need to get on it.  They are the absolute best.  Your mouth will never feel clean again without it!

:: GIFTS + ACCESSORIES FOR HER :: 

:: CZ Drop Earrings :: 

Oprah Says : These cubic zirconia earrings are playful enough for jeans, but I think I could get away with them for a black-tie affair. They sure look like the real deal.
TSB Says : Love these! Especially the diamond set.  Such a great gift for any lady in your life.

:: Pepper Sunglasses :: 

Oprah Says : People, these are the glasses! Tinted readers designed for outdoors, they let you see fine print and give your eyes UV400 protection to boot.
TSB Says : Great gift for parents and grandparents – who doesn’t need sunglasses they can read in!? No more layering the readers with the sunnies.

:: Earring Gift Set :: 

Oprah Says : Confession: I waited until I was 51 to get my ears pierced. You probably know someone who did it sooner—she’ll be thrilled to unwrap this pretty set of five pairs of gold-plated earrings. And you can’t beat that price!
TSB Says : Studs are my hands down go to . I love me some simple gold + pearl or gold + diamond studs.
You can choose from four different sets of 5 pairs of earrings for under $50

:: Stackable Jewelry Box :: 

Oprah Says : I keep promising myself I won’t put yet another jewelry box on Favorite Things, but these two-piece versions showed up with compartments for watches and eyeglasses, so how could I resist?
TSB Says : I received a similar stackable jewelry box for my birthday this year and I love it!

:: OTHER FAVORITES :: 

:: Magnolia + Olive Trees :: 

Oprah Says : Yes, I have olive trees in my bedroom. Everyone said they’d never make it, but I keep them turned to the light and they get bigger every day. A tree is a forever gift. It’s sunshine and earth and water, and it just grows better with time.
TSB Says : Great hostess gift, house warming gift, or something for the woman who has everyone.

:: Buffalo Check and Herringbone Throw :: 

Oprah Says : Not only do I want to see this cashmere-soft throw on my sofa, but I’d also wrap it around my shoulders on a chilly night.
TSB Says : Similar to black leggings, there is no such thing as too many throws!

:: Corkcicle Stemless :: 

Oprah Says : Here’s a 12-ounce covered stainless steel cup that keeps hot things hot for four hours, cold things cold for nine hours, and soccer moms happy right through overtime.
TSB Says : I have these in the bigger size and LOVE em.  Especially at the beach + lake to keep your cocktails cold!

:: Shower Cap :: 

Oprah Says : It’s no secret that this country is deeply divided. But here’s one thing we can all agree on: Every woman needs a good shower cap! These turban-style numbers have quick-dry fabric and a waterproof lining.
TSB Says : A shower cap is something everyone should have but I feel like no one does!? These are hands down the cutest and most stylish shower caps I have ever seen!

:: Great Thought a Day Notepad :: 

Oprah Says : With 365 inspiring quotes—and space to write your own thoughts—these pads will make channeling your genius an everyday habit.
TSB Says : When will I finally start doing this ?!? #NewYearsResolution


I was going to write that the only thing missing on the list was BREAD,
but then I realized English Muffins are on the list…..
so, my moment was ruined.

Check out all of Oprah’s Favorite Things here! 

by TheSarcasticBlonde 
friday randoms

:: Friday Randoms + Link Love ::

November 3, 2017

:: Friday Randoms + Link Love ::


Cheers to Friday! And November!
Holiday everything can officially now commence!
Too soon? I feel like once it’s November it’s allowed? T
he shopping part at least…. we won’t get a tree until Thanksgiving. 

My husband is home for the first time in almost two weeks (he was traveling for work, went straight to his friends wedding, and then straight back to Las Vegas from there) so I am very excited to have a weekend at home with him.  Which for me equals doing nothing and for him will equal washing his beloved truck, working in the yard, wanting me to start 97 home projects with him while leaving the other 57 in mid-completion states of disarray….. ya know…. the usual.
A definite date night is in the works for tonight, and then hopefully hanging out on the porch with a fire going! 
although it was 75 on my walk after work last night, so probably no fire again for a little while…..  

:: Fixer Upper // Desert Flippers ::
My Fixer Upper depression is setting in.  Hard.  I am seriously so upset that it’s ending. (I know, I know; I’ve said this like 10 times in the last few weeks)
I am very, very excited for new episodes to start later this month though! 
But I just caught a new-to-me show with a sweet couple on HGTV that may make it the teeny tiniest bit better.  Not because they are Chip + Jo (I mean…. no one is) but they are sooooo much better than the annoying fake drama filled Flip or Flop with Tarek and Christina.

Desert Flippers is set in Palm Springs and they seem to be easy, fun 30 minute episodes.
Set your DVR’s if interested!

:: This is Us Wedding :: 
I love seeing all of the photos from This Is Us’ Justin Hartley’s wedding.  It just seems like they all really love each other off set like they on set, and I LOVE having a feel good show that makes me cry every week to watch.  We need more shows like this so badly!

editors note: When the reality TV addict is begging for more feel good scripted shows, you know something is seriously lacking in the TV world!  

This was the most depressingly true thing this week.

Actually…. my constant lack of wifi and TV this week along with my realization that I hate being along with my own thoughts probably was. Especially on a Sunday…. coming home from a 3 day wedding weekend ready to binge some shows and calm the Sunday Scaries, only to realize both internet and TV are non-existant and that I have 6 hours until bedtime in a house all alone….. THAT…. that was probably the most depressing of the week……
but ya know, I’m a mature well rounded lady, so I just panicked and tried for 2+ hours to plug and unplug everything until I almost cried, finally gave up, and collapsed into bed and picked up a book and read.

:: FRIDAY FINDS ::

Perhaps the item I want most out of everything on this list.  PERFECT for the holidays. 

The go-to clutch for all occasions for under $40! 

A V-Back and Velvet Bow make this super soft sweater extra special. 

Why, oh why, have I not bought this sweater dress yet? 

This eyelet top would be just as perfect with jeans everyday as well as tucked into a skirt for a more casual holiday look.  

A yummy oversized mock neck sweater to live in all winter with jeans. 

Hurry! This velvet dress is selling fast and I am in lurve. 

This bow-detail dress screams Kate Spade, but is a fraction of the price! Love both colors. 

I found tons of great scarves that are all well priced but give off Burberry vibes! 
ONE // TWO // THREE // FOUR // FIVE

An oversized under $100 faux fur wrap is a great scarf alternative, and a must have for dressier occasions. 

This is a great stretchy workout jacket to layer for the trips to an from your workout. 

Great little cocktail dress under $100 with a fun twist in the front. 

Love these velvet tops for under $40, especially the black. 

I’m still having a moment for Pleated Skirts, especially with holidays on the mind.
ONE // TWO // THREE // FOUR // FIVE

A little leopard goes a long way. (and a slightly larger print)

Okay, sorry not sorry, one more leopard: love this leopard top.
It’s animal print gone preppy and done so, so right! 

Some of my favorite booties on S-A-L-E. so many good sales right now! 

Perfect dress for the Preppy girl. 

I’ve been hunting for a great poncho this fall; love that this one is under $75 and reversible! 

:: LINK LOVE :: 

Speaking of Fixer Upper (not stopping, sorry not sorry), I loved this article with 25 things you never knew about their kids (no TV’s in the house at all! I guess that’s the key….. too late for me….) It’s so cute to see that their kids are often sitting at their feet when they are filming all of their commentary.  

A Healthy Girls Guide to Shopping at Costco.  I feel like since we moved South, people are constantly saying “What! You don’t have a Costco membership!?”  I’m like ummmm there are 2 of us? But apparently once cars + space are an option we are supposed to get a Costco membership!?

I totally forgot about this crazy kidnapping case  and because I am murder/crime podcast obsessed right now I’m really wanting to know what actually happened! Thank you to the reader who recommended A Murder On The Cape, I just started it and am really liking it so far! 

I watched the Iris Apfel documentary awhile ago on Netflix, so I loved seeing this article about her + her husband. They are so adorable. 

I know Halloween is over, but I am still loving looking at all of the costumes.  I love the Chia Pet costume out of this collection of dog costumes. And my personal favorite that I saw on instagram was this Airline Pilot going through the airport on Halloween. 

Hope you all have a great weekend!!! 

by TheSarcasticBlonde 
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Hi. I’m Taylor

A Southern girl turned Chicago transplant, recently settling back down in Atlanta. Fluent in sarcasm. Devout Bravo-holic and TV addict. Balances fitness with french fries. Penchant for Prosecco and Pinot Grigio. Wannabe Ina Garten in the kitchen. Online shopping enthusiast. Lover of fashion and decor.

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