Fashion Police Meets Black Friday

Let the chaos ensue. It's Black Friday! .... and I'm still alive. Every year is always an adventure. This year, as I came home for Thanksgiving, my mother and I decided to take on the crowds again this Black Friday morning. Quick stop at the mall... disaster... on to other shops we frequent, not so disastrous, but still unbelievable lines and people and FASHION STATEMENTS! This is a post about the last. Lots of lines, lots of people... yeah yeah, that's a given. But oh, the fashion. Oh, the poor poor fashion choices of today. I encountered more examples of the "roll out of bed and accidentally tried too hard to make it look like I just rolled out of the bed" than I have ever before. Granted, as much as I try to keep up with Stacy and Clinton on "What Not to Wear" and as much as I adore InStyle magazine, some fashion considered 'in' or 'hip' today, I completely disagree with. Leggings and tights with Ugg boots are one of such examples. While leggings and tights push the limits for me simply because I feel that I'm thrown back into the fourth grade when they were 'in' the first go around added with the fact that people who should not wear them do, when combined with the Ugg boots, it becomes far beyond out of control. Add gym shorts over the tights. Add fairly cute long sleeve shirt. Plus, the messy ponytail. My question is, "Wouldn't you have saved yourself so much trouble, had you just worn jeans?" It is eight o'clock in the morning for the love of God. I only wish I had a picture of not only this completely unfortunate young lady but the expression on both my mother's face and my own after we passed her. One word: Tragic.

My advice of the day: Follow people to their car and then steal parking places when shopping on Black Friday, always use your signal when turning into a parking spot if you've been waiting, keep the tights and leggings in the drawer and the Uggs in the closet (unless you plan on wearing them separately, don't overdo the "roll out of bed" look, and NEVER underestimate a good pair of jeans. Ever.

Hope everyone had a fabulous Thanksgiving! Enjoy your weekend!

Men!

What is it with men? Maybe it's just the men in my life. Maybe that's too broad. Maybe it's just some of the men in my life. Blatant disregard for other people, mainly me. Do I allow it to happen to myself? Probably. Ridiculous I know for someone who seems so strong-willed. I'm a sucker for some, I won't lie to you. Rico is one of those someones.

As much as I'm a sucker for him, it also means that he can absolutely infuriate me. Which was the case this evening. Love him, really I do. But how can one person be so aggravating? Tonight was one of the few nights out of the week where Classy gets some alone time as Mr. Perfect had a rehearsal to attend. What does Classy like to do in her alone time? Catch up with her friends, talk on the phone, watch episode after episode of Law & Order, and facebook. When there is no work to do be done, no one to entertain, and no one to criticize my L&O addiction, this is the life I lead. One friend I enjoy catching up with and talking to would be Rico. Usually I can spend time laughing at his ridiculous stories or being informed of the current small college gossip. Tonight however, apparently I was not important enough for conversation. I talked to him after work, then maybe a text message here or there for an hour or so, and then nothing... for quite some time. When he finally decided to grace me with a phone call, he said he had been in a meeting and then people had stopped by and why yes he'd seen that I had been trying to get ahold of him, but no he had chosen to simply watch the phone ring or see the text messages light up his phone instead of picking up or returning one. He was sorry but really, he didn't quite know why... Seriously? Let me rephrase... SERIOUSLY?

I'm not a needy person. Perhaps sometimes I can be, as we all can, but in general, not needy. I do ask that if you're talking to me and then all of a sudden you aren't anymore, to perhaps provide reason or explanation for blatantly ignoring me. Too much to ask? I mean honestly!

Please note that had it been the other way around, the flip side of the coin if you will, he would have been so angry with me that I would not have heard the end of it. I, however, have been apologized to, so I need to move on. Right. This is me venting... and moving on. Call me childish if you feel it necessary but I'm just asking for a little mutual respect here.

Another knot in the rope we use to hold onto one another I suppose. Unfortunately for him, as he's well aware, is the fact that I don't forget easily. It's not about keeping score... okay, it could be... it's about allowing him the opportunity to see how he treats me turned around to directly affect how he's treated. Funny how that works, isn't it?

Yes, I still love him. He's one of my closest friends. He's not usually such a jerk... towards me anyway. I'm still not happy at the moment... it happens. Men.

Oh AMAs, Where Do I Begin?

Perhaps first, that Kanye wants to be Elvis? Or maybe Miley Cirus's very Ashlee Simpson-esque jazzercise performance? The Pussycat Dolls and their stripper poles? Rihanna the pirate? Taylor Swift beating out Carrie Underwood? The Jonas Brothers beating out Colbie Callait? You pick, because I could go on...

Needless to say, I was quite less than impressed with this year's American Music Awards. The talent was lacking and more often than not, I felt as if I were watching dance awards rather than music awards. Performers such as Beyonce danced their hearts out, however, forgot that when performing for Music Awards, they're expected to sing. Crazy, right? Maybe it's me. 

I was disappointed that I missed out on Christina's opening act. I heard it was enjoyable. I thought Natasha Bedingfield was the most talent I encountered all evening. By far the most impressive. Then again, I turned it off before Alicia Keys hit the stage. I couldn't take anymore. Quite disappointing for someone who adores awards shows. Especially music awards. 

If you watched, I'd love to know what you thought. Did I miss any high (low) lights? Let me know...

Take a Breather

I had so many blogging friends enjoy Christina's "Superbitch" that I thought I would do a mid-week breather for all to enjoy. It's a little more country than pop, but the same kick-ass angry girl music you know I so enjoy. And so, I hope you enjoy.

Here's a clip of Kelly Pickler's CMA performance, "Best Days of Your Life."

Note: My love of Kelly Pickler extends to "Red High Heels" and now this. Even if you're not a fan or perhaps know nothing of her, watch anyway. It will make you smile. Two days until the weekend!

I am Woman, Hear Me Roar

... and bitch, and manipulate. a lot.

I had a revelation today. Perhaps I should've had such a revelation quite some time ago. Oh well. While I take pride in the fact that I'm a fighter and not one to sit there and take whatever it is that is dished out to me, I realized today that my perfected "bitch" attitude can be more hurtful than sometimes I intend it to be. Not always, don't get me wrong. More often than not, it is more than deserved. Sometimes, however, I say things I know will cut the deepest or get the reaction I'm seeking and afterwards regret receiving. It happens.

My Methods, My Secrets:
I'll preface this by saying that there is one of two ways I win an argument. Everyone has their own master technique... these are mine...

1) I know I'm not the only one who needs to scream and throw curse words to the wind every now and again. If the situation arises that such scene is needed, have no fear, I'll be the Classy one to throw such a fit. I find that even through emotions and anger, I am almost always on my toes and am able to come out with the last word. Very quick-witted, if you will. I like this about myself, I won't lie.

2) Used more often than the latter, my non-chalant passive tone and my "cool" (cold bitch) persona is the one I realized today gets me into the most trouble. If you know me, you know exactly what I'm referring to, if not, you probably have one yourself that you can compare it with. I can be very condescending and hurtful. Please don't take me the wrong way here. I'm not a terrible person. I'm a real person. I have my guards up just as any other girl would. But I am fully aware that words are powerful and that in the end, there are times when I can go one step too far. Once again, it happens.

Okay, so there you have it. Secrets some wait quite some time to figure out when it comes to playing hard ball with Classy. I would also like to add, however, that I am not afraid to apologize when I know I'm in the wrong either. I might want you to apologize first,... stubborn... but if I did cross that line, I'll admit to it.

Anyway, I thought I would share. I can be relatively caniving. For this, I'm sorry. At least I'm aware of it. And moreso, I admit to it! Perhaps it's a learned trait... or perhaps a characteristic I've developed on my own in my twenty plus years of livlihood. Whatever. Such is life.




"She's a lover, baby and a fighter..." -Red Hot Chili Peppers

Concerts, Movies, Shopping, and Cocktails

Sounds like a pretty exciting weekend already, wouldn't you agree? I would. 

My boring yet, quite enjoyable Thursday off turned into quite the eventful evening after receiving a few messages from one of my new city friends who obviously knows me all too well. She claimed that she would not be attending our Thursday Night Out (2 for 1 at my favorite bar), because she had a free ticket to a concert down the road. Upon asking what concert in the area, I received a response of "Just the CMT tour this year, Jason Aldean and Lady Antebellum. I really don't even know who Jason Aldean is and I know like two songs from Lady A, but it's free..."

Excuse me? Okay, maybe it's being new to this city and not exactly used to this free concert here, free concert there, who really cares who it is, let's just go because it's live music mentality, but these are people/bands I know all too well! I want to go! ... And what Classy wants, Classy gets. I ended up in the middle of the show with two fantastic friends singing along to great music. There's just something about a man of 6'3 singing southern rock/country in tight jeans and a cowboy hat. Don't judge me. 

Friday night consisted of more entertainment. As many of you probably know the new James Bond released this weekend and Mr. Perfect and myself along with five others felt the need to make a night of it. After the viewing of 007 at his finest, we then moved through the city to a local bar that I had not been to before. Two Captain and Cokes and a bottle of my favorite beer later, we headed home. I loved the movie. Some in attendance of our party did not, but then again, I also realized that my movie tastes differ so drastically from theirs, it is time to simply see movies for the first time without them, compare notes, and only then, if they have the same opinions and I'm not going to be mad by the end of their rants, will I be viewing them again in their presence. End. Of. Story. 

James was just fine for me. I recommend it if you're in the mood for your typical action packed, women throwing themselves at him, rebel with a cause trying to escape death at every turn of scene, 007 movie. 

Today is shopping day as yesterday was payday. It's difficult for me to not go on at least one shopping event after this day comes and goes. Therefore, happy weekending and wish me luck on spending money that I shouldn't! 

Have No Fear, The Weekend is Here!

As you could probably tell, the week started off a little less than par. Monday was a rough dayfilled with emotional inner-turmoil, children refusing to listen or follow directions, slight conflict with Mr. Perfect, and the beginnings of this sickness that has slowly conquered my body. However, as the week went on, my mood grew more positive. Yesterday was exciting and today is my day off therefore, you know Classy is a happy girl. Why was yesterday exciting you may be wondering? Well, it was the 42nd Annual Academy of Country Music Awards. If you have read anything about me, you are aware that I love all kinds of music from T Pain to Jimmy Buffett, Destiny's Child to John Mayer, Christina Aguilera to Sugarland. And so, CMA day was quite exciting as AMA day will be next week. However, as the CMAs are held in Music City, Little Miss Classy was quite star struck just knowing how many celebrities whom I admire and sing along with daily were so close to home. It was quite a day. My morning drive to work began such excitement with just talk (via my favorite radio duo) of all of the fame less than ten miles away from me, a surprise visit from dear ol' Dad at work as he was passing through town continued the excitement, and the majority of my favorites winning last night concluded such a terrific Wednesday!

Recap if you're interested at all: 

1) Male vocalist of the year- Brad Paisley (for the 2nd year in a row)

2) Female vocalist of the year- Carrie Underwood (for the 3rd year in a row)

3) Song of the Year- Sugarland's "Stay"

4) Vocal Group of the Year- Rascal Flatts

5) Vocal Duo of the Year- Sugarland

6) Album of the Year- George Strait

7) New Artist of the Year- Lady Antebellum

8) Entertainer of the Year- Kenny Chesney (for the 4th year in a row)

...Those are the big ones I believe. Minus the leather pants that so many chose to perform in and a select other "what was she thinking?" moments, I'd say the fashion watch was pretty exciting as well. Don't worry, you'll get a recap of the AMA's next week as well. I'm a sucker for awards shows. I can't help myself. 

Anyway, today is my day off for the week. Another bit of good news/bad news is the change in schedule I'm preparing for beginning on the 24th of November. We're returning to 8 hour work days as opposed to ten. Bright side: No more 7:30-5:30 work days. I like the sound of 8:15-5:15. (Especially since there is a half hour of mandatory break and a half hour of overtime pay every day) Dark side: No more off days. However, if I'm not so exhausted working ten hours every day, I might not be so ready for an off day by the end of a long week. We'll see how it works out. I believe I'm okay with this at this point in time. 

Aside from my sickness, it hasn't been a bad week. I'm very much looking forward to my Friday and Saturday nights. The weekend is always the best part of any week. I hope all of you enjoy yours as well! If anything terribly exciting happens, you'll be the first to know... 

A Lighter Note

I haven't forgotten my awards! I've been given two without response so far! My favorite Island girl has bestowed upon me the Superior Scribbler Award and the ever so cute Blogging Friends Forever Award! First, the S.S. Award:

Rules: 1. Post the award on your blog; 2. Link me for giving it to you; 3. Link the originating post here; 4. Pass the award on to 5 more deserving people; 5. Post these rules for your recepients.

Deserving Recepients: Roxie @ Baby, When the Sun Goes Down; Bodelou @ Bode Blog; Tiffany @ Confessions of a Shop Girl; D* @ I'm Having a Moment; Gwen @ Confessions of a Control Freak

...Second, BFF Award:

There are rules and regulations to this award as well, but I just love it and I'm so appreciative of all my new blogging friends. I give it to all of you. I love so much reading up on your daily/weekly thoughts and hope I give you as much entertainment as you give me. Happy Blogging!

Trapped

1. Sorry I've been a major slacker for about a week now. Promise to not let it happen again. 

2. Note: This post may be very Carrie Bradshaw-esque and may even make some of you roll your eyes at me for not appreciating what I've been blessed with. But you know me, no apologies. 

This past weekend was quite wonderful. I enjoyed some alone time, some pampering, and a lot of sleeping. It was exactly what I needed at the end of last week. Yesterday however, was rough. What is it about Sunday afternoons? I find them so lonely, no matter where I am. So you're asking yourself how do I go from lonely to trapped? Try and stay with me. 

I spoke with my mother several times yesterday as I usually do. She knows Sundays are hard for me. Once again, I don't know why. Anyway, one of our last conversations of the day began with her telling me that my grandmother's most recent habit is referring to Mr. Perfect as my finance. Okay. Hold the phone. Last I checked my left hand, I have no diamond. I, more or less, brushed it off with "Whatever helps her sleep at night." Note: She's not a fan of her only granddaughter having moved in with her boyfriend. Also note: Classy doesn't care. If she only knew how many other things in my life she could stress over aside from my living arrangements... Anyway, moving on. While my mom was laughing about this, it led into a conversation I didn't want to have. She began asking questions that she rarely asks because she knows I don't enjoy them. Ex. "Have the 2 of you talked about it? What are your thoughts?" And my personal favorite, "Are you sure he's the one?" Please mother, put these on top of my carefree weekend just to add a little spice. 

The truth is I once had the answers to all of these questions. Now, I feel that even the simple questions put me in a cage I cannot seem to escape. I'm not ready to make these decisions. When a grand majority of my friends are married, engaged, or in very serious relationships, I find myself feeling stuck. Have I trapped myself in a life I don't want to be in? Just writing that sentence brings tears of fear to my eyes. I laugh it off most of the time. Questions are asked and I give the typical answers that I know everyone wants to hear, but honestly it scares me to death to find myself in such a position at this point in my life. 

Maybe it's a fear of the unknown or a fear of growing up. Maybe it's a fear of making a mistake or losing control over my precious independence. Maybe it's typical Classy playing our everything in her head to an exaggerated state. Whatever the case might be, I've really struggled with it for the past 48 hours. 

Interestingly enough, it has more to do with my own state of mind than Mr. Perfect. One would think something had changed or gone wrong with the fault lying in him, but not so much. I mean, I could make out a list of all of the qualities I love so much about him and all of the things he does for me. Then again, I could also list the things that drive me crazy along with everything I wish he did for me. But that is the case with every man, right? Or any significant other, I suppose. Whatever. It's not about him. 

I guess I'm settled here now. Therefore, it's time to figure out what's next. And the "what's next" answers are becoming more frightening every day. 

Another sorority sister got engaged last night. My college roommate (also engaged) emailed me this morning to tell me. She also concluded in her own special way... "Soon we're all going to be married! Isn't that exciting! When are you joining the club? Want me to stop asking? haha..." etc etc. Well, I do know the answer to that question and it's "YES! For the love of everything good and holy, stop asking!"

Oh life. In the words of the beautiful Dierks Bentley, "I'd settle for a slowdown."

Music is My Remedy

Music has always been a huge part of my life. From winning national awards with my choir in high school to jamming out to the radio on a daily basis, music can both bring me up and pull me back down at any given time. It has been vital to my existence and more often than not defines certain time periods of my life. That's just the way it goes. With all of that said, I'm not necessarily talking about ground breaking symphonies here. While secretly, I can always have my breath taken away by grand performances by an impressive choir, I also enjoy the likes of well known artists such as T Pain, John Mayer, Sugarland, Beyonce, Carrie Underwood... the list goes on. And don't judge me for any of them. They all hold a special place in my heart. Sometimes even a little Britney Spears can get to me. Once again, don't judge. Thanks. 

Anyway, as you read from my previous post, it's been quite the weekend. And so, driving around the city on this beautiful afternoon, my music soothed my soul. So, I thought I'd share. This makes me happy... don't make fun of me. 

So, remember that time I wrote of my love for angry girl music? This may or may not qualify. Whichever, I'm a fan. Happy start of another week to all of my "super bitches" out there.

Truth Be Told

Sometimes I just want to start a fight. Honestly. Classy, yes? Not quite. I'm not talking about "white trash-let me kick someone's ass-pull hair-scratch and spit-beat down," I don't do that. I'm just in a need to scream a little... Maybe one slap. Just one!

It's been one of those weekends... not a bad weekend, per se, but a weekend where I've just been in a mood. Every man in my life is on my last nerve in one way or another. Mr. Perfect has been Mr. PMS for the past few days. I'm not sure if he's not getting enough sleep or his daily dose of calcium, but whatever the case might be, I'm over it. Rico also knows how to get under my skin when he feels it necessary. I'm over that too. Then there are the select few ladies in my life that are driving me crazy as well. Diva came up this weekend and I'm always glad to see a face from home. But she became quite inebriated last night and her filter basically shut down after that. I was quite annoyed by the end of the evening. Basically, I'm just fed up.

Last night, I went to my Halloween party of the weekend... a day late in order to also make it a birthday party for one of our friends. It was enjoyable. I looked good. That was a plus. But I was so aggravated by everyone for the majority of the evening, I hardly would say it was as much fun as I remember house parties being in college. In any case, it was fine I guess. I'm just in a mood. A state of mind, if you will. You've been there... you know you have. I'm ready for some alone time. Or some time to spend with those who understand me a little more than some have proven to this weekend. Hope you have had a Happy Halloween weekend! Here's to a new week!