Bad Company

You may not have listened to Bad Company before (pictured to the left), but you've probably been around it before. Now I'm never quick to play the "Bad company ruins good morals" card (I Corinth 15:33), because more often than not, I think it is often used to protect and perpetuate the Christian ghetto. The reality is that our hearts are deeply sinful and that's where sin comes from. Nevertheless, ONLY spending time with folks who aren't Christians can do some serious damage as well. Satan definitely uses unbelievers to hurt Christian character and actions.

Not sure where Michael Vick stands before the Lord-I do know he mentioned something about Jesus after he was busted for dog fighting, but that's probably fairly common in dog fighting busts. Regardless, Christian or non-Christian, his morals can't afford to be ruined any further if he wishes to play in the NFL. Fortunately for him, the Feds actually wrote a "bad company" clause into his probation, technically called "supervised release."According to profootballtalk.com:

At item 10 in the list of conditions of the supervision, the order states that Vick "shall not associate with any persons engaged in criminal activity and shall not associate with any person convicted of a felony, unless granted permission by the probation officer to do so.

They're very aware of this principle. So I'm guessing that probably included his partners from that dog fighting ring, and I love this one, Bad Newz Kennels. Now perhaps he had permission from that probation officer to invite his partners in crime to his 30 year birthday bash at a Virgina Beach night club. Regardless, it might have been good to go by the spirit of the law here, and not invite those guys. Perhaps if they didn't get invited, one of them wouldn't have ended up being shot, and Vick might have fewer fingers pointing at him now. Allegedly leaving only left 3 minutes before the shooting, according to video surveillance, does not an alibi make.

Unless you're a felon, you'll just have to rely upon conviction and counsel to know if your associates really are causing moral corruption.

Color Day: Black, White, and Red

The newest Twilight movie comes out TODAY and we wouldn't be prepared for "Eclipse" without a vampire inspired color day! The covers of the Stephenie Meyer Twilight books all sport the same theme, black with bold white and red graphics.  Black and white can represent opposites, Jacob Vs. Edward or Good vs. Evil for example, and red is the color of love, anger, and, of course, blood.  Now, it's easy to incorporate these shades without going totally Dita Von Teese or having your friends and family thinking you've suddenly gone "goth". These are classic colors and nothing can ever compare to the elegance of simple black and white, think 007, tuxedos, pearls, little black dresses. Choosing red as your accent ensures your space, event, etc. has just the right amount of passion and drama.

Black, White, and Red "Eclipse" Color Inspiration Board

Images from: Steve Madden, Forever21, Bakerella, HM Creative Supplies, Planet Wall Art, Name Your Wish Images, Jasmine Bridal, Little Black Book, PriceGems, Lunarrastar Jewelry, FIAZCO, The Kitchen Sink 

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Bobby Moynihan Q&A Part 3 (Fire and Rice)

It's well-documented that the cast members contribute to the writing. The interview comes from:
http://livefromnewyorkitssaturdaynightlive.blogspot.com/2010/06/bobby-moynihan-q.html





Question: How involved are you in the writing process? Do you pair up often with other particular cast members/writers?

Bobby: All of the cast writes. You kind of just pair up for the week or shoot ideas back and forth. To be honest, that is one thing that I have not cracked yet. It's like asking someone out on a date every Tuesday. I write a lot with Nangle, Bryan Tucker, Colin Jost, Jillian Bell, Rob Klein, Abby Elliot, John Mulaney, Simon Rich, and Ryan Perez. Perez is hilarious. There are so many talented writers, you just want to write with them all. Also they write for you too. Or they cast you in something great. Mike O'Brien is a great writer and he cast me as A** Dan and the lead singer of Smash Mouth. Something I love him for.





Question: Are there any impressions that you wish you could do on the show? Are there any impressions you did not think you could perform well until they were given to you?

Answer: I'd like to try Paula Dean, Danny Devito, Dog the Bounty Hunter, Judah Freidlander, Odd Job, Oliver Platt. You know, the usual. As for impressions that I was CAST in... Karl Rove was fun. I still don't know who he is but it was fun. Mulaney cast me as David Crosby. Also fun. Alfred Hitchcock was the worst. I start off okay then I sound like Lorne! I just couldn't get it down.





Question: One of my favourite sketches last season was one you did with Sigourney Weaver called Fire and Rice. I thought it was really funny and I was just wondering, were you involved with its writing at all? Also, what was it like to appear in a sketch with just you and Sigourney Weaver?

Answer: That is one that is a perfect example of a fake pitch going well. I just wanted to make Sigourney laugh. I pitched a scene where we were a lounge act and she was on top of the piano but she was afraid of heights. She laughed out loud and after the meeting came to my office to talk about it. She had ideas which was awesome because I did not. I teamed up with Nangle and we cranked it out. It was a lot longer and had a lot more back story about her first husband. Nangle was the one who reigned it in and made it really tight. Sigourney had a crazy busy week and we did not get to rehearse it that much.

On Saturday I was pretty sure that it was not gonna make the show but Sigouney and I practiced it in her dressing room whenever she had a free second and she was so awesome about it. She just wanted to nail it because it's almost all her. Dress went okay. The ending got screwed up because after she fell off the piano she got right back up. Then she realized that the whole sketch was about her falling sixty feet and she ducked back down again. The crowd went nuts. It got the wrong kind of laugh. But in between dress and air she fought for it and it stayed in. I was so grateful that I almost forgot that it was my first sketch ever that just had the host and me! I was reeling. It went great and it is one of my top five sketch's that I am most proud of.

My favorite moment from the rehearsal was when the stunt coordinator tried to help Sigourney up onto the piano. She turned to him and said, "It's okay. I was Ripley." Most bad a** woman ever.





This is our last of the Q&As. Find a few more questions here:
http://livefromnewyorkitssaturdaynightlive.blogspot.com/2010/06/bobby-moynihan-q.html

=======================================

Once again, Bobby has nothing mean to say. Nothing but compliments. A good quality to have. =^)

He has a good point that he kind of has to court the writers and actors to collab with him. Surely that's an interesting experience.

Also, in his Sigourney answer, he shows how it's really a pitch to the host. Then the host kind of fights for what she or he likes. I'd love to see Bobby as Oddjob!!!

Enjoy!

Gospel Offensiveness

I've not had the "inspiration" or should I say "illumination" (the latter is probably a better word since my theological heritage often uses the former with a sense of God "inspiring" the original authors of scripture!) to blog much lately. Perhaps preaching more regularly and VBS responsibilities sapped some of my left-over creativity. Perhaps there is less left "upstairs" as I've been trailing to nail down Insurance since I've arrived in WV (car, homeowners, health-that's been fun with a pregnant wife). It seems like "extra" thoughts have been sucked out of my brain like Connar sucks out the juice on a freeze pop.

But I did see something last night which seemed worth a read. Especially since I preached on Jonah not too long ago. Here's a local newspaper article about a lad named Tullian, who pastors D. James Kennedy's old church Coral Ridge. In his new book, Tullian (I usually have better luck spelling his first name), discusses that Grace and the Religious Right are not the same thing. That would probably be pretty hard to hear coming from a place where the pastor had so much involvement in the Religious Right. 

Nevertheless, it is good to be offended by the gospel and I hope that the gospel would continually be offensive to those who don't believe it, or who don't believe it everyday. Myself included. Of course, the goal of gospel offensiveness is that we would repent and believe. For the first time or the thousandth.

Twilight Character Inspiration: Bella Swan

It's Monday, dolls!  And that means Friday, and the release of the newest Twilight movie, is so close we can almost smell that sweet sweet breath of Edward Cullen.  Eclipse (Book 3 of the Twilight Saga), will be coming out the end of this week and, though we may be embarrassed to admit it,  it's really got our blood pumping.  To control our excitement, we created a Twilight inspired character inspiration for this week. Isabella Swan is easily one of the most popular characters out there among tweens, teens, and women everywhere, thanks to the world-wide fame of the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer. We are incredibly huge fans of Stephenie and the Twilight series, and have decided to share with you some of the current items out there that we are sure Bella would die for.

Forks, Washington is certainly not known for sunny days or sweltering heat, so a hoodie is a great way to keep cozy, when your wearwolf space heater isn't around. We like these from American Apparel because they are soft, warm, and come in a variety of colors.  Can't choose just one? No problem -- go for the two-pack!

Snuggling up to Edward Cullen would give any girl the chills, so Bella would need a variety of sweaters to get her through the week. Plus, hoods are essential on rainy days! In searching websites for inspiration, we actually happened to come across the exact sweater she wears without even realizing it!  Here is the green hooded sweater that she is seen wearing in New Moon, available at PacSun.  

No tomboy would be complete without a flannel/plaid shirt!  This is perfect for fixing up motorcycles or just hanging around La Push with your pals.

Clumsy Bella always opts for a great pair of jeans!  All that motorcycle riding, tree hopping, and rainy weather is sure to take a toll on your wardrobe, so investing in a well made, versatile pair is essential.  We suggest a classic pair of Levi's, like these boot cut ones.  Plus, these jeans are actually called "Bella"!  Coincidence?  Perhaps.  Either that or they read our minds... but that would just be crazy... right?

Of course, you'll also need a nice parka to keep you warm.  If you want the exact Bella coat, you'll be looking for the blue BB Dakota one.  But, if you don't like the idea of carbon copying, we suggest going for a Bella inspired jacket, like this one from Urban Outfitters.  

Coverse All Stars, like these, are perfect for moody, awkward Bella.  Bella's wardrobe is always casual and understated,  so a simple shoe that goes with everything is important. Chuck Taylors are the best shoe for an offbeat, low maintence girl like Bella.

Bella also wears a Turquoise Cuff such as the one pictured above.  Jewelry, like her wardrobe, should be simple, understated, and nothing that would draw too much attention because that would be sure to make Bella uncomfortable.  This turquoise cuff is delicate and beautiful, but casual enough for every day wear.

We're ready to be dazzled!



XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Bobby Moynihan Q&A Part 2 (Snookie)

The interview comes from:
http://livefromnewyorkitssaturdaynightlive.blogspot.com/2010/06/bobby-moynihan-q.html





Question: One of my favourite recurring characters/impressions from season 35 was Snooki, who of course you played. I think what's great about it is that you're not just doing a dead-on impression of her, but you've turned her into a character. So, could you talk about the genesis of that impression? (How it was decided you would play her, the writing for her etc.) Also, one reader was curious as to how long it takes to remove the orange make-up?!

Bobby: SNOOKI! It started when I was I was watching TV and literally as I turned it on I just saw a girl get punched in the face. It was the promo for the show on MTV. It hadn't aired yet. I remember writing down "Italian Girl gets punched in the face" I thought it might be funny for update. I didn't even know who Snooki was. Then I started watching the show and I fell in love. That girl is a cartoon character. She is just the free-est of spirits. When I finally saw the episode and they cut it I was amazed. They showed it like a thousand times a day for a week and then said that it was inappropriate so they pulled it. Amazing. I think I just thought about it and wrote down the Garfield line about being orange and loving lasanga and that was it. My good friend Christine Nangle had been hired on the show and we wanted to write together. I pitched her the idea of me playing Snooki on Update. Nangle is brilliant and we work great together. I think we wrote the first one in like twenty minutes. It just flowed. We sat on the couch outside the elevator and just hammered it out. I just remember that we kept saying that it shouldn't be mean. It should be what she would really say if she had a chance to be on Update. It was totally different at dress. Much more subdued. And less orange. Then Seth improvised something and I just did that laugh to recover. The laugh got the biggest laugh. That made me feel good and Nangle said "DO THAT LAUGH AS MUCH AS YOU CAN".

On air, I think I just felt comfortable with Seth and the one was much more joyous and carefree. I think that's why people like her and the bit. Just an idiot having fun being an idiot. And every time we do it she gets more and more orange. Also Nangle is brillaint. She wrote the "Prison Jumpsuit" line from the Alec Baldwin episode. That line is pure genius and pure Nangle. Another crazy surreal moment was watching the real Snooki watch the clip on an MTV special. She seemed moved and touched. I just wanted to remind her that I was a dude painted orange and that she should not be as flattered.

It takes about twenty minutes to get the orange on. It's all Josh and Louis, the best makeup guys in the business. It's all airbrushed on then I get in the dress, boobs, jewelry, makeup, and finally the wig. I've gotten it off in three minutes for the next sketch but if you look closely my knuckles and neck are still bright orange.





Question: There have been a lot of great hosts during your time at SNL. Who were some of your favourites to work with and is there anybody in particular that you would like to see host next season?

Bobby: I have favorites for different reasons. Megan Fox was so cool. Anne Hathaway sticks out as a favorite just because I was so new and she was so excited to be there like me. Paul Rudd was amazing. I wanna marry Gabby Sidibe. Rogen and Phillipe were awesome. Blake Lively was great and I had my first "live from New York" on her show so that meant a lot to me. James Franco was a pisser. Sitting on John Malcovich's lap was nuts. Megan Fox... Megan Fox had to see me naked and for that I apologize. But if I had to go top three it would be Sigourney Weaver, Jude Law, and Betty White.... and Megan Fox.

As for hosts I would like next season... THESE ARE MY DREAM HOSTS... Robert Downey, Jr., Tom Hanks, Michael Emerson, Evangeline Lilly, Bryan Cranston, Sam Rockwell, Ken Jeong, Will Smith, Mickey Rourke, Amy Poehler, Carrie Fisher, Jonathan Winters, Gonzo, Ricky Gervais, Omar from The Wire, Tess from Pretty Wild, Simone from Head of the Class, A Bear, Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Chevy Chase, My Dad, Bill Clinton, Christina Aguilera, Alyssa Milano, Elisha Cuthbert, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Heather Graham, or the cast of Twin Peaks.

Dream Musical guests... (After Pearl Jam my dream had come true but...) Beastie Boys, Snoop, G-Love and the Special Sauce, Christina Aguilera, Leon Redbone, or Randy Newman. But I would trade them all for Biggie.





Question: What were some of your favourite sketches that didn't make it to the air?

Bobby: Ones that always stand out are anything that Fred or Forte write. Fred did a sketch called "Bi*** on Wheels" at the table read for my first episode. It was the funniest thing in the world. It was all about a woman who hosts a talk show on roller skates but she was a terrible roller skater. It eventually got turned into "Riley" but I still hold a place for the original in my heart. On the last episode of season 35 Forte wrote a sketch called "Finders Keepers" it was insane and wonderful. It got cut for time but I have high hopes that it will be seen again. Abby and I always threaten to write something called "The Adventures of Danny Devito and Rhea Pearlman" where we are super heroes. We have never written it but I am including it in the "Didn't make it to air" section because if we do it probably wouldn't. Also, Seth wrote a LOST sketch for the finale but it didn't make it. I loved it. I was Hurley, Bill was Sawyer, Kristen was Kate, Jason was Jack. It was just a nerds dream sketch and expertly written. I really wish we had done it. That one will kill me forever.


Read more here:

http://livefromnewyorkitssaturdaynightlive.blogspot.com/2010/06/bobby-moynihan-q.html

================================

"Simone from Head of the Class" - Hahahahahaha

A bummer that Lost skit got cut! That would have been Bobby's chance to whip out Hurley (an


Enjoy!

Bobby Moynihan Q&A Part 1 (Bobby's SNL Audition and Single Ladies)

Here is Part 1 of the Bobby Moynihan Q&A from the Live From New York blog. Read the rest on the blog:

http://livefromnewyorkitssaturdaynightlive.blogspot.com/2010/06/bobby-moynihan-q.html





Question: Could you talk about how you originally got into comedy? (What led you into it? Was it what you were always interested in pursuing?)

Bobby: When I was a kid I wanted to be a cartoonist. Or at least draw comic books or make action figures. Then I started doing the youth summer theatre in my town. Mostly just to hang out with my friends at the diner after rehearsals. When college time came around I got into UCONN for Acting. So I went. I did mostly plays and musical theatre while I was there but we had to a final presentation for our senior year and we kind of did sketches and then a roast. I think that was my first real jump into sketch comedy. Then when I came back to New York I saw an improv show at UCB. I loved it so much and I knew instantly that that was what I wanted to do. I signed up for classes the next day and I have been doing it ever since.


Question: What was your audition like for Saturday Night Live? Did it feature any characters/impressions that have since been featured on the show?

Bobby: My audition process was torture. It was 14 months in between the first time I auditioned and the second time because of the writers strike. The first time I auditioned I believe I did Hurley from Lost trying to open a jar of Dharma Initiative Chili, Turtle from Entourage. I did Mark Payne, and I did another character called Simply Victor that will never be on the show and a bit where I tap danced. The second time I auditioned I think I had a better handle on what they wanted from me. I did like 13 short bits. I believe I did a character called "The Biggest Douche on the Subway", I did Nathan Lane for the National Hamburger Society, I did Snagglepuss at a swingers club, I did Jack Black at a funeral, I did a character called Mark Dark Narcoleptic Narc, I did Simply Victor again and Mark Payne. I also did other stuff that I am forgetting and when I write it out like that I don't know how I got on the show.





Question: In your first show at SNL, you got your character Mark Payne on the air. How did you succeed in getting a character on the air in your first week and what was it like to feature so prominently in a sketch that early on?

Bobby: Honestly, I have no idea. I think it was all a matter of timing and stupidity. I pitched my only good character right out of the gate. Not the smartest thing I have ever done. But it was the only thing I had that I knew really really well. I had been doing that character in a show with my sketch group Buffoons (with Charlie Sanders and Eugene Cordero) for three years so I felt comfortable with it. Everyone was very nice at my first read through and I was terrified. But it went well and it got picked. Still can't believe it. I also think it had a lot to do with the fact that Michael Phelps was hosting and he had just won like a million medals and he was exhausted. All he had to do in the scene was sit and not swim. If an actual actor hosted I don't think it would have seen the light of day. To this day I still cannot understand the chain of events that led to getting that on the air in my first show. We did another one a few episodes later with Tim McGraw that I loved and another two, one with Rosario Dawson and one with Tracy Morgan, that got cut for time. The Tracy Morgan one was the Mark Payne origin story. A flashback to Tracy training Mark at Uno's. I love it more than anything. But it will never see the light of day. The Mark Payne saga is complete in my mind. I love that character and believe it is a big part of what got me on the show. The biggest thrill of all was seeing Mark Payne in the opening credits sequence of the SNL in the 2000's documentary. I can remember the moment I saw it. I will never forget how thankful I was that I worked in Pizzeria Uno for 9 years too long.





Question: One of my favorite things that Saturday Night Live has done in recent years was the now infamous Single Ladies sketch, the writing of which was attributed you. Could you talk about the conception of that sketch, what it was like to work with Rudd, Timberlake & Beyonce and how it felt to see it turn into a pop culture phenomenon?

Bobby: Monday - Kenan showed me the Beyonce video in his dressing room. I wrote down on a piece of paper (That I still have) "Backup dancers for Beyonce". All I was thinking was that it would be funny to see a chubby guy in a leotard.

Tuesday: I asked John Lutz if he wanted to write with me. He said yes. I pitched the idea to him and we started writing it with just me and Andy as the backup dancers. Lutz came up with the structure and made it into a real sketch instead of just a sight gag. People kept telling me that Beyonce had done the show before and that she didn't do any sketch's. We stopped writing it. Half way through the night we got the news that Abby and Michaela were joining the show. We went back to writing and we immediately put them in the sketch, just in case. At this point I did not think we were even going to hand it in.
Wednesday: It went to the table read with Kristen playing Beyonce. She sold it and it did better than I expected. I figured that it would not make it in and it didn't. I was not surprised.

Thursday-Saturday: I kind of have no idea what happened. We weren't doing it and then Andy asked me to come and ask Beyonce if she would do it. I was really scared to go in her dressing room and ask which was ridculous. She was a complete doll. She was so nice and she told me to sit next to her on the couch. I just kept saying, "Thank you, Beyonce" over and over. (A sidenote... I remember one of the women in Beyonce's entourage just kept saying, "Wouldn't it be funny if I was in the background eating a bagel!" It did not make it into the sketch. Weird.) We asked and Beyonce said she would do it if we could pre-tape it because she wanted to concentrate on her musical performances. We said thanks but we would need to do it live. The next thing I know, I don't know what happened. Someone called Justin Timberlake and what seemed like moments later he was at the studio, he bum rushed her and Beyonce said yes. The rehearsal process was nuts because we only did it twice before the show. The choreography wasn't that bad, I just couldn't understand what was happening. I just kept thinking, "What is happening and what have I done". I also remember Lorne coming to the studio half way through the rehearsal and saying that he watched the video and that there were only two back up dancers. I said, correct, but now we have Justin. Then there was talk that I would be cut from it and that it would just be Andy and Justin. I said I completely understood and tried not cry. Andy and Lutz stood up for me reminding Lorne that it was kinda my idea. I will never forget that. I think that the whole thing was a test because that was the last I heard of it. I remember Lutz saying that it was one of the most bizarre experiences he had working the show. Lutz played Justin for one of the rehearsals and he was great. Lutz is one of the best comedians in the world. The next thing you know we did it at dress and people went nuts. One of the crew guys came up to me and said "Congrats on making history." All I could think was that my Dad was going to see me in a leotard on TV. We did it on air and I remember every second. Darrell had the first line, it was Abby and Michaela's very first appearance on the show. And I was on SNL. That sketch, for some reason, I was completely aware of my surroundings. I enjoyed it more than I can explain.

The Next Monday: I woke up and it was in Entertainment Weekly. That is when I realized how strange and amazing working for this show was going to be.

Every time I see a picture of it in the hallway at SNL or hear that song coming from a car, I get chills and just shake my head and laugh.



Read the full interview here:
http://livefromnewyorkitssaturdaynightlive.blogspot.com/2010/06/bobby-moynihan-q.html

============================

I think the audition was the most interesting part. Essentially it was:

Audition 1 (four longer bits):

1. Hurly from Lost
2. Turtle from Entourage
3. Mark Payne
4. Simply Victor
5. Tap Dancing

Audition 2 (13 shorter bits):

1. The Biggest Douche on the Subway
2. Nathan Lane for the National Hamburger Society
3. Snagglepuss at a swingers club
4. Jack Black at a funeral
5. Mark Dark Narcoleptic Narc
6. Simply Victor
7. Mark Payne

He doesn't remember the last 6 bits.

Bobby also reveals that he tried to get Mark Payne on two more times after the first two. I think he might be tired of trying, so he's done trying.


Plus it's interesting to see how Single Ladies just fell together like that. They need to call JT up again, because he was sorely lacking from season 35 (this last season)!

Enjoy!

Young, Broke, and Addicted to Retail

Who doesn't love a bargain?! Serial shoppers like ourselves are always looking for a great deal and a way to keep a little cash in our pockets, which is why we're so excited for today's guest blog post!  Our friends, Lauren and Ashley, teamed up to bring you this fantastic post and share their secrets about finding bargains and the coolest trends at reasonable prices. Thanks ladies, for contributing to our blog!  Readers, we present you with "Young, Broke, and Addicted to Retail" by Lauren and Ashley.  Be sure to leave them some love :)

Like most women, shopping is one of our favorite things to do, but we all know how expensive it can be to stay on top of trends and look fashionable. Since our love affair with retail became a full on addiction we've had to learn to work within our financial constraints. This is a how-to guide on becoming a bargain maven by shopping what we like to call the "discount circuit".  Whenever we are craving a shopping session or looking for a particular item the "discount circuit" is the best way to get started!

TJ Maxx: Price point is clutch and the return policy is very forgiving. This is a great place to find salon quality hair products, designer perfumes, handbags, and sunglasses at affordable prices. Plagued with irregular sizes, it is best to try everything on. Real and costume jewelry selection is decent. However,  it tends to be time consuming to sort through the overstock of Jessica Simpson, Baby Phat, Betsy Johnson and American Eagle (to name a few).  Locations vary in level of selection when it comes to handbags, shoes and accessories.

Marshalls: Again, price point is clutch and return policy is favorable to the customer base.  Typically has a better handbag selection than TJ Maxx, but every location varies in their level of selection (some also advertise a mega shoe section). The same issue applies with irregular sizes, especially when it comes to bottoms, so always try on everything. In our experience, Marshalls has been lacking when it comes to jewelry and perfume selections.

Forever 21: Their clothes won’t last forever but this is a great place to go when looking for trends on the cheap. There is always a huge selection and the store is always being stocked with new and different pieces. You can find costume jewelry, belts, hats, and sunglasses under $20 (actually most merchandise is around or under $30). If you're worried about being age appropriate, then be cautious with prints, styles, and lengths of skirts and dresses. Forever now offers a "higher end" selection as well, with slightly higher prices for somewhat better quality. In addition, Forever 21 also has a plus size section in most of their stores.  And if you're a vegan or animal rights activist, then you'll be pleased to hear that Forever 21 locations offer shoes usually in synthetic materials, but are still very cute. The drawback: The return policy is non-existent -- they only offer store credit, and that's if merchandise is returned with a receipt within 30 days, and jewelry is always non-refundable. 

H&M: Another great place to get trendy threads for less. This is a European label, so if you have curves keep in mind that their sizes run narrow. You can find fun and disposable costume jewelry as well as other affordable accessories here.  The layout of the store also minimizes the overwhelming feeling that can take over when faced with racks and walls of clothing.  Typically the front of the store is where you can find office attire and more dressy pieces, and as you progress you will find clothing arranged by trend/age group/gender and color.  It's a great place to build on your wardrobe basics without breaking the bank.

Century 21 Department Stores: If you are looking for long-term quality investment pieces for your wardrobe this is THE hot spot. It doesn’t get any better than an entire department store devoted to deep discounts on designer labels: Diane Von Furstenberg, D&G, Free People, BCBG, Calvin Klein,  Armani, and  Michael Kors to name a few.  Great seasonal selection and a shoe department that carries a wide array of styles (we get excited just thinking about it)!  From casual to special occasion, you are bound to find something, and we promise you will get a lot for your money. Locations are few and far between, but certainly worth the drive.

Loehmann’s: Another discounted designer label store with lots of variety and great for deals on sunglasses, handbags, and jewelry. The perfume selection is very impressive, from Gauthier to Paris Hilton, at much cheaper prices compared to regular department stores or perfume dealers. Loehmann’s is home to an eclectic mix of international labels like Etienne Aigner and Carolina Herrera and classic finds like Cynthia Rowley and Calvin Klein. With so many labels and so many styles, we promise you won’t leave empty handed, but you will definitely leave with cash to spare!

Daffy’s: If you enjoy unique European designs at discounted rates this is an ideal shopping location. The shoe and handbag selections are hit or miss, but if you are looking for a special occasion dress this should always be a starting point. 

Of course a savvy shopper can save money in any store, just remember the sale rack is your friend! Keep these retailers in mind and you are sure to stay in style and out of debt.

Frugality is fun!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Don't skip the last chapter(s)

As I was preparing for the VBS gospel presentation, I found some great material on sharing the gospel with children in the "Salvation Flight Plan." I really did. I'm always open to new ways of contextualizing the gospel so that young children can grasp this simply profound (oxy-moron intended) message and power.

But I came across something that I'm probably going to omit: "heaven is our ultimate destination." Now I wouldn't be in grave error telling the kids that, but I think that they ought to know an even greater hope. 

When most people read a book, they don't quit at the last chapter, or turn the movie off, 10 minutes from the end (unless its really bad).

Yet ending with a picture of heaven and not a picture of heaven coming down to earth is basically skipping the last chapter of the last book of the bible. Not only that, but it is skipping the end of the whole gospel story. Revelation 21 pictures a heaven coming down to Earth, fortunately. The goal is a total restoration of the Earth, Sky, and Sea (BP, you can try your best but one day we'll get your mess cleaned up).

Its kind of funny how the material stresses a Reformed soteriology-going out of its way to stress the need for the Spirit's work in regeneration-but kind of misses the exciting conclusion and hope of Redemption. A hope in which all of creation, including oil covered pelicans, yearns (Rom 8:22).

Nevertheless, it is still great material and I'm beyond thankful for the one leading our VBS, as well as all of the volunteers required for this worthwhile endeavor.

Bobby Moynihan on Comedy Central's Portable Lounge (with Chris Gethard)

Watch the whole episode here (warning - some language):

http://www.comedycentral.com/full-episodes/portable-lounge/101-chris-gethard-and-bobby-moynihan


Read about this:
http://news.tubefilter.tv/2010/06/21/sobe-sponsors-comedy-central-portable-lounge/ 

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Bobby's growing his beard back for the summer (he'll shave it for SNL in the fall though).

Bobby's obviously the improv'er here, and he's leaving Chris in stitches.

Enjoy!

Color Day: Chartreuse and Raspberry

Todays color day celebrates summer with bright and fun chartreuse and romantic raspberry red.  "What the heck is chartreuse", you ask?  Well, it's a fancy little name for "yellow-green".  Not quite lime but not quite yellow, this in between shade is unique and not usually found in most weddings or general decor/wardrobes.  Most people feel this color is too bold but we'd have to disagree! This hue can easily be toned down with neutrals like taupe or white.  We suggest using this retro color in small doses and accenting it with the fresh and feminine shade of raspberry red for a cutting edge, modern, color combo for summer.  

Raspberry and Chartreuse Color Inspiration Board

Images from: neawear, ellemoss, LamaWorks, AbbaDabbaBags, Laundrymonster, ghostacademy, Elizabeth Ann Designs, It's a Jamie Thing, Southern Weddings       

XOXO,

Jen & Saira