"Luxury" for less: I like to feel like I'm living "the good life" as often as possible. I've always been good at finding bargains and learning how to live within my means, while still feeling like I'm splurging. One of my favorite ways to do this is to enjoy a glass (or two, or three...) of wine occasionally in the evenings, especially after a stressful day. I'm not a wine connoisseur by any stretch of the imagination, but I know about different types of wines and I've tried a good number of low to mid priced brands (if you're one of those people who must spend at least $20 to enjoy a wine, this section probably isn't for you!). However, my go-to wine for a while now has been Walmart's (yes, Walmart) brand, Oak Leaf. It costs - get this - only $3 a bottle and tastes perfectly good. I especially appreciate their Cabernet Sauvignon, which is my favorite kind of wine, but their Pinot Grigio is also pretty impressive. I also like the Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc from time to time. I actually find most of their wine comparable or better than many of the brands I've tried for around $10.
When I first moved to Austin, sometimes I would enjoy a bottle of the Merlot with a box of DOTS candy (the yogurt kind)! Weird (and not particularly luxurious), I know! But it was so good, and it was the perfect little escape when I was feeling stressed. I'd sit by the big window in my bedroom, or on my balcony, with a magazine and relax.
I don't know many people who can't afford a $3 bottle of wine occasionally. Since I enjoy the taste of the Oak Leaf, I feel like it allows me to keep some wine around the house, for whenever that craving might sneak up or I have guests, without noticing any real difference in my bank account!
Feeling comfy-sexy: I love getting to that point at the end of the day where my work or little tasks are done, errands are completed, and I know I can slip off my tight jeans or boots, and put on something comfy (this is also where my Walmart wine can come in!). However, especially after a crappy day, I still like to feel pretty. My boyfriend usually heads to my place after work, so sometimes I like greeting him in something cute, even if I don't want to dress up. If you have a boyfriend or husband, grab one of his shirts (a button up dress shirt works perfectly) and put your hair up in a bun or ponytail at the very top of your head - the messier the better! Instant cuteness. If you're single, no worries! While you're drinking a glass of wine, slip off those heels, and put on your favorite PJs or baggy t-shirt. Play some music or put on a favorite TV show (see below) and make yourself an amazing dinner. I'm the least domestic girl you'll ever meet (thank goodness Steve cooks, right?), but I absolutely love cooking up something while drinking a little wine. Even if I'm by myself for the night, I light candles and really take in the alone time. It's important to schmooze yourself, too!
I greeted Steve in one of his jerseys last night. Wearing Texas gear to look cute for him may have been a bit too easy... :P
Carrie Bradshaw: Yeah, I said it. I didn't get hooked on Sex and the City until it had already been over for some time, but I absolutely love it now. Infact, I just caught a mini-marathon starting on E! What perfect timing. I had a rough overnight, complete with nausea and a pounding headache, so this might be just what I need to wake me up a bit and put me in a better mood. This show just makes me feel all good inside and reminds me to be one. amazing. woman.
Don't we all want her life?
Go on then, leave a comment. I wanna know what little things make you smile.
I was watching Sex and the City earlier. What made me smile (or laugh!) was when Big called Carrie and asked how things were with her boyfriend "what's his name, hot dog?" LOL. Love it!
ReplyDeleteHahaha. One of my favorite lines. He's so hilarious.
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