I'm back from Savannah and the trip, although emotional, actually turned out to be a lot of fun. Don't get me wrong here, I wish that the trip had been under much different circumstances, but I was with some of my closest friends and we made the best of a difficult situation. Thank you for all of you warm thoughts and kindness and please continue to keep my friend in your prayers.

On a more superficial note, on the way back from Savannah we stopped at a local Urban Outfitters (I know I'm on a budget, but following rules was never a strong suit). The "impromptu" trip ended with me spending a bit more money than I had planned, b/c I had planned on spending NO money. But hey, at least I spent my money well and if I'm going to be poor, I'll be stylishly poor. Here's what I bought:

Round Circle Stamp Rug $14
I'll place these two rugs in the stair landing leading to the upstairs space. The stairs double back on themselves so we needed something to bring our decor "down" into the stairwell. They will also serve the purpose of getting the dirt off of our shoes before entering the living area.
Round Indigo Floral Rug $14
This dress is so comfortable and the vertical strips along the side helps lengthen the figure. Had it been horizontal all the way across, it would not have had enough shape for me. I'll throw on a cropped blazer, belt and boots for work and a simple pair of sandals for non-work time. I have a feeling I'm going to live in this dress come summer. You can't see the little pockets at the bottom in this photo, but they sealed the deal for me.
BDG Striped T Shirt Dress $39.99 (sale online) I payed $48 in the store...grrrr.
These sandals are comfortable and the off white will go with pretty much anything. The back zipper make them just a bit funky.
Twist Filigree Gladiator $38
Here are a couple of items I didn't buy but totally would if my self control hadn't kicked in:
Metallic Linen Ruffle Wallet $28
The light gray color and exposed zipper combo are a perfect nod to the 80's. Click here for more exposed zippers.
Silence and Noise Denim Zipper Skirt $68
This belt is the perfect width (any bigger and I'm uncomfortable.) The stretch makes it super easy to wear.
Knot Leather Stretch Belt $24
Ok, so I had been doing really well not impulse shopping, but I think seeing things in person makes my self control crumble. Do you have the same problem? Do you think online shopping allows for more self control or are you able to walk away regardless?

Check book? Check

I started carrying checks in my purse b/c I stopped carrying cash and thought they'd be handy to have close by. (Yes, I do have a check card which I use, but our parking deck doesn't take them.) I don't always have the cleanest purse so my checks were getting quickly ruined. I resolved this problem back in November, when I purchased this fabulous checkbook holder covered in an Amy Butler print. Now the checkbook cover is dirty, but my checks are safe and sound.

Checkbook Cover in Amy Butler's Midwest Modern Fabric $12

source: SheMakesStuff

I think this clever little item would make a great gift for someone. It's unexpected, but totally useful, assuming the person uses checks for something. Here are some others I find especially fun b/c each has two different patterns that create one interesting piece. These each cost $25.
Golden Evening
Redhot Curry
Sky MumIf you like these, but desire a different pattern combo, you can create your own for no extra charge!
source: BCharmer
If you like pattern, this shop has a lot to offer and I'm especially lusting after the reversible headbands. Happy Friday:)

Aviator wallet

I'm going to start the weekend w/this quirky, chic wallet from Linda's Stuff, a new favorite vintage shop on Ebay (this piece happens to be new). The cheeky bow and the mod aviation pattern are just too much...in a good way. If you get bored this weekend, check this shop out...it's amazingly well organized and has lots of designer named, affordable, pieces. Happy Weekend!

Victor Rolf Leather Red Aviation Wallet $49