10 Things & Giveaway Winner

The lovely and ever so creative Sophia at Tic Tac Tomato was so kind to give me this Kreativ Blogger Award. DO check out her blog. She paints shoes and makes bags out of juice pouches and you won't believe she's only 16! With the award, she asked that I list 7 Things about myself.
Also, the fabulous Miss Janet at Janetteria, who by the way has the BEST shoes, was recently given an insane amount of awards. She was so kind as to pass this lovely onto me.
Now she asked that I share 10 *Interesting* Things about me, so I'll just add on 3 to the 7 I had already planned, cheating I know but also efficient :) Hopefully they'll be *interesting* enough, LOL. Here goes:

1. As I child I took ballet but had to stop when I got very sick.
I always regret not picking it up again once the doctors gave the go ahead.

2. I love to cook & bake.

My friends say I'm like the Asian Martha Stewart...
I think they mean it as a compliment?

3. If chocolate were a food group, I'd always get my daily recommended intake.

Sadly, I can't say the same for fruits and veggies.

4. I don't like pork but I love bacon and ribs...so long as they don't taste *porky*.
5. I've always wished I were taller.
At least 5'6 or 5'7...though at least I surpass 3 apples high :)

6. I'm a BIG sap.
At that time of the month, I get even more emotional and can be found crying at commercials.

7. I wish I knew how to sew.

I always have that pefect piece in my mind but rarely find it in stores and I can't seem to sketch my *visions* on paper.

8. I'm very loyal.
Most of my best friends (which also include some cousins) are those I've had friendships with from when I was a child.

9. S and I planned our wedding in about 2 weeks.
I kid you not. And I know what some of you are thinking...
LOL, no I wasn't pregnant.

10. I handstitched the lace and beads onto the bolero(worn above) that I had custom made, for my wedding gown, which I wore a year after the wedding...to our reception. It's a longggg story.

Enough about me, now to pass the Kreativ Blogger Award onto 7, oops I snuck one in again, 8 Kreativ Bloggers! Bee Creative,Call Me Dorothy,Clarabelle, Cupcakes and Mace, Delectable Swank, Eggshell Green, Josiebean!, Polished Sense
Please do share your 7 things & pass on the love to another 7!

I'd like to pass on the Awesome Girl Award to all who comment and choose to accept. Do let me know when you'll be sharing your 10 Things!

Alright, I've stalled enough...and the winner of the All You Need is Love Giveaway is...

Sara from Sara Loves Shoes
CONGRATULATIONS!!! I'll be emailing you soon to get your mailing address :)
Thank you to everyone for entering. I really enjoyed reading your comments!
I'll be doing another giveaway in August so stay tuned!

Sending you all hugs and wishing you a lovely weekend!
If you're Canadian, have a great long weekend :)
xx Ela

[Images *except me* courtesy of Google Images and screen shot from Random.org]

Photog Strike is Off...

S is back on duty. Strike will likely be back on in a few days but for now, I will relish the moment :)

Curious as to how I got him off the strike this time? Sans Chinese Food?

I told him that since I don't have any pictures to post, I've resorted to posting about nuts and camels drinking cola (see last post).
S: "WHAT??? You're going to have to put that *baby* on permanent draft...
Ela: Too late buds, it went out at 1:00am. I cannot retract. I have 28 comments, which means people have already seen it. I cannot pretend it did not happen.
S: Oh gosh. Tell me you didn't....should we shut it down?

He was seriously appalled at my post. Remember, this geniune concern comes from the guy that doesn't read my blog, only the comments. Hey, whatever works...cause here we are...

Cropped Tuxedo Jacket - Zara, Basic Tee - H&M, Shorts - Vintage,
Necklace - Kenneth Jay Lane

Wooden Bracelet - Bitter Sweet

Suede Shoes - Seychelles, Green Epi Noe - Vintage Louis Vuitton

Watch - Michael Kors, Earrings - Winners

Please excuse the mosquito bitten pale, pale legs :)

Oh, also I thought it'd be fun to enter Polished Sense's Scarf Contest where the lovely Jessica asked us to get *creative* with our scarves.
Drop by to vote for your favourite(LOL, does not have to be me) entry!
Voting begins 12:00am CT

Hope you're all having a great week!
xx Ela

p.s. I had a comment a while back about my small photos...
sorry, just click on any to enlarge :)

Blogger's Trying to Tell Me Something & Blog Love

Do you ever pay attention to the word verification when you're leaving a comment? I've gotten some really strange ones so I decide to take note of some over the last few days.
Here are a few, along with what I think Blogger's trying to tell me:

Nuthuss
Translation:

Ghedo
So, not only am I nuts. I'm ghetto???

Nogro

Translation: You short little Asian.

Cycor
Ouch, Blogger. That's a little harsh.

Colatox

Translation: Cola will kill you.
So, would this be animal cruelty?

Hawali
Translation: I know you want a vacation.
But let's face it, this is the closest you're getting to Hawaii.

Blogger taunts me at least once daily. Why does Blogger have it in for me? I don't know. But it's nice to know not all share its sentiments.

Recently, the lovely CallMeDorothy gave me this Blog Lovin' award. Her blog truly has a charming mix and her takes on fashion, books, music, etc. always make for a great read! Do pay her a visit if you haven't already! I'd like to pass this award onto 10 (oops, 11 - I snuck one in) lovely ladies in alphabetical order (OCD) I love to visit at:
Couture Carrie
Dapper Kid
Drollgirl
Famous
It's Unbeweavable

Iva Messy
Janetteria
Ocean Dreams
Pop Champagne
Savvy Mode
Through the Looking Glass

xx Ela

p.s. Please know that I love all your blogs, if you find yourself inundated with my comments, and perhaps even feel like I'm *stalking* your blog and/or if I've featured you on my blog, it goes without saying :)

[Images Courtesy of Google Images]

Weekend Recap & Interview

Hope you all had an amazing weekend! Do something exciting?
It was a lazy one for us but I did manage to do something I quite enjoy...

Ela: OK hon, I'll be back in a couple of hours.
S: Where are you going?
Ela: Um, just running some errands.
*Gave a quick kiss and under my breath I muffle*
...then just going to go look at some stuff...
S: Oh, so you're off to go digging through people's trash again?

Yup, that's what he calls it. I say "thrifting" he says "digging through trash". Tomatoe, tomato...Call it what you want, either way I like to indulge every now and then. However, there are certain aspects about thrifting that I don't enjoy.

For one, I don't actually like going through all the stuff. But then again it's that thrill of the hunt...finding that needle in the used, sometimes smelly haystack.

I hope you don't take this as me being a snob - it's NOT that at all.
I'm just a bit of a germaphobe. OK fine. A BIG germaphobe. Which means, I have certain rules about thrifting where my outfit is concerned. I don't actually care about how I look or whether or not I match but the following is a requirement:

1. Long Sleeves = Minimal contact with the goods.
2. Full length pants, but ones that do not drag = Minimal contact with the goods...and the store floor.
3. Hair must be up and away from my face.
Nothing worse than having to touch your face to get the hair out of your eye or mouth after you've just riffled through the men's section and found a shirt that says: I like to fart, but only because I love you.
No. Literally. That's what it said.
4. A purse/tote without a zipper closure = Easy access...to my hand sanitizer.

Apparently I fit right in with my outfit...while shopping, someone asked me if I worked there. Seriously.

Top - Calvin Klein, Jeans - Mavi, Green Epi Noe - Vintage Louis Vuitton

Anyhow, I managed to score some great finds. I spent a total of $17.86 for 3 items *it was 50% off*. One of the items being what I believed to be a fabulous coat. The dry cleaning will cost about 4 times what I paid for it because of the fur trim, but whatever. All the way home I thought, "I can't wait till it's cold enough so I can wear it." When I got home I tried it on excitedly to show S. With a big smile staring back at me, I took courage.
Ela: So...what do you think?
S: It's nice. *smile* I like it. *pause* You look like you belong...in a play.

There you have it folks, apparently what I thought was a *fabulous coat* should only be seen on stage. Grrr....

S: So, can we go out now?
Ela: What are you crazy? I can't go anywhere. I need a shower. I just dug through trash, remember?

We had a quiet weekend, vegged on the couch and watched Seven Pounds and Passengers. Hope you all had a great one!

xx Ela

Also, if you have a moment, click to read a fun interiew
with the chic Delectable Swank

LOL, I know what you're thinking...I was surprised when she asked me, too :)
If you haven't already visited her blog, you're in for a treat! It's filled with an amazing fashionable mix and writing that makes you think, but not too hard that it gives you a headache :) Plus, she's a sweetheart!

[Photo of Thrift Store Courtesy of Google Images]

1st Giveaway - All You Need is Love (CLOSED)

My first post was on June 23rd, just over a month ago. Over the last month, I've so enjoyed *meeting* you, visiting your blogs and learning a tidbit about you here and there, having you visit me over here and of course reading your comments, and by the way...you guys are really sweet! I always think twice about putting myself out there, but honestly, you've never let me regret it. So...to thank you for the all the *love* you've shown me, I'm having my first ever (yes, there will be more to follow) giveaway....

On a recent shopping trip, I spotted this sweet sterling silver LOVE necklace...

[click images to enlarge]
When I saw it, I knew it was perfect for this giveaway. I know it might not be everyone's style, but c'mon, who doesn't need a little love? And it's FREE so if you win and it's not really your thing...give it away to someone you love!

Here are the rules:

1. Leave a comment on this post telling me one (or all if you really want to) of the following:
a) what love means to you or
b) the best thing someone you love has done for you or
c) the best thing you've done for someone you love or
d) something you're loving right now
2. Become my *Google Friend* and click to "Follow" this blog
I know some are not on Blogger but already subscribe so that counts!

Side Note: Have you noticed that it sometimes says "Members"? I wish they'd just change it permanently, it's so much better than "Follower"...as a Member, it's like you belong to a circle of friends/family...or exclusive club, hehe
3. For a double entry, add a link to this contest on your blog and leave a separate comment to let me know.
4. The winner will be picked randomly, through random.org, not by the *best* answer because I think all the answers would be lovely, which is why I want to hear them :)
5. Open to all - including International readers!
Yup, S gave me the go ahead(at least for this 1st giveaway) and is footing the bill, LOL
6. Entries will be accepted till July 30th. Winner will be announced July 31st.

That's it, get gushing!
Can't wait to hear all your lovely entries!
Good luck & thanks for playing!!!
xx Ela

Bumblebees

...and Taxi Cabs.

That's what I used to associate with yellow and black.
But as the years go by, I love the combination more and more.
Fell for the graphic print and floppy cowl neck of this blouse.

Blouse - Mac & Jac
Belt & High Waist Trousers - H&M
Favourite Yellow Shoes - Vintage Escada
Gold Link Necklace turned Bracelet - Ralph Lauren
Bangle with 'S' Charm - Danielle Stevens
Watch - Michael Kors
Earrings - Century 21 NY

...yes, that's a tree stump...it took a lot of persuasion (and help) to get me up there!









I was much more comfortable sitting atop this picnic table :)

Hope you're having a fabulous and sunny week!

~Ela

10 Things...

A little while ago, Little Rus of the fabulous Fashion Titbits gave out this Stylish Blogger Award to all her readers and asked that each recipient list 10 things that help create their own unique style. So here goes...
I Got a Love for Fashion...
1. Ever since I was a little girl, I loved picking out my own clothes and doing my own hair.
2. Every now and then, I need a change without taking drastic measures. Fashion allows me to do just that.
I Dress how I Feel and my Mood is Affected by...
3. Good food. I'm a BIG foodie!
4. Chocolate. I am a certifiable chocoholic.
5. My hair. It does what it wants, when it wants. Sometimes I just have to let it take over...and certain outfits only work with certain hair, LOL.
I Take a Cue from my Surroundings...
6. Nature. There is such beauty around us, we just have to take the time to notice...and be inspired.
7. The Weather. A sudden change can mean starting from scratch and putting on an entirely different outfit.
I can be Influenced...
8. I do love my fashion magazines!
9. Television and movies. Sometimes I'll forget what's going on onscreen because I can't take my eyes off of a fabulous outfit!
10. Blogs! In this short time, I've come across so many lovely blogs, each have a unique touch reflective of one's personal style, and each surely inspire!

I would like to pass on this Stylish Blogger award to the ever so stylish lovelies at:
Brunch at Saks, Le Journal de Mode, LenoreNeverMore
Haute World, The Beauty File, We Were Damsels
and of course to the stylish creator deserving of this award, Fashion Titbits

That same day, Little Rus also gave out this Style Inspiration Blog Award to a few blogs. I feel very honoured to have been one of the recipients, especially because her blog is laden with stylish inspiration! Thank you, Little Rus!

Seeing as your blogs are one of the 10 things that inspire me, I would like to pass on this award to all of you! You must know that you inspire me (and all your readers) or we wouldn't be coming back day after day bombarding you with comments :) Style is something infused in all aspects of life; in dress, at home, in food presentation, in entertainment, etc. There is no doubt your blogs inspire style, so I do hope you will accept it. Hope you're having a lovely week thus far!

xx Ela

Blue Skies

...that's just what this dress reminds me of.

When I was younger, I always wanted to live in the clouds.
I was certain that's where heaven was...

One of the best pieces of advice S and I received when we were married was that we should be sure to schedule and keep our date nights,

and on Friday and/or Saturday nights, that's just what we do.
After years of being together, I still look forward to our dates.
For now, that's my little piece of heaven.

Dress - Winners
Silver Belt (worn backwards) - H&M
Shoes - Modern Vintage
Bracelet - BitterSweet
Earrings - Swarovski available here

Is it just me, or are weeds actually beautiful?

S picked this one for me...

LOL, so much for bringing your date flowers...

He also picked this lovely purple one...

...much prefer a hair piece to a corsage anyway.

I hope you all had a lovely weekend!

~Ela

Went for Chinese....

[EDIT: ADDED CLOSE UP OF ACCESSORIES AS PER THE LOVELY MS. CONSTANTINE]

...the other night but failed to take pictures of the delicious food we glutted ourselves on. However, the meal did get S off his photog strike! Here are some shots he willingly took...I didn't exactly bribe him with food, but I'm sure it helped...

Favourite Grey Blazer - Thrifted (Boys Suit Jacket)
Basic T - H&M
Silver Clover Earrings - Heidi Klum via Hautelook.com
Glasses (so I can see) - Chanel
Jeans - SevenFAM
Metallic Peeptoes - Prada
Navy Handbag (again) - Katherine Kwei I love the art of Chinese Knotting she infuses in her designs

I know I said I've been wearing more masculine pieces since the cut but as you can see, it's starting to wear off as I throw more splashes of girly in there...though to my disdain, my brother wears skinnies...

One thing I have to mention is that S is pretty bossy behind the lens...telling me to follow his finger with my eyes (as though I'm getting an eye exam), then to turn my head not just my eyes...

...blah, blah, blah...but we love it :)

In the end my cheeks are always sore from laughing...

...and he always feels smug. It's a win-win!

When we got home from dinner, he decided some indoor shots were necessary...

Apparently he thought a shot casting a HUGE shadow would be um... flattering???
I posted it because it reminds me of the Alfred Hitchcock Silhouette...and what girl doesn't want one of her own?
Click to enlarge...even more fun!

I know I missed the food photos but I did manage to take S' fortune home and take a shot of it...

Poor thing...
I'm more of a "told you so" type wife...
...only when he deserves it, LOL.

Have a wonderful weekend!!!
xx

~Ela

[CLICK ON ANY PHOTO TO ENLARGE]

"It" Girl

...me??? HA, only because I got tagged and am now "it". The only other time I got close to being an "It Girl" was when I was born and the Dr. confirmed, "It's a girl!"

Anyway...the girl with the gorgeous smile at San Francisco Stylephile tagged me the other day for Six Little Things That Make Me Happy so here goes:

1. My husband S

He won't let me post a pic so I'll try to give somewhat of a description. He's been told (and no, not by me) that he looks like Denzel Washington and was once asked if he was Vin Diesel. LOL, no wonder we were getting such good service! I think he's a cross between the two, but has a smaller nose than both.

Actually, when I look at him, I just see him. He's my best friend and the love of my life. From day one he's made me laugh non-stop and is sweet enough (or has been highly conditioned) to laugh at all my jokes.

2. Babies
Especially holding them in my arms.

3. Smiles

My mom once told me, "Smile when you answer the phone. The person on the other end will hear it in your voice." So True!

Receiving a *geniune* smile from anyone brightens my day.

4. Family and Friends
Now neither know about this blog, so these will have to do.

It is said that, "A friend is someone who knows you, but loves you anyway."

5. Flowers around the house
I love walking into a room and seeing fresh flowers.

I also love when S comes home with them.

[This isn't S but how fitting is this photo??? One day I will get his face on here!!!]

6. This blog
I'm completely serious.
It's only been three weeks and I've met so many fabulous people!
It's a way for me to put myself out there and no one has made me feel small for doing so. Thank you for your wonderful comments, you beautiful people!

7. Eek, I know it's only supposed to be 6 but I must mention, I also love receiving mail (not bills) but lovely letters and cards...
...the old-fashioned way.

I know you may read this and think I'm *cheesy*

...but hey, that's who I am :)
I can't hide it. And I musn't apologize for it.

Now for the fun part...as I do love to learn about you. I'm tagging the lovely gals at While We're Waiting, Iva Messy and Drollgirl(her blog can make anyone with a pulse happy so I'd like to know what makes her) you're "IT"!!!

Oh, and if you've recently been tagged,
please point me to the post on your blog so I can take a read.

~ Ela

p.s. Thanks for indulging me!
xx

p.p.s. I know my blog is called "Extra Dressing on the Side"...so probably a good idea to do an outfit post tomorrow :)

p.p.p.s. Look what came in a lovely brown package...
HA, another great thing about old-fashioned mail!
Though I obviously appreciate online shopping :)

*I know, I have those other shoes I have yet to wear, but I promise I will wear these*

[Images, with the exception of the shoes, courtesy of Google Images]