Category Archives: Music

And the verdict is in…

Blunderbuss is freakin’ awesome!!!! Jack White is a genius – I cannot stop listening to this album. It’s everything a White Stripes fan is looking for. There’s a great mix of Americana, blues and funk, a great example being my favorite single on the album Trash Tongue Talker – I can’t stop watching the YouTube video – I love Jack! I’m gutted that there aren’t more dates on his tour I’d do anything to be at Hammersmith Apollo, I’m even back in the UK then but it’s all sold out…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTW6yKnmO08

I’m praying the weather improves in the UK by June. It’s atrocious there right now and I’m going to have the annual dilemma of packing for every climate. Fortunately the advantage of my Boden tunics is I can wear them with skinny jeans or bare legged so all I need to do now is pick the ones to take from my copious collection! I sneakily bought another the other day – a clearance bargain I say – calm down! I bought the coal Everyday Jersey Tunic early in the AW 2011 season and I have to admit it took a while to grow on me but I always get great comments when I wear it. Here it is with the Boden cashmere wrap and piped shoe boots – seems an eternity now since I had to wear tights!

I looked at the blue one again and again and just couldn’t convince myself I that I liked it enough, if at all, to order, especially as I tend to wear black in the winter and this just seemed too garish. As spring advanced though I found myself musing over how it would look as a dress with bare legs. I definitely think the colors are more summery and by pure happenstance as I was browsing one day, as I often do on the Boden site, there it was – a size 6 with my name on it for the bargain price of $30! I like it a lot as a dress and it will definitely get plenty of wear…now NO MORE tunics till AW 2012!! However you all are free to keep looking as items keep popping back into the clearance section.

Tuesday has recently become one of my favorite days since I discovered Lululemon release their new items every Monday night. One of the first things I do sitting at the breakfast bar with my coffee is to click my bookmark for the Lululemon website and browse the fabulous new colors and prints. My two favorites today are the new pace setter skirt in beachy floral white fossil/black and the swiftly racerback in porcelain – the two will look great together, hmmm I’m convincing myself more so as I write!

I also discovered there is a new Lululemon store opening close to my house – I may just have to nip by there on the way to Poppy’s ballet class today!! Happy May Day!

I love Jack White.

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How did it get to April 30th? I’m really not sure what happened to the first third of 2012. I know time is supposed to speed up as you get older but come on now really?! May is jam packed with events and milestones – my daughter turns 6 and finishes kindergarten, the pool opens next weekend, Memorial weekend signals the beginning of summer (though we’ve had summer temperatures for some time now…), and we have our favorite friend from our University days arriving to party for a long weekend with his new girlfriend.

I can’t wait to see S. When I moved in with MM* in my 3rd year of University, MM was already sharing his flat above the The Central bar with S. We all worked together in the bar, partied together and lived together. S. was always very tolerant of my immediately intense relationship with MM. In fact he was instrumental in getting us together. The night MM told me he was “infatuated” with me S. had been working on his behalf from behind the bar, plying me with heavy handed Moscow Mules making me far more susceptible to flattery and sweet talk:) After graduation MM and I helped S. move down to London in a white van, and a few years later MM was S.’s best man, and though his wedding didn’t last too long it resulted in two gorgeous daughters for him. After a tumultuous time in London S. moved to Sweden where he has been happily living for some time enjoying the Scandinavian lifestyle and regular vacations to Thailand (apparently all Swedes go there in the darker months!). We haven’t been allowed to speak to the new girlfriend yet – I’ve even been banned from trying to search for her on Facebook. S. knows me so well that he’s aware I never keep anything to myself so I assume he is putting these restrictions in place in the interest of self preservation. At this stage he must be feeling relatively secure and comfortable with the new relationship as I have been granted access for a whole weekend! S. if you’re reading – I promise I will not embarrass anyone but myself:)

S. by the way is also a huge music fan particularly The Jesus and Mary Chain, so in an attempt to have some new music to discuss I’ve just bought Jack White’s Blunderbuss.

I must just mention that I LOVE Jack White. Seven Nation Army and Icky Thump have to be two of my favorite singles ever and the best music to run aggressively to!

Blunderbuss has had some great reviews. It’s his first solo album and by all accounts he hasn’t strayed too far from his White Stripes sound…I’m going to stick my headphones on and listen to it while I work today. I love listening to a new album – you’re never quite sure if it is going to make an immediate impression or if it will need a few listens for you to appreciate it. I must just remember there are colleagues sitting near me so I must not start howling along.

After a good 4mile run this morning and already climbing temperatures I was looking for something comfortable to wear. I have to say I really disliked the Boden SS 2011 Ibiza tunic when I first bought it in the preview. I immediately sent it back thinking the yellow was far too lurid. However, it reappeared in the clearance just before Christmas last year and I have to say I absolutely love it now! See you even need to be exposed to some items of clothing a few times before you fully appreciate them! Maybe the fact it was only about $30 helped too – but now I wish I’d bought another color too! It looks perfect with my Tory Burch black patent Eddies. Oh and speaking of Tory Burch they are having a Friends and Fans event that ends today – enter FRIENDS12 at checkout for 25% off!

*MM – My Man

A new playlist.

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Gosh Monday mornings can be tough, especially after such a great weekend. It was one of those weekends where I feel we attained the perfect balance of doing and relaxing. Yesterday I made burgers and we had our first proper cookout of the year. It was so much fun and the first year where I felt that the children enjoyed it as much as the adults. They behaved at the table and ate a bit of everything – result!

As MM and Mike caught up on some of the FA Cup games I attempted to compile a new playlist for my race this weekend. I enjoy running with music but for my last half I opted to run without – I did enjoy soaking up the atmosphere but by mile 8 I was craving a distraction – so this time I’m taking the shuffle. I get really lazy with playlists. MM creates them for every event – road trips, parties, birthdays – they’re his mixed tapes. So knowing how crucial the right songs can be, I decided to take my time and pick out some top tunes – I even bought a couple of new albums – David Guetta and Madonna’s new MDNA, plus a couple of oldies that I knew would spur me on. Every time I hear Like A Prayer it makes the hairs on my neck stand up – I love it and hopefully it will put an extra spring in my step on Sunday.

As I readied myself this morning I fortunately remembered I had a meeting with a new web designer. It’s very exciting at Halcyon Media LLC at the moment as we are getting ready to launch new magazine title in September and a new website is required to support it. It’s good for everyone to start new projects, there is an air of nervous excitement, and the office is rising to the challenge. I can’t wait to let you know more about it as we make progress!

Today I am wearing one of my favorite Boden tunics. It’s a couple of years old – in fact SS 2009 I think – but there is a similar glam jersey tunic in their new summer line. I’m wearing the fabulous tunic in spearmint and I love it more every time I wear it – I do like the big prints – and I paired it with my sand Tory Burch Revas.

Let me know what your favorite running songs are so I can add them to my playlist!

Music that inspires…

Run fast for your mother.

1 Reply

This weekend ended in a far more relaxed fashion than it started. I wasn’t going to share until I’d done the deed, but I struggle keeping things to myself, so I’ll tell you now that I have entered another half marathon. As part of my training I headed out on my first 10 mile run for some time on Friday morning. I started off feeling pretty chipper, it was a warm sunny morning and my confidence was high. At mile 7 though I thought I might die. Mile 7 unfortunately coincides with a mammoth hill, and in the warm sun, with aching legs, my mind, not my body, gave up and I started to walk. How humiliating…At the top of the hill I did manage to get going again and ran, with the odd walk, back home. I felt like I was out for hours but my time actually wasn’t too bad, though I did feel a little demoralized that I’d had to walk. I rested on Saturday and then summoned the motivation to head out yesterday again. I couldn’t believe how great I felt! I ran 6 miles easily and felt like a Kenyan marathon runner on the last couple of miles. Maybe this training malarkey really does work? I’ll probably attempt another 10 miles this Friday now my confidence has been bolstered a little. It’s a shame the compression socks don’t make you run faster, though my calves didn’t ache a bit over the weekend so they must do some good.

Florence was my musical inspiration in those last few yards yesterday – ‘Dog Days Are Over’ has to be one of the most perfect running tunes, I felt like I was flying to the beat of those drums.

Saturday began with a lot of cheering for my son. It was his first swimming lesson after a couple of previously failed attempts when he flatly refused to get in the pool. So as you can imagine I was a little nervous about how it was going to go this time. Fortunately with his sister around and a friend from school he was gently persuaded to give it ago. I basically legged it as soon as he was distracted and thankfully he didn’t bat an eyelid – success! For a post swimming reward we all headed to Goldberg‘s for fully loaded bagels. Even though my body shape tones and changes, I’m still convinced I gain weight the more I run, I am always hungry! I’ve sworn off the scales until after the race…that might change tonight though when my new Boden bikinis arrive and need to be tried on.

MM and I were planning a date night on Saturday, unfortunately this weekend was his turn to be sick so we had to postpone. No bad thing really given I still felt weary from Friday. It was fun to curl up on the sofa and catch up on some episodes of Dexter with a delicious glass of Malbec.

I’ve a feeling this week is going to be a little stressful. It’s my son’s birthday party this Saturday and although on paper there doesn’t appear to be too much to do I know I’ll still be running around cleaning all week. I love hosting parties but question my sanity every time we do it as I end up cleaning for hours before and after the event.

I didn’t post any photos this weekend as I have to be honest with you I spent all weekend in sweats, I even went to Target in my running gear which I normally wouldn’t even consider, but bear with my until this half is over and done with:) Today in an attempt to feel a little more put together I’ve opted for my Boden Everyday Jersey Tunic in coal giant leopard (currently in Clearance at only $34!), Boden Cashmere Wrap (now sold out), and my Boden piped shoe boots.

I’ve even opted for a little black head band, following the lead of the gorgeous Michelle Williams at the Golden Globes this year, whose pixie cut always looks amazing with or without a headband. Mine is a little less obvious due to my dark hair but I’m praying headbands will help me through the dark days of growing my hair longer, though I am already questioning that decision.

At last night’s Oscars Michelle was by far and away top of my ‘best dressed list’ in this fabulous Louis Vuitton tiered dress and the pink clutch was just genius. The Telegraph, as ever, has great photo montages of most of the dresses on show last night.

My current choice of nail polish is Essie‘s Navigate Her from their Spring Collection, which in the bottle is a lovely creamy green color, I’m not convinced it suits my skin tone though. Just a good excuse to pick a different color out tonight.

All grown up.

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I think my daughter gained 6 years this morning, and all she did was put on a a pair of Old Navy skinny jeans. It was only the other day that I was bemoaning the sticker earrings and now I have bought her some on-trend jeans that make her legs look longer than telegraph poles. She does, I have to say, look fabulous in them, but she’s not even six yet and she seems to be gaining maturity weekly right now – where did my babies go? Of course my son also had his new boy’s skinny jeans on too, but we don’t seem to be quite so precious about him growing up – in fact I’m willing him on! He’s going to break some hearts one day – he’s such a dude:) All Old Navy denim is currently on sale so it’s definitely worth a peak for the little ones.

Feeling well and truly over my cold I headed out for a run this morning in my new Adidas Techfit capris. They were so comfortable and I didn’t feel like I was having to hitch them up all the time like some running pants – plus the print is super cool. With all my knee problems that I have experienced there is definitely some psychological benefit in having them covered and supported. My friend has recommended the CEP compression sleeves – she swears by them for distances so I have just purchased a pink pair on Zappos.com to try them out. If I feel some benefit I’ll no doubt get the green too – I’m sure they will be fine to wear with shorts in the summer. You certainly won’t miss me in these and my New Balance rainbow sneakers!

My motivational tune this morning was provided by Steve Earle – nothing like a resounding rendition of “Copperhead Road” to get the blood flowing – especially as it always takes me back to seeing him live years ago. It also reminds me of our many weekends in Nashville pre-kids. There was a cover band (who are probably still there) in one of the bars that always played “Copperhead Road” when requested, awesome with a cold can of PBR!

Today I am giving a nod to Kate who was out and about the other day looking stunning in her walnut-coloured Orla Kiely ‘Birdie’ coat dress, worn with brown tights and brown Aquatalia ankle boots. The Orla Kiely dress sold out in minutes after she was photographed in it not surprisingly. I am wearing my Boden Retro tunic, M&S brown tights and Boden brown piped shoe boots, finished off with my Boden brown leather blazer again. Not quite Duchess material, but let’s see if I can grow out my hair and emulate her luscious locks lol!

No love lost between me and February 14th

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All I can think about right now are the 40 or so Valentine candies that I have to prepare for the kids to take to school tomorrow. I have bought the ones that have the little cards with them so all I have to do is write each child’s name on them, but still it is a chore hanging over my head. I have to say I hate Valentine’s Day. Here in the U.S. it seems that it is much more than a day for lovers, it is a day to send everyone and anyone a piece of candy, a card, or some other gift of appreciation. MM and I have never celebrated Valentine’s Day, we see it as a horribly commercial day and another ploy by companies to get you to part with your money. I can’t bear the idea of sitting in a restaurant trying to be romantic on a Tuesday night with every other couple in Atlanta. Firstly, if you ask me, love should be celebrated everyday and shouldn’t require one day a year to be devoted to it. It just perpetuates the stereotype of men running around trying to please their wives/girlfriends, and fearing that if they don’t spend a fortune on red roses they will be in ‘the dog house’ for the rest of the year. Secondly, February 14th is a day that is dedicated to Saint Valentine by the Catholic Church – not a day for us all to go out and buy heart shaped candy. Call me miserable by all means – but see how you feel when you are told that you must send in a gift for every child in your children’s class.

Maybe I am scarred as Valentine’s Day just brings back memories of the pressure I endured as teenager, desperately hoping I’d receive a Valentine’s card. I used to hate getting the bus home on Valentine’s Day as there would always be a few smug girls ‘struggling’ and giggling, carrying one of the huge oversize cards, bought by some lovesick boyfriend off Bury Market. I never got one. I remember one year actually having a ‘boyfriend’ on Valentine’s Day. He bought me a card and then wrote an inflated price on the back of it to suggest the more he spent the more he cared…I know you might be reading this, and won’t name names, but don’t think I didn’t figure out your cunning plan! Anyway, my point is that there is so much pressure in the years to come regarding Valentine’s Day, why introduce it for kindergartners? They have plenty time to be concerned with it – please let’s leave it to the amateur lovers out there that feel they need to prove something to someone…

Okay now that is off my chest let’s talk about the Grammys last night. My absolute favorite performance was Bruno Mars – what a great show – I was grinning from ear to ear watching him move. Sir Paul McCartney was pretty dreadful in my opinion – come on Paul you don’t even need to do this anymore surely? Overall I think they handled Whitney’s death pretty well – I thought L.L. Cool J. hit the tone perfectly at the start of the evening as he honored her and proceeded to remind everyone they were there to celebrate. Congratulations to Adele on taking home all six Grammys that she was nominated for. I haven’t seen her sing yet though as I could barely keep my eyes open after Sir Paul’s snooze inducing performance. One last rant though, why oh why is Chris Brown still getting t.v. air time?

It’s another frigid day here and knowing I’m going to be sitting in a heated office most of the day makes it more difficult to decide what to wear. Rather than basing my choices on the temperatures, I opted to try and provide some cheer for everyone with a bit of color. I love the Boden colourblock tunics, they are so comfortable and easy to wear and today I have paired the violet one with Boden black leggings and my favorite Frye Jane Tall boots – all topped off with my black Patagonia Downtown Loft jacket which is so warm and yet doesn’t necessarily look like I should be out climbing a rock face. A good thing really as I won’t be going near any today.

Music that inspires…

Sexy and I know it.

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I’m feeling pretty virtuous today after a trip to the gym at 7.15am. After a couple of days off it was good to get the legs moving again on the treadmill. Though I mostly dread the treadmill I do sometimes enjoy cranking the speed up and doing a bit of interval training to see how fast I can go, and how often, before I feel like dieing. I often wonder how and why some people jog in the gym while trying to read a book or a magazine. For me the gym is all about pushing as hard as I can and sweating as much as I can – what’s the point otherwise? After Super Bowl Sunday and seeing LMFAO with Madonna I had downloaded a couple of their singles. Their tongue in cheek humor appeals to me and I loved running to “Sexy and I Know It” this morning – perfect gym music. The video comes with a warning though – there are lots of Speedo ‘action’ shots:)

Both children were very excited this morning as they headed off to school in their new New Balance sneakers. MM is appalled that I am converting them into New Balance fans but I assured him it was purely coincidence and they did actually select their own on Zappos.com. My son did, however, look a little like he should be heading off to the computer science lab rather than daycare with his Dee Dee Ramone hair cut, New Balance 993s and Mini Boden baggies hiked up above the waist – he may have inherited my nerd genes…

I’m once again trying to wear as much knitwear as possible before the weather warms up for good here. Another brand which I am obsessed with is AllSaints. It’s purely coincidence that their flagship store in in Spitalfields where our flat is, but still provides another reason for my loyalty. I love their knitwear – most pieces drape beautifully, have biased cuts, raw edges and external seams. Very urban. We don’t have a standalone store yet in Atlanta but there is a great concession in Bloomingdale’s (ask for Charlie or Alex), and I also buy a lot off their website. Today I am wearing their Cerulean long black cardigan, a basic black tee from Express, Hudson signature bootcut jeans in Elm wash, and my black Bloomsbury boots from Boden. A look that is completely at the other end of the spectrum from yesterday’s, and one that probably reflects more of my true style. I feel comfortable and sexy – what else can a girl ask for on a Wednesday? Must remember LMFAO is ironic.

I still love Madge

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I still can’t believe the Giants won – the team I am rooting for hardly ever wins. It’s not that I’m a huge Giants fan (Falcons obviously) but I do like to see Tom Brady lose – forgive me all you Patriot fans. I managed to stay awake long enough to see Madonna in all her glory. I thought she was amazing and her entry was spectacular – though I do have to remind myself that Madge came first and therefore she can’t be accused of copying Lady Gaga. Her performance was fabulous with some fun guests and I loved the ‘mash-up’ with LMFAO. ‘Vogue’ reminds me so much of my university days when I would listen to ‘The Immaculate Collection’ on vinyl over and over again, and I always forget what a brilliant song ‘Like a Prayer’ is. In fact I’m off to iTunes once this is published to download it. Oh and I would die for those boots, and of course to look as hot as she did in them at 53.

So on the most popular day in the U.S. to play hooky I was up bright and early, ready for another Monday – sort of. My legs are flipping killing me after my long run yesterday so I was in need of my comfy clothes again. But refusing to wear sweats out of the house I selected my Hudson jeans, Boden Canterbury tunic, Boden long line cardigan from SS 2011, and my Tory Burch musk Eddies. The tunic is another that I bought early in the AW 2011 season and then returned, only to buy again at a bargain price in the sale. Along with the multi acorn colorway (shown here) I also bought the coal stencil rose, and both, along with the other colors, are still available in the sale for $34 – you’d be crazy not to take a peak. They had many mixed reviews, and yes I did have to size up due to the snug fitting empire waist, and it is a little more cleavage than I would show in a corporate environment, but I love them and no one in the office mentioned me flaunting my ‘assets’ – and trust me they would.

A new playlist. (poppysstyle.wordpress.com)

Poppy's Style

My blog about fashion, family, friends and fun.

Category Archives: Music

And the verdict is in…

I love Jack White.

A new playlist.

Music that inspires…

Run fast for your mother.

All grown up.

No love lost between me and February 14th

Music that inspires…

Sexy and I know it.

I still love Madge

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