Thirsty Thursday

Vampire's Delight

In honor of Halloween, enjoy this scaringly delicious treat!

Ingredients:

• 35 ml Smirnoff Red Vodka
• 10 ml Grenadine
  
• 100 ml Ginger Ale
• Lime Juice

Directions:
Combine the Smirnoff, Grenadine, and Lime Juice into a cocktail shaker.

Shake.

Strain over cubed ice.

Top with Ginger Ale.

Garnish with lime, raspberries and raspberry puree.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Examiner.com.

Hot Mess or Fashion Success?

Neon is one of those hot trends this season, especially neon pink. So if you want to rock this trend, you are going to want to make sure you don't turn out trash, but that you remain class.

As seen below, neon colors can quickly become overkill.



The girl above paired neon green leggings with a neon tie-dyed tank. There was too much going on here to work.

However, there are ways to put neon in your outfit in a classy/trendy way. Here are some tips that will allow you to either dazzle in your neon ensemble or add a little neon punch to your wardrobe.

If you think you are ready to have all eyes on you and you can totally pull it off-- try buying a neon pink dress and pairing it with some cute black booties, black pumps, or black flats. (You probably get the idea with all the black mentioned in that sentence: black and neutrals are going to be your friend.)

If the neon piece is going to be the main part of your outfit, you don't want additional neon colors as accessories-- it will be way too much. So, instead, pair a neon pink dress with black or neutral accessories.

If you aren't ready to sport a neon pink dress but still want to rock the neon, try some of some of these suggestions.

Purchase a neon scarf. Pair the scarf with a black, white, beige, or brown top so your outfit will have a pop of color.

Another way to add neon is by wearing neon-colored bracelets. Again, let the bracelets add the color to the outfit and don't go overboard with the number of bracelets either.

Finally, a pair of neon shoes will add that pop of color to your outfit without it overpowering your outfit. B & L would suggest you don't spend too much $$$ on your neon shoes because you probably won't wear them very often.

If you are looking for some more information try check out associatedcontent.com.

Under Construction

B & L have their pink Tim's on and are doing a little construction to the blog.

Stay tuned, though. We'll be back for the usual Thirsty Thursday post and will announce on Facebook when you should check back for more of your favorite updates!

xoxo

B & L

What was I thinking?

Setting: B just left for school, which as many of you know is in Boston, and is driving down Rt. 128 South in order to get on Mass. Pike (Rt. 90).

As B bears to the right to get on the Pike, instead of staying to her left, Rt. 90E, she bears to her right, Rt. 90W. It wasn't until she reached the tolls to get onto 90W that she realized she was going the opposite way and would never reach Boston! (Worcester, yes. Boston, no.)

Once she recognized the situation, she said out loud to herself, "OH NO! What am I doing?? Calm down B just take a ticket and do a U-turn somewhere."

So, B tried to remain calm as she took a ticket from the toll machine and proceeded to get onto Rt. 90W. B quickly realized that while 90E tends to be zip-zip-zoom right around 4:45p.m., 90W is anything but zip-zip-zoom at that time.

So now B is moving at a snail's pace, watching the minutes tick by on her dashboard clock, wondering when that bridge by the State Police Barracks is going to come up and give her the opportunity to go up and around so that she can change directions.

Phew, she sees it, takes it, and now heads in the right direction!

Not all is perfect, though, as she pulls up to the toll attendant and tries to explain what just occurred. After several minutes, B is finally able to go along her merry way and get to school.

At 6:40 p.m., B looks at the clock and thinks, "wow this class has flown by! I can't believe it is already 7:40!" (7:40 being the time B's class is suppose to get out.) However, the professor still continues to talk and carry on the lecture, even moving to a new topic and a new case. B is not really sure why he could possibly be starting anything new, after all, in B's mind her next class is starting in 10 minutes!

Agitated, B texts L (who happened to be sick in bed) and tells her what is going on. L replies that B will probably have to wait, after all, the class doesn't end until 7:50! B could have sworn it ended at 7:40, but either way-- it didn't really matter she shouldn't be starting a new case at this point in time. So of course B texts L her arguments as to why the professor should not be starting a new case and how she is going to be late for her next class.

B begins to pack up everything (mind you it is only 6:45 PM and B still has approximately 55 minutes to one hour left in class) and sends a text to L letting her know that B was going to leave early so that she didn't miss her next class.

L's reply was simply, "B you're going to have to wait, there is still plently of time."

B completely confused by this text - plenty of time?! Five minutes is not plently of time!! - she decides to look at her digitial clock on her cell phone.

6:48 PM. Shoot!

B sent another text to L: OMG! I thought it was 7:48 PM not 6:48!!

B then spent the rest of the class hoping no one else would notice her mishap. Unfortunately, that did not happen. Right after her class ended her neighbor turned to her and said "You checked out of class at like 6:45....bahhahahaha!"

Luckily, she was able to get in and leave without incident for her last class of the night.

Dating101

Meeting the parents is a big step.

You're nervous. You're hoping his/her parents like you. You're hoping it is nothing like "Meet the Fockers."

Now your worst nightmare happens: the parents don't like you and they have no qualms about showing it. So, what can you do?

Here are a couple of suggestions:

1. Understand where they are coming from. The parents may feel protective of their son/daughter and here you come intruding on their turf. Or, perhaps they are jealous and worried you are going to replace them. Then again it could be that you come from a different background and are afraid you'll have a negative influence on their child. If this is the case show them there is no reason to be jealous by asking for advice concerning their child or show an interest in their background. In time they won't see you as intruding on their turf which will help reduce that initial protective feeling.

2. Don't try to be besties. You goal should not be the parents' new BFF, but rather that you are a good person. If you try too hard it may come off as fake, after all you just met them, they may be your man's or girl's parents, but to you they are strangers. So, go with the mindset they are your equals so it will be easier to be yourself but they aren't your BFF.

3. Make them realize you care. Parents want what's best for their son/daughter so, naturally, they don't want you to break his/her heart. Plus, they don't want put forth the engery getting to know you if they think it will end quickly. You need to show them you care about their son/daughter. Here are some suggestions: hold hands (easy enough), kiss his cheek, or share a story (good, happy, and appropriate ones only!) that highlights how much he means to you or how happy he makes you.

4. Last option. If none of the above worked don't give up - stick up for yourself! If you worked so hard and there is no changing their opinion, you can at least make them respect you for not rolling over and playing dead for them. Plus you don't want esculating problems if this relationship becomes serious.

Information from Cosmopolitan.com, then stylized by B & L.

Thristy Thursday

Deadly Sin

The name pretty much explains it all -- beware.


Ingredients:

• 2 Ounces Bourbon (Old Fitzgerald)
• 1/3 Ounce Sweet Vermouth
• 1/4 Ounce Maraschino Liqueur
• Dash Orange Bitter

Directions:

Put all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice.

Shake.

Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with an orange twist.

Recipe and picture courtesy of Intoxicologist.net.

Loves It, Hates It

Le sigh. To be a sexy co-ed once again.

Granted, L does sport her sorority's flip flops still and B does sport her sorority's sweatshirt to class, but, neither of us are not adding any new lettered apparel into our wardrobes.

And, having graduated college does not mean we cannot lust for the time when we once adored it!

So, for all the undergrads: check out 2 Preppy Girls online gift shop here featuring everything your lettered heart could desire!

Get everyday must-haves, like:

• Travel mugs (can never have enough!);
• Key Fobs (darling!); and
• Wrap towels (perfect for getting ready in!).

Every item can come complete with your house's letters!

But wait, the cuteness can now fit into our (?semi) adult lives, because the orders don't have to just be in your house's letters, but can be in your initials, too!

"Loves it!"

And, really, when don't you need a Greek Letter Chaise Lounge towel? Hell-ohh!

Pink Ribbon

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, B & L are featuring wonderful products throughout the month that you can purchase to help support the great cause!

The scent of a candle can be so welcoming and relaxing.

Well, now when you settle down to unwind after your day, you can raise awareness for breast cancer with Archipelago Botanicals Ribbons of Love Candle. Created by the women at Archipelago Botanicals, this candle blends Pink Grapefruit, Clementine, and Pomelo.

This hand-poured candle will smell delicious and it retails for $29.00-- could it get any better?

You bet! A portion of the profits will go towards fighting breast cancer.

The candle is available in a number of places including Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's and Archipelago.candledelirium.com.

Pink Ribbon

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, B & L are featuring wonderful products throughout the month that you can purchase to help support the great cause!

Since the colder weather is upon us - B & L can't believe it is October and there has already been snow! - you are going to need to take care of your precious hands. So take care of yours with Aveda Hand Relief while raising awareness of Breast Cancer!


This hand creme will help soften your hands (which will be a soothing welcome in the cold months, since they will probably start to dry out real soon!) and diminish visible sings of aging.

Aveda Hand Relief retails for $20 a bottle and will give $4 from each sale to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.


Pick up your bottle (or two) of Aveda Hand Relief at aveda.com (maybe one for your desk and one for your home!).

Workplaces Do's and Don'ts

Do: Dress for Success

Generally speaking, how you dress will be dependent on the type of work you do, the atmosphere in the office, and the culture of your workplace.

If all signs point to business causal, then do business causal. If all signs point to casual, then do causal with a business twist-- meaning, make sure your jeans (that is, if it is 100% OK to wear them) are not ripped, do not have holes, bleach stains, etc. (P.S. you might want to stay with a darker wash because they are generally dressier) and your top is more dressy than causal. That way, you not only fulfill your causal requirement, but you look more professional doing it.

If your office requires business attire, then dress accordingly-- no exceptions! Translation: wear the formal pants, dress, or skirt with classic pumps or flats and a button down shirt. A general rule of thumb for business formal is to make sure you have on three pieces before you leave your house. Example: pencil skirt, blouse, and jacket.

Please note the translation did not say or even so much as imply for you to wear a short skirt or a short dress with a slit up the back so high you are in danger of showing your goodies if your skirt or dress rose slightly while you were walking down the hall! (God forbid you drop your pen!)

Below is a photo of what you should NOT be wearing to the office.


Yes, she did wear the three pieces, but she is one big "don't"!

The girl's skirt is a good two-plus inches above her knees. When you wear a skirt or dress to the office, you want to be on the conservative side. You want your skirt or dress to hit right at or just slightly above the knee if you are petite (petite being a height at and below 5'4'')- - the more conservative the office, the longer the skirt or dress you will want to wear at the office.

Don't forget to go conservative on the top, too! Save putting your girls on display for after 5 p.m.! You want you co-workers to pay attention to you and your work, not to be mentally undressing you with their eyes because you have left nothing to the imagination with your floozie attire.

So, follow these simple add-ons to make sure you are dressed for success:

• Do take pictures while you coordinate an outfit to make sure it hits all of your workplace's criteria.

• Do the "sit test" when you opt for a dress or a skirt. How does one do the "sit test," you ask? Simple! Sit down in your planned outfit. Is everything still covered appropriately? You win! If not, save the skirt/dress for the weekend. If it still goes up too high it is probably time to say good-bye and donate it!

When in doubt, save the outfit for a weekend. And remember, it's always better to go more towards the formal and conservative side than to the casual relaxed side.

Pink Ribbon

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, B & L are featuring wonderful products throughout the month that you can purchase to help support the great cause!

Have you ever tried to put your money away for a night out with the girls or to purchase those shoes you have been eyeing and have not been so successful?

Well now you can do so in style with the Tough Cookies Piggy Bank!


This adorable piggy bank retails for $50, but if you aren't looking to spend that much because you actually want some money left over to put in it, you can totally opt for the Mini Piggy that retails for $22.


Touch Cookies will donate 20% of the proceeds to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

The piggy banks are available at shoptoughcookies.com.

Lifestyle

B & L are definitely going through an "updating our wardrobe" phase, and understand that many of you are too: trying to go from college and casual to polished professional. Or, for some of our more sophisticated readers already settled in their careers, trying to maintain and update their wardrobes.

Luckily for us, everything old is new again and many items can be repurposed by maybe adding a cardigan over a dress or summer-ish cami and adding a belt around your waist to almost any outfit. But, lets face it, sometimes our clothes just need a little something else... a little added oomph that makes a world of difference.

What is that oomph?

Underneath a perfect and nearing-perfect wardrobe are a few essentials that should not be left forgotten: shape-wear.

No, we're not talking just updating your brassieres and undies, but an enhanced way to make all your clothes look great. Think: Spanx and beyond!

Lucky for us, the girls at Glamour magazine have put together a great slideshow that showcases all of the options and even break it down depending on your body type!

Click here to start the "World's Greatest Dress Your Body Tricks" slideshow.

And, be sure to check back tomorrow for more on updating your wardrobe with a Workplace Do's and Don'ts featuring how you should adhere to your company's dress code.

Pink Blue Ribbon

As you've been reading, and have probably seen plastered throughout other websites, your school, and/or your company (and to hear one more time), October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Well, in addition to the pink ribbon products we have been featuring this month, B & L want to take a moment to remember the guys in our lives and enter in a little sidebar to them: the blue ribbon.

One thing we know and can understand are guy's gripes about shaving!

"It makes my face breakout." "My face gets irritated after I shave." "I hate shaving for work."

(We totally understand! We would love to not shave our legs, armpits, and other unmentionable areas, but it's just not going to happen! We have to keep up appearances!)

Well, guys, Anthony Logistics for Men is here to help!

Anthony offers a full-range of facial products from cleansing your face pre-shave to pampering yourself after-shave. And, no, there is nothing girly about the products!

Pictured above is "The Essentials Starter Kit," featuring:

• Glycolic Facial Cleanser (2 oz)
• Shave Cream (2.5 oz)
• All purpose Facial Moisturizer (2.5 oz)
• Lip Balm (.33 oz)
• Body Cleansing Gel (2 oz)
• Glycerin Hand and Body Lotion (2.5 oz)
• Anthony Logistics Product-Info Card
• Storage Container

Buy it here for just $40.00.

Ladies, you can also pick up most Anthony products for the guy in your life (including Dads and Brothers!) at your local Sephora, Bloomingdales, and Nordstroms! (Walk right by that shoe section!! Keep going!) The holidays are right around the corner, too!

And, every purchase does a little good: Because of the Company's focus on a man's needs, a percentage of all Anthony For Men proceeds is donated to not-for-profit public charities dedicated to increasing awareness and to the ultimate elimination of Prostate Cancer as a health risk for men and their families.

All Anthony For Men packaging highlights their purpose with the fight against Prostate Cancer’s signature blue ribbon.

BOSTON UNCOMMON

It seems as if we've gone from October right to December now! Brrrrrr!

Well, look at this db cruising along a crisp 45° evening with his top down!

B & L bet his balls are the size of raisins.

Loves It or Hates It

Unlimited Texting: "Loves It!"

Generally speaking, B is attached to her Blackberry. She keeps it close by: either in her purse, on her desk, or in pocket. B even sleeps with her Blackberry right next to her-- on the nightstand, not cuddled next to her in the bed!

For a girl who sends and receives over 1,500 texts in a slow month, unlimited texting is a no-brainer.

But, B didn't always have unlimited texting.

Before she saw the light, she would look at her cell bill and would think, "Wow, why don't I have unlimited texting?"

What finally caused B to switch?

When she found out she had sent and received over 800 texts within 10 days to people out of her network-- texts to and from people not within her network was a separate, and yes, extremely high, expense.

Needless to say, the Verizon bill has been updated and now B is loving the unlimited texts and any worries about her over-active thumbs have been subsided!

Dating 101

The Girlfriend Test

Believe it or not, some men actually tests the girls they are interested in before pursuing a relationship.

So, if you're single and are interested in a particular guy who seems to be feeling you, be on the lookout for the following tests:

• Mentioning an Ex;
  
• Coming Home Drunk;
  
• Suggesting Kinky Sex; and
  
• Planning a No-Frills Adventure.

When a guy mentions an ex, you want to play it cool. Don't go crazy jealous-- even if you are feeling a little insecure. You can show a small portion of jealousy, which will show him that you care, but don't accuse him of anything and don't give him any ultimatums since that will make you look insecure.

It might be hard, but show him you're confident (even if you are faking it, which is just as tough) and you are not going to be bothered by her-- you have no extreme jealousy going on. And, most importantly, remember that she is an ex, probably for good reasons!

Some guys are really attached to their independence and may think going from the "single life" to the "relationship life" may mean giving up that independence they hold so dear. So, if the man you are interested in shows up drunk on your doorsteps after a night out with the guys, take care of him. Show him that being in a relationship doesn't mean he can't let loose and enjoy a night out with the boys.

We all know sex plays a very important role in relationships (or are you playing a role while you have sex? heh heh). If a guy mentions trying something kinky in the bedroom, he is trying to see if you are down for some experimentation. Some guys are nervous that the sex will plateau once they are in the relationship, so by bringing up this topic and/or buying you a little sexy number that is sure to turn him on, a guy is trying to see if you will be willing to try new things and explore a little in the bedroom. (Watch out for the S-Curve!)

The guy you are interested in may want to know if you can have fun regardless of the location or situation you are in. So, by either suggesting a "no frills" adventure, or somehow stumbling into one, he will be on the lookout for how you handle yourself. Can you go with the flow? If you are in awkward position, don't worry-- try to have a good time with your Mr. Right Now.

B & L do not recommend changing who you are as a person, but to just be on the lookout for little tests you guy may throw at you before committing himself to you.

Most importantly, be yourself, have fun, and open yourself up to a guy you are interested in!

Information adapted from Cosmopolitan.com, and of course, stylized by B & L!

Pink Ribbon

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, B & L are featuring wonderful products throughout the month that you can purchase to help support the great cause!

Shower for the cure!

That's right! You can show your support while you sudz up with philosophy!

Philosophy's pink ribbon shower gel can be used as a shampoo, shower gel, or even a bubble bath!

(Talk about relaxing! Then you can cuddle up in your pink blanket with sleeves and paint your nails a lovely shade of "Pink of Hearts"! Look at you, you cure supporter!)

The creamy formula contains a touch of milk proteins and fruit essences, providing your body with deluxe nourishment!

And, with just a couple clicks, you can order yourself a bottle from the philosophy website!

100% of philosophy's net proceeds from the sale of "shower for the cure" will be donated to the Women's Cancer Research Fund.

Thirsty Thursday

Tonight, B and L are going to sip on, and probably polish off, a bottle of wine.

(No, we're not being lazy, it has just definitely been "one of those weeks". B is nursing a cold and L is exhausted!)

But, we do want to ask you to please submit your favorite drink recipes to Counsel Confidential.

A few lucky winners will be featured in an upcoming "Thirsty Thursday" post!

Salut!

BOSTON UNCOMMON

L and Ike might have found a couple that, collectively, like being Italian more than Dave DiCenso:

On second glance, they joked that it could very well be them in five years, hah hah.

So sad and so true.

Loves It, Hates It

Walking to class with a tote completely filled with your laptop computer, books, and spare pens (Lesson, Learned!) and then having the other books you're carrying in your arms weigh you down (because all your books don't fit in your bag!): "Hates it!"

Having a nice young gentleman rush to open the doors for B & L as they are struggling from their trek from the parking garage into school: "Loves it!"

B & L want to extend a HUGE thanks to their mystery man (and fellow classmate!) that didn't walk, but ran(!) when he saw their hot messes coming to help them out!

THANK YOU!!!

BOSTON UNCOMMON

Some Thursdays B and L rock out to RuPaul, and just absoultely adore her hit song, Tranny Chaser!

Well, while in the North End, L got the sillies and immediately thought of their carpool adventures when she saw the ?restaurant below.

B, this is for you!!

All giggles aside, L just found this post. SOFT-SERVED FILLED CUPCAKES?! Has anyone been to Trani? Please comment!

Dating101

How to Spot a DB

As B & L stated in an earlier post-- DBs are a definite "Hates It!"

Come on ladies, you know you deserve a nice guy who will treat you right and make you happy!

Now you're probably wondering, "How do I even spot a db?"

Well, below you'll find a checklist of some very common qualities in a db.

1. He's into recycling his girls. This guy will have no problem dating someone you know and then dating you-- whether the other girl is in your sorority, place of work, family, etc.

2. He doesn't pay. Does the economy stink right now? Yes. However, if he really wants to go on a date and is concerned with money, he will plan an inexpensive date. (We can't be high maintenance all the time!) Think picnic, apple picking, painting pumpkins together, etc. If he can get on Google, he can plan an inexpensive date! (Especially since when you type in "cheap date ideas," Google gives you over 94 MILLION hits!!)

3. He goes into a deep depression when his favorite team loses a game. B & L are not talking upset-- come on, guys get upset when their favorite team loses, especially if they have money on the game. B & L are talking about deep depression, like Jessica Simpson when she lost Daisy to a coyote.

4. He doesn't have a career or a job. You don't want to have worry about financially supporting your relationship, his butt, and yourself. (Or, you can settle and kiss those Louboutins you have been saving up for goodbye!)

5. He doesn't take the time to change his Facebook, MySpace, etc. status from "single" to "in a relationship" when you have been exclusive for months or longer. Or, he gives you the old "Gee..I just don't know how to change it," or "I never update my profile." Uh.huh. Let us go in and give you a quick tutorial, shall we?

6. He's 30 and living with his parents because he would rather spend his paycheck on kid stuff instead of growing up and taking responsibility for himself. Do you want to continue to living in the Grown Up World (but still have silly fun times) or would you rather get on a plane of frustration to Little Kid World where that guy is living? (Is that a race car bed in his room??)

7. He has a massive porn collection. Not just massive but ENORMOUS-- to the point you feel dirty just walking into his room and are afraid to touch anything because it might be "sticky."

8. He cried more than you did during My Sister's Keeper. Ummm, really? Aren't you suppose to be the emotional one?

9. He promises to pay back the money you lent him when _______. Fill in the blank with something that is most likely not going to happen, such as when he becomes a hair model-- one slight problem: he's bald!

10. He doesn't blink an eye when he decides to ditch you and, oh yeah, he never calls you to ask for a rain check or to even tell you he will be ditching you. Self-explanitory.

Warning: some good guys may have a couple of these qualities as well, so if you see one don't all of sudden turn around and declare him a db. Rather, you want to weigh it - does he have one checked off or five of them checked off? If it's just one-- depending on which one it is-- B & L think you might want to give him a chance-- might.

(And remember that while you're holding your guy up to a microscope, you also want to evaluate your own actions/habits, too!!)

General information from Cosmopolitan.com, then adopted B & L style!

Pink Ribbon

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, B & L are featuring wonderful products throughout the month that you can purchase to help support the great cause!

L remembers when she first learned of the now infamous "blanket with sleeves"-- her friend GF was going to buy this 'Swanket' for his girlfriend. Always the giver of gifts that had a purpose, he tried to convince L of its usefulness. L, on the other hand, thought it was just one of the silliest things she had ever heard of! "Swanket? heh heh heh! Mom! Guess what GF is giving his girlfriend for Christmas!! A blanket with sleeves!!! That, and a flashlight!!"

And now, the nation has been swept away by the backwards bathrobe, also know as the Snuggie (not forgetting the "Designer Snuggie" in hot animal prints¹), and, L, has been put in her little place. (Over 4 million of them have sold! That's over $80 million in revenue!)

Well, don't let L's foolishness stop you from checking Brookstone's version of the Snuggie, the n•a•p^® Comfy Ultra-Plush Blanket with Sleeves.

L has definitely touched those n•a•p^® blankets when she's been in Brookstone and they're definitely cuddle-worthy!

Just think: you, a toasty beverage, a highlighter, and your Constitutional Law casebook.

All month long, until October 31, 2009, Brookstone will dedicate 10 percent of sales from each n•a•p^® Comfy Ultra-Plush Blanket with Sleeves in Pink (retail price: $39.95) to Breast Cancer Network of Strength. Brookstone is running the program in all 315 stores nationwide, including its 50-plus locations at U.S. airports, and online at www.Brookstone.com.

---

1. L hopes you picked up on the sarcasm she used as she typed "designer".

Note: this is not to be confused with the 'WTF Blanket"! Thanks, CK!

Lifestyle

Has anyone logged on Facebook recently and been really, really, creeped out by the side-bar ads, like this one?

Maybe it's for Boost Mobile. (Is that even still around??)

L thought they tailored the ads to the content you put in your profile? (Sometimes she has ads for jewelry or Springsteen tickets.)

Or, maybe Facebook knows that L is on Ike's page too many times throughout the day.

Pink Ribbon

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, B & L are featuring wonderful products throughout the month that you can purchase to help support the great cause!

Take a break from the dark colors of the season and indulge your tips in OPI's "Pink of Hearts" nail polish. Pink of Hearts is OPI's third exclusive Nail Lacquer created to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure and Rethink Breast Cancer.

Pink of Hearts 2009 is a pretty, empowering light pink-- a color meant to inspire and uplift.



In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, OPI will make a donation of $25,000 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. OPI will also make a $5,000 donation to Rethink Breast Cancer in Canada."

The Usual Suspects

Stattes and Estattes

We have all experienced Stattes also known as Student Attention Seekers.

The stattes are usually in the halls, caf, or the classroom. You can spot them easily-- mainly because the stattes are hoping to draw your attention-- they are the ones that either talk obnoxiously loud or make ridiculous comments all within hearing distances.

In some instances, the Stattes have drama following them-- after all, drama means more gossip, more gossip means being talked about, and being talked about means attention. It all comes back to that one thing: Attention.

As with every general case of an attention seeker there are extreme student attention seekers or otherwise known as Estattes. Think stattes. Now multiply those attention seeking tatics by 10 and you now have Estattes.

If you don't like the drama, you might want to stay away from both Stattes and Estattes or they will just suck you in their little all-about-me worlds where you are to stay in the shadows away from the light.

Loves It, Hates It: Pink Ribbon Edition

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, B & L are featuring wonderful products throughout the month that you can purchase to help support the great cause!

Boring office supplies: "Hates it!"

Being greeted at your desk by a range of pink office supplies: "Loves it!" (L's Department Admin is just the best!!)

And the purchase of the Sharpie benefits a good cause! Sharpie will donate ten cents from the sale of each special Pink Ribbon Sharpie marker to City of Hope for breast cancer research, treatment and education.

Find them at your local Staples or office supply store!

Water Cooler

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Text Message

To: K

From: L

I found a pregnancy test wrapper in the bathroom at work. Ghet-to. I'm on the East side today, obvi.

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Text Message

To: L

From: K

HaHaHaHaHa! Like, "well, better see if I am cooking a bun before I cook myself...wouldn't want to waste the minutes!"

---

Moral of the Story: Keep your personal business just that-- personal. No, L probably won't ever know who was (most likely) saying a prayer in the Ladies Room¹, nor should she. But, things like this should be done privately.

---

1. Cursing her boyfriend for telling her that condoms were "for sailors."

Thirsty Thursday

The p.i.n.k. Ribbon Cocktail

Enjoy a p.i.n.k. Ribbon Cocktail which is named after the brand of vodka used - p.i.n.k. Vodka - while raising awareness for Breast Cancer.

Photo courtesy of pinkspirits.com

Ingredients:

• 2 oz p.i.n.k. Vodka
  
• 2 1/2 oz Lemonade
  
• 1/4 oz of Cointreau
  
• 1/4 oz of Chambord
• Drizzle of Grenadine
  

Directions:

Pour all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker - make sure you add ice. Shake well and then strain into a cocktail glass - a chilled cocktail glass that is. Top with Chambord through the center.

Enjoy.

Recipe and Photo from Pinkspirits.com.

Dating 101

Warning! This post is going to be a little crass, but it has to be said!

For both ladies and guys, when you break up, the line "we should still be friends," or any variation thereof, should just be left out of the conversation.¹

One of the hardest parts of breaking up is getting used to not having that special someone in your life. But, lets all be honest with one another and save the dramatics.

L definitely feels like guys definitely get the short end of the stick with this one. So, let's get this straight: you want "to be friends," so you can call him, complain about your life, hem and haw about all your life's little intricacies, and then he doesn't get at least a courtesy beej at the end?? Right.

Granted, some times, yes, you are better off as friends and it's great to have someone that has known you from 'way back when'. But, tread lightly. You don't want to put yourself in a position where you end up being that person's crutch, carrying around your past-relationship baggage, nor do you want to harbor feelings of jealousy when that person is in a good relationship because you can't help but wonder why they could not have been that way for you.

Lesson: Think carefully before you enter "Friendville". The person is not in your life in the boyfriend/girlfriend capacity any more, do you really need them as a "friend"? If you answered yes - then actually act as a friend. Don't expect to talk to them every day. Don't expect them to tell you everything. Be a friend and if you realize it is too hard on the other person - back off so that the other can cope.

But, most importantly: make sure to take time for yourself after a break up. Get back to the things you may have been missing out on, the friends that you haven't spent time with in a while, and do what you want to do!

Good luck and keep your heads up!

---

1. If you do decide to use this line be aware that it is very tricky and difficult to remain friends. If you are the one doing the break be aware and be honest. Don't lead the other one on and go at the pace of the other.

Pink Ribbon

As October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, B & L will feature wonderful products throughout the month that you can purchase that help support the great cause!

First up: Vera Bradley Hope Garden Signature Collection

Vera Bradley has come a long way from the grandma-esque prints of the '90s to the bright and youthful patterns they feature today. The trademark quilted cotton handbags, wallets, luggage, and personal items are great for everyday use, traveling to and from the office, and weekend get-aways!

Vera Bradley Hope Garden signature products is the third (after Pink Elephants, retired July 2008, and L's personal favorite, Pinwheel Pink) to go to support Breast Cancer.

Pictured below is the Hope Garden Clutch, which retails for $42.00. But, (have no fear, Recessionistas!) the Signature Cotton collection ranges from a $10.00 ID Case to a Weekender Tote for $92.00-- so, there's something for everyone's price range!

10% of Vera Bradley’s net proceeds from the sale of products in Hope Garden will be donated to the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer and other breast cancer projects and services. To learn more about the Vera Bradley Foundation, visit verabradley.org.

Frugal is the New Black

B has recently developed a thing for Calvin Klein.

Sleek and Sophisticated-- B just can't get enough.

Unfortunately, her law student budget has just about had it with the whole CK kick she has been on.

Luckily, there is a way to make both her and her wallet happy: CalvinKlein.com's final sale!

Although all sales are final in this section of the website (what.a.downer. You can't know your exact size all the time, Mr. Klein!) and you can't find every size (yet another downer) EVERYTHING is UNDER $30!!

While two downers were noted above, the fact that everything is under $30.00 is a major bonus and totally makes up for it! (Think: perfect time to stock up for the seasons to come!)

Why hello there Brushed Cotton Cropped Blazer. Don't mind if I do take a look at you. Of course I would love to meet your friend the Bullet Pleat Tank Top.

Brushed Cotton Cropped Blazer pictured below is on final sale for $29.99.


Bullet Pleat Tank Top below is on sale for $14.99.


Check out the other options at CalvinKlein.com.

Loves It or Hates It

Guys rocking the GQ look: "Loves It!"

Generally, guys have this way of looking so delicious you just want to get your hands on them.

This reaction increases when a guy looks like he stepped right off the cover of GQ! You know what B & L are talking about - dressed up, rocking the suit with an air around them that is like "Yes I look good, I'm playing the Mr. Shy Guy but I can be so bad".

Guys rocking the GQ look is definitely one reason to love the evening section-- after all, the fellas need to look good for their real jobs!

When a guy has to dash on over to school after spending the day in the office, B & L mentally think - "Hello there Mr. Eye Candy! You are looking very GQ. Don't mind if we do check you out. Thank you very much".

Men, thank you for looking so delish!

Ladies take the time to enjoy the scenery when you see a man looking F-I-N-E!

BOSTON UNCOMMON

Here we have what seems to be two buddies driving, hanging out, probably listening to some tunes.


Oh, but wait....

Could it be?

Is there really only one person in the Jeep? No, no - why would that be?



O.M.G. (!!) There really is only one person in the Jeep!!

Excuse me sir. In case you were unaware, that is not the carpool lane. There are no diamond shaped objects painted on the street. There are no signs for the HOV lane. Let's not forget - and this one is slightly important - Massachusetts the Pike does not have a carpool lane!!¹ Sorry buddy but you are out of luck.

P.S. If you are trying to dry your sweatshirt you might want to try lying it down on the seat or something otherwise people are just going to think the whole situation is strange.

---

1. ugh B usually doesn't make it out of her hometown!

Hot Mess or Fashion Success

Zebra print shirt and tight bright red short skirt: "Hot Mess!"

Unfortunately, there is no picture for the outfit we are about to discuss. B attempted to take the picture however the picture came out all blurry.

However, she remembers the outfit vividly - probs due to the nightmares.

The girl wore this zebra print shirt that had massive shoulder pads (think shoulder pads circa 1980s, double the size and add in some bubble sleeves and you'll get the picture). She paired this shirt with a skin tight short red skirt.

If you think the outfit couldn't get any worse - it did!

The girl then decided to pair this outfit with some type of boot. It was not working.

Honestly, the two girls that were with this Hot Mess should have pulled her aside and asked her...no begged her to change.

Ladies - skin tight might be nice for your man however keep those outfits in the bedroom or on the hanger in the store. Anything with massive shoulder pads and bubble sleeves please try to stay away from. Today outfits have certain cuts and structures so you don't need to add a ton of extra padding.

Lifestyle

The Only Kind of "D-Bag" You Want in Your Life

No, there's not a new generation of orange skinned, spikey hair, big muscled, tatt'ed guys out there to open your heart to, ladies, so relax! (Please, neither B nor L would recommend you get hooked up with that kind of D-Bag!)

No, no, no. Ugh.

Enter: Tod's Italian Leather D-Bag. Chic Italian artisanship intertwined with an effortless appeal.

Tod's bags have been around since the 1970s when they started appearing in American department stores. Today, they're known for their casually elegant styling and timeless appeal.

Tod's classic styling is sure to stay with you season after season. (So breathe easy, Recessionistas!)

Pictured above is the D-Bag Shopping tote from Tod's Fall- Winter 09/10 collection, available at Saks and online at TODS.com.

(Get that plastic ready, turn up your speakers, and let the jazz music enhance your online shopping experience!)

Classroom Dos and Don'ts

Do: Know where your classroom is

Case in point: B's class was canceled. L was on break from her class. Obvs they were talking in the hall when someone walks right by them and into an ongoing class.

Both B & L look at each other and L says "I don't think that is his class."

B: "Well I guess we will find out soon."

10 seconds later the guy walks through the doors exiting the room, shaking his head. He looks at both of us and said "Ha. That was the wrong classroom."

Not knowing where your classroom is might be acceptable the first week because you are trying to get use to where everything is located. However, after the first week you should have a basic knowledge as to where your classroom is otherwise you are going to embarrass yourself very fast.

BOSTON UNCOMMON

Spotted: D-Bag at S-Bux!

My triple venti soy (no-foam) sugar-free vanilla lattee just tastes better with my shirt wide open, exposing my freshly waxed chest.

Rrrrarrr.

What were they thinking?

The B & L Edition: Part Two

As previously mentioned and as most of you know, B & L commute to class together on Thursdays.

Well, this past Thursday was no different. Unless you don't consider the massive amount of traffic they ran into. Please, stop thinking: traffic? Are you serious? How could that possibly be 'What were B & L thinking?'

As B & L sat in traffic for a good hour and twenty minutes going from the Weston Tolls to Government Center, B looks at L and confesses she is probably to blame for all this terrible traffic because B "was actually nice to pedestrians in Boston-- allowing three people to cross the street when [she] did not have a red light and the pedestrians did not have the walk signal." Now, if you have driven with B in Boston, you would understand this is totally and completely out of her character.

L completely agreed-- "B- you better never do that again!"

Well to L's delight, "Old B" came right back when she noticed a delivery truck trying to cut in front on them. B quickly told L not to let this loser in and to get closer to the car in front of them so he wouldn't try to pull something.

Unfortunately, the truck driver was not having any of that and tried to BULLY L to letting him in the line. (Oh, so he wanted to play a little game of chicken?! B was not having that!) It was now to the point where both L and the truck driver had gotten into a honking fight with one another.

Well it only gets better from there!

Once B & L finally get through the tolls, a New Jersey Housewife ("NJH") tried to cut off L even though the whole situation is a major traffic jam. No one was going anywhere. Everyone was stopped and crawling, inching along! (How did we know she was a NJH? Aside from the 'Rover she was driving--probably bought with her husband's money-- and the grotesque yellow license plate, homegirl was tanned to leather and her hair had more volume than Don King.)

So, L gives her biggest smile, showing off all her pearly whites, waves to the NJH, mouths the words "umm...no I don't think so (waving her finger)," and kept inching forward so that the only place the NJH could go is behind L.

Well the NJH tried to get back at L by flipping her off. Really? Is that really necessary? It isn't like B & L started to go 90 m.p.h. and she had to stay going -25 m.p.h. She was literally right behind them. Again, no one was moving!

As B & L are laughing this off, they notice two older women, clearly in their late 70s, carpooling-- and so, nicknamed them "Future B & L" and successfully made it into Boston after the traffic cleared after Exit 17.

Unfortunately, this was not the end of their traffic woes.

Around State Street, L is making a left hand turn B turns her head and notices there is T Bus coming at them.

As B starts to panic and cries out: "Ahhh...L!!!!" B is hoping this bus stops but the bus never lets up. L has to divert into another lane to avoid getting her car hit by a T BUS! (Shouldn't there be a crackdown on those Rouge Public Transportation Drivers by now??)

While B & L did arrive fashionably late to class-- due to traffic --they had plenty of laughs and were in one piece!

Dating101

Ever wonder if that certain guy or girl will actually call you?

Did you ever walk away from a night with someone thinking: "He/She seemed like he/she was having fun. Wonder if I'll ever see them again?"

B & L completely understand those feelings. Our advice, to both the guys and girls: be honest.

If you aren't going to call, tell the person it was fun and thank them for a good time. Don't tell him/her you will call. Don't lead him/her to believe you will be in touch when you know full well that you won't be.

Now you may be thinking: "but what if he/she asks if you are going to call?"

Answer: Be Honest.

Honesty does not have to be "mean."

If you aren't going to call and the other persons asks, simply tell him/her that you had a fun time, but you just want it to be a one time thing.

Will it suck hearing that? Yes. It will be one hell of a zing-dinger to that person.

However, after some time that person will be grateful he/she did not waste any extra time on you.

Warning: Being honest does not mean after the first or second date telling the person you like them "like, woah!" and want to have have an exclusive and serious relationship, move in together and get married. Exaggeration - yes - but you get the picture. Spilling all your feelings that soon is a big DON'T.

But, you can be honest about your intentions. If you want another date say so. If you don't, leave it how it was - fun - but don't say you'll do things when you have no intentions of following through.

Courtroom Couture: Guys Edition

Face it: everyone has some sort of PDA, BlackBerry, iPhone, or other electronic device that tells the time. We can glance up to the time on our MacBooks, or down at the time on our PCs. We're in a place where watches aren't necessarily needed, but their presence on your wrist does invoke a timeless classic (no pun intended.)

Men's fashion is always so alluring¹, especially by the way the right pieces can completely transform a man when they are (cleaned up and) dressed up.

Enter: The Richard Mille Caliber RM 011 watch.

The timepiece features:

• Skeletonized automatic winding movement with adjustable rotor geometry offering hours, minutes, seconds;
• Chronograph, 60-minute countdown timer, 12-hour totalizer;
• Oversize date, month.

Dimensions : Length 50 mm x 40 mm (widest point) x 16.15 mm (thickest area).

The exquisite timepiece is sells for approx. $85,000.

---

1. L does love a "GQ Guy!"

BOSTON UNCOMMON

The horror! To kick off October and the ghoulish things that come with the month, check out this horror show below.

We have a woman who apparently did not get the memo that Crocs are not cute when you are not a kid or do not have to be on your feet all day long (e.g., working in a doctor's office or as a dental hygienist, etc.)


This outfit probably made the other tourists run away from her after seeing the horror of pairing bright orange Crocs with a purple tank (with the bra straps showing!) and forest green capris.

Thirsty Thursday

Hot Spiked Cider

Happy October!

With that greeting, comes another Fall-inspired drink recipe.

Ingredients:

• 2 Quarts Apple Cider
• 2 Cloves
• 2 Cinnamon Sticks
  
• 4 Apple Brandy Shots
  

Instructions:
Heat the apple cider with the cloves and cinnamon sticks.

Pour the shots of apple brandy into the mug.

Then, lastly, pour into your individual glasses.

Approximately 8 servings (depending on the size of your glasses).

Wondering how to spice up the Hot Spiked Cider? Adding a little whip cream or nutmeg does the trick.

Recipe and picture courtesy of FineLiving.com.