Happy tip, a few of those pieces are on sale!!  Visit my polyvore page for links.

Months ago I actually tried on the little navy, sequined number. Fell in love. Then looked at the price tag. I hate it when that happens. Now, it's two-toned sister is on sale for $100, but it's just not the same.

I realize that this particular Friday's Fancies post wasn't actually suppose to be about dresses at all. In fact, it was suppose to be dedicated to 'sandals'. And, if we're being honest, I never actually consider strappy heels (as seen in this post) to be "sandals" at all. If you tell me you are wearing sandals I might end up in flip flops, always clarify that you means heels, dressy-strappy-heels. Or I'll show up terribly under dressed. Nonetheless, I guess I was feeling a little 'out-of-my-box' that night and thought that I could make a strong argument that these dressy-strappy-heels could completely be considered 'sandals.' Regardless, I'm a big fan of the collection of dresses (if you haven't figured that out already!) LOL

I hope you enjoyed my flashback, late to the party, not on a Friday, Friday's Fancies post. Of course, you can always celebrate more Friday's Fancies with Alison at http://www.longdistanceloving.net/search/label/friday's%20fancies.  

I love when masculine and feminine pieces collaborate and bring a of rustic beauty to a room. A room that both David and I can love because it's not overly 'frufru' but still feels warm, like a mother's touch. After I collected all of the images below for their chandeliered-clawfooted-fantasticness I realized that they all have a way of collaborating the rustic wood with a delicate sparkle. 

My favorite is the first picture. But, you know what...I think I'd settle for the garden tub nook shown in the last picture. 

Pictures found on google images and pinterest with keywords: 'chandelier and claw foot bath'

One of my favorite things to do when we visit the lake is to drive around and admire all of the gorgeous homes. Over the years we've watched empty lots turn into these multi-million dollar mansions. It gives way to a little imagination about how amazing it would be to grow up in a house like this, or even be a part of this community as an adult. Until we win the lottery, I decide to become a brain surgeon, or discover age old treasures in our backyard, I'll settle just fine for our little home in Madisonville. But, it's still okay to dream... 

Here's a little taste.  (photos taken by yours truly with a Canon 60D)

"You always have time for a twenty minute run." Danny Bourgeois, Marking Director of the Louisiana Marathon, said to me back in March. I was making excuses, "I just don't have enough time...", I told him. But the truth was, I hadn't run in almost a year and I knew that the battle with myself to start again was going to be a tough one. I needed new shoes, I didn't have a partner to keep me motivated, I was going to have a very slow pace, and it was still cold outside in the evenings.

Nonetheless, Danny's statement made an impression. I bought new shoes, downloaded the app MapMyRun, and one night I finally did it. After work, I changed clothes the moment I got home and set out for my first 2 mile run in over a year. It wasn't until minute 9 that my fingers, nose and toes didn't feel the cold, but I continued running. And finally the voice came over my headphones, courtesy of MapMyRun, to say, "distance two miles..." It wasn't until about 2 months later that I finally got over 'the hump', when running wasn't hard anymore. I ran the two miles I had been running and then sprinted at the end. I could have kept going, I felt amazing, and I had my endurance was back. It's was an accomplishment I had been avoiding. It felt amazing to have it back.

So, for this Friday Fancies, I thought it was appropriate to share some of my favorite items in my running wardrobe. Truthfully, investing in workout clothes that you really want to wear is part of the fun of working out. Besides, sometimes its just nice to have something easy to throw on for the quick trip to Target, and when you get home you're ready to work out, or just be comfy and lounge around the house.

1. under armour running shirt. It's super lightweight and easy to wear. I like to pair it with a purple sports bra to match my shoes.
2. nike tempo running shorts. I don't actually own these shorts, but I want to. Nothing scream 'confidence' louder than fitted workout shorts. If your working for a nice butt, you might as well flaunt it. Right?
3. brooks short running shoes. I have these. That exact pair, actually. They were made for my foot type. Running shoes are one of those thing that are different on everyone, I recommend you trying the shoes on in person, not just buying for style, color, or brand. You can buy another pair of tennis for casual wear and style.
4. a messy bun. is my new favorite hair style. On top of my head, in public, running, whenever. It's so easy, yet still sleek. 

Gold Tip Loafers with Kate Spade :: by far the gold tip flats are my favorite. If I owned them I may I would find a way to wear them every day of my life. I think this spread ended up feeling a little more fall than I had intended, I still love it. David *~hint hint~* the earrings and the flats would make excellent birthday gifts or anniversary gifts.

Note: I made this a volume because I'm hoping to share more of our Mardi Gras experiences with you guys over the next couple of weeks. I'm not making any promised, but I do love this time of year!!