Author Archives: lifewithlilred

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About lifewithlilred

Just your average gal blogging an average blog!
Jun4

Lil Red Loves: Ma Edition

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Lil Red Loves: Ma Edition

Helloo! This past week, I took one of my clients to see Ma. She is my scary movie girl and we always go to the latest showings together at the theaters. It’s a blast! Ever since seeing the trailer for Ma for the past few months, we have been looking forward to going. And, it definitely didn’t disappoint. We both left the theater speechless aside from agreeing that we both loved it.

^^^ And, as always, I have no rights to this video.

Boasting an all star cast of Octavia Spencer, Juliette Lewis, Allison Janney, and Missi Pyle along with the main young actors who all did a bang up job, Ma was filled with shockers from start to finish. Ma tells the story of a lonely middle aged woman with a traumatic past who finds her niche with a group of teens after buying them booze at a convenience store. But, what originally seems innocent enough takes a dark turn into obsession really quickly.

Is Ma just on the hunt for friends or on the trail for revenge? Full of jaw dropping horror gags and a shocking, heartbreaking grand reveal, Ma is definitely worth the watch. It wasn’t so much blood and guts horror as it was stomach churning unfortunate-ness and suspense. So, if you’re up for a night at the movies seeing a flick that was outrageously cringe worthy but a whole lot of fun with the dark humor peppered in, then get your tickets for Ma ASAP!

What is the last movie you saw in theaters? What were your thoughts on Ma? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Featured Image By: Ma Movie

Jun3

June 2019 Funky Time Jams

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June 2019 Funky Time Jams

Hellooo everyone and welcome to a new month here on lifewithlilred. Summer weather is officially here in Ohio and it has been hot as hell. Now, I don’t know if this is just a Midwestern thing, but we are all about driving with our air conditioning on and the windows down. Which means that you obvi have to be bumping the best tunes for everyone else to hear! Like some of the following:

^^^ And, as always, I have no rights to the songs or videos above!

I have a very short drive to get to one of my clients three times a week, so I play the radio on the way there because there’s no point in plugging in my iPod for a five minute excursion. Normally, I never have anything nice to say about whatever is on the radio but the stations in my neck of the woods, specifically Akron U’s Z88 is playing the JAMS. They always have Throwback Thursday which is a lot of fun and 98.1 WKDD has 90’s weekends which is the best.

There is nothing better than having the oldies but goodies that we all know the words to even if you don’t particularly like the song playing. And, I’d be a liar if I said I didn’t get down with some of the newer stuff, too. Don’t hate, but I’m obsessed with “Old Town Road”, “Sweet But Psycho”, and “Hey Julie”. So much so, that every time I get in my car with the intention of playing the radio I am always saying a silent prayer to hear one of those three songs. It’s whatever! 😀

What are your summer time jams? What is your favorite radio station? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun2

It’s In The Bag: Antik Kraft Edition

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It’s In The Bag: Antik Kraft Edition

Yo yo yo. A trend that I absolutely ADORE come summer time is the bamboo or straw purses. Coming in a variety of shapes, sizes, materials, and patterns, I love the look of these bags and they complete any summer time outfit perfectly. I have spent many a months searching for just the right bag to tack onto my OOTDs and I think I found it with this little Antik Kraft number. Check it out:

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FIRST THINGS FIRST: Don’t mind the big ass box fan in the background because it’s hot as hell in my apartment and I didn’t feel like moving it. SUE ME FOR IT!

ANYWAYS, I love this purse. Lol. I love that it doesn’t look like a picnic basket or a friggen Thanksgiving cornucopia but it still definitely has that woven texture and look that I was going for. The colorful mandala pattern on the front side is to die for and it works so well against the blonde straw base. I also like that the strap is long enough to wear across your chest while still laying nicely against your body. And, the button clasp is a bonus to ensure that the purse isn’t constantly coming open.

Despite mad love for this bag, it isn’t perfect and I’m the first to admit it. It is absolutely too small for my liking and all of my necessities won’t be fitting in it, that’s for sure. But, do I plan on arranging all of them like Tetris in there because I have to try anyways? Abso-freaking-lutely. And, if we’re being honest, I’m not thrilled that this bag will only be used during late spring and summer. Because, come on, no one would use this during the fall and winter!

Lil Red is a woman of practicality, if nothing else, and I know that it might not seem like that to some. However, almost everything that I buy is something that I feel like can be utilized during at least three, if not four seasons. I’d be a liar if I said that it didn’t pain me while I was buying this knowing that it would sit dormant in my wardrobe for over half a year. BUT, it is gorgeous and is basically exactly what I wanted so beggars can’t be choosers and blah, blah, blah.

Do you buy your clothes for seasonal or year round use? What is your ideal summer purse? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun1

If The Shoe Fits: Free People Edition

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If The Shoe Fits: Free People Edition

Hellooo everyone and welcome to the last issue of If The Shoe Fits from my most recent TJMaxx haul. One brand that I always admire from afar is Free People. 1) The brand is expensive. 2) The clothing truly doesn’t look that good on me. But, I love the idea of the brand and I LOVE their shoes. So, whenever I see a FP pair that I like when browsing on TJ’s website, I almost always jump at the opportunity to make a purchase. And, these candy cane red wrap up clogs with a wooden heel were impossible to say no to. Take a looksee:

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After the last two black pairs of wedges that I purchased, adding a pop of color into the haul was a must and these were just the right pair to do that with. The blonde wooden heel matched with such a vibrant red makes for a perfect cherries and cream vibe while the distressed studs add that Lil Red touch of edge that I need in my wardrobe. The shape of the shoe is totally sweet but the color combo and embellishment give it some sassafras for an ideal summer staple.

Normally, I don’t care for shoes that wrap, but the lengthy strap is made to go just around your ankles, which I like. Because it’s not going all the way up my calf, I can still wear shorts, skirts, and dresses without feeling like I have snakes coiling up my legs! These Free People clogs are going to be so darling with a floral sundress, straw hat, and oversized tote. A slammin OOTD for walks on the boardwalk or just around your local TJMaxx during a hot summer day! 😉

Which brand name do you admire from afar? What is your favorite color to wear during the summer? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May31

If The Shoe Fits: Charles By Charles David Edition

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If The Shoe Fits: Charles By Charles David Edition

Helloooo! A style of shoe that became very popular within the past two years or so as well as very well loved by me is the mule. From totally flat to a tiny or stiletto heel, there is a style of mule for everyone. Cute, practical, comfy, and I am always trying to add new ones to my shoe collection. During a recent TJMaxx haul, I chose a pair of wedge mules from the Charles collection by Charles David and I am in love. Take a look and let’s discuss:

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I like these mules a lot because they are unexpected. The combination of the woven and cork wedge with the edgy pleather makes for a style that I have never seen before and I really like that. And, of course, these wedges are oh so comfortable and I can definitely see myself slipping these on constantly during the summer for visits to the zoo or farmers market.

My new mules are totally unique but they are also completely neutral so I could wear them with anything and get away with it. But, I am most looking forward to pairing these with a cute pair of denim short shorts and a crop top and calling it a day for a laid back look on a hot day. Throw on a floppy hat and huge shades and you have a perfect summer OOTD!

What is your favorite style of shoe? Do you prefer flats or heels? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May30

Are You Ready To Get A Dog?

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Are You Ready To Get A Dog?

If you are thinking about getting a dog, then you need to think about how it is going to affect your family. You also need to think about whether you have the time to devote to looking after it and even the expense that comes with having a dog, too. If you want to help yourself make that big decision, then here are a few tips that will get you started:

You’ve Got Time:

When you get a dog, you will need to take them out on walks and you will also need to take them to the vets on a regular basis, too. This is the case when it is raining or when you aren’t feeling well. If you are concerned about the amount of time you have to commit to a dog, then it helps to do some research. Some dogs require less walking when compared to others, so if you don’t have a lot of free time, then it may be worth investing in a breed that doesn’t require as much exercise.

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What an angel!

You’re Happy to Get Up Early:

If you choose to get a puppy, then there is a high chance that they will need to go out every four hours. Puppies tend to have weak bladders and it might be quite some time until they are fully house-trained. For this reason, you need to be willing to get up during the early hours of the morning and late at night. You probably won’t sleep well for the first few weeks but, if you are willing to push through this, then there is no reason why you shouldn’t adopt a furry friend of your very own.

Puppy-Proofing your Home:

Before you get a dog, you have to make sure that your entire home is puppy-proofed from top to bottom. This needs to be done before you bring your dog home. Any valuables need to be put away and exposed wires need to be covered up. Garbage needs to be inaccessible and you also need to keep an eye on any food that might find its way onto the floor after cooking a meal. If you are concerned about your dog going into rooms they shouldn’t be, then baby gates can be a great investment.

You’re Willing to Pay for Expenses:

A dog can bring about a lot of unexpected expense. This can include dog food, toys, and vet bills. If you want to get your dog spayed or neutered, then this will also be an additional expense, so you have to make sure that you are ready to cover this. If you want to lower the amount of vet bills that you are going to have, then feeding your dog a high-quality pet food is a good starting point. Check out these Freshpet reviews if you want to know more about that.

Those expenses can involve ensuring that your dog is taken care of when you’re not around, as well. If you have to take a trip, if you’re moving home, or if you’re otherwise going to be busy or absent, you still need to make sure that your dog is cared for. Sourcing services like a doggie day care and paying for their good treatment is vital. As such, any time you’re planning a big change, you have to be able to fit your dog into the budget, too.

A dog is a part of your family, follow the tips above to make sure that you treat them as such!

Featured Image By: Pexels

May30

Dining Delights: Enjoy Food With Friends This Summer!

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Dining Delights: Enjoy Food With Friends This Summer!

Summer is a time for making memories. With the nice weather and longer days, we’re all in a happier mood and ready to socialize. And, one of the best ways to get everyone together is with food. Sharing a meal is a great way to connect with your loved ones and it’s tons of fun. Check out the following ideas for food friendly events this summer:

Barbecue:

Everyone loves a good barbecue. So, if you want to get everyone together on a hot day? Fire up the grill! Dust off your old barbecue and contact some propane companies to find the best price on gas. Purchase some meat and vegetables to grill and make burgers, hot dogs, chicken, steaks, ribs, and skewers. If you want to keep the drinks flowing all day, you could mix up a cocktail in a large dispenser along with some fruit slices and herbs and guests can help themselves to the ready mixed drink with no messing around. Have plenty of ice in the freezer that they can pop into their glass so each drink is perfectly chilled.

No master chef is complete without a perfect grill to barbecue on! You will want to explore your options to make sure that the grill you choose has all of the features you are looking for. Some grills are more basic while others have all the bells and whistles. You can browse websites like www.bedsbbq.co.uk to start getting inspiration for your dream grill. Summer will be here before we know it!

Picnic:

If you have friends and family scattered across different places, why not choose a scenic park in a relatively central location to all of you and have a picnic? If everyone brings a selection of different foods, you’ll all have plenty to share. Pinterest has lots of recipe ideas for interesting sandwiches, pastries, salads, and sweet treats so it doesn’t have to be all of the same kind of stuff! It’s a nice way to spend time outdoors and it’s not especially expensive, either. Check out if the place you want to picnic in has car parking charges or entry fees ahead of time for complete convenience.

Afternoon tea:

More fancy than a picnic and something you can do from your own home is an afternoon tea. Decorate your garden table in a pretty tablecloth and some flowers in mason jars and serve finger sandwiches, dainty pastries, cakes on tiered stands, and tea in mismatched china cups. Perfect for a celebration (just add a bottle of champagne or prosecco!) or just a girls afternoon spent together.

Restaurant:

Lots of restaurants are particularly great over the warmer months. Find somewhere that has an outdoor area where you can meet with your friends and enjoy food and drinks. While restaurants and eateries can be expensive, check sites like Groupon for deals to save money and also the website of the venue. Some places will have special offers on certain days. If you’re looking to save money, skip the starters (restaurant mains are so large you really don’t need them anyway!) and pass on the alcohol. You can always enjoy a few drinks at home afterwards which will be way cheaper than buying while you’re out. Stick to water and soft drinks and you’ll save significantly on your bill.

While passing on drinks can save some moolah, breweries and wineries can be such fun to visit, sip, and nosh at. It could even become a tradition to find a new one during each outing or plan a weekend trip based around it. A visit to somewhere like this Beer Hall Denver could offer a lively atmosphere, great food, and a wide selection of brews to enjoy. Explore and find the best options for you and your crew.

For an exciting restaurant experience, you might want to find a spot with entertainment. This could include bar trivia, bands playing, or even sushi and Sumo at a restaurant like Tokyo Nights. Plenty of restaurants also host paint nights, speed dating, and karaoke. This is a chance for you and your friends to break out of the norm and have a blast with something brand new!

Use the tips above to plan a lovely afternoon outing for your friends and family – just make sure they all come on an empty stomach!

Featured Image By: Pexels

May30

If The Shoe Fits: Carlos Santana Edition

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If The Shoe Fits: Carlos Santana Edition

Howdy! It’s been a while since I had a good shoe haul but, thankfully, TJMaxx saved the day with a little online shopping. Do I need more shoes? No. Absolutely not. But, yes. Yes I do. Because, in my defense, a lot of my beloved pairs are getting older and are in my collection more for decoration than wearing them anymore. It saddens me to not get to wear any of my old faithfuls for fear of them breaking mid step so I had to fill that void with more shoes, of course. Take a look at this pair by Carlos Santana and let’s discuss:

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What I love the most about these wedge heels is how high they are. The higher the heel, the closer to god and these definitely lift me up in prayer. But, despite that, they are so easy to walk in and insanely comfortable. The black faux-suede adds some chicness to a summer style wedge and I love the industrial metal that attaches the strap to the shoe.

Although Lil Red will always be partial to all black everything, I dare say that I would prefer these wedges in a different color. Maybe a vibrant red or yellow for some summertime vibes. However, you truly can’t go wrong with black and they will transfer from summer to fall nicely by simply slipping on a pair of tights. Too cute!

What is one of your most loved pairs of shoes? How do you part with your fallen clothing friends? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May29

Accessory Story: Argentino Vivo Hoops Edition

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Accessory Story: Argentino Vivo Hoops Edition

Hiii! One of my favorite accessories is easily my gigantic gold hoop earrings by Argentino Vivo. They are so sassy and fun and I wear them literally all of the time. So, when I saw a pair of green hoops by Argentino Vivo while online shopping at TJMaxx, I had to jump at the opportunity to make them mine. I am so glad I did! Take a look:

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Green, especially the deeper shades like that of my new earrings, is one of my favorite colors to wear. It pairs so nicely with my red hair, hazel eyes, and pale complexion and I try to wear it often. Not as often as black… but often! I love, love, LOVE these earrings even though they are not as big as my other pair, but that’s okay. The color makes up for it and it is going to look so cool right against all of the things that pop with the green assist.

I firmly believe that every girl should own a good pair of hoop earrings. Big, small, silver, or blue – it doesn’t matter. The variety you can pick from will make sure you are getting a pair that is just right for you. I am so happy to have found another pair that I like so much and now, no surprises here, I just want more!!

These will definitely not be the last pair of hoops that I will be purchasing and it will only be of the Argentino Vivo brand in the future. The earrings are of such high quality and the TJMaxx price is just right for a #treatyoself purchase. Sold!

What is your favorite accessory? How about your favorite style of earrings? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May28

New Zac & Rachel Skort

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New Zac & Rachel Skort

Hellooo! As far as I’m concerned, summer is here. And, with each changing of the season, I usually have a big TJMaxx haul to refresh my wardrobe with some fun new pieces. I’m not going to lie, summer is my least favorite season to dress for. It is not like me to just throw on a tank top and shorts and call it a day, which is so easy to do when it’s hot out. So, despite the heat, I still like putting together outfits that make a statement. And, that shouldn’t be hard to do with this new Zac & Rachel skort! Check it out:

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Before I purchased my first skort from TJ’s a few months ago, I always associated that type of clothing with childhood. But, I now know that the skort is a-okay for GROWN ASS WOMEN, too! The skort is a wonderful invention because you don’t have to worry about anyone sneaking a peek up your skirt throughout the day and you also don’t have to deal with the shorts riding up into a denim wedgie as if you were wearing shorts. #winning

This Zac & Rachel skort just screams “fun in the sun” to me and I love the pattern of oranges, sunflowers, and polka dots. Such a sweet combination! What’s great about this skort, is that it’s going to look dressed up with a black crop top and some espadrilles thanks to the stark white and flattering fit. Bye bye, basic summer OOTDs and hello to an ensemble that will still help you beat the heat but look oh so chic.

How do you avoid the basic summer OOTD blues? What is one of your summer wardrobe staples? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah