Tuesday’s TPS Report: Heidi Puff Sleeve Top
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Our daily TPS reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices.
Reiss is having some killer sales right now, with prices up to 70% off — I love the swirly print on this black and white sillk top. Simple and gorgeous (and, alas, limited sizes only as of this AM). Was $215, now $150 at Reiss. Reiss Heidi PUFF SLEEVE TOP
Seen a great piece you'd like to recommend? Please e-mail editor@corporette.com with “TPS” in the subject line.
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Sales of note for 3/15/25:
- Nordstrom – Spring sale, up to 50% off
- Ann Taylor – 40% off everything + free shipping
- Banana Republic Factory – 40% off everything + extra 20% off
- Eloquii – 50% off select styles + extra 50% off sale
- J.Crew – Extra 30% off women's styles + spring break styles on sale
- J.Crew Factory – 40% off everything + extra 20% off 3 styles + 50% off clearance
- M.M.LaFleur – Friends and family sale, 20% off with code; use code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off
- Spanx – Lots of workwear on sale, some up to 70% off
- Talbots – 40% off 1 item + 30% off everything else (includes markdowns, already 25% off)
And some of our latest threadjacks here at Corporette (reader questions and commentary) — see more here!
Some of our latest threadjacks include:
- I'm fairly senior in BigLaw – where should I be shopping?
- how best to ask my husband to help me buy a new car?
- should we move away from DC?
- quick weeknight recipes that don’t require meal prep
- how to become a morning person
- whether to attend a distant destination wedding
- sending a care package to a friend who was laid off
Lovely print. Not sure how puffy the sleeves would be…wish they’d show it on a model.
I can’t wear this to work.
It reminds me of Jerry Steinfeld wearing the Pirate’s Puffy Shirt!!!!
Really? How so? Just curious.
I love this! Agree on the puffy sleeves. From the pictures it looks like it would only be a slight pouf.
I love this too. I think it’d be one of those pieces you pull out over and over again when you need to feel just a bit more stylish.
Just curious: Is the “hivemind” idea a little too close to Groupthink for anyone else?
No. I think it’s more like “consensus.” As long as you take consensus in the proper context, I don’t see a problem.
I see how it could be. However I think (hope) the difference is that the goal of the hivemind – as used here on Corporette – is to bring out a lot of opinions, which may be similar or not, and not to come to any conclusions; groupthink is usually in service of a drawing a clear conclusion, making a specific decision, or developing an end product andand therefore often results in less than great thinking, as multiple opinions get blunted so as to create a consensus POV.
Agreed with E and anon, but I have noticed that sometimes (and I’ve done it myself), when the consensus appears to be leaning one way, those leaning the other seem afraid to jump in, which sort of leads one to believe that a consensus exists where it doesn’t. For example, there was a thread a while back where several people endorsed adultery as a way of dealing with sex problems within a marriage. I certainly do not think that the consensus of the hivemind here is that cheating is a good idea, but at some point, no one wanted to jump in and start a fight (but someone started a thread the next day saying that she was really uncomfortable having read that thread).
What I think I’m saying is that it’s not a big problem, but groupthink can be a risk.
On that note, though, here is an interesting article from Slate by a woman who, through accessing the “hivemind” of facebook about her son’s misdiagnosed illness, may have actually saved her son’s life: http://www.slate.com/id/2297933/ It made me think of Corporette when I read it.
Wow, what an incredible story
I don’t remember the thread about endorsing adultery as a solution to marital problems.
I remember it. Your comment seems unnecessarily snarky, but maybe I’m reading you wrong.
I don’t remember it either and I can’t decide whether I’m sad or happy I missed it!
I was really upset by it. It was a lot of “it can be a good way to figure it out, not always black and white, blah blah”
It was several months ago, and I think that it stuck in the middle of a long weekend open-thread, so probably easy enough to have missed.
Ruby, was the “comment was unncessarily snarky” directed at me? If so, I’m curious why you think that. I certainly wasn’t going for snark, just an example of a circumstance where the consensus based on comments was not actually a consensus of the group (based on my perhaps overly optimistic assumption that most corporettes are anti-cheating). However, if you’re saying that I was overly negative towards people who endorse cheating on their spouses, then right on, sister! I am definitely and unapologetically negative towards that!. :)
I think the snark comment was aiming at anon who quite reasonably remarked that she didn’t recall such a thread. In which case, I would add that I am a regular reader and I also didn’t recall such a thread, which makes me think that Ruby’s comment is itself unnecessarily … something. On further reflection, I do now recall the whole “debate” and I think some people are just reading it waaaaaay wrong and this is why some topics are just not good for group discussions on the interwebs. Everytime marriage or babies come up, half the group seems to think that anything anyone says is a direct attack on them, their marriage, their life choices, parenting skills, whathaveyou. I guess all I am trying to say is, ladies, stop taking everything some anonymous poster says on the internet to heart. And —- being gleefully “unapologetically negative” toward a person whose life you do not know, whether they cheat on their spouse or not, does not make you a good person. Frankly, in my mind, it makes you something else altogether.
Lucy, I agreed with everything that you said up to the end. From there, I find it simply amazing that you, who doesn’t know me but for one thing that I have said, can determine that I am “something else altogether” from a good person, simply based on the fact that I have a negative reaction to someone who I don’t know but for knowing one thing about them. Pot, meet kettle.
Lyssa, you are right. I shouldn’t have gone there. I find it frustrating to see people be so judgmental, or at least to be what I perceive as judgmental based on my limited interaction with their comments on this site, and that whole “controversy” over “the adultery thread” is the height of all that, at least for me. Please strike my last sentence. But I stand by my penultimate one.
This is a good story but it made me sad for reasons I can’t fully articulate. Mostly it felt like she was embarrased to push her son’s doc for more tests or more questions or for attention to something that she felt might be wrong. Not only do we have an obligation to our kids to push hard when we feel like we need help, but I think many doctors want patients/parents to be communicating about symptoms, ideas, concerns, etc. If the doc couldn’t handle a question like “hey, do you think it could be x?” he’s not the doc for my family, anyway.
Yes. I really dislike the phrase “hivemind.” Unreasonably so. I like to think we are a group of individuals, unique, special, sometimes snarky, sometimes funny, and on occasion, profound. We reach something like consensus on occasion. But no, we are not a hive. . . . and the phrase is now unoriginal . . . and becoming trite.
And whilst I’m on my diatribe against trite, I also dislike the question that ends in “. . . much?” As in, “sarcastic, much?” Or “self-absorbed, much?” Or whatever the phrase is, with a much? attached. Move on, move on, move on.
Okay, I’m cranky. I have root canal tomorrow and the thing is throbbing.
Off topic already — can anyone in the legal field provide some thoughts as to switching (somewhat related) practice groups somewhere in the middle of 4-5 years out? For example, moving from a regulatory field (that includes litigation primarily at an agency level) into straight litigation? Is this generally accepted practice when one is trying to switch firms as well as geographic locations? Because I haven’t asked enough questions already, has anyone waived into the NY bar after year 5? Thanks!
I switched practice groups 5 years out of law school from a litigation practice to a more regualtory practice (with litigation aspects). It happened rather naturally for me – I stayed at the same firm, but my work shifted over time to the regulatory practice and it made sense professionally. I spent 2.5 years working primarily in the new practice area before the switch was approved. For better or for worse, practice group switches are pretty hard to accomplish after you have gained some experience (i.e. after your first year)
If you lateral, my impression is that it’s difficult to switch fields – particularly with a field like litigation – because they have zillions of people to choose from who already have a ton of experience. It may be easier tos witch to a narrower area where they have fewer qualified applicants. If you do switch practice groups, I’d probably expect to move down several class years and take a comensurate salary cut. If a switch is your intention, though, emphasize your litigation experience in your resume. However, in my experience, agency-related experience is very different from straight up litigation. It’s a lot more flexible with a lot less focus on rules. White paper writing is very different from brief writing.
Is anyone else very sensitive about noise at night? I just moved into a new apartment and my neighbor will occasionally play his music a bit loud at night–I only hear the bass and it is (admittedly) not very loud, but it’s loud enough that it distracts me from falling asleep and triggers a lot of anxiety. Mainly I get anxious that this will become a nightly thing, that I’ll have to talk to the neighbor, etc.
Any advice? I’ve met the neighbor and he’s very nice and even said to let him know if he’s ever loud, but I’m reluctant to go knock quite yet–it’s only been a few times so far, but it has been after midnight both times. Any advice for a) how to broach the subject with the neighbor; b) cope with the (admittedly not-that-crazy-loud, but still noticeable) noise better; and c) crank down the accompanying anxiety that it triggers? Thanks!
I think you should go over to your neighbor’s house when the music is loud and kindly suggest he lower the volume. Barring that, I swear by earplugs (the cheap kind you get at Rite Aid or any other pharmacy). I am very sensitive to noise when I sleep and my earplugs block out 80% of all noise. I now use them on planes, trains, and when co-workers are too loud. :)
Totally agree with Wondering regarding the earplugs. I use them too – when neighbors are having a party, when boyfriend is watching tv and I need to work, etc. However, if it’s the vibrations more than the noise, you might mention that to your neighbor. I once lived by someone who played his bass so loud pictures rattled on my walls. I can drown out noise. I can’t drown out things shaking!
I’ve had that issue as well and the neighbor would not listen to reason. He thought it was his right to play the music as loud as he wanted, even though it disturbed people at the clubhouse some distance away and caused the animals in apartments adjoining my apartment (but not his) to bark and stomp hysterically. Earplugs do nothing to drown out that level of noise and vibration assault!
I love sleeping with an air purifier – you can get good ones at bed bath and beyond. It cleans the air and provides soothing white noise.
second the air purifier, it really does a great job masking small noises.
This. I used to sleep with two fans to create adequate white noise, but a humidifier or air purifier works even better.
It’s more the anxiety that it causes that concerns me. I am definitely idiosyncratic on this one–I’ve had issues with every apartment I’ve been in in recent years. And I have a white noise machine, but even the slightest bit of vibration (bass, etc) will distract me. I had the a/c blasting and my white noise machine on and I could still hear a tiny beat–I’ll say something to the guy b/c he’s nice and will probably curb it but I have to admit that I think it’s me here.
Bass noise bothers me at night, too, usually from the living room TV when my husband is still up. If he’s watching a movie with explosions and action, I can hear it even if it’s barely turned up. If the neighbor is nice, I’d try taking him a little peace offering with you. Just explain that you really have a problem with bass noise. He’s likely to understand.
I have that problem, too. Sort of ironically, I have a hearing impairment and often find that I have to watch TV with the volume turned way up to get the dialogue (I really really wish that there was a way to just turn the voices up but leave the music and sound effects alone), so this tends to cause disagreements when I want the sound up so loud that it’s deafening when I’m watching, but super-low when I’m not.
You know, you can actually buy wireless headphones for your tv. Just an option–my neighbor used them and really liked them. Might make it easier to hear the tv without worrying about disrupting others.
This is because your tv doesn’t have a dedicated speaker for voices. It’s absolutely worth it to get a surround-sound system. I’m not sure how it works (thank goodness for tech geek brothers) but at least one of the speakers will be dedicated to voices, so you won’t need to increase the volume as much. It produces a more balanced sound so that the music and sound effects won’t be as loud.
Hmm, I’ve thought about getting the headphones, but they just seem like a lot of trouble and wouldn’t they sort of separate me from my husband when watching? (I hardly ever watch TV without him, and when we do, we generally communicate occassionally.)
Ru, we actually have surround sound, but I haven’t noticed any difference (if anything, I’ve found it to be worse, because it makes the extraneous noise seem to “surround” me.) Is there some way to jigger it that I’m not getting to make the voices dedicated to one speaker? I’d love it if there is one!
@Lyssa, I thought you were talking about watching TV while he was doing something else–totally different! Surround sound seems like a better idea.
@Lyssa, there are settings you can mess around with to make the voices more prominent.
Also, on most speakers you can turn down the bass without actually turning down the sound. That seems like a very reasonable solution to the problem – he can still hear 95% of the action, and you can sleep.
The thing with bass is, you can’t really drown it out because you can feel it – thump thump thump. You have my every sympathy!
I have the same issue with anxiety (and the thought that I shouldn’t be bothered by noise). My neighbor has the most annoying pet bird that squawks day and night – and the sound pierces right through any white noise or fan.
Unfortunately, the owner refuses to listen to neighbors and the HOA about the noise, so I haven’t had much luck from that end.
Question for those who wear earplugs to bed – can you still hear your alarm?
Yes, I can definitely still hear the alarm. I can also hear it when my cat opens the closet door to sneak in (bad kitty!), when someone’s car alarm goes off, when my phone rings, etc.The earplugs don’t really block out noise, they just muffle it and make it less jarring. I sleep through the night much better with them and have been using them for years.
There are a lot of brands out there and comfort can vary. My favorite brand is called, embarrassingly, Sleep Pretty in Pink. The other good brands are Hearos and Flents. I tend to like the ones that feel less plasticky – they sit more comfortably in my ears. YMMV.
I have this problem, as well. I think the main issue is that bass vibrations actually come up through the bedframe–so earplugs will cover far away noise, but the vibrations from the bass will actually be amplified up to your body and ears through your bed b/c they’re actually moving the floor! The only way to fix it, in my experience, has been by asking the person to turn it down or to get the stereo off the floor.
And yes, it’s crazy that I have thought about this so much. :-)
If the guy said, “Please let me know if it’s too loud,” I would take him at his word. Do you have any reason to believe he was not being sincere? He probably has no idea it bothers you, and seems to be open to the idea that it might, and seems sensitive to it.
I think you can go over there when it’s loud, or whenever you see him next, and just say, “Hey, I can hear your music. Could you turn it down after 11?” or whatever works for you.
Also, move to earthquake territory, or near a train or airport. That will cure you of your sensitivity to small vibrations. (There’s a train track next to my office. You get used to it very quickly.)
I am the same way about noise and I have a similar neighbor. I also like to get into bed and read before going to sleep and his TV echoes through the wall. I just spoke to him about it, he was surprised I could even hear anything, and he gave me his cellphone number to text him if it was ever too loud. I actually think the sound is amplified through the wall so he was legitimately shocked and apologetic.
I’ve only texted him once but it worked out great. He lowered the volume and texted me back, “No worries.”
I know it can be intimidating to talk to someone but 99% of the time they will be nice and understanding. And if the noise is making you crazy, you really need to be proactive.
Yes, I’ve only met my neighbor once, but he seemed very nice and even told me to let him know if noise was ever an issue. So I will–but I have had this problem a lot and know that it’s partly my sensitivity to it. Most people wouldn’t have been bothered by this noise. So I don’t want to make him change his lifestyle for my idiosyncratic sensitivities…not much at least!
He didn’t say “Let me know if the noise would be too loud to bother most everyone else.” He said to let him know if it bothered *you*.
Who cares if someone else would be bothered. Your request is an absolutely reasonable one.
I had a similar problem in an apartment a few years ago.
The people below me would get in at all hours of the night and do karaoke (yes karoke), sometimes on their balcony. It also usually sounded like they were bowling with a 50 pound ball and moving their furniture at 3 in the morning. We went straight to management and complained and they got fined multiple times. The management told us to start calling the police, so we did. They would stop for the night but it always started back up. Then they egged our apartment stoop! We called the cops but the management refused to press charges and we couldn’t because it was the stoop and we had no rights unless it had touched our door. The apartment management wouldn’t let us out of our lease and would only offer to move us to another unit, but our lease was out in <2 months so we sucked it up for a bit and left early. It was AWFUL.
That stinks! People can be so self-centered. There is no God-given right to loud karaoke in an apartment!
Yes, I am in the exact same situation. I sleep with earplugs, but it doesn’t help with the bass coming from the apartment below me because the bass actually causes vibrations that keep me awake or wake me up. Like you, it caused me anxiety and sleep deprivation.
I dealt with it initially by leaving a note, explaining the issue politely and including my name and contact info. The neighbor then left me a note that was kind of passive aggressive, saying that I walk too loudly (which I have taken steps to resolve). I went down to talk to him in person, and he agreed to turn his music off by 11 and that I should text him if it is ever bothering me after that time. That worked for about 6 months and then it started again, and when he didn’t turn it down I had to call management. Now he’s pissed at me because he knows I called management, but he also got a formal warning from them and is scared of being fined (as per his lease) for breaking the noise rules, so he keeps it off. The most recent time he was playing music too loudly, I picked up a chair and dropped it on the floor directly over where I know his bed is; he turned the music off (not particularly proud of my passive-aggressiveness, but it worked).
Personally, I wish I’d never contacted him in person. He can be very aggressive and I’m scared of running into him in the building. In the future I will handle these issues only via management. But if you’ve already met your neighbor and he seems perfectly nice, then I’d lean toward talking to him in person. The only problem is that if he doesn’t turn the music down and you do eventually call management, he’ll know that it was you who called.
I had a bad experience in the past talking to neighbors about noise–which is why I think it makes me so anxious now–they were so ridiculously mean and immature about it. And that was serious noise!
I will say this, though: 9 times out of 10, people are better about it if you talk to them in person. A note can seem nasty even if it’s easier to leave. I guess now I’m just left wondering if I should wait to run into him (who knows how long that would take?) or knock tonight. I don’t know if I should wait until it happens again.
I think it’s fine to leave a note, just not an anonymous one. The latter is what can seem nasty. If you wait until he’s home, you probably only know that he’s home because the TV is annoying you, and I personally wouldn’t want to start the conversation when I’m already annoyed (you, obviously, may have a longer fuse than me).
The trick is to get aggressive. I think I’ve said this on the board before (I just usually commented under anon) but when my upstairs neighbor would come in at 2am and walk around really loudly, I would turn on music or ring the doorbell repeatedly etc. The trick is to be *more* crazy than your neighbor so they back down. That can take some doing but it’s worth it in the end.
I have to say, in my experience, if you go directly to the person and show them you’re nice and normal, that usually works and they’re apologetic and go out of their way to be respectful. BUT if they’re crazy or total jerks, then it’s like dealing with a grizzly bear–you have to get up on your hind legs and roar a bit to show them who’s boss. But God, that’s only as a last resort. I had that happen once and it was a miserable place to live for a while–constantly angry when I came home and passed their door.
So try the nice route first–you get more flies with honey than vinegar. But hold your own.
Honestly if I could have done it again, I would have gotten myself released from my lease much earlier. It may seem like a pain to move out now, but once you’re in a quieter situation, it’s totally worth it. The energy is much better spent documenting your concerns, calling the police, and writing to management/corporate to complain.
Are you serious? I think it’s a very rare situation that the craziest person gets her way.
I had the same situation a few months ago- it was to the point where I was going out of my way to avoid him because he also had the tendency to get aggressive. I think he offered to move out if released from the lease, threatened the office staff when they refused, but still they preferred to have him stay in the building and have me leave. Go figure.
That sucks. I ended up moving out of my place eventually–the worst part was that they moved about a month later! SO annoying. But still, happy I moved. They were ridiculous.
My neighbor even called me on my cell when I was clearly at work and started yelling at me because I’d told the landlord about the problem. I don’t think she expected the talking-to I gave her!
On the other side of the coin, years ago when we lived in an apartment, a neighbor knocked on my door asking that my husband stop his late night coughing. He had the flu, what, exactly, was he supposed to do?
Didn’t get the job. . . so bummed. . .
PS. Thanks for making me call 3 times before you told me you filled the position before my first phone call. I know it’s not that important to you that you call me back, but it’s just common courtesy.
Sorry :(
So rude–a sign that it wouldn’t have been a nice place to work regardless. You’ll get the next one!
So sorry, that sucks.
Having now received all of my Nordstrom Anniversary Sale purchases, I offer a few reviews.
The Halogen seamed skirt (297557) fits great, one size down for my pear shape. I got the dark purple color, which I like a lot – purple with a touch of soft gray for a less ‘loud’ but still obviously purple color.
The Burberry zip jacket (352262). My first Burberry, and I love it. It fits great and is so flattering. Given the price ($350), it’s still hanging in my closet with tags… must contemplate.
The Black Halo Jackie dress (362224). Very cute, but did not fit me at all. If you are the same size on top and on bottom, which I am not, this could be great. The neckline is lovely, the waist is quite defined, and the fabric has a nice soft, almost cotton-y hand. But I’m a size bigger on bottom than top, so it just didn’t work for me.
The Eliza J dress (359891) is fabulous. Flattering, comfortable, probably looks good on all shapes and sizes. My SO loves it and suggested I wear it for engagement pictures. I had to explain that it might be kind of ridiculous to wear the Middleton engagement dress in our engagement pictures.
The Under Armour capris (272967). The angels sing. They are so comfortable, so flattering, and they don’t slide down at ALL no matter what exercise I am doing. I am going to pick up a couple more pairs.
Spanx cami (336111). Hated it. It’s a true wrap/surplice neckline, so there’s an intentional fabric separation under one of the boobs (one wouldn’t see that when wearing it), making it a total PITA to put on. The fabric is incredibly stiff and probably great for compression, if that’s what you’re looking for. I usually wear one size up from “my size” in Spanx because I like the smoothing, but don’t want compression. The Nordstrom associate sold me my size, saying a size up would roll. Maybe so, but “my” size is now going back.
Joe’s Provocateur jeans (365904). They fit great on my pear shape with short legs, but the front is heavily faded, more so than it appears online. These are going back too.
SF Bay, your review is very helpful. I’m wearing the Halogen purple skirt today! I think I’m going to let down the hem about 1/2 inch, but otherwise I like it a lot.
I like the Eliza dress a lot too. I bought both the navy and the clay and was surprised that the clay looks better on my skin color. With that said, one downside is that my bra strap sticks out a bit because the material is so thin. Does anyone have recommendations on what to wear underneath that would smooth my backside out? Is this is when a Spanx cami would be appropriate?
I agree with your SO – if you look great in the Eliza J dress why not wear it to your engagement photos?
How many people will actually recognize it as the Middleton engagement photo dress? And the ones who do will appreciate the tongue in cheek aspect. Have fun with it :-)
Just a YMMV review of the Eliza J dress for those contemplating the purchase…I received mine last week, and it did not suit at all. I’m petite; usually a 2P or a 0P, and although the XSP fit my body, it was too long and hit mid-calf in a very dowdy (and not easily tailor-able) way. Also, I thought the skirt was too full; instead of figure-balancing, for me it made my (admittedly not tiny) lower half look enormous. Husband laughed…and the dress went right back to Nordie’s. Glad it worked for others, but just a heads up for any petite women considering the purchase that I don’t think it works for everyone.
(Sorry, I meant I bought it in a 2P, not XSP…)
Apparently SF Bay Associate and I have very, very similar tastes… ; )
Liked the Elisa J dress enough to keep it, but was not totally in love. I think I need to have it hemmed.
The Burberry jacket went back. Looked great, but not versatile enough given the price. The sales associate told me not to worry, it will make someone very happy.
Oh, and the orange Trina Turk dress does, in fact, look like Hef’s robe. That went back too.
I finally decided to pull the trigger on the famous halogen skirt…and discovered that I waited too long. :( They were out of my size in mustard, but I really loved the “moss green”. Nordstrom let me add it to my cart, but when I got to check out I discovered that it’s actually no longer available. I ended up getting the purple, but it doesn’t ship until August 10th, so I’ll have to wait to see how it fits. I’m bummed…I really loved the green and yellow! Serves me right for waiting until the last week of the sale…
You should call a Nordstrom store and see if they can track it down for you. I’ve had great luck with that in the past.
Thanks for the suggestion! Unfortunately (and PSA to all those other procrastinators) Nordies is completely sold out of the Halogen skirt in 0 and 2 in Moss and Yellow Raisin and the 0 in Fuschia. Also, I ordered the Eliza J dress in clay, size 2, and received an email telling me it is no longer in stock. I called the store and they told me they are completely sold out of that dress in all colors in 0 and 2.
Just FYI in case those colors/sizes apply to you. If anyone bought any of those in those sizes and wants to return, please let me know, I’ll take it off your hands!!
the size 2 for both colors is available again on the website. hurry! goodluck with your purchase :)
Ack! Thanks for the prompt. I ordered the Halogen in fuschia (second order of the sale).
I’m not familiar with the Joe’s Provocateur jeans — they’re good for those of us with a curvy butt?
And if you don’t want the Burberry jacket and it’s in the light color — maybe we could make a deal. :)
Awesome. I need to check out the Eliza J dress. I am absolutely obsessed with the Halogen skirt. I have 2 of them from this spring and I have 2 more coming to me (the fuschia and the black) from the NAS. The Halogen skirt really is fab.
I must thank who[m?]ever suggested Angry Birds Seasons for iPad. Far too much fun was had on my new iPad last night…I’m pretty sure I dreamt of little green piggies.
It was such a break from stressing out about leaving this job at the end of the week for a new one!
Love Angry Birds Seasons on the iPad. I want to strangle the pigs that you can’t ever seem to kill.
Whom! Good instincts.
(I’m glad you’re having fun. And hooray for the new job!)
Love the pattern and style, but wish it came in a color.
To the Chicago Corporette’s out there:
I’m visiting Chicago with a girlfriend this weekend — neither of us have ever been there before, and we have just Sunday and Monday in town. Aside from the standard tourist fare, any off-the-beaten-path suggestions for activities? Food? Friend is between jobs at the moment, so we’re on a fairly tight budget. TIA!
Lincoln Park zoo is fun (if you’re into zoos), and free!
+1 on the zoo! The little cafe by the new pond boardwalk has an absolutely gorgeous view of the skyline (and as an aside – they have a liquor license. Mimosas and monkeys!). Also, check out the free concert series on Monday nights in Milennium park, and bring a picnic!
Haha, I love zoos and really want to stop by Lincoln Park, but friend is not a zoo fan. She IS into mimosas, though, so this is great intel–there’s still a chance!
Instead of springing the $22-something bucks to go to the viewing deck on the Sears – pardon me, Willis – Tower, go to the lounge on the top of the John Hancock building. Spend half that much on a drink or appetizer, and enjoy practically the same beautiful view. And although you’re on a tight budget, you can still gawk/”fantasy shop” at all the designer stores nearby!
I second the Hancock building. We always go up there when in Chicago! So many good restaurants in Chicago — just do some googling, look on foodtv.com, travel channel shows or whatnot. I’m sure you can find some good deals for great eats.
Great advice. The view from the bathroom is actually phenomenal.
Yes it is! Definitely make sure you need to go :)
I did the exact same thing and thought the cocktail prices were really reasonable considering where you are.
If you’re public-transportation friendly, the Museum of Science and Industry is in Hyde Park, which is beautiful. (A quick train ride from downtown.) There’s a fabulous little Italian place called Picolo Mondo nearby (like half a block from the museum), and about a dozen independent bookstores within a 20m walk or a cheap cab ride. Plus the University of Chicago is a lovely campus and there are lots of little cafes and such nearby. There’s also the Smart Museum (art) and a museum affiliated with the Oriential Institute, all within easy walking distance.
Second! – love the Museum of Science and Industry (so much so that I’m actually getting married there).
Also, I’d recommend taking a walk on the lakeshore path – you get beautiful views of the skyline and the lake, plus great people watching.
The neighborhoods are also worth exploring depending on how much time you have – I’d recommend Fountainhead (off the Montrose brown line stop) and Glenn’s Diner (also off the Montrose brown line stop) for dinner.
Go to see Second City!!! Tickets are about $20 each and it’s always wonderful. Just saw the new etc show and it was hilarious.
Taste of Lincoln Avenue is going on this weekend. Not sure about the cost.
http://www.chicagoevents.com/event.cfm?eid=117
TOLA is usually a young-ish crowd. Crowded. Not my scene, but if you are into crowds, it is one of the better festivals. There are bands and lots of beer/food. I sort of hate it (but I do live right around the corner from it, so don’t appreciate the noise and commotion).
Take the purple line north to:
http://www.bahai.us/bahai-temple/
Do the Wendella Boats river architecture tour. It’s an absolute can’t miss.
I’ve done a couple of them, and I think the boat tour run by the Chicago Architectural Foundation itself (leaving from the other side of the bridge from Wendella) is better. But I completely second the idea of doing a boat tour, especially for a first-timer.
If you do a boat tour, definitely do the tour run by the Chicago Architectural Foundation. The docents are volunteers and experts in architecture. Other boat tours are college kids on summer break doing a tour run. Not nearly as informative or professional. Tickets can be purchased in the morning or day of at corner of Wacker Drive and Michigan Ave (NE corner, just go down stairs to the river front).
Agree with going with the Foundation. Not the world’s cheapest activity ($30-something/person, maybe?) but we really liked it. Make sure you wear enough sunscreen (I burned)!
Good, affordable dinner at Cafe Iberico on LaSalle. Lots of action and lively place, but meals and drinks are in a great price range. They are open late!
If you want to be outside and enjoy the sunshine, go to North Ave beach. Paddle boards rentals are $25. You can eat, drink, and lounge. From there you can walk to Navy Pier or to Lincoln Park zoo (free).
Chicago Tribune has a list of festivals, movies in the park etc. It is called the “Chicago Festival Guide 2011”. Under the events section.
Finally, go to Millenium Park and enjoy the public art. Walk south of the park to Buckingham Fountain and see more art in that area as well.
Thanks everyone! Tons of good options here; I really appreciate it. :)
Go to Xoco, Rick Bayless’s Mexican sandwich place! You’ll get a very tasty and filling meal for about $10-$12/person.
Also, Google “Pritzker Pavilion” and “concerts” or just “Grant Park Music Festival.” There is usually free, outdoor music on Sundays, and the Pritzker Pavilion lawn (right in Millennium Park) is one of my most favorite places in the city. Bring a bottle of wine and just hang out.
Also, Google “Chicago SummerDance.” The city sponsors free hour-long, outdoor dance lessons near Grant Park on Saturday evenings and Sundays in the late afternoon/early evening. Depending on the week, the lesson could be anything — salsa, waltz, tango, polka, swing, jive, folk dancing, etc. The lesson is followed by about an hour-long performance from a live band so that you can try out the steps you just learned. SummerDance attracts Chicagoans of all ages and backgrounds, so it’s a really fun way to experience the city.
+1 to Xoco. The line is usually somewhat long, but the food is delicious.
FYI: Xoco is closed on Mondays.
And Sunday actually :(
A good friend of mine is one of the writers/actors in Jersey Shore the Musical which is playing in Chi (most of the cast are second city grads) you can find by googling – I think tickets are $15.
Check out the Publican restaurant in the West Loop – it has a great beer and wine list, and the food is great and in a range of prices. And it’s a really interesting, growing part of Chicago that most tourists probably don’t see, so that’s a plus.
If you’re beer people at all, Hopleaf up in Andersonville had an incredible beer selection and tasty food to boot. While you’re up there, you can catch a showing of Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind (http://www.neofuturists.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=20&Itemid=45) at 7 pm on Sundays. You have to wait in line for a while but if it’s a nice night, it’s not a problem. It’s definitely a fun show, but I wouldn’t sit in the front row unless you want to participate :)
Why did I just torture myself looking at zillow.com? Condos! not even “real” houses!
While I’m normally pretty aware of how lucky I have it (good job, friends, family, health, etc) I’m having a tiny pity party over feeling like a loser for hitting my mid-30s without many of the indicia of adulthood (house, husband, kids, dog….) thanks to being a perpetual student and a bit of a commitment-phobe.
Perhaps some moderate retail therapy is in order.
To make you feel better, when I torture myself by looking at zillow.com, I have the opposite reaction. I see just how much I’ve lost on my home and just how much it would cost me to get out or move. Sigh. I’m jealous of your freedom! I guess the grass is always greener, but I would not overvalue homeownership or its “indicia of adulthood.” Homeownership often sucks.
This :(
This doubled, from someone who desparately held onto her beloved home during law school (despite attending 1.5 hours away), only to find that there were no decent jobs in the town of said home and is now renting an apartment in another city while trying desparately to sell that lovely home.
Wow, are you me? I only wish that I have the guts to put my house for rent and move to another city like you. I really really need to do it!
I did it! It’s not that bad.
Right there with you. 30 years old, renting (a really nice place that I am comfortable being in for awhile), law school loans (which are nice car big, not house big) single (b/f broke up with me 2.5 months ago, since he’s really married to his job and/or his mother), and my little brother (5 years younger) is getting married this weekend.
On the flip side – I really do like my apartment (despite the fact that it’s pretty close to where the ex-boyfriend lives), I have a bunch of good friends (that I’ve been reconnecting with since my breakup), and have lots of cousins and cousins with kids and friends with kids to get my baby/kid fix with (and the added bonus of being able to give them back when they get too fussy). And I’ll get to go to an awesome party this weekend with a ton of family that I actually like.
:)
I totally know this feeling – I’m on Redfin all the time and often longing for a real home that’s all mine where I can change all the light fixtures and plant flowers in the backyard. And I’m in my mid-30s with a bunch of student loans and not much to show for myself on the whole “grown-up adult” scale, particularly compared to my siblings who are all married with babies and live in big houses in the suburbs.
A few thoughts –
– If you really want a condo, you can probably buy one. Run some numbers on whether it makes financial sense given how long you plan to stay there, but looking into it more might make the decision feel more like a choice and less like life railroading you.
– Renting has its perks, too. Particularly free repairs and the freedom to drop everything and move if you want a change of neighborhood or a bigger/different place without incurring many transaction costs.
– If you really want a dog, I highly recommend them! It’s completely doable in the city with a professional job – you just need a reliable dog-walker, a reliable dog-sitter, and a willingness to really commit to dog ownership. I love coming home to my dog every night – he always greets me at the door with a tennis ball in his mouth and is happy to see me no matter what.
Ditto about the dog. I got a greyhound and she is wonderful. Greyhounds are also good apartment dogs. She sleeps during a lot of the day, but she has her playful moments around the apartment, and she always perks up when she sees her leash and likes to go for walks. As long as you’re willing to commit and are ok with not being as flexible with travel and having the added cost of a kennel to any overnights you want to take, I say go for it.
Ditto on the greyhound. We have one. She’s a great dog for a small home — she sleeps a ton (curled up in a cute ball that always makes her look smaller than she really is), but is very playful in the morning and loves a good walk. She is always, always, always happy to see me.
Gotta put a plug in for my pup’s breed (although at 2 1/2, he’s not exactly a puppy anymore). King Charles Cavalier Spaniels are incredibly sweet lapdogs. He loves a good walk but sleeps while I’m gone during the day. Don’t know if it’s a breed trait but he’s also not a barker, which is always good for an apartment doggy.
Yes, get the dog. I’m single, but I come home to the Yorkshire Terrier who loves me unconditionally. With her, I don’t need a dog-walker – she’s paper trained if she really needs to go but she usually doesn’t.
Just had a birthday, going to look at disturbingly cheap houses I still can’t afford after work. :)
40+ and still renting! I have a fabulous apartment, low rent, includes all utilities (which means I could keep my bedroom at “meat locker” during our recent heat wave and not pay an extra cent), very responsible and responsive management, and a pool complete with nice lounge chairs that’s pretty empty on weekends. When I finally got a “real” job and could contemplate buying, prices in DC got so ridiculous that I couldn’t afford anything better than my apartment. And what I could afford was in neighborhoods where I didn’t want to live. So I sat that out. I guess I’d like to buy, but I’m lazy and not really into doing home improvement. I only have 1 bedroom, though, and it would be nice to have 2 for guests. Where I live (Montgomery County) there are pretty strong renter protection laws, so I’m not worried about my rent going up by insane amounts each year. Did I also mention the indoor parking for $35 a month?
One thing I did do when I thought I might buy was put into savings each month the different between what I pay in rent and what I thought I’d have to pay for a mortgage. I have continued to do this and now have enough for a seriously hefty down payment, should I choose to buy. So, I may not have equity in a house, but I have immediate access to serious wads of cash that do not depend on someone else buying my place.
I have the flip-side of your problem….husband, three kids, mortgage, job I’ll probably have forever…and I’m not even 35 yet.
I’m thinking of all the things I was going to do before I got to this stage in my life – things that are no longer realistic – and feeling a smidge regretful.
The grass is always greener, huh?
Me too! And I know what you mean…although I am very grateful for everything in my life, especially my three children…sometimes I just want to sleep in by myself!!
But twenty years from now, when your kids are ready for or in college, you’ll still be young enough to be at the top of your earning power, unlike we older parents who waited until late 30’s or early 40s to have kids and are now fighting to stay employed long enough to see our kids through college. And once the college payments are done, we won’t be working long nough to enjoy those kid-free years with enough income to really enjoy those kid-free years. There are good and bad reasons to have them young, and good and bad reasons to have them older. This is a thread all by itself.
This (from an older mother of a younger child). We should have a thread on this just to discuss/bitch. :)
I got to my mid-30s without the indicia of adulthood (great phrase), and then it pretty much all came at once in my early 40s. One thing that helped was taking some active steps to lessen my commitment phobic tendencies. You’ll get there, if you want to.
Jr. Prof – What steps did you take to lessen your commitment phobia? I’m in that boat now… I tend to get scared of nice guys and dump them.
Eh- it’s not a big deal. I am in mi mid-30s as well and owned a home at 21. It was not all that and I’m not rushing to buy again. I like the freedom of not having a home, and I certainly don’t want a dog because I like traveling too much.
Anyone have shopping to do at Coach? I have a coupon for $100 off $300+ that expires sunday.
Not posting it here b/c using it requires that you enter my zip code, but if you’re interested, email me.
Nice shirt. I like it.
hmm, email didn’t link, not sure what i did wrong .. well if anyone is interested AND can tell me how to link email to name, lemme know! thx.
Put your email address in the “website” field.
Did someone say the other day that she doesn’t dry her Brooks Brothers non-iron shirts? I just bought two new ones, washed, and hung dry, but they were far from wrinkle-less. I had to iron them, which most certainly defeats the purpose. Do most people dry them?
I dry mine (in the dryer) and no wrinkles.
I always dry mine and my husband’s. If you take them out of the dryer promptly, they are generally very much ready to wear, no ironing needed.
I toss mine in the dryer, take them out as soon as the cycle ends (so they are still warm and haven’t had time to sit/wrinkle), and have never needed to iron them.
I have been wearing the non-iron BB shirts for years, and I always dry them. You should hang them up quickly after drying in order to keep the shirts wrinkle free.
Okay. Maybe this person was saying she hangs them after drying them. I was being overly cautious, but I will throw them in the dryer from now on. Thanks!
I think Kat said that in her main post on white shirts. I dry them, but if they need a little extra wrinkle-releasing, I’ll toss them in the dryer with a wet towel for about 10 minutes while getting ready in the morning.
Going to New Orleans next week… is the weather incredibly oppressive?
It has been raining a lot, which has cut down on the heat (depending on that you consider hot), but it hasn’t done anything for the humidity I’m afraid. Just make sure to bring some light and airy clothes.
Don’t know what you’re going to be doing, but just reply if you need suggestions.
I love your name. We’re bringing two kids, so we figure the aquarium at a minimum. Any other suggestions would be welcome!
Thanks! It took me forever to choose a handle!
How old is your other child (if I can remember correctly, you recently had a baby)? The WWII Museum is really something else, and I think it is near the aquarium; so if you think its age appropriate I would totally recommend that. Check out the Louisiana State Museum, more specifically the Presbytere. There are some great exhibits and they are right in the heart of the French Quarter.
Make sure you do the touristy type stuff if you have never been there. Go to Cafe du Monde for beignets… you’ll be covered in powdered sugar by the time you’re done, but its a New Orleans staple and it will give you the energy to walk throughout the French Quarter. If you’re going to be there over the weekend go to the French Market. Royal Street has great antique shops, the Jewelry is to die for!
If you want to do some exploring in the rest of the city I would just urge you to be very careful. As with any other city, try to avoid the sketchier places; if you leave downtown/the quarter make sure you have a specific destination in mind because New Orleans can get ugly really fast . I would recommend a visit to the Garden District. There are tours available, but I think a map and a street car ride up St. Charles are fine in that area. Magazine Street is also really great; if you google it, you’ll find the site for the merchant’s association.
Restaurants… Gosh, just thinking about the food is making my mouth water. There are sooooo many good restaurants. I can recommend Mr. B’s Bistro and The Palace Cafe, those are really nice restaurants and I have seen children there…. I can go on all day about this as you can tell.
I feel like I’m writing a book, but there’s just so much to do!
Hope you have a good time!
Thank you!!!
Can I vent for a minute about email etiquette?
Nothing burns me more than when I send a polite email, including a greeting, please and thank you, to a coworker whom I’ve never met asking for some information that it her job to give me, and she dispenses with salutations, closings, and common courtesy and sends a terse one-line email in response that doesn’t even include the requested information.
Do people have no manners at all anymore? Grr.
Just another perspective — I get about 150-200 emails/day. I answer emails walking to and from the bathroom, waiting in line for lunch, etc. — all to try to get back to people quickly. If the choice is a quick reply or an answer the next day because I’m busy writing Dear X:, “Best wishes, Y” on every email, I always go with quick reply and dispense with niceties if the person I’m responding to is someone I know. That doesn’t excuse the not answering the question, but just another perspective — I wouldn’t take it personally.
As far as that issue (not giving you the info), I’d just pick up the phone or go by her desk since email isn’t getting you anywhere with her.
The person isn’t someone I know. I agree that it’s not necessary to include formalities to someone you’re familiar with. But if one receives a formal email from a stranger in another office, one should be polite.
One also shouldn’t be so judgmental or take things so personally.
She is probably replying from her mobile. With more mobile computing, the niceties are getting rarer, I’m afraid…
Similarly, what is with people who answer their phones at the lunch or dinner table, while driving in the car with a group, etc.? Drives. Me. Crazy. My co-workers even do it when important people are at the table. And then they talk so loudly that the rest of us are prohibited from having a real, in-person conversation. They are just talking about boring, day-to-day stuff with their spouses – what they are having for lunch, what they need from the grocery store, etc. It is so rude and yet so prevalent in my (upper 20s, low 30s) age group.
So agree!
Also annoyed by my cube setting where people have these convos at their desk all.the.time throughout the day while others are trying to work. With cell phones so handy, why not go argue with your spouse about eating leftovers somewhere else? Or tell your friend your dating woes from the parking lot? Don’t you have even the least interest in looking semi-professional?
Sorry. Vent over.
Yes – drives me crazy too. It’s one thing if your phone rings, you excuse yourself, and keep it short, but answering with no apology and having an inane conversation is so incredibly disrespectful to the people you’re actually with.
Wow. It’s so nice to find out that I’m not the only one bugged by how kids these days seem to need to be ALWAYS plugged into their phones. No one just walks down the street anymore, they are either on the phone or texting. I wonder if more people are getting mugged because of totally not paying attention to their surroundings?
I did a talk several months ago to a group of college kids interested in my field. I was so distracted by the few who did not put their machines down once! Their thumbs were flying! At least at work it’s a little more discreet. Of course I imagine they’re on FB saying “Listening to the most boring speaker…”
I find this problem is more with the older generation… i.e., those my parents’ age who are just starting to get used to cell phones.
For example, at a nice family dinner with 3 siblings and our partners, all in our late-20s/early-30s, we will all keep phones off the table, and on silent. Our parents will keep the ringers on their phones turned up, and answer the phone loudly in the middle of a nice restaurant, even though they are retired and it is not an emergency.
Is it possible she’s on her BB? We have a lot of people who are out in the field a good portion of the time and just send a short response when they can instead of making a person wait days until they’re back in the office. Usually when I get a really short response, I assume that’s the case.
Threadjack – After weeks of wearing pumps and sandals to work, my feet are begging for comfortable shoes that won’ t scar them further (blisters, corns). I have yet to find a pair of comfortable flats that I can wear for more than two consecutive days without my feet blistering.
Any suggestions for a pair of flats that are comfortable yet stylish (i.e. not something my grandma would wear)? I wear a 10-10.5 and a wide is preferred. Thanks in advance and I have faith in you ladies that your shoe expertise is greater than mine! TIA =)
Check out the Trotters brand. Not super-stylish, but comfortable. I have a friend who wears a larger size and needs wide, and she finds this brand pretty comfortable. Some Clarks or Sofft shoes might also come in wide and might meet your needs. My sister has wide feet and does a fair amount of walking, she seems to wear Clarks pretty often.
I have recently discovered Naturalizers for their flats and low heels that come in wide sizes. very comfortable. I have a couple of pairs (since they are not that expensive, esp. on sale!) that I rotate throughout the week.
AK Anne Klein does nice flats (look for the ones marketed as “iFlex” or something like that). I love Aerosoles for comfortable, walkable high heels, and they do nice flats as well.
Check out Camper.
I have 3 or 4 pairs of shoes I commute in and do not wear the same pair on two consecutive days. Besides the issue of causing blisters on my feet, it wears out the shoes, they need a day to rest. I alternate between Aerosoles, Hush Puppies, Naturalizers, Skechers, Anne Klein and sneakers.
Hmmmm, that’s more than I realized. But I do walk a lot during my commute (in NYC).
AGL (Attilio Giusti Leombruni?) flats are amazing. Like slippers, and there’s a nice one on super sale at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Glove leather. My personal shopper picked them out for me, and said she gets great reviews from her wide-footed clients.
Just got these in from the Nordstrom sale and love them. I’ve always had good luck Me Too shoes in the past:
http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/me-too-paige-patent-leather-flat/3170317?origin=keywordsearch&resultback=0
I’m now wearing the French Sole shoe called “Passport” in size 41 (about 10.5). I also have wide feet and find these very comfortable. They run about $200 but look dressier than a lot of other flats. (I love Ecco flats too, which can be found on sale for $40, but the Ecco brand is much more casual than French Sole shoes.)
Or apparently $119 on Endless. http://tinyurl.com/3h7rsor
I’ve had really good luck with Born
Check out Clarks. I have a basic pair of flats (look like the normal ballerina style shoe) but they have more support and padding in the inside than you would find with JCrew, etc. I’m not seeing them on Zappos now but they have some others that are pretty cute.
I second the Clark’s vote! Some are ugly but some are totally cute ballerina-looking flats.
Clark’s Bostonian line is actually pretty cute- I got a shock when I went in one, I was expecting the regular Clarks line and instead I found purple suede pumps!
There are also Danskos. Not flats, but they’re super-comfy and supportive.
Randomest threadjack ever: Why are kiwis so f-ing hard to eat? I love them, but I always make a giant juicy mess at my desk.
Any tips on the neatest way to eat a kiwi?
Cut it in half and eat it with a spoon. I once read somewhere that kiwis are a great fruit to bring on-the-go because they come in their own little “cup.” Sounds weird I know but it will cut down on the juice everywhere.
That is how I do it and it doesn’t cut down on the juice at all, and I find the center part is too tough to cut through with a spoon and I end up trying to wrench it out, inevitably resulting in my catapulting a chunk of kiwi across the room. I must be doing it wrong.
I know you’re frustrated but that just gave the best mental picture ever =).
Glad to help. :) Today the catapulted kiwi landed on my blouse.
Are you cutting it the width-wise?
Yes – would lengthwise be better?
Cut the kiwi in half around its widest part (so width-wise, not length-wise). Scoop it out using a spoon, as if you were eating ice cream out of a cup. Still a little drippy, but you don’t have to peel it.
I cut them in half through the middle and then scoop out the good stuff with a spoon. Kind of like two mini kiwi pudding cups. =)
Why is it that everyone else can do this right except for meeeeee?
Meh. They’re all gunners.
Try a grapefruit spoon.
Agree with Always a NYer and Polly D – eat it with a spoon. You can also use a spoon to scoop out the whole half (run the spoon along the rim and work your way down to pull it all out in one scoop) and then slice to eat with a fork/mix with other fruit, a la an avocado.
I’ve never heard this trick about eating a kiwi with a spoon! I’m going to have to give this one a try.
This is why I love Corporette! I’ve had the same frustration about kiwis for so long but it never crossed my mind to ask. Now I’m going to go to the store and by some kiwis!!!
I slice them in half across the short axis and scoop out the fruit with a spoon. That way, the skin makes a bowl to catch any juice that squeezes out.
Or, slice them in to chips (with the skin on) and eat with a fork. The skins are edible, and sliced into circles reduces the amount of skin to fruit ration.
Just an alternative to the (very!) popular cup suggestion.
You might be onto something since I am clearly not skilled enough for the cup thing. I don’t like the texture of the skin, but maybe in a reduced ratio it would be ok. Thanks!
Cut a bit off each end, stick a small spoon in under the skin, move it around the kiwi, and the whole thing will pop out of the skin, ready for slicing.
Ooooooh. This one might work best! It eliminates the problem of not being able to cut through the center part with a spoon. Thanks!
This is what I do, but I am still glad I have a cutting board to do it on if it’s a juicy kiwi.
I eat them with the skin on. It sounds weird or even gross at first, but I started doing it after a friend turned me on to the idea and it totally makes them perfect to eat. As someone else mentioned, skin is totally edible and actually quite good for you, too.
I’ve been gone a while and the kiwi thread above reminded me why I love Corporette. Nothing, absolutely nothing, is too big or too small to be discussed. :)
Maybe try it with a grapefruit spoon as opposed to a regular one? It might cut easier, which would decrease the juice.
Hi.
My DD 2y, 2m, got a diagnosis of Atopic Eczema from a Dermatologist last week.
It sure looks like that, only it seems odd to me that is started now – doesn’t it supposed to start way earlier in kids? And its mainly on her b*m, with a bit on her back, and the backs of her thighs.
I’m thinking she may have developed an allergy to something which triggered this now (DH & I both being *atopic* individuals).
Anyone like to share their experiences with allergies aggravating / precipitating atopic eczema? I’m kinda hoping for this, since eliminating the offending agent should then sort things out.
TIA!
Ouch.
*isn’t it supposed to* not *doesn’t it supposed to*.
Sorry, long day!
My daughter had bad eczema when she was younger. It seemed to coincide with a milk allergy and the heat. Once we cut back (not totally eliminated) milk and she didn’t sweat so much once it got cooler, the eczema got better.
In the mean time, what worked to control it was a cool bath everyday for about 10-15 minutes, but only washed with mild soap (Dove sensitive skin) every other time. Then before drying off slather with Aquaphor and hydrocortisone cream. Royal Jelly also helped a lot. I lotioned her up at least 3x a day.
Could be heat – I get eczema from the heat.
Thanks both!
She’s been a lot of eggs lately – one a day, at least.
I’m going to try cutting back on that, and will try what you have both suggested here.
Thank you so much for sharing. Im tearing my hair out about this.
Just don’t let her scratch if you can stop it, and keep her skin moisturized. Johnson and Johnson makes a gel moisturizer for kiddos that’s pretty good. If it is caused by heat, like mine, I’d also suggest staying out of direct sunlight. I apply cortisone cream (at my doctor’s suggestion) when mine does flare up and it usually goes away in 2-3 days if I stay out of the sun.
I think my kid’s AE was caused by milk/formula, but I can’t quite remember why I think this anymore (he’s now three). However, he continues to have a propensity for eczema with occasional flares.
When he was about three months, it was its very worst (all over face, crusty, flakey), and we saw the very fancy ped dermatologist who suggested coating him in steroid ointment. We did this for a short period of time and it resolved to a manageable level.
Products you may want to try:
Aquaphor (slather it on, it won’t harm them if they eat it)
Eucerin body wash (contains omega oils for skin)– it comes in a gold bottle and is safe for kids. We just started w/ this and I can tell a noticable difference in skin moisture (when he’s too dry, the eczema flares).
Cetaphil has a new product combo out esp. for eczema — a body wash and a lotion. I haven’t tried the wash, but the lotion again helps to retain a lot of moisture and I saw a noticable difference over night.
If this doesn’t resolve for you, there is a very mild steroid foam/mousse that starts with a V. This is pretty good stuff too, but I’m finding that the Eucerin/Cetaphil combo above is handling the situation w/o steroids quite nicely.
I didn’t have a lot of luck with Aveeno/oatmeal based stuff.
Also, I use the Eucerin body wash too; it’s great for dry skin in general.
Thanks, K!
your advice and the trouble you’ve taken posting all of that is much appreciated.
My son has had this since birth, he’s now four. It flares up and we use a cream with cortisteroids for a few days then just normal baby cream ( mustela or seba med) for a few weeks. Apparently it goes away by itself. We also rub coconut oil into his skin when wet after he bathes, and pat dry with towel to seal in moisture.
Good luck.
Anyone try wearing hair extensions to help with hair loss? Not the kind that you clip on, but the more expensive kind. How much does it cost, how long do they last, and did they help? I’ve had ongoing hair loss over the years, have all the usual tests done, and nothing seems to be wrong with me except bad genes. :) My dad went bald at age 25, so my gradual shedding isn’t all that surprising, but I’m very sensitive about it. I can’t try Rogaine at this point because I’m trying to conceive.
I have wavy/curly hair, if that makes a difference.
No suggestions, but good luck! I know it must be hard, but I’m sure it’s more noticeable to you than to others.
Thanks BG. :)
No personal experience with this, but a dear friend recently got a lace wig (I think that’s what they’re called) to cope with her hair loss. I believe it was expensive, like in the $500-$1000 range. It looks fantastic on her, and I think she feels more confident with it. She said there was a forum for hair loss that she visited that had a lot of good info about wigs, but unfortunately I can’t remember the name right now. Sorry I can’t be more helpful. :(
This is helpful, thanks so much. :)
Recalling the comments yesterday about the difficulty of staying motivated at work, this articles seems relevant:
The Personal Energy Crisis, in Sunday’s NYT’s Business section
Take home message: humans are not like machines and cannot maintain constant, consistent productivity. Though there may be other causes at work (dislike of your job, need for more/ less stimulation, depression), lack of motivation might also come from pushing so hard for so long.
I’m experiencing this myself this summer. After years of externally imposed deadlines, I have just nebulous goals (complete book proposal, finish articles) for this summer. It’s hard to stay motivated, but I think part of it is burnout and the necessary time for rejuvenation.