Go Away, Strep Throat!

Sunday I woke up with my throat hurting. I thought with the change in weather that I had just slept with my mouth open. It happens. Sunday night, it still hurt. Monday morning it hurt even more. I went into work, but around 11, I asked if I could take a 1/2 day and go get checked out just to be on the safe side.

I opted to try out the Walgreens Take Care Clinic. There is one at K&N and I didn't feel like going to Town & Country to my doctor. It was a lazy thing really. So, I got there, checked in, and within 5 mins I was having my vitals taken and after telling her my symptoms a rapid strep test was swabbed. Then I went into the next room where I met the nurse practitioner. About 5 mins later the other gal came in to confirm it was strep. They got me a prescription and told me no smoochin' and throw out my tooth brush. Easy enough.

Tuesday, I woke up feeling a little better, but went to work and had just 1 interview to conduct and some meetings.

Today, I woke up at 4:15 with insane pain in my ears and throat. They said it could spread to my ears.  I debated on going into work, but knowing I was having a hard time swallowing and talking, I knew 3 interviews would not be best for me. So I called in. I hate calling in. I had my email up all day keeping track of everything. I really just needed to not talk.

So, I proceeded to watch all 4 hours of the Today Show - even Hoda & Kathy Lee. That horrible hour of TV. I then got back in bed until about 4, I had slept off and on all afternoon and had Riley to keep me company.

The highlight of the afternoon was that I recieved a package from Marie Claire with some of their favorite items from their past issues. I got a cute tote bag, bracelets, a book and room spray. It was so unexpected and it was the bright spot in my day.

Now, I'm just going to relax this evening and take it easy. Back to work tomorrow, back to talking. I'm sure Jeff appreciates me not talking.

 

Stuck in a Rut

**Disclaimer - this is a pitty party post. I don't do these often, so you'll get cheery Jen in a few days**

Do you ever like you're stuck in a rut. And no matter how hard you try to get out if it, it feels like quick sand? That's how I feel now. The problem is, when I can't identify the rut, I shop and get this and this. Bad Jen!

I need a hobby.

I'm sick of watching TV.

I'm not where I want to be on so many levels.

I need to do something.

I need to break free.

It doesn't help that I also have strep, too.

So, if anyone wants to share a hobby, please let me know!

Lots of New Shopping in the STL!

This past week was a crazy time in St. Louis for shoppers. Thursday, Nordstrom Rack opened in Brentwood and then Saturday, Von Maur opened in Lake St. Louis. Being the fashionista that I am, I decided to check out both places. With Von Maur only being about 5 mins away, I decided to check it out yesterday. Von Maur is located at The Meadows -which is an outside mall. I love it because not many people want to go out there causing my mecca, Banana Republic, to have fantastic deals. I got a blazer there a few weeks ago for $13.

Well anyway, on to Von Maur. Overall, I wasn't too impressed with the place. I think it's too small and too open to be a "department store". I didn't like seeing the kids section while standing in the lingere dept. They did have some name brands, but none you could afford. I'd say it's a step above JCPenney, but a step below Nordstrom. I did get a lovely long stemmed rose out of going. There were so many people there because there was  giveaway for $1000 gift card.

Then, today I went to the long awaited Nordstrom Rack. I met my buddy Sara down there after I had to return a paid of boots at the Galleria. So, we got there and the place was packed. The check out line was all the way at the back of the store. It was like the day after Christmas. They actually had really good prices on everything. Fantatic shoes, accessories. Keep in mind it has been hit really hard since it opened on Thursday. One lady told us that there were 1000 people waiting outside at 7AM that day to win a $2000 gift certificate. Wowza.

Sara ended up getting 4 pairs of shoes and I got a super cute Max Studio dress that was originally $140 for $39. Deal! It's a black pencil skirt nottom with a pale pink ruffled top - perfect for a wedding or just a fabulous date night. Overall, super excited Nordstrom Rack is here. Their kids clothes were very reasonably priced. $10 for baby girl polo dresses. Be still my heart.

With Whole Foods right next door, I went over there to pick up a few things. I heart Whole Foods. I never really shopped there until this year. While the majority of things are insanely pricey, there are a few items that I'm in love with. First off Whole Wheat Pizza dough. You get a tub of it for $2.50, it's perfect for 1 big pizza. I think the whole wheat is healthier and I haven't gotten many complaints. I also love their meat dept. Today, I picked up a few Steak & Cheese burgers - they look incredible. And then for dessert they had mini tartes for $1. I got 4 2 berry ones and 2 chocolage ganche ones...mmmm..

If you can't tell, I lasted 11 days carb free. I'm back on the wagon, but with moderation. I am down 7 lbs. Woo hoo!

Anyone else check out Nordstrom Rack or Von Maur?