Memorial Day Weekend in the Oregon Wine Country

This weekend has been filled with great friends, good food and a few rays of sunshine, plus several great wines.

I am eternally grateful that I live in Oregon and have the privilege of having some of the worlds greatest wines at my fingertips. It has become a tradition to wine taste every Memorial Day weekend since so many winery's open and have glorious spreads of food and vino for their patrons. One of my dearest friends has her parents visit Portland over the long weekend, and we take a day to explore and enjoy all the the Oregon wine country has to offer. 

First we went into Carlton and tasted at the Ken Wright winery where we enjoyed some delicious Chardonnay and some Pinot Noir straight from the barrels. Not to mention there were some handsome men teaching us about the good years for growing and the terrible rains of 2007.  

     

While in Carlton we walked along the quaint street to a small winery called Scott Paul. Here we discovered, from Scott himself, that he created the number 9 wine out of all the wines made in 2010. Can you say WOW! He is also one of the lead importers of champagne and burgundy for the U.S. 

Making our way to the third, and only winery we visit every year, Patricia Green Cellars. Welcomed by dogs, and a laid back soundtrack of Coldplay like music, we sipped on at least 10 different wines, and noshed on truffle cheese and handfuls Marcona  almonds...yummmmm! I picked up a gem of a bottle of wine here too! The Estate Old Vine 2010, it's so smooth, it almost feels like a sin.

On the way home we decided to take a detour into Forest Grove and taste a bit more at Montenore. Having a wine and popcorn pairing was fun, and the wines were delicious. Our favorite part however was venturing into the vineyard for a photo sesh...haha here are some of the snapshots!

It was a beautiful day!

Xoxo,

Courtney

 

So this is what it feels like to be a student...again

I am two weeks into my first term of college in 6...yes 6 years, and boy did I forget how much work and time it takes to be a student. Let me rewind two weeks and tell you how I came about taking classes again.

I called my Graduate program to make sure that I could take the prerequisite courses I still need while I am enrolled in the Grad program . "OH NO HONEY," is what  I was told, "You must take them BEFORE starting in July..." That meant I was supposed to start classes in 3 days (insert panic here).

So there I was trying to navigate a new online system, calling the admissions desks about 8 times and feeling like a dumb ass because I couldn't sign in to enroll in the classes. While I wiped my stress tears and figured it all out, I realized what I was in for. Needless to say my mind was racing for the entire weekend...ok it was more like the 5 days. 

One of the classes is an online Children's lit course which is proving to be A LOT of work. I am gaining a ton of useful info though, and I aced my first assignment, so I guess I can't complain too much. I did however dread attending my 4 hour class on Thursday nights...about  the Fundamentals of Music.

I pictured a dried up old professor lecturing for 4 hours about Bach, Chopin and Beethoven. Boy was I surprised when in walked my exubernet teacher, and his tales of teaching in Compton Ca,  explaining that the Recorder (yes the instrument we all learned about in elementary school) would be our bff this term. I was in for 4 hours a week of  horn tooting and pizza references (learning to read music). 

The one thing I was looking forward to about attending class on campus was the potential of meeting some guys through my class. Much to my dismay this is a typical Education course, aka there are only 2 males in the class and 1 is married. The other is a rip off of the Fonz. Epic fail.

Any whooo...  with all of that aside, I think this is going to be a great adventure. I do already know that having 6 years off from school has certainly given me more perspective to be a better and more productive student now. I could also chalk that up to the fact that I'm the one footing the bill this time around (Sugar Daddy applications being accepted).

Reasons

It is funny to think that all the things we have experienced in life thus far have molded together to create the beings that we are today. I notice more each day that the characteristics I embody really stem from the past. Not to say that reflecting on what has made you who you are doesn't equally inspire you to strive for more and the thrill of newness in the present and future. I have been thinking about many things recently...friendships, relationships, life goals and visions. It made me realize how many rich life experiences I've had, and have yet to tackle.

This thoughtful examination lead me to create a few goals that I feel won't expire over time. So here it goes:

1. Smile more than you want to.
2. Give people the benefit of the doubt, but don't let go of your gut feelings...they are there to keep you aware.
3. Believe in the power you have over yourself and anything negative that may be thrown at you.
4. It will always be worth it, even if it doesn't seem that way in the moment. You will learn, and that's all you can ask for. The rest is a blessing.


Often I find things on Instagram that I will save as a reminder to keep a positive outlook on life, here is one of them...

I know I got serious on you, but as in life there has to be a a balance of sassy and serious.

I ask you to think about your life and look at what it's lead you to be like today. Pretty amazing isn't it! Be proud, humble and genuine...after all there is only one you.

XOXO,
Courtney

IPad love

It's kind of ridiculous how much a new piece of technology can consume you. As a happy Friday to myself I finally purchased an iPad!!! (Yes, all those exclamation points are necessary...it's flipping amazing!)

I am an iPhone girl, so I figured I wouldn't get that addicted to it, but I was VERY wrong! I must say it makes my phone look like a teeny tiny zoolander-esque cell phone...haha. If you don't know what I'm referring to you better study up on your Zoolander ASAP!

With a friend-cation in September to Wells Beach, Maine I figured I would need something to keep me occupied on the plane...on that note I needed some cute "luggage" for the iPad too. Hence this beauty...

{Griffin}

Yes, I know I have a problem...I am working on it! But in the mean time, why not just read about others who have a love for fabulous things like I do...haha, no really... I began reading a really funny/awesome/entertaining book called "White Girl Problems" by Babe Walker. Check out her blog...it's too much! And by 'too much,' I mean great! I am sure that if you know me you will know why I like her style. 

Cheers to another week going by...

XOXO~

Courtney

New year New you

There is something to be said about making Resolutions. I know that most of the resolutions we create are swept under the rug without a second glance, but this year I am making a valiant effort to accomplish a few. I have been teaching for almost 6 years at a wonderful child development center, meanwhile I have also been putting of going back to school to earn my master's degree. Finally I am taking the next step and applying...aka, taking the bull by the horns and living my life how I have always envisioned it.

While my stomach is in knots and my bank account wonders "how do we pay for this?" I know that if I don't act now, I will feel as if I am missing out. You see I haven't felt this urge to enroll until just recently. Maybe it's because I don't feel the pressure from others to go, maybe it's because the people around me are fulfilling their passions, or maybe I have found the strength and drive to be what I've been working to be for so long. Ok...truthfully it is all of those factors mixed together.

I have to have my application submitted by the first of February, and then the waiting game begins...YIKES!

Lets hope, wish and pray that all goes as well.

XOXO,
Courtney

27.

I have been away from the blogging world for a bit now, but for some reason I felt compelled to re-enter today. Whether it be the fact that I have a few free hours or that I just celebrated my 27th birthday (who cares if it was a month ago)  and want to do more things I am passionate about this year, I am ready to get the ball rolling again on Slightly Sassy.

This summer has been filled with a lot of once in a lifetime experiences, and plenty of day to day memories. As a welcome back I will try and fill in the blanks from the past year...YES, I know that is a long time! It is true what they say..."time flies when you're having fun!"

APRIL

I posed in my first "photo shoot" for a few ladies who wanted to practice shooting around Portland. Needless to say I could do this EVERYDAY! I had such a fun time. The day was filled with so much laughter, lightheartedness and frankly I felt empowered. Here is a sample of some of the shots they took that somewhat sunny day in Portland.

Spring passed by in a wink, and before I knew it Summer was in full swing.

JUNE

What a busy time June was, between two of my bff's having their joint birthday party, Hooli visiting from Vermont and my BFF Amy getting married on Maui ( I FINALLY got to fulfill my MOH duties!), it was a jam packed four weeks.

 

Reunited with Juliet!

 

  Birthday Girls






















A few nights in paradise...







                                                                 


Ready for a fun night of celebrating

 

 

 

 

{via Mike L Photos}

 

It was an amazing week with my beautiful best friend!

 

The rest of the summer was crazy and flew by extrememly fast. I think that these photos sum it up pretty well. Obviously I am on a photo kick, guess thats great since pictures say way more than words!

 

Organic Brewfest

 

Mini me

 

Mississippi Street Fair

 

International Brewfest

 

Shenanigans

 

My Cousins Bachelorette

 

Fireball at 11am

 

Lindsay's beautiful wedding

Well hopefully that isn't too much to take in. At least I am caught up and can continue to keep it current...here is to hoping anyway;)

~C

pain in my side

So I took a trip to the hospital Tuesday night, and may I say at 25, I am pretty proud that this is the first trip I have taken as a patient since I was born! I had been experiencing some horrible pain in my right side since Sunday, and I was finally at the point where I could stand it no longer. Long story short, I spent 14 hours in Emergency before the doctors could figure out what was causing me so much pain. I had an ultrasound (I have never been asked if I was pregnant so many times), an X-ray of my stomach and also a CT scan (so weird, felt like I peed my pants...hahaha!) I finally found out that I have Colitis (an infected and inflamed colon, its similar to Crohns, but isn't always a recurring thing). I was beside myself when I found out that NO surgery was needed:) I did however find out that my year long plan to have a blast with my friends at Brewfest this weekend wasn't going to pan out quite how I had hoped. I have to say no to all alcohol for 12 days, I don't think this will be hard, but I have to say I was bummed that I won't be able to enjoy the Raspberry Wheat beer that draws me to the festival. I am keeping my fingers crossed that I will atleast be able to pop on down to the Portland Waterfront to visit for a bit...water and snacks in hand! To all those who are going, pour a little out for me:) Oh did I also mention that my medications also restrict me from being in the sun...so while is it beautiful and perfect tanning weather I get to couch surf, I know, it keeps on getting better. I am very grateful though that it wasn't anything more serious!

Here is a little diagram of the entire Colon, The part that I have Colitis in is the purple and and also where the purple connects to the green.

lately.

Well since I clearly have a hard time committing to a regular blogging schedule, I decided to just do it whenever I can. There has been a lot going on over the last few months, so I'll fill you all in on some of the memories.

March

Girl talk for St.Patrick's day.




Cabo San Lucas

Creating our own Spring Break...aka Cougar-cation.

April

Blazer Playoff Game.

Yes it was the game where the Blazers came back from a 20pt deficit.

April

Mother's Day with my lovely sister and Cousins.

June

Dinner with the Ladies, and Nicole and Sarah's Birthday!

Needless to say I am looking forward to the many adventures that this summer has in store!

that's what i'm talking about.

Since this Winter has been a bust, I felt like a little Spring cheer was in order.

I am vacationing with my girlfriends in March, and needless to say I am already thinking about the fabulous duds that I can dawn on the beach and wherever else we may venture in Mexico. For that matter, I am just looking forward to adding my own spin to these combinations and wearing them around all over...portland too...

I love the simplistic bohemian feel this exudes without appearing to planned and forced.

Drew Barrymore has a way with clothes that most strive to have...effortless beauty.

Another lady who seems to understand what works for her...well most of the time...is Jennifer Love Hewitt. I could for sure see myself running errands, meeting up with friends and enjoying the day in this chic yet relaxed ensemble.

I don't know if it is the classic style and the unconventional presentation of this white button up, or simply the fact that Kim Kardashian is great at pairing items, but this is an outfit that anyone of any age could rock...and rock hard.

You wouldn't expect the booties to be a part of this getup, but they put the icing on the cake. The flawless make-up also lends itself to her final look...love the glow she has.

One thing I have been loving is Vanessa Hudgens nail color choices. I even tried my own color combination and received many complements.

This is her fun and sassy sea foam green and gold. What combination are you going to try?

Ok so most of the outfits are more appropriate for my daily life in Portland, and are a little too bundled for the mexican coast. I guess that just means I better keep looking for the perfect items to fill up my luggage, and of course keep finding ideas that I can use my full closet for:)

hi again...i swear i didn't forget about you!

I am so sorry for my blogging absence. Time seems to slip away so fast! I thought that with the holidays now upon us I would re-start my blogging with my favorite time of year:)

As many of you know I love Christmas, and all of the sparkle and shine of the season pretty much consumes me. I wanted to share a few of my favorite things about this Christmas season so far.

...The Singing Christmas Tree...

{via}

I couldn't think of a more amazing way to get in the holiday spirit. The entire tree is filled with people, as well as the stage, singing all of the best Christmas songs. New, since the last time I had attended, was the dance performances by the Jefferson dancers, which made the show even more beautiful. I also had the privilege of going with my Grandma, we both had a great time together..not a surprise at all:)

GLEE
the Christmas album

I broke down and bought the album from iTunes...couldn't resist... 2 of my favorite things all wrapped into one!

Elf

I love you...I love you...I loveeeee you...

Such a cotton-headed ninnymuggins!

Some great music, lots of laughs and a movie to make you feel magical, sounds splendid to me!

*Cookie Clause*

{via}

Since we started a new tradition last year, annual cookie baking/swap, I thought it quite necessary for me to have a festive and occasion appropriate apron to wear:)

I would love to hear about some of the magical and memorable things that help you become filled with joy and happiness during the most wonderful time of the year.

well hello again...

So the last few weeks have gotten away from me so extremely fast. With leaving my old class and joining my new kiddos, there has been little time for rest. I am however really really liking my new class...thank goodness! I haven't ever changed this many diapers, but that is the one bummer, and I am already developing an immunity to them...hehe. I miss everyone at my old center, but I am loving all of my new co-workers. I think this was the perfect move for me:)

Happy Easter to all of you too! I am going to spend a lovely afternoon with my family...egg hunts...good food...wine...some chocolate candy, should be awesome.

Anyway...I am going to try....really really really hard to not be such a stranger!

Until next time...

XOXO,

Sassy Courtney

a new adventure

So last week I accepted a new job!!! I am still working for the same company, it is just at a different school. This is sure to be a bittersweet journey. I am going to be the lead teacher in the Toddler room, which is the classroom filled with children ranging from 2-3 years old. The new room I am going to be in is beautiful too, it has lots of natural light and plenty of space for the children to explore. Of course I am sad that I will not be downtown, with the children and families I love so much, but there are going to be lots of memories made at my new school. I still have the rest of this week and all of next week to enjoy with my Preschoolers, so I am really trying to take every moment in. I will be sure and let you all know how this journey goes :)

On another note...Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

This is the cutout detailing around the bottom of my skirt...so fun and girly!

Seeing everyone decked out in green is awesome...well only if it isn't Uof O gear;) I am wearing one of my favorite green articles of clothing today, a dainty and high waisted skirt.I am hoping that the skirt will help me on my mission to make spring come sooner rather than later. Hope you all have a great day, and get to enjoy the spirit of the day!

XOXO,
Sassy Courtney

appreciated...yes in deed!

sweet treats to tell someone they are lovely and unique...

For some odd reason I have always loved Buddhas...I am not Buddhist, but something about them really appeals to me. It probably is the fact that no matter what, I will always have a smaller belly than a "Big Belly Buddha," hehe. I found these silly Buddha figurines at Urbanoutfitters and thought that they would make a cute little gift to give someone as an 'out of the blue' treat to make them feel special.

I love to visit my Grammie, and sometimes I even bring her some flowers just because I think she is FABULOUS! This would be the cutest vase set to bring someone on a visit to their house. It is clean but functional and really highlights the natural beauty of the flowers it is showcasing.

{Via}

At only $24 I think this is a precious gift for girls of all ages. This would be lovely in a baby's room, or in a chic girls apartment. The details really make this a piece unique, and I'm sure any one who receives this as a gift will feel equally as special.

A thoughtful note is also a nice way to let those who mean a lot to you just exactly how much you really appreciate them. One of my previous students gave me a card from egg press and I thought that it was so cute and quirky. This is one of their newest creations for 2010.

Cheers to good friends, blog friends and family!

the things kids say...

So as many of you know by now I am a preschool teacher. Since I am a teacher I am surrounded by amazing children all day long. I hear some of the funniest things I have ever heard, as you can imagine, when I am with them. Today has been no exception either.

"Teacher Christine, When I see a cigarette I don't smoke it."

-H age: 3

I know right?!?

How do they think of these things. I guess that is the beauty of being a teacher, with each new day comes new and exciting adventures!

Cheers to being a teacher!

a few of my favorite things

My friend Lauren over at The Little Things We Do does a blog every once in a while about a select few of her favorite things around her home. I thought that I'd give it a go, and share with all of you a few of the items I have that I love love love.

words of wisdom...

I have had this framed card in my room for a while now, and I'd like to say it is always there if I'm in need of encouragement.

I also really love the stack of books and the vintage cigar box the frame lives on, it is cluttered but relaxed and clean.

a creative gift...

Lauren at the little things, made me this amazing jewelry stand. It was constructed using two vintage plates and a vintage glass cup. I love that I can set it out with a few fun pieces of jewelry to create a charming and whimsical touch to my bedroom.

All in form...

The mere fact that these are miniature dress forms makes me happy, but the fact that they are classic black and white add to my fondness of them. They are a constant reminder to me to be stylish and fabulous as much as possible!

I think I may make this a recurring blog, so if anyone has something to share let me know. I am always interested in new decorating ideas.

Enjoy your week!

XOXO, Sassy Courtney