Spooky Sunday

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Well, first things first: I moved.

My anxiety over the past couple weeks has been through the roof — I realized I signed an 11-month lease and not a 12-month lease, my roommate was moving back to Arizona, and that I was a month behind on planning. Engage freak-out mode. I got lucky and found someone to rent me a room temporarily while I put all of my things in a storage unit. The "catch"? It's in Andersonville.

Don't get me wrong, Andersonville is pretty awesome. In fact, I spent the day wandering around and like it quite a bit. But Logan Square is just... home. Or I'm attached to it. Or something. I feel like I'm in a foreign land. It's a new experience to say the least.


So I put all of my things in a storage unit. I have no experience with storage, so this was a little feat on its own. My dad drove up from Ohio — aka lifesaver — to help me move since literally everyone I knew was out of town or busy. We spent twelve hours shlepping my belongings from my apartment, to his truck, and then from to truck to the storage unit and to the rented room. After my dad left, I went to a house party with my pal Angus (which you guys probably haven't heard about in, um, a few months).  I was mega tired and ended up passing out and not being much fun.


Well, for starters, I now live beside a cemetery.




For lunch Angus and I went to a cute little place called Kopi. They had lots of coffee choices and it was pretty difficult to pick what I wanted because everything looked so delicious. I can easily say that I'm going to be going here quite often.


We also stumbled upon the Puppet Bike puppet show, which I have seen once before. I swear that this has to be the cutest thing in existence. I gave the kitty puppet a dollar tip and he blew me kisses. AH!





We spent the rest of the afternoon hitting up little delis, checking out a comic books store, and meandering the markets. It's really quite wonderful. Oh, and better yet? I live across the street from a thrift store. Oh goodness!


So aside from the housing hiccup in the road, things have been awesome. I know that this is just one more obstacle that I can (and will) overcome and be back on my own in a short period of time. Not to mention that I'm flying back out to Philadelphia on October 9th! Fall is officially here, we're creeping up on my favorite holiday (Halloween!) and Chicago is just as grand as always.

Oh and thanks to Angus for snapping a couple photos for me!

Floral bodysuit, UO
BDG High Rise Shorts, UO
Lace kimono, thrift store
Tights, H&M
Leather Litas, Jeffrey Campbell
Gold cuff, H&M

Friday Finds // 1:Face

I'm pretty picky when it comes to watches, hence why I rarely ever rare them. Not surprisingly, I prefer watches that lack bling, are a little sportier, and are modern. I was pretty intrigued when I read about 1:Face Watches — and even more interested in the aid behind the clocks.


The concept behind 1:Face is one that we all know well — you buy something, someone gets help. 1:Face has a great metrics chart about how the purchase of their product can help people obtain food, water, breast cancer screenings, efficient stoves, and AIDS treatment or contraceptives.


While I think all of the causes are very important, I am particularly fond of the yellow watch. It just so happens that this also goes towards Charity Water, a non-profit organization who bring clean drinking water to those in developing countries. Water is such a basic resource that unfortunately many people don't have easy access to. I think it's such an important and often overlooked cause — and by looking at the metrics it's easy to see that it takes a lot of watches to get a well in Rwanda. Did you know that 884 million people lack access to clean water? That three times the population of the entire United States for something that you and I take for granted every single day.


The white watch is also a handsome choice with aid going to The Millennium Campaign. To open up about my past a little bit, back in 2009 I had become unemployed and was living on friends' couches — that's a sugar coated way of saying that I didn't have a place to live. It's no secret that sometimes I can be terrible at asking for others for help, and on most days I didn't know if I was going to be able to eat. I was fortunate enough to have access to food pantries in Ohio until I was cleared to be on the state's food assistance program — so I can easily say that the issue of hunger hits home.

I was lucky and could access government programs to help me for the short while that I needed it before I got on my feet again. I'm still very aware that not everyone has that support, though, especially in other parts of the world and in low-income areas of our own country. The Millennium Campaign aims to end poverty by 2015 — which is a hefty goal. There are many issues that lie deeper which cause a food shortage — including agriculture and corporate farming, to name a few. That aside, awareness is very important for this cause and I think it's a step in the right direction.

1:Face launches the Monday and I think it will be interesting to watch this company (no pun intended) and trace how they develop. Which face would you choose?

Weekstagram // September 22

The temperature drop here in Chicago has been utterly delightful. I'm so excited for autumn and hot coffee and pumpkin-flavored everything!

• I spent many nights at the coffee shop working on the Etsy Shop! I think working away from home is the best way to stay focused. I am moving out of my apartment, so everything in my shop is 35% off with the code MOVING2012! And remember that all US apparel orders have free shipping!
• I spent lots of time doodling and laughing with Phil over cartoons concerning my injured wrist.
• There's a little diner in my neighborhood that I like to visit after the Sunday farmer's market, sit in the window, drink coffee, and admire cute hipster dads.
• Yep, I took the plunge. After waiting in line at the Apple Store in Lincoln Park for a whopping six minutes, I have myself the new iPhone 5. It's beautiful!
• My old record player bit the dust a few months ago, and I nabbed this temporary replacement from my boss for twenty bucks. Not bad. It's one of the small, portable briefcase kind. Not the best, but it'll do for now!
• Testing the front-facing camera on my new phone and showing off my favorite cat-print scoop neck tee from work.
• The Lomography Gallery Store is now open in Wicker Park! I wandered in here yesterday and met some really cool people. They're having an opening party on October 4th that I plan on hitting up. You should too!
• On my rainy adventures yesterday, I also wandered into a record store that is literally five minutes from my apartment. I've lived in this neighborhood for almost a year and I didn't know about Logan Hardware! They have an arcade in the back!
• And of course rainy Chicago days call for thigh high socks, Docs, and my favorite anorak. 

Follow Mini Penny on Instagram @Chaplinnn

September Birchbox Review

▲ Color Club InstaLove Polish This color is absolutely lovely! It's a blueish-purplish tone and goes one smooth and dries quickly. I have gotten Color Club in one of my past Birchboxes (a gold version) and I do like this brand quite a bit!

▲ Dr. Jart + Water Fuse Beauty Balm SPF 25+ This is a four-in-one moisturizer, serum, sunscreen, and skin tint. I used as a light under-eye concealer this morning and it has a good texture and scent. I can't say for sure whether or not it's worth the $32 for a full-size version, but I don't mind it in a sample size to throw in my makeup bag as an on-the-go skin tint.

▲ Fekkai Technician Color Care Collection Shampoo & Conditioner Firstly, I think it's really hard to judge a shampoo/conditioner by a sample size, therefore I'm saving this as a travel set for my next trip. Secondly, I stopped buying Fekkai a long time ago when I found out they still test on animals (granted, there are a few products I use that test on animals, but I'm slowly trying to push them out of my routine!). In the past, their leave in conditioners have always been wonderful, but I still won't be buying this brand.

▲ Twistband Hair Tie This is the third Twistband Hair Tie that Birchbox has sent me. Guess what, guys? I didn't fall head over heels the first two times (in fact, I hate multi-colored hair ties), so what makes you think I'm going to order some this time around?

▲ Vasabti Brighten Up! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator I love the texture of this exfoliating cleanser. It uses microderm crystals and papaya and makes my face feel pretty darn wonderful. $34 for a full size is more than I'd like to spend, but I do think it's a really great product and might order it when I have enough Birchbox points to get a discount. Also: Paraben and sulfate free!

▲ The Brush Guard Variety Kit I like this concept since I'm always worried about taking my makeup brushes on trips with me. With that being said, I'm not sure these are the best answer, though. They still have ridges and it's a bit worrisome that the brushes could push up into the holes and actually get damaged. 

Overall, even though I'm not monumentally impressed, this is probably one of the better Birchboxes I've gotten. The products aren't standouts, but at least there's a medium tone of general interestingness (except for the freaking hair tie). Oh yeah, and no sample fragrance! Finally!

This is the last Birchbox from my three-month trial that was gifted to me by the company. This is also my second round with Birchbox and I can say with confidence that I will not be continuing my order with them. I have never been that impressed and would love to look into sample boxes that provide more animal-friendly and organic options! 

Thanks to Birchbox for allowing me to sample your product for the past three months. I hope my honest (even if harsh at times) input on your service helps them develop and tweak the boxes to make  'em better for everyone!

Phil Chester Photography

Last week I had the privilege of shooting with my old friend Phil Chester who was in Chicago for just two days. I've known Phil for a few years and have watched his engagement and wedding photography skills evolve into something quite extraordinary. I was such an enjoyable experience to revisit some old memories and even have him teach me a thing or two about his post-processing. He sent me the finished photos late last night and I'm so excited to share them with you.

If you get the opportunity, check out his online portfolio. He is about to make the big move to Portland (from Columbus) and I'm so happy for him! Thank you, Phil!

Click to enlarge.








Photos courtesy of Phil Chester Photography.

Manic Monday

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My obsession for fall? Cheap Monday second skin denim.

I've picked up a few pairs of these and needless to say, I'm totally in love. "No white after labor day"? Who cares.


I'm trying to get out and enjoy Chicago's fall weather while it's here. It makes it a lot easier since I no longer have internet at home! Lauren leaves to go back to Arizona in about a week, so we're making the best of the time she has remaining here, too! I've been spending a good chunk of time at work or at coffee shops with wifi. It's been years since I've lived somewhere without an internet connection, so it's totally strange for me to adapt!


Aside from the Cheap Monday second skins, I'm head over heels for this Sue the T-Rex necklace I made. When Lauren and I went to the Field Museum last month, I picked up this gold charm (ornament?) at the gift shop and immediately made a necklace out of it when I got home. I think it's pretty killer and it gets loads of compliments.

Lauren and I have also been taking advantage of early retail holidays — meaning we've stocked up on all of the fall-flavored candies. If you haven't had the chance yet, pick yourself up some pumpkin spice Kisses — they're heaven!

What are you looking forward to most this fall?

Cassie Blouse, Cheap Monday
Second Skin White Wash Denim, Cheap Monday
Skinny white belt, thrifted
Dinosaur necklace, DIY
@UOSeattle tote, gift from UO Home Office visit
Nude flats, UO Surplus

Shop My Closet + More New Etsy Items!

I'm still over here working hard to get all of these new goodies in the Mini Penny Shop! Remember that right now I'm having a moving sale, so enter MOVING2012 at checkout to get 35% off of your order! Also check below for the first round of my next Shop My Closet sale.


Queen Bee Dress - Size S, $40


Grape Pencil Skirt with Pockets - Size XS, $18


Pebbled Brown Pencil Skirt - Size S, $18


Authentic Black Fox Tail, $40


Bright Button Up Shirt - Size M, $22


Polish Sheer Houndstooth Blouse - Size M-L, $28


Silk Striped Detachable Collar, $20


Daisy Denim High Low Shirt - Size L-XL, $26


Floral Denim Short Sleeve Button Up - Size M-L, $26

And now onto the Shop My Closet Items. If anyone is interested, feel free to shoot me an email with your zip code so that I can give you a shipping quote.


Womyn (Neiman Marcus) Velvet Blazer SIZE 6 - Brand New, never worn. Amazing piece for fall. Silky lining and 100% Cotton. Made in the USA (NYC). Two breast pockets and two waist pockets. Asking $10 + Shipping.

American Eagle Grandpa Cardigan SIZE XL (Fits like a M) - Grey and white cozy grey shawl-collar cardigan with two waist pockets. Great for layering or getting comfy. Grey and white plastic buttons. Asking $10 + shipping.


Black and White Floral S/S Button Up - Size M - Stretchy cotton button up. Great for layering under sweaters and jackets. Asking $5 + Shipping.


Lush Cotton Keyhole Dress - Size S - Great halter-style soft and stretchy dress. Made in the USA. Keyhole cutout at the chest. Asking $5 + Shipping.

Forever 21 Chambray Halter Dress - Size S - Button front chambray/denim dress. Elastic at the back but not at the waist. Halter with collar. Slightly sheer, so tights or a slip skirt is recommended. Asking $5 + Shipping.

There you have it! Tomorrow is Monday, which means it's back to work for me. As I'm slowly packing, though, keep an eye out for new items. Hope your weekend was grand!

New Etsy Items + Moving Sale!

Well, it's time to get sort of excited. I'm moving (to where yet, I don't know. Read below for the silly story) and I have tons of great clothing to unload before doing so. What's that mean for you? A Mini Penny Moving Sale! Hooray!

The story is a little ridiculous as to how it came to be that I'm moving this early. You see, I thought I signed a 12-month lease when I moved into my apartment last Halloween. Wrong. While talking to my landlady last week, she informed me that my lease is until September 30th. Uh-oh. Not only am I totally unprepared mentally to move into a new place, but I am financially unprepared, Lauren is moving back to Arizona (which leaves me with no roommate yet again), AND I didn't get the job in Philadelphia that I've been interviewing for. For the next couple months I might be "homeless" again as I was back in 2010 — and by homeless I mean I'll be putting all of my stuff in storage and sleeping on friends' couches. It's not the worst, but it's definitely not ideal for me.

Okay, enough of that. Onto the new Etsy goodies. The Mini Penny Moving sale gives you 35% off when you use the code MOVING2012 at checkout. This sale is going to last until I leave my apartment at the end of this month. I also added a lot of new items today and have more to add here and there over the next couple of weeks.


Joni Blair Nautical Dress Size S-M $32


Cream Felt-Brimmed Hat $24


Black Avant Garde Batwing Dress - Size M $28


Charlee Allison Bird Dress - Size M $34


White Button-front skirt - Size M $24


Speckled Herringbone Tweed A-Line Skirt Size S $32


GV Cherry Red High Rise Denim Size 26W $28


Polka Dot Pleated Skirt Size XL $28


Diagonal Strip Short Sleeve Top Size S $28


White Knit Sweater - Size S $28


White Floral High Rise Shorts - Size M-L $24


Halloween Crop Top - Size S-M $22


Blue Floral High Rise Shorts - Size M $24


Dip Dye Mid Rise Shorts - Size L $24


Visage Royal Avocado Skirt - Size M $28


Blue Floral Pleated Dress - Size M-L $28

Keep your eyes out for new items and an upcoming shop-my-closet sale! Hope you all have a great weekend.