Try-it-out Tuesday: adding quirk to a shirtdress

Studio M linen-cotton shirtdress, Macy's, old

Calvin Klein Jeans tee, Macy's

sandals, Target

  
        I think this shirtdress is a little too small and snug to wear on its own, but I've decided to figure out ways to use it for layering. For the first look, I added a sequined tee. I'm kind of liking the combination of navy, olive green, and mixed metals. :)

    
     For the second look, I slung my amazingly versatile fabric belt around my neck. I felt a little like a Girl Scout, but it's perfect for days when it's too hot to even layer two lightweight items of clothing.
        My books and media for young adults class is turning out to be great fun. :) I read "The Chocolate War" by Cormier for the first time, will be rereading "Twilight," and doing my author presentation on Francesca Lia Block. Yesterday we finished watching the film adaptation of S.E. Hinton's "Outsiders." I'm sure I've seen at least parts of it before, but I had no recollection that it featured Tom Cruise, Patrick Swayze, and other notable actors.
       We chose our author presentation folks from a list, by lottery. My name was pulled last. The teacher had asked us to look over the list beforehand and choose 5 authors we were interested in. I also had Madeleine L'Engle and Susan Cooper jotted down, but both were snatched up by other students. I had a total book-nerd moment of mild outrage when the student who chose Madeleine L'Engle said she had only read "A Wrinkle in Time." I had to stifle myself from saying, "What? You haven't read the other books that follow 'A Wrinkle in Time,' or 'Ring of Endless Light,' or 'Meet the Austins,' or 'A House Like a Lotus' ..." I have to remember that not everyone enjoyed a misspent youth immersed in books.
       During the break, the very nice teacher came over and asked, Are you sure you want to do Francesca Lia Block? Some people find her work a little out there. I explained to her that I was quite familiar with Block's work and enjoy it. I think Block will be a little harder to present, due to edgier subject matter and her unique view of the world, but I'm looking forward to the challenge.
    On an unrelated note: Last week I started doing pushups each day, added in some lunges and ab exercises, and am astounded that I am not brimming with muscle yet. I just don't understand -- you mean this toning thing takes time?!? Now I see why people start working on their summer bod in March. ...