There is a popular restaurant and sports bar open in the northwest suburbs of Chicago that I didn’t even know existed until a couple of weeks ago.  I was missing out, indeed!  In fact, I was so impressed by the hospitality of this father and son establishment that I told them I’d write a rave review . . .

TJ O’Brien’s Bar and Grill is a cozy restaurant and sports bar that serves contemporary Irish American fare, including a to-write-home-about comforting Shepherd’s pie (I tried this!), satisfying pizza (I indulged on this as well), huge hamburgers, and the juiciest beef sandwiches this side of ChiTown. Prices are extremely reasonable on top of their good taste; they are open for lunch and dinner and even offer catering.

O’Brien’s atmosphere is friendly while roomy enough to mingle with friends.  A sports bar with flat screen televisions greets patrons when they first walk in while, along the side, a homier room that includes a mantled fireplace and pool table is open for quieter dining and mingling.  I personally appreciated the welcome ambiance of this room.

Every single person who works at TJ’s makes you feel right at home, as if they’ve known you forever as soon as you walk in.  James O’Brien, one of the owners, is in almost every day; he’s constantly moving from patron to table to patron, ensuring everyone’s satisfaction with food and service.  TJ’s hosts fun neighborhood parties such as their now annual Halloween costume parties, Christmas Eve Eve celebrations, snow days commemorations and, of course, get togethers centered around popular sports events.

TJ’s recently added regular live entertainment to their establishment.  For instance, every other Thursday evening at 9pm, Darryl Markette Music plays audience requested, acoustic sets.  Stop by for a great chance to unwind and catch up with friends.

TJ O’Brien’s is located at 53 W. Slade Street in Palatine, Illinois, conveniently just off the Metra tracks, at 847.468.7468.  Go for the deliciously authentic Irish fare and stay for the friendly atmosphere and entertainment.  It won’t be your last stop . . . .

A+ to TJ OBrien’s for sweetly satisfying food, high quality local entertainment and welcoming, neighborhood ambiance!!

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The name itself evokes a dreamy, blissful state.  While shopping for fashionable clothing and eye-catching jewelry may not make all our dreams come true, it can help!!   Finding that perfect dress or blouse or accessory actually can be a step to reaching goals, to building a confidence-enhancing wardrobe, and to creating special occasions!

“Create the occasion for the dress!” declares my savvy sis-in-law.  This could be the motto for this popular Los Angeles boutique.  I’ve been to Polka Dots and Moonbeams, located on 3rd Street in West Hollywood, a few times this year since my sis-in-law re-introduced me. Each time, I came out completely satisfied with my unique finds, and I can’t wait to pay another visit very soon!!! See just how satisfied I was last time.  Two bags full!!  ➔➔➔

Thank you to fashion savvy Polka Dot girl Lorin for her expertise in finding these items for me!!

The Polka Dots and Moonbeams concept is to bring the latest, newest designer collections together under one (adorably adorned) roof.  It’s a one-stop-shop!  Polka Dots & Moonbeams buyers stay on top of the trends, carrying such brands as Hudson Jeans, Milly, Hale Bob, Tarte, and Bailey 44 to name a few.  The boutique carries a perfect mix of well-known designers as well as less mainstream brands.  I am confident when I walk into Polka Dots and Moonbeams that when I walk out, I will leave with pieces I won’t dismayingly spot on others.  Not only does the boutique carry just one item in each size, but the clothing itself is not what one can find at the local mall by any means.

As cited on their website, “Our customers come in whether they are looking for the special piece or the whole outfit.”  That’s true for me – I paid a visit at the beginning of summer looking for any ‘new and exciting summer pieces’ as well as later in the summer for a first date outfit.  On both of these visits, my finds were fulfilled thanks to Polka Dot’s expert shopper, Lorin.  Lorin is one of the fashion savvy people who just look at you and know what will look good on your body-type.  Lorin now knows me by name, knows my likes and dislikes, and knows me!!!  It’s to the point where I simply walk in the door, excitedly chat with Lorin and mosey around while Loran briskly picks up piece-upon-piece for me.  It makes me feel so . . . . Hollywood!!!  I completely trust her judgment as I find pieces waiting for me in the dressing room that I would never pick up myself but look surprisingly flattering on. Check out me modeling a sampling of my purchases below ➔➔➔

One of my purchases I wear again & again - Viereck dress

This is one of those 'I'd never pick it out myself' purchases - Waverley blouse!

One of my new Bailey 44 dresses!

Grading Girl gives Polka Dots and Moonbeams an A+ for fabulously unique, fashion-forward finds, expert, friendly fun fashion advice, and reachable prices. Whether you need one eye-popping necklace or a dress for that wedding next Friday, you will find what you’re looking for at this trendy boutique in the heart of West Hollywood.  Ask for Lorin and tell her Grading Girl sent you.  :-)

Bonus . . . Julia Roberts, Demi Moore, Drew Barrymore, Eva Mendes, Reese Witherspoon . . . to name a few . . . have all been spotted shopping here!!

**Photos of GG taken by Proof Digital Image

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power foods – 150 delicious recipes with the 38 healthiest ingredients

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They say that a picture says a thousand words but it is the talented photographer behind the picture that makes the image speak to us.  Roger Ullman of Proof Digital Image is such a photographer – capturing the smiles in the eyes, the subtexts on the lips and the symbols in the settings that make each image come alive with a story.

I’ve been toying with the idea of breaking into the over-40 modeling industry on the side and finally decided now is the time!  Additionally, my daughter wanted to have photos taken for her college internship profiles.  I desired an experienced, outside-the-box photographer who was approachable and savvy enough to make newbies like us feel comfortable.  After perusing through portfolio samples, it quickly became apparent that Proof Digital Image’s Roger Ullman was the man for the job.  Not only did we feel comfortable , as you can see below, but we had a fabulously fun afternoon and evening of shooting that we won’t soon forget!!

Roger Ullman began as a sports photographer then one day began shooting local bands in concert per request from a friend.  He received such rave reviews and appreciation for his work with these genres that he was soon asked for work in other capacities, namely modeling portfolios.  While he still immensely enjoys doing both sports and concert photography, his primary focus today is in the modeling industry.  As he states, he truly enjoys the interaction with ”real people” as he photographs them one-on-one.  Roger’s main goal is to make everyone he photographs “look absolutely fantastic…that’s a promise.”  He’s not afraid to challenge his clients to get daring, creative and stretch the imagination.  Here’s a sampling of the many shots of me Ullman captured .

What’s so great about working with Roger is that, while he raises the bar in portfolio photography,  he remains approachable as he encourages his models.  He understands that quality photography requires teamwork between the subject and shooter.  First, he asks for ample information, background and goals from his clients ahead of time so that neither one is walking to the shoot nervous.  I felt completely prepared on the day of our shoot as Roger and I conversed back and forth the week prior discussing locations and attire.   Roger was not only patient in answering questions but extremely thorough in discussing procedures.  On the day of the shoot, it’s not simply a matter of him spewing out directives; on the contrary, he truly wants client ideas.  He gives his honest opinions while remaining open to input.  During our six and a half hour shoot, Roger would at times shoot the camera randomly as my daughter or I played with our own poses; at other moments, he’d make subtle suggestions that we eased into – and never once, might I add, did he tire or lose motivation!!  That inspired us to keep fresh and relaxed throughout.   I could go on as long as his impressive collection of  art goes. . . . But don’t take my word for this – let Proof Digital Image photos speak for themselves!!  See contact info below to see the proof in the images!  btw, I will add more photos as they are published!!

Grading Girl gives Proof Digital Image an A+ for approachable professional service, unique creative shots and memorably beautiful images that linger in our thoughts long after our eyes leave the photos.

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Crazy Stupid Love Brings Warm Happy Joy

Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone - Perfect Mix of Crazy Stupid Love

BEST movie of the summer!!  Anecdotal relationship advice for three different generations, dramedy offering equal parts laughable peaks to tear-jerking valleys, and unexpected twists equate this BEST status.  Finally, a message that leaves viewers inspired, hopeful and smiling clinches its worthiness.  In this increasingly narcissistic society that accepts divorce as freely as marriage, it doesn’t hurt for all of us to hear the film’s message:  Believe in love. Try harder.  

The fact that the audience I was a part of for this viewing clapped once in the middle of the film and once at the end attests to its must-see appeal.

The film revolves around Cal Weaver (Steve Carell), whose wife (Julianne Moore) has recently announced her infidelity (the “other man” is played by Kevin Bacon) and requests a divorce. Cal takes his sorrows to a singles’ bar, where he is adopted by local ladies’ man Jacob Palmer (Ryan Gosling). Jacob educates Cal in new ways of wooing the ladies and although Cal picks up some decent skills, his heart is in the wrong place: He’s looking for that elusive true love, his soul mate.  Cal is also dealing with the fact that his adolescent son Robbie (Jonah Bobo) is in love with his teenage babysitter (Analeigh Tipton), who in turn is in love with Cal. Meanwhile, Jacob eventually realizes that he’s still pining for the woman (Emma Stone) who got away.

Steve Carell and Julianne Moore Meet for an Eye-Opening Teacher Conference

Carell carries the comedy while remaining grounded in the pain of the character.  His acting makes me think that maybe leaving The Office is a good thing after all.   Incidentally, it’s always astonishing what good clothes and a haircut can do for a guy. There’s a lesson in itself.  (Let’s also not forget the lesson Jacob proclaims, “Be better than the Gap!” )  Moore, as the estranged wife, does her best to be sympathetic, though it’s hard to forgive her. Marisa Tomei has fabulous fun in a featured role as a one-night stand. Emma Stone has impecable comic timing and confidence.   And Gosling’s growth is evident.  I laughed through much of the Carell and Gosling consistently clever dialogue.  Gosling is clearly relishing a chance to flex his comic muscles . . . . along with those ab muscles.  :-)

GG gives Crazy Stupid Love an A+ for laugh out loud lines that deliver a strong subtext.  Go see this, watch and listen!!

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What Would Your 2002 Past Self Think of Your 2012 Present Self?!

We all need at least one just-for-fun, “beach read” included in our summer reading list; I’m glad I chose this one as one of mine!

This book really had me contemplating! What if I fell off a cardio machine at the gym (I’m there almost every day!), woke up and thought I was back in 2002? There are so many beautiful events and significant changes that occurred in the last 10 years that I would be shocked! In 2002 at this time, I would be anxiously anticipating to begin my dream job teaching within the district I’ve always wanted to teach (this year marked my 10 year anniversary there!).  I’d be ecstatic and literally bursting with pride that my daughter not only is flourishing at her dream university but landed a full-ride as well.  Whoa – talk about a dream come true!  I’m in a different, completely newly furnished home (I’d say my old self would be happy with the new style), I’m at the gym much more than I ever was (my old self would be thrilled with the leaner muscles but want to stock the fridge with more carbs).  Finally, ten years ago, I was newly divorced – I’ve been loved and have loved but apparently haven’t found my last love yet (my old self would be surprised at this yet it would be sad if I didn’t remember the many beautiful experiences, moments and feelings I’ve gained).  Yes, the person I am today is different from the person I was then . . . but it doesn’t hurt to take a step back sometimes . . . Interested?  . . . Here’s the premise of the book:

Alice Love is twenty-nine years old, madly in love with her husband, and pregnant with their first child. So imagine her surprise when, after a fall, she comes to on the floor of a gym (a gym! she hates the gym!) and discovers that she’s actually thirty-nine, has three children, and is in the midst of an acrimonious divorce.

A knock on the head has misplaced ten years of her life, and Alice isn’t sure she likes who she’s become. It turns out, though, that forgetting might be the most memorable thing that has ever happened to Alice.

Moriarty did a fabulous job of bringing everything together from Alice’s past and present. For me it was hard to put this book down because I wanted to see Alice overcome her present and take the joys from her past and bring them with her to her present time. I think that somehow as we go through the trials of life we forget the joys. It was wonderful to be reminded to remember the good times even better than the bad, and use those good times to overcome the pain of loss and mistakes.  The side stories of her sister, mother and grandmother continue to carry the lesson that the pain we are in now does not influence the joy we can truly have in life. The format in which these side stories are presented worked seamlessly as well.  Moriarty has a way of holding suspense – Alice’s small spurts of memory hint at the mysteries she’s forgotten.  Everything about this book was fun and heartwarming – it was interesting to watch Alice watch her own life from an objective point of view.  There are some serious messages here mixed in with at times very comedic delivery.  I’ll eat my new summer hat if you don’t delight in this read!!

GG gives What Alice Forgot an A+ for a delightful protagonist trying to overcome believable obstacles in this crazy, busy, busy world.

A truly good book teaches me better than to read it. I must soon lay it down, and commence living on its hint. What I began by reading, I must finish by acting. ~Henry David Thoreau

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I walked into Bad Teacher with mixed feelings.  On one hand, I predicted I’d be appalled and disgusted at the raunchy fun being made of my profession.  On the other hand, I thought I might laugh hysterically at the exaggerated portrayal of academia.  Well, I walked out with neither extreme; instead, Bad Teacher left me somewhere in the middle.  While there was a handful of laugh-out-loud lines and one or two silly moments that probably every teacher who watches the movie will chuckle, “Ha, I can relate!,” I didn’t leave the theater wanting to happily re-cap every moment.

Taken lightly as the writers want us to take it, Bad Teacher can be viewed as a witty satire on conventional suburban, educational values.  Diaz’s character’s transformation from heartless gold-digger to caring teacher is less than believable, but for the endless potshots that the writers take at shallow, status-seeking suburbanites, this shortfall in characterization can be somewhat forgiven.  A fun fact is that the screenplay was written by Gene Stupnitsky and Lee Eisenberg, two of the former staff writers from The Office.  That explains the striking similarity between the dialogue of gym teacher Russell (Jason Segel) and Jim from The Office.

Those looking for a sweet, silly Cameron Diaz character we’ve seen in the past are in for a rude awakening.  Elizabeth Halsey’s (Cameron Diaz) inappropriate, crude and downright mean actions erase memories of precious Princess Fiona of Shrek or naive Mary from There’s Something About Mary. Actually, not a single character in Bad Teacher can truly be categorized as a “good” person. You’ve got your idealistically idiotic young teachers, Amy Squirrell (Lucy Punch) and Scott Delacorte (Justin Timberlake). You’ve got your hardened “bad” teachers, Elizabeth Halsey (Cameron Diaz) and Russell Gettis (Jason Segal), and your cowardly admins (John Michael Higgins) and your corrupt test admins (Reno 911‘s Thomas Lennon). You’ve got your bully students and superficial parents (a bunch of kids plus Molly Shannon.)  Hmmmmm . . . . . Ultimately, with the exception of Judy Punch, the actors don’t offer much oomph on the screen.  I kept looking for hints of chemistry between former flames Diaz and Timberlake and came up short – even their (clear throat) dry scene was dry. Punch,on the other hand, is so obnoxious and irritating in this film that she literally made me cringe!

 

Cameron Diaz, Jason Segel and Justin Timberlake

Grading Girl gives Bad Teacher a C+ for predictable punches mixed with mediocre acting.  The writers, actors and producers didn’t study hard enough for Bad Teacher to meet expectations.  Ultimately, Bad Teacher does not provide the comic relief of summer’s other big name comedies, Bridesmaids and The Hangover Part II, but if you’re looking for a 90 minute escape from reality, it’s worth the price of the ticket – whether or not you’re a teacher.

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See a sampling of Grading Girl’s official press releases for this musician:

Darryl Markette Makes his Debut in Los Angeles

Darryl Markette, Chicago Singer Songwriter, to Debut in L.A. at Whisky A Go-Go

Chicago Artist, Darryl Markette, Makes L.A. Debut at Whisky A Go-Go

Darryl Markette Will Be Debuting at Whisky A Go-Go on March 4th

Chicago singer songwriter Darryl Markette will be making his LA debut at Hollywood’s infamous Whisky A Go-Go on Friday, March 4^th at 9pm.  Joining Darryl Markette on stage, Los Angeles recording artist Byron Gore and international solo cellist Tina Guo will add their talent to Markette’s show.  Performing at venues spanning from Chicago to The BlueBird Café in Nashville to Gold Pan Saloon in Colorado, Markette sets a new standard for captivating fans and making those fans feel a part of something unique.  This night will feature three of Darryl Markette’s foot stomping, fist pumping originals, two of Gore’s soulful, heart-wrenching songs and a crafted collaboration between Markette and Gore with Guo’s breathtaking cello backsplash.

Purchase tickets at http://dmarkette.com and be placed in a raffle for one free round-trip ticket to Los Angeles for every ticket purchased. Whisky A Go-Go is located on Sunset Blvd, near Clark St.  See these crowd-pleasing musicians up-close and personal while you can.

WHAT:  Darryl Markette (acoustic rock) with special appearance by Los Angeles recording artist, Byron Gore (acoustic rock) and international cellist Tina Guo, at Whisky A Go-Go

WHERE:  Whisky A Go-Go at 8901 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA  90069

WHEN:  Friday, March 4^th, 9 – 10pm

ENTRANCE:  $20/one ticket; $35/two tickets; $48/three tickets; $60/four tickets – one raffle drawing per ticket to win 1 round trip flight to Los Angeles.

ABOUT DARRYL MARKETTE:  In three short years, Darryl has cataloged over 100 original songs with passionate vocals, biting lyrics, and a catchy sing-along chorus.  Darryl’s passion bleeds through his songs as they take you on a journey from foot stomping pleasure to heartfelt pain.  Don’t confuse confidence for arrogance as this chisel jawed rocker brings more than a straw hat and a six string strapped on his back – Markette generates serious vocal heat as a true first tenor. Commanding stage presence and thought provoking lyrics combined with powerhouse vocals make this modern day, brawny cowboy spring forth memories of a young Johnny Cash mixed with a BonJovi~esque sex appeal; be prepared for a memorable evening as this self-proclaimed part-time cowboy, full-time rockstar croons the crowd.  Darryl Markette’s mission is simply to “…help make the world a better place through his songs humbly under God’s grace.” For the past three years, Darryl has led a crusade against breast cancer, with proceeds for his iTunes single Soldier In Pink going to Susan G Komen for the cure. http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/soldier-in-pink-single/id354879325.  As a three time returning walker, Darryl hosts his 3^rd annual Pinko De Mayo© performing with guest artists to raise funds for his Susan G Komen For The Cure 3 Day/60 mile Walk in Chicago:   http://www.dmarkette.com/my3day. To hear more from Darryl Markette go to http://www.dmarkette.com; and iTunes @ http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/darryl-markette/id289309962

ABOUT BYRON GORE:  Byron Gore was drawn to music from an early age, captivated by its power to draw out emotions.  Originally from the UK, Gore has been recording and performing in Los Angeles for the past two year, mesmerizing audiences with his profound, emotionally deep music and smooth-as-silk sound.  His performances include a major Pre-Grammy’s show and a songwriter’s circle in Santa Monica.  Gore’s goal is to give his listeners a sense of what lies deep inside their own hearts and souls through the messages of his heartfelt songs.  Download Byron Gore’s songs on iTunes , including his debut CD at http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/byron-gore/id347876059 or visit http://byrongore.com for more information.

ABOUT TINA GUO:  At the age of 25, Tina Guo has already developed a fascinating international multi-faceted performing career as a solo classical cellist, rock/metal/fusion electric cellist, and acclaimed recording artist known for her distinctive sound and improvisatory style in major motion picture and television scores.  She is also a composer, producer, and published poet and writer.  Her vast performances include appearing as a soloist with the San Diego Symphony, at the American Country Music Awards with Carrie Underwood and on Dancing with the Stars performing with Carlos Santana and India Arie. For more information, visit http://tinaguo.com.

ABOUT WHISKY A GO-GO:  As long as there has been a Los Angeles rock scene, there has been the Whisky A Go-Go. An anchor on the Sunset Strip since its opening in 1964, the Whisky A Go-Go has played host to rock ‘n’ roll’s most important bands, from the Doors, Janis Joplin, and Led Zeppelin to today’s up and coming new artists such as Markette and Gore.  For more information, go to http://whiskyagogo.com.

ABOUT GRADING GIRL:  Think you’re all the rage?  Let Grading Girl give the grade!  A National Board certified English teacher who puts her writing skills to work both in and out of the classroom, she reviews a variety of entertainment, lifestyle, and literary experts to develop awareness, create buzz and build brand through media relations. Her success is a direct result of a personal, vibrant, practical approach that passes your brand with flying colors.  You can put this approach to work for you today – http://gradinggirl.com.

For a detailed GG review of dmarkette’s music, visit Part Time Cowboy, Full Time Rockstar.

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Yes, I shop at Barnes & Noble and Borders more than the average person, and I undoubtedly always will.  There is, however, an independent bookseller that  I happily discovered twenty years ago and have been a devoted customer to ever since.  Chinaberry offers “books and other treasures for the whole family” in a personal, intimate, honest manner.

Chinaberry catalog

What makes shopping through Chinaberry’s catalog or Chinaberry.com so distinct from the larger booksellers is that each and every item is scrutinizingly chosen by its employees.  Employees personally read the books, play the games and used the products to sell only the best.  As the catalog states, “You won’t find a single ho-hum or overly hyped, media-driven product in our catalog.”

I started receiving Chinaberry catalogs when I was pregnant with my daughter and remember reveling in their arrivals.  I used to sit and read the catalogs from cover to cover as if it was a book itself!!  Every description about each item included a funny anecdote, memorable quotation or practical suggestion that I took to heart.  As you read these descriptions, you can’t help but feel you’ve got a friend sitting next to you excitedly telling you about the great book she just read!!

I’m absolutely convinced that my daughter’s home library wouldn’t have consisted of as many endearing pieces had it not been for the wonderful people of Chinaberry.  The Christmas story book with the unique painted image of a very pregnant Mary on her way to the Inn, the glossy, boldy photographed My First Word book, the gentle Stopping at Every Lemonade Stand parenting book . . . these and more come to mind.

Books are categorized by age-appropriateness from birth through adults.  Other offerings include educational games, special items for parents to pamper themselves with (you must check out the Seven Year Pen!), and seasonal items to make the home cozier (we have a few of those mugs with hidden animals at the bottom).

While I’ve continued to purchase books for myself and my family through the years from Chinaberry, my devotion is fervently renewed now that I have a baby niece.  Case in point, for Christmas she received four special books for her library from her Auntie!!  One of her favorite presents, in fact, was the In My Den finger puppet book.  She looooves to pull on the bear.  She’ll be able to carry her family close with the People Who Love Me Album, jump up and down when the baby ducky pops out at the end of  I Kissed the Baby, and gaze at animals snuggle up with snow in  When Snowflakes Fall. 

Grading Girl gives Chinaberry an A+ for offering kind, gentle products with kind, gentle service.  What started as a very small mail-order business in founder Ann Reuthling’s home to a catalog that reaches over 3.5 million people today, Chinaberry has so much more to offer than the bestsellers.

Check out the About Chinaberry story in detail here.  Ann Reuthling’s story is inspirational!

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I’ve been working out at the gym since college and have yet to come across a better piece of exercise apparel.    These yoga pants are universally body-friendly for women of varied shapes and sizes. Over the past few years, I’ve donned a couple pairs from other brands but I always come back to my go-to gear from Victoria’s Secret.

I'm rarely seen at the gym without these Yoga Foldover Pants!

I’m getting friends and family hooked on these!  Just tonight, two of my friends who asked me where I get them had on pairs of their own!!!!  I love to share the wealth when I find something I can truly stand behind!  It’s a big part of the fun of Grading Girl’s TLC review!

Where can one get these?! Order them online or by phone through the Victoria’s Secret catalog.  These are NOT exactly the same as those carried in the Victoria’s Secret store.  I’ve tried the store styles on and, while nice, not quite as many colors are offered; additionally, the store version fits me higher on the hips.

What is truly unique about these is that they are offered in 4 inseams: 30, 32, 34, and 36.  Additionally, they come in XS – XL.  One of my friends who just purchased her first pair is fairly tall and the other friend is rather short.  The pants flatter both equally well because of the different inseams.  I don’t like my pants too short, and having a few inseams to choose from ensure the length is just right.   I also got my choosy mother, impeccably-fashioned sis-in-law and leery colleague hooked on these.  I can personally vouch that these pants flatter women of varied shapes and ages.  And did I mention how comfy these are?!

Let’s not forget what else makes these difficult to pass up:  they are priced modestly in comparison to the average workout pant, $29.50 or two for $50.00.  New colors and styles are offered each season so many of these are placed on clearance fairly regularly.  Plus, Victoria’s Secret always offers money off with a minimum purchase . . . that alone offsets the shipping cost.   Despite this lower price, quality is not compromised.  I own some that I’ve had for years – the stretch still holds and the cotton maintains its durability.  Btw, these are officially called “yoga pants” but I wear them for both strength training and cardio.  Yes, they stretch seamlessly for yoga, but they definitely hold up for more rigorous exercise.

Grading Girl gives these pants an A+ for economical style, versatile color choice and flattering shape.

For the record, because I’ve been asked, 31 of these pants live in my closet.  Mind you, I’ve purchased them over the course of the past few years . . . and a (grading) girl needs her colors . . . . umm . . .  am I obsessed?!

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