Tarting it up. Or maybe bread puddinging it up is more accurate?

Today is Nick's birthday!

We're celebrating with dinner at Brassierie Beck - one of his favorite places.

They have delicious beer, french fries that are kind of like crack, and such yummy bread pudding. I also remember liking my mains when I've eaten there, although I cannot for the life of me tell you what I've had.

I realize fried potatoes, beer, and bread pudding do not a dinner make - unless maybe you live in 19th Century England? - but man, can that combination delight me.

I'm getting all tarted up, in a seriously cleavage-showing black Susana Monaco dress. It's not maternity, but empire waist, with lots of room for tummy. I bought it (on sale) on a low, low day, when I needed a little reminder of my former/future self. And thought it could be something to look forward to. And it turns out to be a great dress with plenty of room for expansion in all below-the-empire-waist directions.

And fishnets - why didn't I think of fishnets before? Super super stretchy comf! And my slightly tough tarty boots.

I have to say, now that the early crap has passed, I'm a lot bigger but feel a lot better. I still don't have many clothes I actually like, and tend to spend my days in black pants, black top, with some kind of jacket, shawl, or scarf.

But this is the first time I've been excited about how I might look in an outfit since, I don't know, December?

And you guys, things are blooming! Crocuses are here! So are daffodils! And the tiniest little peeking out of the tulip trees! And maybe redbud?

In other words, hope has arrived! Not to reduce everything to apparel, but cute dress weather and fun platformy shoe time is almost here!

Which reminds me - I got awesome shoes in NJ last weekend. Must take pictures and share. But that is for another day. . .